castle for sale Léran, France

AUDE – 45 MINUTES FROM TOULOUSE A Cathar Fortress Transformed into an Exceptional Reception Estate in the Heart of the Lauragais Between Toulouse and Carcassonne, amidst the unspoiled landscapes of the Lauragais, the historic Pays de Cocagne whose prosperity was built on the cultivation of pastel (woad) and which long served as the granary of Languedoc, lies a remarkable estate extending over nearly 18 hectares and dominated by a majestic medieval commandery. Nestled within an outstanding natural environment in the heart of a Natura 2000 protected valley, the château enjoys a rare setting of rolling hills, organic farmland, authentic villages and distant views towards the Pyrenees. Just 45 minutes from both Toulouse and Carcassonne, and within easy reach of the amenities of Belpech and the medieval bastide town of Mirepoix, this strategic location has been prized for centuries as a crossroads between the Mediterranean, the Pyrenees, Spain and the great routes linking eastern and western France. Originally built in the 13th century by Guillaume de Plaigne, a Cathar lord whose destiny became entwined with the great chapters of Cathar history, the fortress remained in the Plaigne family for over four centuries before being acquired by François-Paul de Béon de Cazaux, Grand Prior of the Order of Malta. He established here one of the most important commanderies of the Order of Saint John in Languedoc. Successive centuries enriched the estate without diminishing its authenticity, creating a remarkable architectural palimpsest that reflects the region's rich heritage. Since 1973, the property has belonged to the same Franco-American family, whose dedication over more than fifty years has ensured its preservation and enhancement. Under the guidance of the current owner, an artist educated at the École du Louvre, the château has been restored with exceptional care, sensitivity and respect for its history. The result is a successful marriage of historic character and contemporary comfort. Behind its stone façades lie remarkable architectural features: mullioned windows, monumental period fireplaces, Versailles parquet flooring, elegant reception rooms, a chapel nestled within a tower, the impressive Knights' Hall, and a collection of beautifully appointed guest rooms, several inspired by cultures and travels from around the world. Each room reflects both the spirit of Languedoc and an openness to wider horizons. The estate includes a magnificent four-hectare landscaped park with centuries-old trees, riding avenues and carefully composed vistas. A swimming pool designed as a natural basin blends seamlessly into this protected environment, where surrounding land is safeguarded from future development. The tranquillity, privacy and beauty of the setting create an atmosphere of rare distinction. Currently operated as a venue for private receptions, weddings and exclusive stays, the château offers extensive reception facilities for up to 130 guests, together with substantial accommodation capacity distributed between the château itself and its independent cottage. Meticulously maintained, structurally sound and benefiting from a particularly successful restoration programme, this remarkable property represents a rare opportunity for a discerning purchaser seeking a historic family estate, a prestigious hospitality venture or an exceptional lifestyle property. A timeless place where the echoes of Cathar history, the Order of Malta and the great traditions of Languedoc still resonate, set within one of the most beautifully preserved landscapes of southern France. Contact: Axelle de Lahondes +33 (0)6 88 17 27 01 Energy class: D Climate class: D Estimated annual energy costs for standard use: between €16,010 and €21,720 per year. Prices indexed to 2021. Information on the risks to which this property is exposed is available on the Géorisques website: www.georisques.gouv.fr

Beautifully restored medieval château, dating from the 13th century, set in the heart of the beautiful green French countryside, in the south of France, within the unspoiled Aude region. The property is located just 15 minutes from the renowned medieval town of Mirepoix, well known for its remarkable cathedral, considered unique in France, and for its vibrant and lively market. Often referred to as “the Uzès of the Aude” or “Little Uzès”, Mirepoix is appreciated for its iconic arcaded main square and its animated markets, reflecting the authentic spirit of southern France. Ideally positioned between Toulouse and the historic city of Carcassonne, both reachable in approximately 45 minutes, the château combines tranquillity with excellent accessibility. Motorway access is 15 minutes away, while TGV train stations and international airports are within easy reach. Originally built in the 13th century by Guillaume de Plaigne, a Cathar lord, the château remained in the same family until 1688. It was then acquired by François-Paul de Béon-Masse-Cazeaux, Grand Prior of the Order of Malta in Toulouse, who transformed it into a Commandery of the Order of Saint John. It became the largest and most recent commandery in the Languedoc region and remained under the ownership of the Order of Malta until the French Revolution. The château has retained the spirit of its medieval origins while benefiting from a careful restoration, carried out over two generations. Surrounded by a park with mature trees, it offers a calm and refreshing atmosphere, enhanced by the presence of the Great Hall of the Knights, a key feature of the property’s historic character. The property offers 16 double bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms, including 12 bedrooms within the château and 4 bedrooms in an independent cottage, allowing accommodation for up to 32 guests. Additional features include a small chapel set within a tower, a refined swimming pool designed as a natural basin, and facilities suitable for private gatherings and discreet events. The estate extends over 14 hectares of organically farmed land, located in a protected natural and touristic area, within a Natura 2000 valley. A range of outbuildings and service areas complete the property, including catering spaces, storage rooms, garages, cellars and attics. This château offers a rare balance between history, serenity and accessibility. It will appeal both to those wishing to continue a discreet hospitality or event activity, and to a family seeking an elegant country residence, combining timeless character with modern comfort.

AT THE FOOTHILLS OF THE MOUNTAINS - BETWEEN TARASCON-SUR-ARIEGE AND AX-LES-THERMES At the foothills of the first Pyrenean peaks, charming chateau with unobstructed views of the village and surrounding mountains in a peaceful setting. Two wrought-iron entrance gates open onto 2,800 m² of wooded grounds. The property is totally enclosed. The main facade is pierced by numerous windows and flanked by two towers. On the ground floor are a hallway with cement-tiled floors, a modern, fully-equipped kitchen, a laundry room, a large boudoir-style living room with a fireplace and access to the 20m² cellar under the staircase. A beautiful wooden staircase leads up to the first-floor landing, where the walls and ceiling have been beautifully hand-decorated by an Ariege artist. There are three bedrooms with 3.55m ceiling height, a shower room, a bathroom and many cupboards. Parquet flooring throughout and marble fireplaces adorn the rooms. On the second floor are two bedrooms, a large bathroom, two shower rooms and an access to the attic, the roof structure of which was treated in 2006. Parquet flooring also on the first and second floors. At the rear of the Château, an outbuilding houses the gas-fired heating system, and a small 20m² two-storey outbuilding can be used as a storeroom. Above-ground swimming pool with a deck. It is nestled in the heart of the village, 10 minutes from a spa and ski resort and 1h15 from Toulouse, on the route to Andorra and Spain. For more informations or to organise a visit, you can call Axelle de Lahondès : 06 88 17 27 01 Excessive energy consumption: Energy class: F Climate class: F As from January 1, 2028, the performance level will be between classes A and E. Estimated annual energy costs for standard use: between €12090 and €16400 per year. Prices indexed to January 1, 2021 Information on the risks to which this property is exposed is available on the Géorisques website: www.georisques.gouv.fr