This is an elegant 17th century house set in a lovely half-acre enclosed walled garden, formerly the summer residence of the Archbishop of Tours. While very secluded (entry via electonic gates), it is situated at the centre of a village with basic shops (two patisseries, butchers, chocolaterie, café, small supermarket) just beyond the property's grounds. Market day is Thursday. Vernou-sur-Brenne (2500 inhabitants) is an attractive quiet village situated between Tours and Amboise (both 15km away), with a frequent bus service into Tours. Paris is just one hour away by TGV.

Vernou is a wine-growing village, and Vouvray, famous for its high quality wines, is just 4km away. At 8km is Rochecorbon which conceals a wealth of extraordinary troglodyte homes. The famous Loire Valley châteaux are within easy reach, including Chenonceaux, Villandry, Azay-le-Rideau, Amboise and Blois.

Horse riding is available nearby. There is a tennis club (low cost to join) a short walk away in the village, as well as indoor and outdoor tennis courts 10 minutes away by car. Bicycle hire is possible at Amboise, and there are two 18 hole golf courses nearby, at St-Antoine-du-Rocher (26km) and at Ballan-Miré (28km).

The spacious interior is furnished to a high standard and attractively decorated in keeping with the style of the house. On the ground floor are various living areas, a kitchen, a shower with a wc, and two separate wcs. On the first floor are two double bedrooms, three twin bedrooms (of which one is for children and leads to the master bedroom), a bathroom (en suite with the master double), a bathroom with a separate shower unit and a wc, and a separate wc. On the second floor are two double bedrooms, a shower room and a separate wc. There are lovely views towards rolling hills from the second floor.

Occupancy is limited to 12 persons.