John Wayne’s ranch, a 2,000-acre getaway in the heart of Southern California has come to market for $8 million. In a career that spanned 178 films, the Duke rode off into many a sunset. But when he wanted to kick back and watch the sun go down with family and friends, he did so at Rancho Pavoreal, his gorgeous rancho.

John Wayne’s Rugged Ranch

Rancho Pavoreal could have been a set in one of Wayne’s Westerns. In fact, for a while after the actor’s death, it operated as a dude ranch. The property is entirely fenced and cross-fenced with plenty of room for horses and cattle. In addition to a stucco ranch house, there are three wells on the property, horse trails, and panoramic views of the surrounding valley and Palomar Mountain.

“Rancho Pavoreal is very masculine, very Western,” says listing agent Tatiana Novick of Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Rancho Santa Fe. “It feels like John Wayne is still there.”

The $8 million listing sits halfway between San Diego to the south and Palm Springs to the northeast. It is a 90-minute gallop from each locale. On a good day, a two-hour drive will put you in downtown Los Angeles. Orange County’s John Wayne Airport is 20 minutes closer.

Temecula Valley

With more than 40 wineries and an ample selection of golf courses, the nearby Temecula Valley has become a popular getaway. Temecula’s Old Town has numerous structures that date back to the 1800s. Many of these buildings have been converted into B&Bs, restaurants, and quaint shops. “Proximity to Temecula is one of the ranch’s greatest attributes,” Novick says. “There are vineyards and spas and wonderful places to eat.”

Rancho Pavoreal could be used for a vineyard, a hunting retreat or – in honor of Wayne himself – a cattle ranch. No matter the use, John Wayne’s ranch is definitely the type of place where, as the Duke would have said, you can “take ‘er easy there, Pilgrim.”