5-Bed Restored 17th Century Mill Near Cordes-sur-Ciel with River, Pool & 7-Acre Estate



Midi-Pyrénées, Tarn, Cordes-sur-Ciel, France, Cordes-sur-Ciel (France)
5 Bedrooms · 4 Bathrooms · 286m² Floor area
€512,000
House
No parking
5 Bedrooms
4 Bathrooms
286m²
Garden
Pool
Not furnished
Description
Picture yourself awakening to the gentle murmur of river water flowing past your bedroom window, sunlight filtering through centuries-old stone walls as the scent of fresh bread wafts from your working stone oven. This is daily life at this meticulously restored 17th century water mill, where three hectares of private parkland along a pristine river create your personal sanctuary in one of France's most captivating medieval regions. Your morning coffee on the expansive terrace reveals sweeping views across orchards and pastures, while the clifftop village of Cordes-sur-Ciel rises majestically in the distance, its Gothic spires catching the early light. This 286-square-meter estate represents more than a vacation home in Midi-Pyrénées—it's a gateway to the authentic rhythm of southwestern French living, where history whispers through every stone and modern comfort meets timeless character.
The main residence, lovingly transformed from its industrial heritage into a 220-square-meter family haven, immediately captivates with its harmonious blend of original architectural features and contemporary amenities. The grand reception hall opens onto a light-filled 40-square-meter living and dining space where a traditional fireplace fitted with an efficient polyflam stove becomes the heart of winter gatherings. Exposed beams overhead and centuries-old stone underfoot create an ambiance that no new construction could replicate. The expansive fitted kitchen accommodates everything from intimate family meals to hosting elaborate dinner parties featuring local Tarn produce. On the ground floor, flexibility reigns with a versatile space serving as television lounge or additional bedroom, complemented by a shower room and practical storage cellar.
Ascending to the upper level reveals three generously proportioned bedrooms measuring 17, 19, and 20 square meters, each flooded with natural light and offering distinct character. The master suite pairs romantic privacy with an adjoining shower room, while a 21-square-meter office and reading room provides the perfect retreat for remote work or losing yourself in literature while overlooking the estate. A full bathroom and three separate toilets throughout ensure comfort for families and guests alike. This second home in France delivers space rarely found in European vacation properties, accommodating multi-generational holidays or welcoming friends without compromise.
The independent 65-square-meter apartment presents exceptional versatility for this holiday property in Tarn. Accessed separately from the main house, this self-contained unit features an open-plan living area with fully equipped kitchen, two comfortable bedrooms, and a modern bathroom. Reversible air conditioning ensures year-round comfort, while the private 15-square-meter elevated terrace delivers panoramic views across the park and river valley. This configuration transforms your investment into multiple opportunities: host extended family while maintaining privacy, accommodate au pairs or property managers, or generate substantial rental income through seasonal lettings. The Cordes-sur-Ciel region attracts discerning tourists seeking authentic French experiences, making this apartment an attractive vacation rental that could offset ownership costs significantly.
Venturing outside, the 29,072-square-meter grounds unfold as a private nature reserve along the river's edge. The 10-by-5-meter swimming pool, protected by a roller shutter cover and surrounded by sunny terraces, becomes summer's focal point. Unlike crowded public beaches, your family enjoys complete privacy while children play safely within sight. The working bread oven isn't merely decorative—fire it up for authentic wood-fired pizzas or crusty baguettes that fill the property with irresistible aromas. A substantial cart shed shelters vehicles and garden equipment, while a dedicated workshop space appeals to hobbyists and craftspeople. Two horse boxes in the pasture welcome equestrian pursuits, and the productive orchard supplies fresh fruit throughout growing seasons.
Cordes-sur-Ciel itself ranks among France's most remarkable destinations, this 13th century bastide perched dramatically atop a rocky outcrop earning designation as one of the Plus Beaux Villages de France. Narrow cobbled streets wind past Gothic facades, artisan workshops, and galleries showcasing regional crafts. The weekly market bursts with local specialties: earthy truffles in winter, succulent melons in summer, artisanal cheeses year-round, and wines from nearby Gaillac appellations. Medieval festivals transform the village each July, while Christmas markets create enchanting winter atmospheres. Just minutes from your door, yet removed enough for complete tranquility, you balance cultural immersion with private retreat.
The Tarn department offers extraordinary diversity for vacation home owners. Albi, the remarkable red-brick cathedral city and Toulouse-Lautrec's birthplace, lies 25 kilometers south—an easy drive for museum visits, riverside dining, or exploring UNESCO World Heritage architecture. The Gaillac wine region spreads vineyards across rolling hills, offering tastings at family-run domaines and wine education experiences. Outdoor enthusiasts discover endless trails through the Grésigne forest, kayaking on the Tarn river gorges, and cycling routes connecting medieval villages. The climate delivers warm, dry summers perfect for pool days and al fresco dining, while mild winters allow year-round enjoyment. Spring carpets meadows with wildflowers, and autumn transforms forests into golden spectacles.
Toulouse-Blagnac International Airport, just 80 kilometers away, connects directly to major European cities and London, making weekend escapes entirely practical. The A68 autoroute provides efficient access, while regional trains link to Toulouse and beyond. This accessibility transforms this second home in southwestern France into a genuinely usable retreat rather than a distant dream requiring elaborate travel logistics. For international buyers, France offers transparent property ownership processes, and English-speaking notaires in the region routinely handle purchases for foreign nationals.
The property's move-in ready condition means immediate enjoyment without renovation delays. Recent updates include double glazing throughout for thermal efficiency and noise reduction, oil central heating supplemented by a modern heat pump ensuring economical climate control, and solar panels heating water sustainably. The ceramic wood stove provides supplementary heating with romantic ambiance, while the polyflam insert redistributes warmth efficiently. These systems balance ecological responsibility with practical running costs—essential considerations for properties used seasonally.
Key features include: 286 square meters of living space across two residences; 5 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms accommodating large groups; 29,072 square meters of private parkland with river frontage; 10x5 meter swimming pool with security cover; Restored 17th century mill with original architectural features; Independent 65-square-meter rental apartment with terrace; Working traditional bread oven; Multiple outbuildings including workshop and horse boxes; Modern heating systems including heat pump and solar panels; 25 kilometers from Albi UNESCO World Heritage city; 80 kilometers from Toulouse International Airport; Productive orchard and extensive gardens; Three separate toilet facilities; Reversible air conditioning in apartment; Ample parking under covered cart shed.
This vacation home in Cordes-sur-Ciel represents more than real estate—it's an invitation to a slower, richer way of living where centuries of French heritage enhance modern comfort. Whether seeking a family gathering place, a creative retreat, or an income-generating investment in one of Europe's most authentic regions, this restored mill delivers exceptional value. The Tarn property market remains accessible compared to Provence or the Dordogne, yet offers equivalent beauty and superior authenticity. For buyers seeking a holiday property in France that combines historical significance, natural beauty, income potential, and genuine livability, this estate checks every box. Contact Homestra today to arrange your private viewing and begin your French adventure in this extraordinary riverside sanctuary.
Details
- Amount of bedrooms
- 5
- Size
- 286m²
- Price per m²
- €1,790
- Garden size
- 2907m²
- Has Garden
- Yes
- Has Parking
- No
- Has Basement
- Yes
- Condition
- good
- Amount of Bathrooms
- 4
- Has swimming pool
- Yes
- Property type
- House
- Energy label
Unknown
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