This property is a hidden gem, set as it is, tucked away on the edge of an historic village, just 15 minutes from Jarnac, and with far reaching views from the garden, across the rolling Charentais countryside.

The front of the house looks southwards onto the shared, gravelled courtyard and from upstairs one can glimpse across the rooftops, the turrets of the 15th century, fairy tale chateau beyond. Inside, there is an immediate sense of calm and understated chic, the bright and welcoming hallway offering access right, to the spacious lounge with grand fireplace and wood-burning stove, and ahead, to the grand, bespoke, double-glazed conservatory with beautifully tiled floor, perfect for not-quite al fresco dining on cooler evenings. To the left of the entrance hall and connected by two doors to the conservatory and beyond to the garden, is the heart of the home, the large kitchen-dining area with a second, very handsome, wood-burner and gorgeous wooden flooring. Still on the ground floor, there is a smaller, cosy living room or “cwtch”, which is currently used as a TV room, but could easily become a study or office.

Upstairs, the landing feeds corridors to both left and right, leading to two bedrooms on either side of the house, a bathroom and two further shower rooms (one en suite and each with a lavatory). A second staircase takes you to the top floor, with another open landing, two bedrooms and a shower with WC, the whole being perfect for visiting family or friends.

The gardens are a delight, with olive, cherry, pomegranate and quince trees, shrubs, flower beds with plenty of drought tolerant planting and a shaded corner for dining beneath the lush, green canopy of a catalpa tree. And then there is the splendid pool and terrace, lined by cypresses and with full-width steps into its inviting, blue waters. The gardens are completely walled and private, but there is access from the rear. There is a pool pump room, two small storage sheds, a larger outbuilding and, with access from the garden and the front of the house, a large, vaulted barn serving as a garage. There is a further small and very ancient building, with outbuilding beyond, adjoining the main house which, legend has it, may once have been a lookout tower for the village, and subject to the necessary permissions, could be developed into further habitable or usable space.

The house and gardens present very nicely throughout and with its tall ceilings, solid wooden floors on all levels, and wonderful garden and pool area, it would make a perfect large family home, or very comfortable and welcoming holiday lockup-and-leave.

Price including agency fees : 449 000 €
Price excluding agency fees : 423 585 €
Buyer commission, tax included: 6%