Castle

Property summary

This unique property is situated in the commune of Monfort en Chalosse which is about twenty minutes from Dax where there is a local Tgv station offering one-hour transportation to Biarritz or Pau, and a one-and-a-half-hour train journey to Bordeaux. Although this is a popular area with which we are familiar here at Bliss, we were surprised to discover this property, tucked away, off the beaten track. The property comprises several properties principally built at the end of the 18th century and is in entire need of restoration. The Château is located in a quiet and tranquil area, with lovely views over wooded glades with an elegant long driveway from the main road lined with ancient plane trees. The ancient wrought iron gate and the long silent alleyway which winds between the trees and up to the Château lend an air of quiet seclusion to the property, which will appeal to anyone who is looking for a property which has retained not just its authenticity but its air of “mystery” far from the hustle and bustle of the outside world. The property comprises several buildings all of which are in need of restoration. For the purposes of this advert and our evaluation we have contented ourselves with the main Chateau, or “caverie” (which is worth of saving) since many of the other outbuildings are probably in such a poor state of repair as to warrant demolition. The Château can be found listed as far back in the XIVth century when it was the home of a noble family. The main entrance to the “caverie” or Château, is located on the south-facing way, as is usual in Aquitaine, where the coat of arms can be seen above the door. The door is flanked by two columns which are typical of properties in the area known as “capcazalières” in Chalosse. We enter the property via a large entrance hall, in which a splendid wooden staircase leads to the first floor. The staircase dates back to the 18th century. From the hallway the property opens out from one reception-room to the next. The rooms, although in a state of disrepair, have all retained their original terracotta floors. The ceilings with their decorative polychromatic (painted) beams are thought to be original. To the rear of the property the original kitchen still retains a monumental fireplace. On the upper floor there is an exceptional sense of space in the bedrooms with ancient exposed beams dating back to the time of the French Revolution. The interconnecting walls have been dismantled by the current owners to see the condition of the roof and ceilings and to see which areas are leaking. The entire roof is in need of repair. Other than the main château, the property comprises an ancient farm-building in a state of poor repair, but typical of the region, a barn with three floors, a bread oven and a well: all are vestiges of what was once a working estate was once. Our thoughts here at Bliss Here at Bliss we feel that the location of this property is quite exceptional for the area, and that the Château is an extraordinary testimony to the history of the Aquitaine. It is original and highly unusual and fascinating to think that it once belonged to the bearer of arms of Joan of Arc. The property overlooks a stunning stretch of countryside with views over the entire valley which are highly desirable. The location is utterly tranquil, and almost forgotten feeling. The new owners will require a substantial budget in order to repair the property. Such a budget should not be underestimated. Due to the poor state of repair of the roof it is not habitable in its current condition and requires urgent attention. Anyone who lives here will benefit from a tranquil location close to a vibrant town. In Chalosse there is a school, a college, a swimming pool and numerous shops and amenities close to the Tgv station of Dax, and the village is within easy reach of Bordeaux (1h20) and Paris (3h20 minutes away). Here at Bliss we feel it is important when restoring the property to retain as much of its original style and character of the building as possible. To whom will this property appeal? The property will appeal to lovers of French history and to anyone who has ever dreamt of living in a castle of manageable proportions filled with characterful features. This is possibly the project of a lifetime – but for anyone brave enough to take it on, the guarantee of an exceptional home in an idyllic area.