French property dreams
A period property par excellence near La Rochelle has Ruth Wood dreaming of sunny days in Charente-Maritime
When people told Hannibal that it was impossible to cross the Alps by elephant, he is said to have replied: “I shall find a way or make one”. Whether the Carthaginian general really did utter those words more than 1,200 years ago will probably forever remain a mystery.
Likewise, I can’t tell you why his catchphrase in Latin – ‘Aut viam inveniam aut faciam’ – is carved into the stone above the door of this stunning home in Charente-Maritime, which is a long way from the Alps. However, it does seem a fitting inscription for a historic building that has clearly been lovingly built, restored and maintained.
Dating back to the late 18thcentury, the property was once the presbytery of Aigrefeuille d’Aunis, a small town just 20 minutes from the Atlantic coast and 30 minutes from the historic port of La Rochelle. In more recent times, it has benefited from a quality renovation by none other than the Compagnons du Devoir, a highly respected artisan guild that dates back to the Middle Ages.
True to the Hannibalinspired inscription, the artisans have found a way to preserve the past while also making their own mark on the property. The result is 480m 2 of living space par excellence that combines character with modern-day comforts. Presumably no elephants were involved.
In total, there are 21 rooms, including seven large bedrooms, five bathrooms and multiple reception rooms, plus a wine storehouse that could be converted into further accommodation.
With two staircases leading to the first floor, the layout gives everyone the freedom to be private or connected. The same goes for the property itself, which is enclosed by a 1,805m 2 walled garden in the very heart of town – a private setting yet with shops, restaurants, schools and other amenities only steps away.
A lofty entrance hall with parquet flooring gives access to the two main living rooms, one a traditional affair with elegant fireplace and wood panelling, the other a more informal space housed in a rotunda overlooking the garden.
Stepping through the sma
