Nestled in the quaint, historic town of Celles-sur-Belle in the picturesque region of Poitou-Charentes, this charming 4-bedroom character house awaits your personal touch to transform it into a dream French retreat. The property is well-positioned in Deux-Sèvres, offering enchanting views of the 12th-century abbey to the front and the tranquil walled river flowing gently by the side. This stone-built home, currently a fixer-upper with oodles of potential, sits at a price of 109,000 Euros, promising an enticing project for those with a flair for renovation.
As you approach this venerable dwelling, the first impression is one of enduring charm. It proudly stands as a testament to traditional French architecture, maintaining significant period features while presenting a canvas ready for modern enhancements. With an existing 170m² of living space, plus the possibility of converting two sizeable attics, the expansion potential here is limitless for the imaginative homebuyer.
The journey through this delightful abode begins at the ground floor. The entrance opens into a generously proportioned living room, where original wooden floors echo the stories of times gone by. A majestic fireplace immediately catches the eye, suggesting cozy winter evenings shared with family and friends. Adjacent is a 14m² room, formerly a study, complete with wooden floors and direct access to the garden—a potential spot for a charming library or versatile home office.
The dining area, a sizable 21m², boasts a unique flagstone floor, radiating rustic elegance. Its direct access to the garden via a welcoming doorway seamlessly blends indoor and outdoor living. The adjoining kitchen maintains a traditional tiled floor, and while modest in size at 12m², it offers ample scope for a makeover that could transform it into the heartbeat of the house.
Completing the ground floor is a storeroom and a separate WC alongside a space awaiting conversion. The first floor leads to a landing from where you discover the four bedrooms, sized generously from 10m² to a grand 19.3m², all flaunting original wooden floors. The shower room, though functional with a tiled shower and sink, could benefit from a touch of modern indulgence.
Below the main living area lies a fascinating potential in the form of an attached outbuilding, currently accommodating a boiler room, but ripe for transformation into a self-contained studio or gîte. The opportunity for creative development continues with other smaller outbuildings perfect for storage solutions.
The exterior of the property exudes a serene charm, with a private garden swathed in mature trees offering a verdant haven of tranquility. The walled river alongside adds a picturesque element that's rare to find and utterly bewitching.
Celles-sur-Belle itself is a delightful destination for anyone considering life in the French countryside. A town brimming with history, it offers a journey through time with its charming streets and historical architecture. Living here means you're within walking distance of a bustling local life with shops, bars, and restaurants close by.
The proximity to the beautiful abbey provides not just enchanting views but also a palpable sense of connection to the region’s rich past. The rolling hills and lush landscapes of Poitou-Charentes further enhance the allure of country living here, with endless opportunities for famillies to explore nature trails, engage with the warm and welcoming local community, or simply enjoy peaceful afternoons in your garden with the chirping birds and the rustling leaves.
Seasons in Celles-sur-Belle are a gentle affair, with mild winters and warm summers that are perfect for exploring this rich slice of rural France. Outdoor enthusiasts will relish the climate that allows for year-round enjoyment of the region's natural beauty, whether it's a leisurely bike ride through the village or a simple afternoon picnic alongside the river.
In essence, this home is an ideal choice for overseas buyers and expats yearning for a slice of authentic French life, who appreciate history, and beauty, and the opportunity to personalize their living space. It comes with the certainty of a welcoming, close-knit community and the irresistible charm of an idyllic countryside retreat. While the property requires some elbow grease to restore its former luster, the potential is undeniable—awaiting those keen to embark on a journey of renovation and discovery.
