Owner of Tennessee Estate Where Taylor Swift Recorded First Album Recalls Meeting the Star at 15

PEOPLE spoke to Dark Horse Estate owner Robin Crow all about the stunning property, which is now on Airbnb — plus, his first impression of the future Grammy winner

Taylor Swift fans will certainly find themselves enchanted by this stunning Tennessee property.

Located in Franklin, Tenn., (just 25 minutes from downtown Nashville), Dark Horse Estate boasts unique ties to the Grammy-winning artist as she visited the property when she was just 15 years old to record part of her debut album, Taylor Swift, owner Robin Crow tells PEOPLE.

A 14,000-square-foot mansion called “The Manor” that can host up to 18 guests can be found on one side of the property, while the other side hosts three private recording studios in a timber frame building where Swift recorded some of her early music.

Crow has owned the estate for the last 31 years and says he can still remember when the “Love Story” singer spent time at the property. Back then, he recalls he had no idea the force she would become in the music industry and the legacy she would hold nearly two decades later.

“At the time, I think I met her once or twice in the couple of weeks that she was recording here, and I never gave it a second thought,” says Crow. “And now, she’s the biggest artist in the world.”

Through the years, he’s gotten to watch a number of new artists visit Dark Horse Estate to record their music.

“I’ve seen record companies throw so much money behind an artist and nothing will happen,” he notes, adding, “Then you have another situation like Taylor Swift, and it’s just magic and everything kind of lines up.”

In addition to Swift, Crow recalls other musicians who have recently paid the property a visit to record their next hits, including Kings of Leon who were “out here for over three months recording,” and Shawn Mendes “who was here for three weeks and he stayed in the manor.”

The Manor — which is currently available for rent at a two-night minimum on Airbnb — features seven bedrooms, ten bathrooms, three kitchens and multiple living areas. The entire property is surrounded by lush trees and endless greenery.

Impressive amenities include a 34-foot-long fireplace, billiard room, library and media room. There is also a party barn located on the site for gatherings and events. 

While prices vary depending on the time of year, the lowest price for a two-night stay in April starts at $4,958. 

Crow describes the estate as an “artistic gathering place” where guests can “get away and have a different experience.”  

While most of his clients are “professional musicians,” he says the space is also open for larger events like small retreats, workshops and other creative gatherings — or a sizable group of Swifties.