In one of the sunniest regions of France, this beautiful old farmhouse with a distant view of Mount Canigou is part of an ancient monastery dating back to 1790. Completely renovated and decorated with impeccable taste, it has been managed as a successful B&B for over eleven years but it could also be a stunning home for a large family. It is rare to find such a character property less than 5 minutes from the extensive amenities of the historic market town of Ille-sur-Tet which is linked by dual carriageway to Perpignan (local airport and Tgv) and the A9 motorway. Local beaches are to be found within half an hour’s drive and mountain ski resorts within an hour. The south-facing farmhouse is situated amidst peach orchards with relaxing views across the fields to the wooded hills of Les Aspres, renowned for mountain bike enthusiasts and popular amongst hikers and trail runners. The mild local climate makes it ideal for lovers of outdoor activities and nature.
The property entrance opens to a large hallway which leads off on the one side to a farmhouse kitchen (equipped with wood burner and original bread oven), with adjacent utility room and WC. To the other side of the hallway are two interconnecting reception rooms with original exposed beams. A granule burner in the front room keeps it cosy in winter. The larger salon is currently used as a buffet breakfast room where French windows lead to the walled rear patio area with shady olive trees and a covered summer kitchen. Steps lead up to a courtyard with a very private 6m x 3m pool with jacuzzi and an outside WC on one side of a covered terrace which also features a “Moroccan corner” seating area. From the entrance hallway, oak stairs lead up to the first-floor landing. Four luxurious double bedrooms all with modern ensuite bathrooms provide delightful guest accommodation. Three of these are south facing including the largest bedroom which also has a separate salon. The fourth is west facing with a view of Mount Canigou. Three of the rooms have reverse cycle air-conditioning and ceiling fans. The next flight of stairs leads to the bright second floor landing lit by a skylight. On this top floor is situated a luminous air-conditioned studio apartment (with kitchenette and bathroom). A mezzanine floor with space for two additional two single beds make it ideal for visiting guests or family. On the opposite side of the landing is a large bedroom also with reverse cycle air conditioning, ceiling fan and ensuite bathroom. A walk-in wardrobe gives access to an attic storage room. Between the studio and the large bedroom is a spacious study which could be used as further bedroom.
In front of the house is a paved patio plus a wooden deck seating area ideal for breakfasts or sundowners with a view of Mount Canigou. Behind the patio is the original water well, and another paved patio area with a workshop/storeroom accessible from a timber frame double carport with concrete base. There is also parking for several cars on a gravel driveway and a bike shed. Adjacent to the courtyard is a covered woodshed for storing winter fuel for the wood burner.
The property’s green credentials include its own modern micro sewage system, recently installed solar Pv panels and its own water well with electric pump which can be used for irrigation or for filling the pool.
A visit to the property is essential to experience the generous spirit of the place and its historical charm. Prospective buyers can book a room at the B&B to really get a feel for the property and appreciate the tranquility making it the perfect home for those wanting to escape the stresses of everyday life. Here it is possible to enjoy a relaxed lifestyle which still allows for travel since its low-maintenance grounds and situation also make it the ideal lock-up-and-go property.
