17th Century Fairytale Chateau on 111 Acres Southwest of Paris
Nestled in the heart of the historic Hurepoix region, just 35 kilometers from Paris, lies a stunning 17th-century French chateau that seamlessly blends aristocratic grandeur with timeless charm.
The chateau's origins date back to the 16th century when Gilles Lemaître, general counsel to François I, commissioned a manor house on these grounds.
It was later transformed into the spectacular chateau we see today by the Lamoignon family in the 17th century. Their efforts included the creation of a formal French-style park inspired by André Le Nôtre, renowned for designing the gardens of Versailles.
In 1755, the estate passed to Guillaume Joseph Dupleix de Bacquencourt and subsequently to the illustrious Arrighi de Casanova family.
Jean-Thomas Arrighi de Casanova, the Duke of Padua and a cousin of Napoleon Bonaparte, launched a remarkable restoration in the 19th century. With the help of the famed Bühler brothers and landscape architect Louis-Martin Berthault, they transformed the chateau's formal gardens into a romantic park, complete with an artificial lake and lush woodland scenery.
In the modern era, the gardens were further revived by the acclaimed landscape designer Timothy Vaughan, earning the prestigious “Jardin Remarquable” label in 2004. Today, the property is celebrated as one of the most romantic gardens in France.
The chateau itself is a masterpiece of classic French architecture, with its striking yellow sandstone and brick facade, imperial slate roof, and sculptures that enhance its regal presence. Upon entering, visitors are transported to a Venetian palace, with 6.5-meter-high ceilings, Versailles oak parquet floors, and a vestibule adorned with Medici vases.
Spanning 17,700 square feet across three floors, the chateau is rich in period detailing. The highlight is the "Napoleon III salon," a magnificent two-story drawing room featuring a trompe-l'œil balustrade and a painted ceiling depicting a serene spring sky. Throughout the residence, antique tapestries, panelled walls, marble fireplaces, and black-and-white cabochon floors evoke the elegance of the Second Empire.
The estate’s sprawling 111 acres are a haven of natural beauty. A botanical park and woodland surround the property, offering a serene retreat from the bustle of Paris. The centerpiece is the lake, designed in harmony with the romantic English garden style established by the Dukes of Padua. Additional features include historic stables, a chapel, greenhouses, and a walled park that frames the main courtyard, creating an idyllic setting.
The estate's proximity to a 100-hectare golf course adds to its appeal, making it an ideal retreat for those seeking luxury, privacy, and recreation.
Listed as a Historic Monument, this remarkable chateau represents the pinnacle of French heritage and elegance. With its rich history, architectural splendor, and breathtaking natural surroundings, it offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to own a piece of France’s aristocratic past—all within a stone's throw of Paris.
All photos belong to the listing agency.