In March 2014, when we were crisscrossing the south of France for the umpteenth time looking for a house, it was fate that guided us towards Moncé. As we were about to leave, a stonemason advised us to go and see the descendants of the recently deceased owner of the Château de Moncé. Along the small road bordered by oaks that leads to Moncé, the vast house and tower appeared. It was love at first sight. The old oaks, the view of the Salembre valley and the hilly landscape covered with forests and cultivated fields make Moncé the home away from everything that we had always dreamed of. A large, open, peaceful space, a feeling of freedom set in these historic buildings and with room for all of us.
It was originally a tower dating from the 14th century. The manor has retained its large original fireplaces. Due to its L-shaped configuration, the various living spaces do not interfere with each other. It is surrounded by hills, fields of sunflowers and small, romantic streams.
The Manoir de Moncé belonged to the abbey of Brantôme. After the abbey was destroyed and rebuilt in 1480, Moncé was acquired by the Chantemerle family in 1504. It remained in the family's possession until it passed into the hands of the Cosson family in the 18th century. For a few years, Moncé belonged to the Fourgeaud family before it was taken over by the Desvergnes family in the mid-19th century. In 2014, we bought Moncé from the last heirs of this family. The property has only changed owners 5 times in 500 years.
Moncé is located on a clear hill overlooking the Salembre valley. It is surrounded by 34 hectares of fields and woods which give our guests a large space to explore the flora and fauna. The saltwater swimming pool (14x6m) is far enough from the house that visitors do not disturb others. The gardens of Moncé can be accessed from anywhere in the house. There are no direct neighbours. All parts of the house are decorated with works of art. The kitchens and bright bathrooms are modern. Central heating provides comfortable temperatures all year round and thanks to the thick walls, the temperatures inside are pleasant and cool during hotter times of the year.
At the organic farm of La Ferme de Marcel, just a few steps from Moncé, is a family of bankers and lawyers who have come back to settle in Périgord. The have radically changed their lives and now devote all their time and energy to managing the old family farm. They grow organic crops and raise sheep there. They are always happy to welcome guests, explain their work and sell their products. A family day in the Grottes de Villars near the manor. They are far less well-known than Lascaux but just as fascinating and much less crowded. The enormous and breathtaking church of Aubeterre-sur-Dronne from the 12th century and its classical music concerts in summer. Last but not least are the outdoor jazz evenings in the neighbouring village of Douchapt. Dancing in the audience after sunset is an extremely unique, simple and unpretentious experience.
Moncé has good road access. Outside are the enclosed gardens with roses, wide views, fruit trees, a park planted with oaks and fields. Inside are well-equipped and modern open-plan kitchens, beautiful works of contemporary art, large rooms, accommodation in the manor and a mix of modern and antique furniture.
ref 580127
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