Medieval fortified castle with 165-hectare estate, Haute-Vienne, Nouvelle Aquitaine
€6,500,000 [convert]

Property Description

The magnificent and hauntingly beautiful Chateau de Montbrun (monument historique) sits in a sheltered valley in the centre of its 165 ha (400 acres) estate, surrounded by ancient woodland, meadows and lakes. This truly historic property has tradition and romance infused into every stone of its massive 3 metre thick walls, and is one of only four mediaeval fortresses that survive in France from this turbulent period in history.

According to legend, Richard Coeur de Lion was brought to Montbrun after being fatally wounded at the siege of Châlus on his return from the Crusades. Dating originally from 1179, only the 40m high Grand Jacques Keep remains from this period, the four massive round towers on each corner were added in 1438 after it suffered significant damage in the 100 years war. After the French Revolution, the Chateau was again severely damaged and its estate lands were divided and sold off.

The current owners have undertaken a truly remarkable renovation and restoration, breathtaking in its scope, scale and authenticity. Hundreds of master craftsmen working over a decade have painstakingly restored (and where necessary recreated) both the structure and interior using the highest quality traditional materials sourced from around the world. Together they have succeeded in retaining the essence of its majesty and heritage whilst adding the modern conveniences of underfloor central heating, up-to-date electrics, internet and telecoms technology, as well as modern bathroom facilities - there is even a lift to serve the guest suites in the seven-storey Grand Jacques tower. In addition to restoring the Chateau the current owners have patiently re-purchased surrounding land, including farm cottages and its very own tavern, to restore the estate to its former extent.

Extending to 3500m², the accommodation comprises a range of reception rooms including a great hall capable of seating up to 100 people, a sitting room, a formal dining room, a cinema, two-storey library, a meeting / presentation room, a billiard room and a chapel, as well as a professionally-equipped kitchen with the potential to serve more than a hundred people whilst still creating an atmosphere suitable for an intimate family dinner. The upper floors of the four towers offer 17 bedrooms, all with en-suite facilities, as well as a spectacular master bedroom suite with dressing room, jacuzzi, sauna, private dining room and access to a roof terrace with spectacular views over the estate.

Situated in Perigord Limousin national park and on the Route 'Richard Coeur de Lion', this stunning estate could continue as a unique private home, or offers huge potential to develop as a hotel or events business (subject to necessary permissions). The nearest village - within a few minutes' walk - has all the day-to-day facilities, and there is easy access to the main motorway route to Paris, a TGV station, and Limoges International airport is within half an hour's drive.

Read more>>