manors for sale Charente, France

A 19TH-CENTURY ORIENTALIST RESIDENCE South-West France — between the Cognac vineyards and the Gironde estuary Some properties are best discovered quietly. In a confidential village of the Charente, this rare residence has stood since 1876, its towers and arcaded façades reflecting one of the most distinctive architectural sensibilities of the late 19th century. It was designed by a scholar of his era — a man drawn to Andalusia, to travel, to the Alhambra — and belongs to that small group of French country houses where Moorish and Orientalist references entered the vernacular of Romantic architecture. The construction is uncompromising. Walls of dressed stone, fifty centimetres thick (around 20 inches), keep the interiors cool through the long South-Western summers. Arched windows draw the light deep into the rooms, across original parquet floors. The corner towers each contain a bathroom — an unusual signature of the house. The façades carry stone tracery and blind arcading: the quiet, geometric grammar of Moorish-inspired design, handled here with restraint rather than theatre. Set within a walled park of just under one hectare (approximately 2.4 acres), the residence offers approximately 222 sqm (2,390 sqft) of living space across four levels: 9 principal rooms, 7 bedrooms, several bathrooms, two reception-and-kitchen spaces, and a finished attic level beneath the roof. The proportions are generous; the circulation, intuitive. The grounds include a heated swimming pool with motorised cover, set within mature, romantic gardens. A separate 64 sqm (690 sqft) outbuilding offers further scope — guest accommodation, studio, wellness pavilion — and a second structure stands among the trees. The property currently operates as a high-end seasonal rental (twelve guests, annual income in the region of €30,000), and is fully prepared for its next chapter: a country residence of character, a prestige guesthouse, or a discreet venue for private events and writers' retreats. Every element is in place. 45 minutes from Cognac. One hour from Bordeaux. Two hours from the Atlantic coast. Guide price: €620,000 — agency fees included, payable by the vendor. EPC: Class F. Full diagnostic and energy audit reports available.

An early 17th-century house to restore, on the edges of the Charente and Dordogne, with outbuildings set around a square courtyard, a dovecote and more than 3 hectares of land. The many buildings that comprise the property, with their gabled roofs made of terracotta half-round tiles, are set around a square courtyard and are all in need of renovation. The courtyard can be reached via a carriage gate and an adjoining pedestrian gate in the south facing surrounding wall made of ashlar, quarried from various locations in the region. The keystone of the carriage gate is adorned with two hearts facing each other, one the right way up and the other upside down. An ashlar stone building with a gabled roof stands to the left of the entrance, adjoining the buildings. A dovecote with a pavilion hip roof stands at the southwest corner. The garden, orchard and a lawned area that form the grounds of the property lie to the west.

Step into a realm where the grandeur of the 17th century converges with the allure of modern luxury, all within the embrace of Angoulême's picturesque landscapes. This majestic estate, graced by the serene flow of the Charente River, offers an unparalleled sanctuary of peace. Its historical essence, meticulously preserved through a thoughtful renovation, blends seamlessly with contemporary sophistication, creating an ambiance of unrivaled charm and tranquility. Prepare to be captivated by an estate that not only promises a lavish lifestyle but also whispers tales of a rich, storied past. Envision residing in or owning a versatile masterpiece that serves dual enchanting purposes. This estate is the epitome of a luxurious family haven, where every corner resonates with warmth and elegance, making every family gathering memorable. Simultaneously, it stands as a premier destination for hosting events, with its state-of-the-art facilities and mesmerizing settings ensuring that every occasion, from weddings to corporate retreats, is nothing short of spectacular. The property boasts a sprawling main house with 400 m² of opulent living space, complemented by separate guest accommodations and additional houses, all set within a lush 2-hectare park that promises privacy and boundless natural beauty. Imagine the privilege of indulging in the estate's lavish offerings, from its luxuriously appointed bedrooms, each a sanctuary of comfort and elegance, to the enchanting outdoor spaces where tranquility reigns supreme. The estate's crown jewel, a climate-controlled reception space, can host up to 150 guests, making it an exquisite backdrop for any event. The allure of dining al fresco on the terrace, relaxing by the infinity pool, or wandering through the manicured gardens, is irresistible. This estate not only offers a magnificent living space but also presents a lucrative opportunity for those aspiring to venture into the elite event hosting arena. This rare gem, a mere 5 minutes from the heart of Angoulême, is a testament to the seamless blend of history, luxury, and natural beauty. It beckons those who seek the extraordinary, not just a home, but a legacy. We invite discerning buyers to experience the magic first-hand, to explore the endless possibilities that this estate offers. Whether you're envisioning a grand family residence or a distinguished venue for high-profile events, the opportunity to own such a prestigious property is rare. Don't miss the chance to make this exquisite estate your own. Schedule a visit and let the journey to unparalleled luxury and elegance begin.

Situated in the heart of the South Charente, just outside the town of Chalais, this remarkable XVI century property has been carefully renovated in keeping with its original architecture. Nestled in 5.45 hectares of south-facing grounds, it offers spectacular views over the rolling countryside and Talleyrand castle, just one kilometre away. Just 45 minutes from Angoulême TGV station and around 1 hour from Bordeaux and Bergerac airports, the location perfectly combines accessibility and tranquillity. The elegant volumes, high ceilings, period fireplaces, exposed beams, mullioned windows with old stained glass windows and terracotta floor tiles testify to the house's rich past. The 350 m² (3,767 sq ft) of living space comprises a welcoming entrance hall, an elegant lounge, a vast dining kitchen with monumental fireplace, four bedrooms, including a master suite with dressing room and shower room, a second bathroom, a practical utility room, a wine cellar and a lounge/library on the first floor, providing a refined setting. A 40 m² convertible attic and 400 m² of outbuildings, including a superb dovecote, still offer plenty of scope for conversion. The technical features ensure modern comfort: underfloor heating supplied by an oil-fired condensing boiler, water softener, electric gates. The outside areas are just as attractive: enclosed courtyard, heated swimming pool, jacuzzi, sheltered terrace, and a summer kitchen with bread oven, perfect for intimate summer receptions. The town of Chalais, within walking distance, offers all the essential services: train station with links to Bordeaux and Angoulême, shops, restaurants, weekly market and its historic château.

Ideally located near a charming town in the southern Charente region, this splendid 16th-century manor has been meticulously renovated to preserve its authenticity and enchanting charm. Today, this magnificent residence offers approximately 350 square meters of living space and comprises an inviting entrance, two elegant lounges, a spacious dining kitchen, four bedrooms (including a suite with a dressing room and en-suite bathroom), another bathroom, a practical laundry room, and a wine cellar. High-quality authentic elements, such as monumental fireplaces, exposed beams, and terracotta tile floors, bestow a unique character upon this splendid manor. The property also includes 400 square meters of outbuildings and a splendid dovecote, offering numerous possibilities for further development. Everything is arranged around a picturesque inner courtyard adorned with a terrace and a heated swimming pool. The summer kitchen, complete with its bread oven and covered terrace, is the perfect place to entertain friends and family. The manor is ideally nestled in the heart of its extensive 5.45-hectare grounds, ensuring complete privacy without direct neighbors. Breathtaking views of the hilly landscape and the dominating castle just one kilometer away add to the captivating atmosphere. This exceptional property offers a truly ideal location. The town of Chalais, only one minute from the property, boasts numerous advantages. Its railway station with connections to Bordeaux and Angoulême, its shops and restaurants, its castle, and its weekly market are all within walking distance from the property. Conveniently located 45 minutes from Angoulême's TGV station and one hour from the airports of Bordeaux and Bergerac, this property offers both accessibility and tranquility in balanced proportions. A must-see!