Standing as homage to its history, a former water mill dating to the beginning of the 1600s is today an alluring estate equipped for modern living.
Set in the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region in the sunny southeastern corner of France, its 3 hectares – about 7.5 acres – of landscaped parkland ensure privacy. A river runs along one side of the lush site.
The romance of the property begins long before one steps through the arched doorways. On the grounds near the stone-walled chateau, a natural lake has been transformed into a swimming pool.
Boulders flank a sandy beach containing a spa at the waters’ edge. A sunning deck sits to one side.
Natural stone ledges descend into the deep end, as do man-made stone steps off a tree-shaded patio. A waterfall adds movement to the pool’s surface.
The 460-square-meter – nearly 5,000-square-foot – traditional farmhouse evokes a castle with its grand rooms, vaulted ceilings and wooden doors. Burgundy floor tiles, stone-clad cellars and fireplaces with carved mantelpieces add to the effect.One such fireplace occupies the living room, which features coved ceilings and a diamond-patterned checkerboard tile floor. In this room the firebox has been outfitted with a wood-burning stove.
The long dining-family room benefits from French doors topped by arched windows that bring in extra light and mimic the curve of the ceiling.
A den-like area off the center-island kitchen has room for a desk, a sitting area and a piano.
The large primary suite, with a fireplace and lounging area, opens to a balcony. There are a total of eight bedrooms with bathrooms and dressing areas.
The wine cellar is almost cave-like with stone walls and an arched stone ceiling. A central chandelier in the tasting area plays well against the rustic interior.
The bar has a similar motif with stonework, a patterned tile floor and both counter and table seating.
A basement provides extra storage space and could be converted into a gym or a home theater.
A second spa pool, a fishing pond and a petanque sports court complete the grounds. Another bonus: The property is within walking distance of a medieval village.
The asking price is EUR 8.85 million or about US $9.5 million. Meta Looij of Groupe Mercure is the listing agent.
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