This dream French property is on the market for €835,000, listed with Patrice Besse Immobilier.

In a quiet pocket of the Loir Valley, where rolling vineyards give way to Renaissance-era estates, a 15th-century manor house is up for grabs. Often overshadowed by the better-known Loire Valley to the south, the Loir Valley is a distinct region with its own rich heritage, smaller-scale vineyards, and hidden historic gems like this one, just two hours from Paris.

Meticulously renovated about ten years ago, this estate offers a rare mix of history, charm, and practicality—without the upkeep headaches of a sprawling château. Located near the birthplace of Pierre de Ronsard, France’s most celebrated Renaissance poet, it remains steeped in the region’s literary and cultural legacy.

This isn’t just a pretty facade. The manor carries a fascinating link to Ronsard himself, with a coat of arms tied to his family and a local legend suggesting underground tunnels once connected this estate to his childhood home. According to local legend, the estate’s hillside caves once connected to Ronsard’s birthplace, adding to the sense of living inside a piece of history.

Dating back to the 15th century, the property has been thoughtfully restored, ensuring that its Renaissance bones remain intact while modern updates keep it livable year-round. The two-story main house, with its exposed beams, cross-windows, and monumental tuffeau stone fireplace, blends period character with everyday comfort. There’s also a guesthouse, perfect for hosting or converting into a creative retreat.

Beyond the architecture, the estate reveals unexpected gems. Fourteen cellars are carved into the hillside, once used for winemaking and mushroom cultivation. Now, they serve as atmospheric storage spaces, wine caves, or even a moody spot for candlelit dinners. The 1.5-hectare grounds feature a mix of formal French gardens, an Italian-inspired terrace, and even a chessboard-shaped topiary installation—a playful nod to history. A sculpted pathway nicknamed “The Little Mushroom Path” leads through hazelnut trees, while another lane winds past ancient sculptures, fruit trees, and pinewoods.

While the manor has its share of grandeur—a turreted stairway, decorative friezes, and hand-carved stonework—it remains manageable. Unlike many historic estates that demand constant upkeep, this one is designed to be practical, whether as a primary residence, a second home, or a boutique rental. Its location in Loir-et-Cher places it within easy reach of markets, bakeries, and vineyards producing Jasnières and Coteaux-du-Loir wines. Vendôme, Le Mans, and Tours are all within an hour’s drive, with high-speed rail connections to Paris.

There are plenty of dream homes in France, but this one stands apart. It’s not an over-polished museum piece nor a massive château requiring a full staff to maintain. It’s a slice of history that fits into modern life, a storybook setting with a practical edge.