Largest French chateau in Provence is for sale for £16million

A château in Provence dating back to 980 is up for grabs for an eye-watering €18 million, the equivalent of £16 million.

The property has been carefully restored over the last 15 years using traditional building methods. It is said to be the largest of its kind in the French region of Provence.

The restoration includes 18th-century plasterwork and features a range of modern – and luxurious – comforts, including a helipad.

Looking to buy a castle? There are more than 120 rooms in the luxury property, including huge 25-bedroom suites

The luxury home has over 5,000 square feet of living space, with 120 rooms – including 25-bedroom suites – and a 16-hectare enclosed park. There are also three kitchens, libraries and a guardian’s house.

Outside there are fountains and statues, along with two swimming pools and an Olympic equestrian arena.

The breathtaking views overlook the Sainte Victoire, the Sainte Baume and Mont Faron.

Part of the park consists of terraces, making room for a vineyard on the Provence estate.

Built in 980, the private chateau sprawls over 5,000 square feet of expansive living space

There are two swimming pools at the chateau, including this outdoor pool surrounded by nature and mature trees

The impressive dining area has an ornate ceiling with chandeliers and can seat more than a dozen guests

Some rooms in the house are currently used to showcase various fabric designs, including wall hangings and clothing

The castle has large windows with internal shutters that help to protect the interior items from damage caused by strong sunlight

The attractive gardens contain some ornate statues and water features, along with some formal gardens

There are breathtaking views all around the castle which overlooks the ridges of Sainte Victoire, Sainte Baume and Mont Faron

The chateau is located in La Verdière in the Var, Provence, France. It is about 45 minutes from Aix en Provence and an hour from Marseille.

Tim Swannie of Home Hunts, the estate agent handling the sale, said: ‘It’s not often that a home of this size and historic importance comes up for sale.

‘The area it is in is a quieter part of Provence that is off the tourist track. This certainly adds to the appeal for many.

‘This lesser-known area has attracted many high-profile celebrities over the years, such as George Clooney, Brad Pitt and George Lucas, all of whom own estates in the area. We also recently sold Eric Clapton’s former home, which was just down the street.”

Ornate pillars and doorways, along with decorative wall coverings, are found throughout the grand castle

The castle has undergone a major renovation over many years and was classified as a Historic Monument in 1986

The castle has a number of large corridors, but also three kitchens, libraries and a guard’s house

Outside on the grounds is this rustic stone fountain which will attract and support the local wildlife

The chateau is located in La Verdiere in the Var, Provence, France – which is about 45 minutes from Aix en Provence and an hour from Marseille

He added: ‘This is an area where people come to relax and enjoy the real South of France, there are many charming villages and places of interest nearby, such as the Gorges de Verdon described as the Grand Canyon of Europe.

‘For culture vultures, you are only about 45 minutes from Aix en Provence, one of the most popular towns in Provence.’

In the 17th century, the castle belonged to an illustrious family, while in the 18th century the owner converted it into one of the most luxurious residences in Provence.

The castle has undergone a major renovation over many years and was classified as a Historic Monument in 1986.