listed private mansion for sale Blois, France

This elegant property offers a unique opportunity to live in an exceptional historic monument, transformed into a very comfortable home. The property was originally a convent built in the Middle Ages to house the monks of the magnificent church nearby. It sits on the western flanks of a pretty historic town in the Loire Valley.All the amenities of the town centre are within walking distance, but the feeling once you are inside the property is one of being in the countryside as the views overlook the peaceful countryside, accessible in a few minutes' walk from the house. All the important original architectural features have been carefully preserved, including the monumental stone fireplaces, stone staircase, mullioned windows, magnificent roof and ceiling beams, part of the cloister, the wine cellars and the remarkable carved stone well. The exceptionally high ceilings create spacious, high-ceilinged rooms that remain cool in the height of summer, but the sophisticated underfloor heating keeps the house very warm during the winter months. On the ground floor is a series of large, stately reception rooms: kitchen, living room, hallway and dining room. Large windows overlook either the French gardens to the west or the cloister to the east. On the first floor, there are 5 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms. At the top of the remarkable 16th-century staircase is one of the ‘jewels’ of the property, a huge, beautifully restored attic, which has been used as a painter's studio. Owning a listed historic monument in France is both a privilege and a unique opportunity to become the guardian of the country's rich cultural heritage. These exceptional properties offer unparalleled architectural character. Living in a historic monument means living in history. This picturesque town, located just a 15-minute drive from the Royal Abbey of Fontevraud, in the heart of the Loire Valley and major cultural centres such as Saumur, Chinon and Poitiers, offers a rare combination of rural tranquillity and easy access to modern amenities, including shops, schools, services, healthcare and transport. Paris is accessible by TGV from Tours in 55 minutes and international airports are found within 1 hour's drive. This area is exceptionally rich in cultural events, fine dining, food and antique markets vivid with colour and impeccable products year-round.

In the Heart of Cardinal Richelieu's Ideal City 17th-Century Private Mansion Approx. 300 m² of Living Space Outbuildings Courtyard & Garden Some homes stand the test of time without ever losing their soul. Nestled in the heart of the prestigious town of Richelieu, an architectural masterpiece envisioned by Cardinal Richelieu in the 17th century and designed by the King's architect Jacques Lemercier, this exceptional private mansion (hôtel particulier) occupies a prime position on the highly sought-after Place des Religieuses, one of the historic squares of this remarkable heritage town, often described as an open-air museum. Behind its elegant façade lies approximately 300 m² of beautifully proportioned living space, where generous volumes, authentic character and abundant natural light combine to create an exceptional living environment. The property features: A magnificent entrance hall with through access; Several elegant reception rooms; A spacious kitchen opening onto the dining room; Five bedrooms, including several suites; Three shower rooms, two bathrooms and six WCs; A home office; A self-contained apartment, ideal for guests, extended family or a holiday rental business; Numerous outbuildings, including a former office, laundry room, garage, storage rooms and attic. The property is arranged around a charming private courtyard, sheltered from view, which extends into a delightful garden, creating a peaceful oasis in the very heart of the town. The house has also benefited from significant technical upgrades, including an air-to-water heat pump, a thermodynamic water heater, and a D-rated Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), an excellent result for a residence dating from this period. Whether you are looking for an elegant family home, a prestigious second residence, or a property with excellent potential for a boutique guest house or luxury holiday accommodation, this unique estate offers an exceptional opportunity within one of France's most remarkable historic towns. A rare property. A prestigious address. A new chapter of history waiting to be written.