Near Châteauneuf-du-Pape – Former 1607 Benedictine abbey in the heart of Caderousse – Over 600 m² of living space with courtyard, vaulted cellar, and garden with pool potential
Set in the heart of the sought-after village of Caderousse,steps away from local shops,just 10 minutes from Orange and 30 minutes from Avignon,this remarkable former Benedictine abbey of theAssomption-Notre-Dame,built in 1607,offers over 600 m² of living space set across three levels.
Steeped in history,in June 1942 the property housed the radio transmitter of Hervé Monjaret—operator for Resistance hero Jean Moulin—securing crucial initial links between London and the French Resistance (commemorated by two historical plaques on the facade).Passionate about heritage and authentic stone,the current owners undertook a high-end,meticulous restoration to revive this historical landmark,encompassing the facades,plafonds à la provençale(traditional French-style timber beam ceilings),stonework,roof,joinery,courtyard,flooring,and numerous architectural features.
The grand paved church square,shaded by mature hackberry trees,sets an enchanting tone upon arrival.On the street level,the restored main entrance door opens into a hallway that anchors the visiting experience. Framed by deep navy blue walls,the immediate impression is one of refined mystery. Adorned with authentic terracotta tiles and aplafond à la provençale,the ground floor unveils a kitchen with its original large fireplace,opening onto an extraordinary walled garden enjoying a unique microclimate. This private sanctuary features four remarkable cypress trees,citrus trees,a wall of jasmine and honeysuckle,bougainvillea,tropical plants,and varied Mediterranean flora,along with a hot tub designed for enjoying absolute village tranquility.A pantry with a shower and WC complements the kitchen area.A grand vaulted porch also offers direct street access to the garden,where a vehicle can easily park.
On the other side,a vast room housing the boiler facility was once the chapel's sacristy. This space holds unquestionable potential,providing direct access to the sacristy garden—currently planted with banana trees—which offers an ideal setting for a swimming pool.The East wing reveals a large reception room with generous proportions facing the fountain garden.(Note:the kitchen layout could easily be relocated or reconfigured depending on your project).The estate abounds with alcoves and period features brought back to life by the owners' dedication:the nuns' original stone washbasin has been painstakingly restored,while the fully fitted vaulted wine cellar is dedicated to tastings and provides direct access to a spacious garage for easy parking in the village center.
Time-worn stone steps lead to the first floor. This level showcases a vast 72 m² reception lounge,warmed by original hardwood flooring and anchored by an imposing period fireplace featuring a fully redesigned walnut mantelpiece. It also includes an intimate study and a master suite exceeding 40 m² with private direct outdoor access via an independent staircase,an en-suite bathroom,and a separate WC.
The layout across the levels remains consistent:the East wing houses a sweeping 55 m² library-lounge featuring a rare Montpellier marble floor,an additional bedroom,and a third bedroom with an en-suite shower room and private WC opening onto a sheltered terrace overlooking the Chapel garden.
The top floor hosts an impressive 250 m² open loft/workshop under exposed timber framing with high ceilings,awaiting structural space planning to unleash its full potential (ideal for a grand games room,home cinema,gym,or artist's studio).Three additional bedrooms and a bathroom with separate WC complete this floor,all requiring updating.
This exceptional residence boasts an extraordinarily versatile configuration.The former sacristy adjacent to the garage,the grand vaulted entrance porch,and the Chapel garden (with its banana trees) providing the perfect footprint for a swimming pool,offer tremendous development prospects.A private piece of historic heritage with preserved authentic char
Ref. : 11570