Agen, Aquitaine 47000

Dating back to 1547, the Chteau has grown over the centuries according to the needs of the families who have had the joy of living here.Situated up on high, in a peaceful haven, the chateau looks down over neatly lawned gardens and woodland.Flanking the building from the rear is a prehistoric rockface a feature of the landscape since time immemorial when dinosaurs roamed the land.The Chateau faces south, where between the branches of the trees and across the valley, modern life beckons from afar, with the distant outline of Agen etched onto the horizon.This juxtaposition of bucolic splendour coupled with the proximity of city life creates much of the inherent magic of this property. The gardens, and landscape immediately around the property have conspired for centuries to provide an utterly idyllic and bucolic retreat from the world with the promise of urban life across the valley.It takes a moment to adjust one's thoughts to the fact that the shops, cinemas, theatres, and schools of Agen are a short drive away.In layman's terms, one can pop out and seek a baguette or bottle of wine in almost the same amount of time as it might take to walk to the tower at the far end of the garden and back again.The position, is in a word magnificent.Magnificent and unexpected.The word chteau can often be misleading. If Chateau conjures images of medieval drafts, and chill stone floors, then rest assured that none of the grace and beauty associated with a chateau has been sacrificed in the name of comfort, and yet this property is decidedly comfortable, modern and in full working order.For home-seekers who dream of living in aesthetically pleasing historical buildings you will not be disappointed. None of the restorations carried out have removed an iota of the chteau's charm.A walk in the grounds throws up delightful views of this architectural beauty from every angle.In the grounds of the chteau it is easy to take a sumptuous photograph, because from every angle be it in the garden, the pool, the chapel or the tower, the Chteau has a grace and elegance which is entirely photogenic.From the outside it is impossible to imagine the level of comfort within.Inside is a very different story. Stone walls, high ceilings, and characterful fireplaces can be found. But you will also find five star comfort and modernity.Look no further than the C grade rating on the energy efficiency scale. In part due to the thick walls, but also due to the current owners love of houses that work and where the management of a substantial building such as this one might be made as easy possible.Restored throughout the property was used as a luxury family home with chambres d'htes since 2011, ceasing its very successful business just a couple of years ago.