Displaying posts labeled "Castle/Manor"

This majestic villa is conveniently located on the sought after Liguria’s east coast, between La Spezia and the colourful Cinque Terre. Moreover, the property also sits very few kilometers from Tuscany and the famous Versilia coast, in a strategic position from where to enjoy both the sea and the countryside, with its vineyards and local traditions. The property was commissioned to an English architect by a descendant of one of the most powerful families in Italy and was built at the end of the 19th century. Its current owners carried out an extensive restoration in 1970. The property spreads over two levels at the front and four at the back. A landing with a double flight of stairs leads to the cellars and the lower level of the garden. Another staircase connects the villa to a spacious terrace overlooking the renewed Bocca di Magra harbour, the Versilia Coast and the Apuan Alps. Adjacent to the villa, a fully glazed building provides shelter during the winter season for an enchanting lemon house.
I really have no words for this spectacular home (of 8 bedrooms and 12 bathrooms) except one must feel so regal living amongst all that marble. With that view. For sale (for undisclosed amount) via Knight Frank.

This beautiful property boasts beautiful high Gascon towers with panoramic views over the surrounding countryside and towards the Pyrenees in the distance. Surrounded by beautiful formal gardens and an array of wonderful outbuildings including a two-storey gatehouse, a magnificent pigeonnier, and an orangery. The chateau and its gardens have been sensitively enhanced and improved over the last years by the present owners, to preserve the original features and retain the historic atmosphere with a potential of 7 bedrooms. The earliest parts of the Chateau date to circa 1280 with additions having been made later into the 16th Century. Historic features include thick walls made from the local limestone, a wonderful stone staircase, and fabulous exposed ceilings and fireplaces. Set in some 7 hectares of grounds including a large walnut orchard which has the potential to be replanted as a vineyard.
I am about to sign on the dotted line for this one….. I am joking but wish I wasn’t. This one is a stunner. Located in Nerac, Lot-et-Garonne, Aquitaine and for sale for €1,740,000 via Knight Frank.

Sober and elegant, the “Hôtel Dorléans” is one of Valognes’ emblematic monuments. Its construction dates back to the town’s golden age, that of the 18th century, which earned it the nickname of “Little Norman Versailles”. Behind the listed stone facade, the vestibule astonishes visitors because of its size. The rest of the visit is steeped in the history of the premises, including the meticulously restored decors. The spiral stairway, providing a link between the different floors, is a magnificent work of art. The garden, also listed, is a harmonious combination of various species laid out under the protection of a majestic palm laurel tree.
Honey, I’m home. For sale via Patrice Besse for €895,000.

Remarkable French Chateau-style property, built in 1914 and set in over 6 acres, and an example of exceptional taste by both the original owners and the current owners, who had it thoroughly renovated in 2014. Authentic elements such as hardwood floors, marble Napoleon III fireplaces, an impressive staircase and the most beautiful ceiling ornaments and frescos have been preserved. This stately property provides living space of 550m2 over on 3 levels and includes 6 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, beautiful spacious reception rooms and a fitted kitchen. In addition, there is a large basement divided into several useful rooms and a caretaker’s house to renovate of 320m2 on 2 levels with stables. A garage and a swimming pool complete the property. The property covers 2.5hectares, is completely enclosed and is just 3km from the town centre of Cognac and its beautiful Charente river, along which the major Cognac distilleries are located.
I am totally smitten with the style of this château and the property is a perfect starting point for all the gardens I’d want to create. Where do I sign? 🙂 Listed at €1,295,000 via Prestige Property Group.

An enchanting land overlooking an infinite green of citrus, aromatic flora and island palms, an illustrious castle from the 16th century, and a Baronessa with a vision of an elegant countryside venue for weddings and special events. This is Castello Xirumi Serravalle, a magnificent Sicilian treasure belonging to the noble Grimaldi di Serravalle family for centuries. The historical castle has been transformed into a private estate where every room has become a living space with antique millstones, warehouses, olive oil presses, wine cellars, and more. Gracious gathering and dining spaces provide numerous options for entertainment. The open plan on the ground floor of the castle offers elegantly appointed rooms, each one overflowing into the next, and enabling large numbers of guests to circulate the property.
This castello is so incredibly picturesque and its restoration and design by Studio Andrea Perra is magical. That photo with the horse I might never forget. Photos: Mattia Aquila

If you have fallen in love with the style of windows accenting the look of this room, you can employ a double glazing specialist to translate this aesthetic into your own home’s windows.