Castles / chateaux
Renaissance-style leisure castle
in the south west of France
Location
100 km (63 miles) from Montpellier (TGV train, airport), 75 km (47 miles) from Pézenas and 40 km (25 miles) from Lodève (A75), this castle, just a stone’s throw from a small village and near to a town with 1,000 inhabitants, is set in the heart of a valley between the Grands Causses and the Hérault hinterland.
Description
Designed as of the Renaissance period by its architect as a countrified haven of peace, the castle is accessed via a wide driveway, bordered by various species of hedges and trees, which leads to the main courtyard. It was freed of its protective wall (a reminder of its defensive past) in the 18th century, to be replaced by elegant entrance gates that opened up a previously concealed space. The parklands (approx. 6 ha / 14.82 acres) spread out around the castle forming large clearings, some of which are walled, and wooded areas.
Once inside the entrance gates, the main courtyard reveals the imperious standing of a building that demonstrates the fine lines of the Renaissance period in all its splendour. Built on the principal of a large dwelling surrounded by its service quarters with corners flanked by four towers, topped and extended by weather vanes, the castle (approx. 1,000 m² / 10,764 sq ft) demonstrates a richness equal to the prosperity of its illustrious rulers.
The wings assigned to the service quarters enhance the seigneurial residence by the regularity of their layout (mullioned window bays topped with narrow roof dormers) and their significant size.
The entire ground floor of the dwelling is dedicated to domestic (kitchen, scullery, chef’s bedroom, etc.) and outdoor activities (arms’ room, etc.) and uses its vaults to support the first or noble floor containing the reception rooms and lords’ accommodation, all accessed by means of a wide spiral stairway. These adjoining rooms were redesigned in the 17th and 18th centuries without detriment to the outstanding Renaissance-style features, especially as regards the painted French ceiling in the large lounge. All of the fireplaces on this floor were added under the reign of Louis XIV.
The north wing, originally assigned as staff accommodation, has recently been refurbished which, whilst respecting features, surface areas and period layouts, has resulted in a comfortable living area that could possibly be independent. The chapel is to be found at the end of this wing, partly tucked into the north-east tower. It is representative of the post-medieval view of a pleasant religious building.
The south wing, however, has not undergone any notable modifications and consequently has great use potential.
Our opinion
Without any hesitation, one of the most outstanding castles in the region. The atmosphere of this setting is but equal to both the historic and the artistic riches that it reveals. Imperious without being pretentious, it embodies with extreme sensitivity the indescribable grandeur of what was just becoming the Renaissance style, hesitating between the quill and the sword, between sobriety and glamour. Its general state of repair together with the cleverness of its restoration and layout make it a place to live that is not only extraordinary but also worthy of merit.
Price: Contact us
Our fees are included in the stated sale price.
Reference 2385WK
| Land registry surface area | 5ha 65a / 6,081 sqft |
| Main building surface area | 1000 m² / 10,764 sqft |
| Outbuilding surface area | 200 m² / 2,153 sqft |
Regional representative
Wilfried Kathemann +33 (0)6 11 13 73 05
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.
