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Location
The French department of Aude is a land of contrasts, notably renowned for its wines and its significant architectural heritage, the jewels of which are the Cathar castles and numerous abbeys.
In this part of the department, situated in the foothills of the Black Mountain, at an altitude of 1,640 ft, the climate is subject to the influence of both the Atlantic ocean and the Mediterranean Sea.
16 miles from Carcassonne (airport with daily flights to Northern European capitals via Ryan Air).
63 miles from the sea (Narbonne Plage).
75 miles from Toulouse.
Description
The property: In the 17th century, Colbert, French minister of finances for King Louis XIV, wanted to encourage trade and industry in order to fill the state coffers. Hence, he developed a programme aiming at setting up both state-controlled and privately-owned factories, endowed with export privileges.
This property was built in 1694 to be used for the textile industry and the exportation of its products to eastern countries. The workshops closed in 1784, then in the 19th century a spinning mill was installed before finally closing down completely in 1885. The layout of the site reflects the initial activity that was conducted there.
All the current buildings are set out in an incomplete U-shape: the main building was where the owner of the site lived whilst the outbuildings, set at right angles, were used for miscellaneous purposes.
Situated on the outskirts of the village, this almost triangular-shaped site, spanning a total surface area of 4 acres, is bordered to the west by a narrow lane that it overlooks, and to the south by woods. Most of the land stretches eastwards. The main access to the inner courtyard formed by the buildings is via a majestic stone gateway crowned with a sculpted pediment. The second access comprises a path running alongside the southern limit of the buildings.
The main building (approx.6,673 sq ft plus 2,368 sq ft of attic space awaiting conversion): The sober facades covered with a beige-pink rendering and the white-painted window frames give the property the appearance of a large traditional Provencal farmhouse. The main building has two separate entrances:
the “masters” entrance with its double wrought wooden door and the former staff entrance at the other end of the building.
The second building (approx. 2,529 sq ft): Facing the main building, it is totally independent.
The outbuildings: The “patio” (floor surface area of 2,153 sq ft) connects the two buildings; it is built of stone and was once covered, although the roof has since disappeared. It is divided into two sections, one of which is used as a terrace.
The former stables (floor surface area of approx. 484 sq ft) await renovation.
The former barn (approx. 807 sq ft): partially converted (ceiling and electric wiring replaced).
The hen house: Despite being in need of renovation, it still manages to shelter several hens.
Our opinion
In a tourist region, these vast unpretentious buildings with numerous character features exude an old-fashioned charm. We think this will make a “wonderful family home”.
Price
Contact us
Our fees are included in the stated sale price. Reference
2019LA
Representative
Laurence Avizanda
Telephone
06 22 12 25 85
contact
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.
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