Tours, Centre-Val de Loire 37000

A 15th-century dwelling surrounded by a garden, courtyard and meadow, in a village less than half an hour from Tours. The north gable of the house backs onto the protecting hillside, while the south side enjoys the sun from dawn to dusk. Situated in a prominent position in the heart of the village, the property affords stunning views. It is to the south and east that the view stretches furthest, across the gardens, the rooftops of the village and out over the valley. A courtyard and two lush gardens border the building on all three sides, creating a skilful visual and olfactory interplay. Vehicle access is via the street leading up to the vineyards and across the courtyard. This recently paved courtyard also provides access to the former stables and the three troglodyte caves. A second pedestrian entrance leads to one of the two gardens. Close to the house and on the hillside, a brick flight of steps leads up to a small terraced kitchen garden, from where a path of round wood slices climbs up to the meadow, which was once planted with vines.