Property Description
Dating to the 1630’s this magnificent, historic property, ennobled by King Louis XIII in 1634, was discovered in 2006, entirely hidden beneath brambles and woodlands, by an intrepid local couple wanting to restore an important building of historical significance to the Béarn region.
For the past 14 years, an extensive restoration program has been implemented and today, the magnificent estate includes the main chateau, with observation tower and several ancillary buildings. This historic residence has been transformed into a luxurious, comfortable home offering 5 high spec guest bedroom suites, each complete with luxury bathrooms, with the owner’s private suite on the second floor. A comfortable sitting room, grand dining room, billiard room, kitchen and scullery complete the living quarters. The professional renovations include up to the minute technology and energy efficiency, including independent heating / air conditioning in each bedroom suite and double glazing throughout all of the buildings. The observation tower is also double glazed with 360° views across breathtaking countryside.
The owners have been operating a successful, luxury Boutique Hotel for several years, complimenting the B&B business with an enchanting wedding venue and events facility created recently in the adjacent ancillary buildings. This beautiful stone “salle de reception” can accommodate up to 100 wedding guests, with catering provided via the adjoining professional kitchens. The building also includes a vast laundry room and toilet facilities, built to conform to current standards, including disabled access. An indoor, heated swimming pool will be completed in 2021, leaving a further, independent outbuilding (originally destined to be transformed into a chapel) vacant for conversion.
Situated in approximately 4 hectares of private grounds, entirely sheltered from view, the chateau is reached via a 2km, well maintained track, leading to the private entrance gates. Entering the gates gives you the very first glimpse of the property sitting high on the crest. Perhaps the most important aspect of this privileged location is the complete lack of any disturbance along with panoramic views across the countryside and Pyrenees mountains - seen in their full glory from the observation tower. Furthermore the idyllic rural environment belies its excellent proximity to civilization and transport links. The important market town of Orthez is just a short 15 minute drive, where you will find all necessary commerce, supermarkets and medical facilities, the TGV to Paris, Pau and Bordeaux and also access to the A64 Autoroute. 15 minutes from the chateau in the opposite direction leads to the beautiful little 14th century fortified town of Navarrenx, listed as one of France’s « Plus Beaux Villages ».
This unique ensemble is offered for sale fully equipped to continue the successful business.