A Private Montana Island Is Up for Grabs—And It Comes with a Legendary Mystery
Montana’s vast, untouched landscapes have long been a refuge for those seeking serenity, privacy, and an escape from the trappings of city life. Now, one of the state’s most extraordinary private islands is hitting the market, offering an unparalleled opportunity to own a slice of Big Sky Country’s most storied waters. Listed at $72 million, Cromwell Island is more than just a piece of real estate—it’s an untouched paradise, steeped in Montana lore and framed by the majestic Mission Mountains.
A Rare Gem in Montana’s Coveted Flathead Lake
Spanning 2,900 feet of pristine shoreline, Cromwell Island is set in the center of Flathead Lake, the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi—even larger than Lake Tahoe. A haven for outdoor enthusiasts, this body of water is known for its crystal-clear depths, year-round recreation, and breathtaking panoramic views.
The island was acquired in the late 1980s by renowned antique collector and explorer Robert M. Lee, who envisioned an architectural masterpiece at its core. While he and his wife completed a guest house, the 45,000-square-foot primary residence remains unfinished, with only the exterior structure completed before Lee’s passing in 2016. This offers a rare chance for a discerning buyer to customize the interior to their exact vision, crafting an estate that blends modern luxury with Montana’s raw, natural beauty.
A Mythical Legacy—The Legend of Flathead Lake’s “Flessie”
While the island’s sweeping vistas and exclusive seclusion are enough to captivate any buyer, Cromwell Island also comes with a centuries-old local legend. Flathead Lake is said to be home to Flessie, a mystical water creature rumored to be adorned with deer antlers. First chronicled by the Kutenai Indian Tribe over a hundred years ago, the tale has persisted through generations. Some believe it stems from bucks swimming until exhaustion during mating season, their antlers breaking the surface in eerie displays. Sightings are still reported today, making Cromwell Island’s expansive shoreline the perfect vantage point for a glimpse of Montana’s own version of the Loch Ness Monster.
The Ultimate Montana Escape
Montana’s Big Sky Country has become an increasingly sought-after retreat for celebrities and high-net-worth individuals, drawn to its vast landscapes and tight-knit communities. Stars like Justin Timberlake, Jessica Biel, Tom Brady, and Bill Gates all own homes in Montana, while Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez famously rekindled their romance at Affleck’s estate in the ultra-exclusive Yellowstone Club.
Cromwell Island offers an unparalleled opportunity to join this elite circle, with the privacy of an island, the grandeur of a custom estate, and the endless adventure of Flathead Lake at your doorstep. Whether for a luxury retreat, a conservation sanctuary, or a generational legacy property, this island presents an unmatched opportunity for those seeking the ultimate in exclusivity.