Rhode Island escapes

Great golf and oceanfront luxury lure buyers to Carnegie Abbey.

Imagine Narragansett, R.I., at the turn-of-the century, when the idyllic town and bustling pier was a top summer destination for members of America's upper class. Grand mansions and luxurious hotels lined the road, set against the backdrop of the crashing Atlantic Ocean, where waves danced against rock jetties and sandy beaches. It was a glamorous era when picturesque beachside resorts were a haven for pleasure seekers everywhere.

Now, Surfside Narragansett (866-788-3484), hearkens back to this golden age, with lovely Victorian coastal architecture by the seashore. This tranquil village community recaptures the architecture and lifestyle of the past, with steeply pitched roofs, charming latticework, and intriguing turrets, set off by lush gardens blossoming with fragrant hydrangeas, roses, cherry trees, prim privet hedges and rustling ornamental grasses. The idyllic oceanfront complex features 99 two and three-floor luxury townhouses and condominiums, ranging in price from $500,000 to over $1 million.

Picture yourself barefoot on your private balcony or stone terrace, overlooking the water, sipping a freshly brewed cup of coffee prepared in a fully-appointed kitchen with gorgeous top-end appliances. Even inside, you'll feel the warmth of the inviting coastal environment, as expressed by natural luxurious finishes such as granite countertops, wooden floors, and polished hardware. "Green" sustainable building practices, including reclaiming of materials and stones from historic spaces, invite the ocean breezes in to stay.

From your maintenance-free surfside residence, it's just a short stroll to a mile-long pristine beach, or pick up wine, cheese, and fresh fruit at the new gourmet market for a sunset picnic. Go window-shopping at Narragansett Pier Village, savor a meal at a casual/fine dining restaurant, or work out at the onsite fitness center. There are endless other options for your day, from canoeing and kayaking, to bike riding, fishing, tennis, or golfing. And with Rhode Island's temperate climate, you won't miss a moment of fun and relaxation.

A custom-designed Surfside Narragansett model is now open daily from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Call for your personal showing, and visit our Web site to discover a wealth of information about Surfside. The glory days of Narragansett have returned, with the pleasure of a resort community and the amenities of year-round living. At Surfside, living in luxury by the ocean can become a reality.

The Gilded Age defines legendary Newport, R.I., where the grandeur of opulent mansions beckons with rich history. Their stately halls echo with a storied past, where luxury and comfort awaited after a stroll along the lovely ocean cliffs. So it's only too appropriate that The Carnegie Abbey Club (877-274-5808) is located just minutes from this famed coastal community, with its rich tradition of social distinction and seafaring adventure. Built with the same lasting values as the neighboring estates, Carnegie Abbey beckons as an exclusive retreat on Narragansett Bay.

Here, secluded in a classic New England setting of sparkling blue waters and pristine fields, Carnegie Abbey is a premier private family golf and sporting club–as well as an enclave of deluxe residences, destined to become waterfront landmarks.

The Carnegie Suites offer a rare opportunity to invest in the finest private Club in New England, with attractive pricing of just over $1 million for select residences. Launched in June and already a quarter sold, the Suites feature three bedrooms and three ensuite baths, offering ample room for families and guests. The Suites include two underground parking spaces, and private cabanas for rinsing off after a dip in the pool. Select residences include a roof terrace for entertaining. This opportunity is quite limited, as it is an incredible value, and there are only 12 available.

The majestic Carnegie Tower rises 220 feet above the scenic waterfront, featuring 80 first-class, one-to-four bedroom condominium residences on 21 floors, with covered parking available adjacent to the Tower. A state-of-the-art, whisper-quiet elevator whisks you up to the penthouse-style residences, where a private foyer welcomes you home. Luxurious residences are constructed with the finest materials and finishes, featuring fabulous seven-and-a-half foot windows with operable vents for fresh air, and sliding glass doors that lead to private balconies.

Most homes have a fireplace, reflected in gleaming Brazilian Cherry hardwood floors. You'll be able to cook a gourmet meal in a professional-level kitchen with the ultimate in kitchen appliances, including wine cooler, oven with warming drawer, and an automatic espresso and cappuccino maker. Custom European-style cabinets are modeled after a yacht interior. A master bath completes the pampering, with marble countertops, floors, and wall; a natural stone deck surrounds a jet tub where you can relax in warm, bubbly waters. There is concierge service, of course, as well as a pool pavilion with lap pool, outdoor spa, and children's wading pool. Work out in the private gym and fitness center, or catch up with correspondence in the business center. Prices for the Tower range from $899,000 to $14.5 million.

Just a golf-cart ride away is the Club's Scottish-links style golf course, yacht club, equestrian center, spa and clubhouse. Both Carnegie Tower and Suites residents enjoy membership in Newport's exclusive golf and sporting club. Carnegie Abbey members can enjoy athletic pursuits, including tennis, equestrian, yachting, and swimming, with the centerpiece of the club revolving around a waterfront golf course. Services at the Club are second to none, ranging from room service to transportation to chartered yachts. And you won't want to miss meals prepared by the Club's Culinary Olympic Gold Medal Winning Certified Chef.

Newport has long been home to an active yachting community. The Carnegie Abbey Club offers members yacht slips accommodating boats up to 200 feet, a rarity in New England waters. A limited number of slips are currently available.

Don't miss the endless possibilities of the finest family sporting club in the Northeast–sail across Narragansett Bay into the never-ending legacy of the Carnegie Abbey Club.