Luxurious residential real estate abounds across Bergen County, New Jersey. Buyers are afforded a wide selection of magnificent homes, from opulent mansions along the Hudson River to epic country estates set amidst the gently rolling hills. The lifestyles promised are just as varied as the properties themselves — urban, suburban, and rural — and the region features a wealth of choices for those ready to settle into unparalleled residential luxury.

But for those who require a specific blend of elegance and sophistication and an exceedingly peaceful rural ambiance, one community rises above the others:  Upper Saddle River.

This idyllic borough of nearly 8,500 residents is situated in the county's northwestern reach. As one of the most scenic and serene of Bergen County's upscale communities, Upper Saddle River is not without its conveniences — the heart of Manhattan is an easy 45-minute drive away — along with an extraordinary real estate landscape. Read on for my expert guide to Upper Saddle River's most luxurious homes currently on the market.

As it nears the final phase of construction, the Hopper House at Hennion Ridge is redefining luxury in Upper Saddle River. Meticulously designed by Zampolin & Associates, this gorgeous 9,600-square-foot residence promises an unparalleled luxury living experience. Striking stone accents make for a dramatic welcome for you and your guests (who have ample space to park along the extended, gray-bricked U-shaped drive). Step inside, and the remarkable reception continues with an open floor plan that seamlessly combines modern elegance with timeless charm.

A graceful side staircase leads to a second-floor balcony illuminated by a 15-foot-tall window. The showpiece room of the home is the expansive gourmet kitchen and its top-of-the-line appliances, ample counter space, and a walk-in pantry. Ideal for those with an eye for entertaining, the kitchen opens into the fireplace-adorned family room, tied together with a bold design and a light-filled bay window. Filling out the amenities in this soon-to-be complete masterpiece includes a primary suite with a cozy fireplace, barrel ceilings, and two generously sized walk-in closets. There's also a fully finished lower level featuring a billiards room, a fireplace, a recreational room, a state-of-the-art home theater, a wine cellar, and an exercise room.

Arguably among the finest homes to hit the Upper Saddle Ridge market, 26 Ash Road is a custom-built English manor occupying a lush two-acre estate. There is a timeless aesthetic that permeates the entire property — extraordinary craftsmanship and attention to detail, brilliant architectural flourishes, and bespoke finishes that include triple-color Venetian plastered walls, domed and groin-vaulted ceilings, and hand-painted murals. Unsurprisingly, the residence is named Camelot, but it's a moniker it comes by honestly, with elegance and grace to spare.

As for its livability, there are few homes in Bergen County boasting a more complete display of comfort and unparalleled refinement. The grand foyer sets the stage for Camelot in all of its splendor. A memorizing four-level spiral staircase grants access to the generous bedrooms. The rotunda-fronted primary suite is sequestered from more communal parts of the home and boasts a private patio, jacuzzi, and office space — a genuine hideaway retreat. The kitchen is a study in textures, drawn together with masterful form by a cathedral ceiling. It's a spellbinding yet smart and practical place to prepare a meal. Elsewhere, Camelot carries out its monarchical duties with a great room akin to a royal court with a full bar, a grand fireplace, and a finished basement level that offers a full-size exercise room and access to your modern-day, high-octane carriages in the four-car garage.

Perched with elegant resoluteness above Saddle River Road, the home at 551 is a beautiful new construction colonial home that lives large with plenty of space for entertaining. The genius of this congenial house starts with its flexible, 5,500-square-foot floor plan. Elegant, double-front entry doors give way to a sensational two-story foyer with a curved stairwell and breezy access to formal dining, a spacious living room, and a private guest suite. The remainder of the first floor is ideal for elegant gatherings or casual get-togethers, anchored by a gourmet kitchen and a two-story grand room, where a wall of windows allows ample natural light to pour into the space.

Access to the second floor comes via the gentle curve of the foyer stairs or a stairway and balcony framing the grand room. The primary suite impresses with plenty of space and a bath on par with many of Manhattan's most elegant hotels. Three additional bedrooms feature full baths and generous walk-in closures, ensuring privacy and comfort for all. The finished yet undeveloped basement offers a blank canvas for a new owner to impart their creative style.

Finally, for those who seek the luxury of an Upper Saddle River single-family home but prefer the low-maintenance lifestyle offered by a townhome, 17 Cinnamon Drive checks all of the right boxes. This end unit at The Grove, an exquisitely built collection of contemporary luxury townhomes, is the perfect mix of comfort, convenience, and commutability. The open-concept townhome includes several luxe features, including designer finishes, high-end appliances, and more than 3,000 square feet of living space.

A great room fireplace levels up the warmth and sophistication. The townhome's uppermost level is roomy and functional, including a walk-in laundry room and a primary suite with a spacious walk-in closet. The townhome's lower level adds versatility to your low-key, high-style space, featuring a two-car garage and a finished recreation room — the latter being easily convertible for use as a children's playroom, game room, home office, library, media room, or additional guest suite. Residents at The Grove also have access to resort-style amenities, including a pool, clubhouse, and fitness center.

Finding the right luxury home in Upper Saddle River promises an ideal residential investment and an unparalleled lifestyle. If you're ready to move to the quiet splendor of Upper Saddle River's most luxurious properties, contact me today to start your home-buying journey with confidence.

_{*Header photo courtesy of Sheryl Epstein-Romano}