Bussière-Poitevine, VAL-D'OIRE-ET-GARTEMPE, 87320, France

La Gimbretière is a charming farmhouse dating back to 1820, nestled in the picturesque valley of the Gartempe.

The farmhouse, consisting of two connected houses, boasts breathtaking views over 40 hectares of farmland. The current owners have lovingly renovated the property, adding modern conveniences while preserving its historical charm. With five bathrooms, six toilets, two kitchens, four reception rooms, and nine bedrooms, La Gimbretière offers a comfortable and spacious living experience.

Acquired by the current owners in 2007 the property has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past 15 years. This included the installation of a  steel-reinforced ring beam, dormer windows, and a brand-new roof. Custom-made doors and windows were replaced and to optimise energy efficiency, the ground floor was elevated and insulated and underfloor heating powered by a ground source heat pump was installed. Three wood burners are strategically placed to supplement heating during winter, fueled by the property’s ample supply of self-sourced wood.

The property is not only a welcoming home but also a thriving business opportunity. Parts of the house are rented out on Airbnb, and the Gite and Licenced Chambre d’hôtes can accommodate up to 15 paying guests. One of the most recent attributes is the newly renovated and fully accessible Apartment with its adapted bathroom and electric bed providing holiday accommodation for the disabled and their carers. There is also a separate 2-bedroom holiday gite which provides a very popular holiday let and additional income.

The farm, complete with its own business registration has been run to produce lamb and provides a home for three rare breed Poitou donkeys. There is huge potential for horse owners, stud or livery businesses with fantastic grazing and pasture. There is plenty of space for further stables to be installed by obtaining the relevant permissions.

The barn offers storage for agricultural machinery and a workshop currently used for classic cars. This could easily be converted into further stabling. Most of the barns have had concrete floors and two lockups have been created, There is a four-post hydraulic bridge to work on cars plus storage for several cars. The outdoor areas also include a stable for the donkeys and lambing shed.

For gardening enthusiasts, there is a beautiful walled garden with potting shed and a productive vegetable garden with various fruit trees.

For those interested in the land, the parcels marked in photos indicate arable (Terre), woodland (Taillis) or meadow (Pré) areas. Some of the land is currently used by a neighbouring farmer ( (Prêt à usage), this land can be reclaimed without notice as it has no official contract. The property is not currently subsidised, but the option to reapply for subsidies exists. Historically the land has been used to graze cows and sheep with some parcels giving a good crop of wheat or Maize to feed these animals. Most parcels were fenced for sheep, the fencing has been maintained on the immediate 10 hectares around the house.

Situated in the valley of the Gartempe river, La Gimbretière enjoys a scenic location and not overlooked. Less than 600m away you have access to the Gartempe river which is perfect for canoeing and relaxing walks in an area of extreme natural beauty. There are only four other farms are in the area. Accessible via the Route communale C31, the property is conveniently located between the villages of Bussiere-Poitevine and St-Remy sur Montmorillon. Nearby attractions include the charming towns of Montmorillon, Le Dorat, and Bellac.

The village itself offers essential amenities such as a post office, bank, pharmacy, bakery, butcher, health center, bar-Tabac, restaurants, and a general store for farm supplies and equipment. For more extensive shopping, Bellac or Montmorillon is just a short trip away. The airports of Poitiers and Limoges are both within an hour’s drive, and Poitiers has a TGV station connecting to Paris, Lille, and Brussels.

La Gimbretière is not just a property; it’s an opportunity to continue the dream and build on this thriving business and self-sufficient lifestyle. The current owners are looking to downsize as they enter their retirement years.