Private mansion Tarbes (65)

Built in 1862 this stunning mansion house- one of only two in the area- remained in the same family for generations, before being sold to the mayor and used as a doctor's surgery and sold again in 2000 to the current owners, who commissioned a major refurbishment and have created a large family home.
Although in a town close to all amenities, including a daily food market, the property is enclosed by a high wall and charming gardens with trees and shrubs. There are large terraces on the ground floor and a smaller one on the first floor where views to the Pyrenees can be enjoyed. In the grounds there is a gite of 130m2.
Set over 3 levels and a basement this mansion boasts a wealth of original features - ornate cornices, stucco work on some walls, marble fireplaces, polished oak parquet flooring, stained glass windows, some original tiling in the basement, double wooden doors to the reception rooms and a beautifully preserved oak staircase. It has a light and airy feel as many rooms have windows on 2 walls. Those closer to the road are double glazed eliminating traffic noise. There is lots of storage on each level. Gas central heating keeps it cosy.
A security gated entrance opens to a large area suitable for parking many cars. The 2 bedroomed gite faces the mansion. Large double doors lead to an impressive entrance area with steps up to the ground floor. There are 2 stunning reception rooms which highlight many original features and French doors open to the verandah, a comfortable dining room with access to a modern well fitted kitchen with 2 island areas, a cloakroom and toilet.
The feature oak staircase passing stained glass windows leads to a spacious first floor landing from which there are 2 large bedrooms with ensuite facilities and dressing areas. There is an elegant office and a further formal lounge with French doors to a smaller terrace. A small kitchen with fridge, coffee making facilities and microwave allow for leisurely breakfasts or cocktails to be prepared.
Continuing up to the second floor there are 3 further spacious bedrooms, one with ensuite facilities and a family bathroom, dressing area with wardrobes to both sides and a large linen or storage room.
A similar oak staircase from the entrance area leads to the extensive basement, which also has double doors to the garden. There are a number of rooms housing the services, a storage room, laundry room, a temperature controlled 'cave' racked for wine storage. The central large area is used as a gym with its own power shower and leading to an indoor pool, which requires some finishing work. Finally there is a summer kitchen or games room with a working fireplace for BBQ.
All in all a large comfortable family home in walk in condition close to amenities and less than an hour away from the ski station at La Mongie. The international airport Tarbes-Lourdes-Pyrenees airport is 10 minutes away from which there are 2 flights daily to Paris. The motorway network is only a few kilometres away making the Atlantic beaches reachable in just over an hour.