Location

On the borders of the French departments of Dordogne, Charente and Haute-Vienne, in an integral part of the Périgord-Limousin National Regional Park. This wonderful undulating, wooded countryside is often dotted with lakes, some very old, and crisscrossed by crystalline streams. A territory that is appreciated for the quality of its unspoilt surroundings, marked by the diversity of the natural environment which is of extreme ecological interest, and where outstanding species of flora and fauna thrive to the great pleasure of observers. With routes for those on foot, on horses and on mountain bikes, the numerous hiking trails incite enthusiasts to explore them. It is also the ideal starting point from which to take advantage of the great wealth of the region’s historic heritage: Brantôme, the Green Venice of Périgord, the castles of Rochechouart, Mareuil, Bourdeilles and Jumilhac; an outstanding collection of Romanesque churches; old forges and mills bearing witness to industrial architecture; … Périgueux, Angoulême and Limoges are easily reached (airports, French SNCF and TGV train stations). Just a stone’s throw from a village with all amenities, and where a large market selling local produce is held once a week.

Description

The property is accessed via a narrow lane, several hundred yards long, passing through deciduous woods, then grasslands, on the edge of which runs a stream listed as outstanding, and therefore classified on the protected natural sites and monuments list. The driveway comes to a dead-end by the buildings where there is a car parking area. The residence is surrounded by a high protective perimeter wall and faces a former outbuilding a short distance away that is currently occupied by a most discreet neighbour. Completely unoverlooked, this peaceful setting enables full advantage to be taken of an exhilarating way of life. The main gates open on to a large grass courtyard (approx. 700 m² / 7,535 sq ft), featuring three lime trees, one of which is several hundred years old, some ornamental stones, a lovely well (fed by three sources) and flower beds. Benches, tables and chairs are all there for resting purposes. Surrounding the courtyard are the main residence, two barn-cowsheds (approx. 195 and 170 m² / 2,098 and 1,830 sq ft; with a wood shed, workshops, a laundry room and storage areas), the former tenant farmhouse now converted into a guest house (approx. 134 m² / 1,442 sq ft; living room with stone fireplace; 3 bedrooms with their own shower rooms), and a former bakery now converted into a study (26 m² / 280 sq ft, with a mezzanine for a spare bed). On the north side, behind the dwelling, is another smaller grass courtyard with trees and flowers. It is bordered by a low dry stone wall, to which is adjoined a former “clédier” (fruit drying shed). This then leads into a vast garden, notably dotted with fruit trees. A vegetable garden takes up one end. Beyond this are grasslands bordered by woods that complete the property, which spans a total of approx. 6.3 ha (15.6 acres). The residence and its outbuildings were built on granite soil, thus ensuring perfect stability, at the end of the 17th century. The building works were carried out by monks from the Order of Grandmont. Both sober and harmonious, this rectangular residence includes two stories, and features a half-round, Roman tile, gable roof. It spans a surface area of approx. 230 m² (2,476 sq ft) (to which can be added an attic with a floor surface area of approx. 134 m² / 1,442 sq ft that could be converted). Having been carefully restored, it is currently welcoming with modern-day home comforts whilst exuding authenticity. The ambiance is enhanced by the quality of the materials used and the existing features. On the garden level, separated by a superb straight, granite stairway, are the lounge and dining room, both with a large stone fireplace and similarly spacious (approx. 48.5 m² / 522 sq ft each). Their French windows open on to the two courtyards, and help to maintain permanent contact with the charm of the surroundings. The kitchen has an independent entrance; the back kitchen, a toilet and a storeroom complete the layout on this floor. Upstairs, there are three large, luminous bedrooms (the master bedroom spanning approx. 46.5 m² / 500 sq ft), each with its own bath or shower room.

Our opinion

More and more people are taking an interest in this region integrated in the Périgord-Limousin National Regional Park, where the French departments of Dordogne, Charente and Haute Vienne meet. They not only include lovers of wide open spaces and peace and quiet, but also those who are looking for unspoilt, healthy areas, far from those landscapes altered by the development of new fashionable constructions in the neighbouring regions further south. Protected by its perimeter wall and enclosed by the surrounding woods, the property alone fulfils all these different criteria. Everything here is harmoniously laid out and immaculately kept. Quality works have been carried out, enabling the premises to be lived in straightaway. This is a classic example of a family residence. It features beautiful buildings that are both sober, authentic, warm and welcoming, thus also enabling friends and family to be independently received in privacy.

722 000 €
Our fees are included in the stated sale price.

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NB: The above information is not only the result of our visit to the property; it is also based on information provided by the current owner. It is by no means comprehensive or strictly accurate especially where surface areas and construction dates are concerned. We cannot, therefore, be held liable for any misrepresentation.