Manor House in Besançon - the Charm of a Cottage in the City

Property Description

Mansion in Besançon
Bourgeois lifestyle in a preserved green setting

A stone's throw from the hustle and bustle of Besançon, hidden behind an old gate and high protective walls, this 18th-century mansion offers a unique living experience: that of a historic cottage in the heart of the city. Its weathered stone facade conceals a vast enclosed garden, a rare privilege in such close proximity to the city center, transforming this place into a true refuge for those who dream of privacy, nature, and authenticity.
Originally a wine-growing farm before becoming a bourgeois residence, today it embodies a timeless art of living, that of a place shaped by generations, enriched by stories and human imprints. Its style evokes English cottages, where discreet charm blends with the sweetness of life. Antique woodwork, century-old parquet floors, period fireplaces, and a spiral staircase in fine wood tell a story that cannot be visited: it must be felt. Choosing this house is not just buying a property, it is embracing a philosophy of life, one of simple elegance, living heritage, and a daily life imbued with serenity.

An interior steeped in history and character
The house charms with its unique atmosphere: a subtle blend of authenticity, history, and modernity. Its 190 m² are spread over two levels and offer an ideal layout for family life. The spacious 60 m² living room, with its old wood and stone fireplaces, is perfect for large winter gatherings, convivial evenings, or quiet moments by the fire.
The delightfully rustic kitchen follows the same principle of functional elegance: it does not try to seduce with contemporary pomp, but with the sincerity of its materials, its practicality, and its authenticity. A bedroom on the ground floor, rare for a house of this era, allows for single-story living, the creation of a cozy office, or the expansion of the kitchen.
Upstairs, three generous bedrooms extend this atmosphere of gentleness and intimacy. The original woodwork, molded doors, and antique floors create a decor that is both noble and familiar. Each room seems to tell a story, that of a deeply lived-in place that has evolved with the times without ever betraying its soul.

An exceptional garden in the heart of the city
One of the major assets of this property is its exterior. A true haven of peace in the heart of the city, the walled garden covers more than 2,100 m², a space of absolute rarity in this area. Here, nature is omnipresent: mature trees, ancient hedges, gravel paths, sun-drenched terraces... Everything comes together to create a bucolic, almost country-like environment that contrasts beautifully with the immediate proximity of the city's services and entertainment.
This flat, buildable land also offers tremendous potential: expansion of the house, creation of an outbuilding, swimming pool, development of an independent work or reception area, or even detachment of a plot to enhance the value of the property. A barn, vaulted cellars, and a workshop complete the property and add to its heritage and functional value. Here, the garden becomes much more than just an outdoor space: it is the heart of the lifestyle project, a space to invest in, transform, or simply enjoy.

A convenient and strategic location
The house enjoys a rare balance between accessibility and privacy. Located near a quiet residential street, it benefits from a peaceful environment while remaining connected to the historic center and all amenities. Schools, shops, markets, services, restaurants, and cultural facilities are within walking distance. The Tgv train station and the A36 motorway provide quick access to major regional and European cities.
This subtle compromise between tranquility and urban life makes it a particularly attractive address for an active family, a couple seeking authenticity, or an investor wishing to enhance the value of a heritage property without the constraints of distance. This is also what gives this house its unique character: it offers what few other properties can combine, the charm of a historic cottage, the privacy of a country estate, and the convenience of a city address.

The agency's opinion
This property will appeal to lovers of beautiful old houses who are not looking for a standardized product, but a place with soul, potential, and character. Its large enclosed garden, intact architectural charm, and multiple possibilities for development make it a rare opportunity on the Besançon market.
Whether as a warm family home, a characterful second home or a heritage project to develop, it lends itself to all ambitions. It is a property that you choose with your heart as much as with your head.