Refined 18th century country house on a private island in Marne

A rare opportunity to acquire an elegant early 18th-century château attributed to the celebrated architect and sculptor Jean-Baptiste Bouchardon (1667–1742). Situated on a private island in the Marne River, this distinguished residence is enveloped by a formal garden of exceptional harmony – designed by Bouchardon himself in 1736 – and offers complete privacy in a timeless natural setting. 

Elevated to a marquisate in 1745, the château reflects the refinement of the French Enlightenment era. Its perfectly symmetrical limestone façades face east and west, bathing the rooms in natural light throughout the day. The main living spaces are located on a raised ground floor accessed via two grand double staircases. 

Inside, period details abound: a magnificent entrance hall with chequered stone flooring, an oak-panelled gallery, a splendid salon with an 18th-century marble fireplace, and an elegant dining room. The château further includes a library with Corinthian pilasters, multiple reception rooms, a winter dining area, five bedrooms, four bathrooms, and ample utility spaces. 

Below, at garden level, you'll find a sun-filled conservatory overlooking the stream, workshops, a vaulted wine cellar, and a large garage. The vast attic (approx. 350 sqm) presents exciting development potential.

The estate’s formal French garden features clipped yews and boxwood, hornbeam hedges, and a grand 18th-century gate marking the main axis. To the west, a more romantic garden layout offers rose-filled pathways, a medieval dovecote, orchard, potager, riverside walkways, and a charming open-air theatre.

Location:
In the peaceful countryside of Haute-Marne (Grand Est), just 3 km from the historic town of Chaumont with full amenities and train connections. The A5 motorway is 20 km away, offering direct access to Paris in approximately 2.5 hours. Also easily reached from Belgium and southern Germany.

Additional Features:

• Approx. 5 hectares of land (3 ha landscaped gardens, 2 ha pasture currently leased)
• Separate 120 sqm gatehouse, fully restored and currently generating rental income (~€4,000/year)
• Central heating (oil), Energy rating: G
• No known legal issues, full documentation available upon request
• This château is a highly attractive prospect for British buyers seeking history, charm, and seclusion in an unspoilt French landscape – with realistic access to Paris and the UK via road or rail.