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Luxury & Leisure at Navesink Country Club BY MELISSA SORGE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY CHRIS SHASHATY Perched amidst the rolling hills of Middletown, New Jersey, Navesink Country Club is a private retreat where members gather for social affairs and recreational activities. Overlooking the Navesink River, the club has long been a sanctuary for those who seek an escape from the monotony of their day-to-day. From mornings on the fairway to evenings spent dining with friends and family, a day spent at Navesink Country Club is one of both luxury and leisure. With extensive amenities and a rich New Jersey history, this gem in the heart of Monmouth County offers a timeless experience right on the Atlantic coast. One of the oldest settlements in New Jersey, the sprawling acreage of Navesink Country Club dates all the way back to 1911. Samuel Riker (a descendant of the family that originally owned Riker's Island, New York), purchased 17 acres of land from his brother-in-law, Amory L. Haskell, in the early 20th century. Riker would go on to build the property's stately mansion which would later become the clubhouse, and focal point, of Navesink. Riker further developed the scenic grounds, adding lush gardens, a marble pool, and a tree-lined entrance extending from the road up to the club. For Riker, the crown jewel of the property was the mansion's enclosed glass porch, where he and his guests enjoyed unobstructed views of the America's Cup races that took place off the shores of Sandy Hook. Over the years, Riker continued to expand the property, owning 69 acres by the time of his passing in 1936. Soon aer, world-famous sailor Charles Lyons purchased the beautiful New Jersey property and expanded the grounds to 115 acres. In 1963, Lyons sold the estate to Navesink Country Club, where it remains a year-round fixture for family fun and leisure with premier amenities and breathtaking views. V U E N J . C O M 89

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