Pézenas, Languedoc-Roussillon 34120

In 'French Tuscany', at the heart of the Hérault, close to Pézenas An elegant 17th-century chateau with outbuildings and 4 ha of grounds. Fully restored over the past decade to the most exacting standards, the chateau comes into view at the end of a long drive lined with trees several centuries old. Built in the 17th century at the heart of wooded grounds, it and its outbuildings create a composition of rare architectural and landscape quality. Running east to west, the house stands in theatrical relation to its grounds. On the west, the main facade opens onto a wide lawn continued by the perspective of the large reflecting pool with its fountain jet. Two slate-roofed towers and a chapel mark the ends. On the east, the mood turns more intimate, with an ornamental basin sheltered beneath the tree canopy. With more than 1,000 m² over three levels, the building shows a classical Italianate architecture typical of the patrician country houses of Languedoc. Strictly ordered facades of local stone carry roofs of barrel tiles and génoise cornices that assert their southern character. The restoration, carried out with the utmost care, is one of the property's distinguishing features. Nothing has been left to chance: the quality of the materials, the accuracy of the proportions, the precision of the workmanship, and an exceptionally high level of finish together restore the chateau to its full distinction, without sacrificing anything to present-day demands for comfort and reliability. The same pursuit of excellence extends to the equipment that makes the estate entirely self-sufficient: a borehole with a drinking-water treatment system, and a generator to keep systems running at all times. These arrangements reflect an overall approach in which the preservation of historic character goes hand in hand with constant attention to durability and use. To the south, the former stables, now converted into contemporary living quarters, and the orangery extend the main house. Set apart in a clearing, two eco-lodges blend into their planted surroundings. The result is a property of rare completeness, marked by the quality of the restoration and the discreet sophistication of the equipment. Suited to hospitality and events, the chateau and its outbuildings can accommodate up to 200 people.