BELCASTEL, Midi-Pyrénées, Address available on request

Exclusive
Location: Château de Belcastel rises above one of Frances official Most Beautiful Villages in the Aveyron region, just 35 minutes from Rodez, 20 minutes from Rodez airport, 2H10 from Toulouse and 2H30 from Montpellier. By air, it is 1h south of Paris. 

History: the history of Château de Belcastel begins in the 8th century, with its medieval chapel. During the next three centuries the Aveyron castle grew into a mighty warrior fortress.

In the 13th century, the lords of Belcastel were ruined in the crusades. As a direct consequence, the castle was confiscated by the Crown and used as a military stronghold. In 1390, it became the property of a faithful and valiant knight named Saunhac. Generations of his family lived in the chateau, bringing prosperity to the village below, and building the historic bridge and church. At the end of the 16th century, the last Saunhac heir abandoned the castle, leaving it to ruin. 

In 1973, the famous French architect Fernand Pouillon discovered the ruin of Belcastels castle. Seduced by the site, he decided to restore it and make it his home. For more than eight full years, with masons and glaziers who lived on the property, Pouillon rebuilt and restored the historic landmark, using only medieval building technology, and no machines, to bring the castle back to its original glory. 

Two decades after Fernand Pouillon's death, the chateau was acquired by two gallerists. They brought new life to the stones, creating exhibition spaces, and opening the chateau to the public. Since 2005, more than 20,000 visitors are welcomed annually to discover the rich history, extraordinary architecture and breathtaking views on the property. 

The château: consisting of a dozen rooms and three courtyards with incomparable views over the Aveyron river and the village below. A medieval fortress boasting all of the textbook-features: enter by crossing a drawbridge over a fresh-water moat system and discover the tallest keep in the region, frescos, seven very large fireplaces, spiral staircases, coat of arms, thrones, chapels, towers, a prison, vaulted ceilings... You name it... 

The dungeon has 4 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms.
The Lords dining room is a beautiful space, with its 15th century glass windows, a spectacular fireplace, and behind it, a fully equipped commercial kitchen that offers many interesting possibilities for entertaining. 

Fernand Pouillon incorporated many clever modern amenities, including a dream-come-true heated moat basin swimming pool on the south wall of the castle. 

The company that manages the tourist activities on the property and holds all the rights is a turnkey business that can be purchased for a further 600,000.

This place holds a unique place in time, to be looked after and kept with love for future generations. The castle and the remarkable work of this couple with a vision, is a rare gem where art, history and the heritage of the Aveyron find common ground.