A beautiful tiny private island has gone on sale for less than the price of an average London house – although the estate agents have warned potential buyers must be aware of some key features.
The gorgeous, French,33-hectare island is perfect for anyone seeking a bit of “peace and quiet” – but some might find it a bit too quiet at times, as it is unclear whether even a telephone line is on the land.
Located in a stunning UNESCO-linked National Park in the Loire Valley, the territory is “surrounded by the flight of birds and in sumptuous surroundings” – all for a bargain of just £600,000.
It was originally used by a prominent wine-growing family as a private holiday resort, but since its designation as lying within one of France’s “nature sites” it is legally protected from any development beyond the decrepit pavilion which currently stands. New livestock is also banned.
Those looking to purchase the island – approximately 47 football pitches in size – should be aware that extra costs are almost certain.
The estate agents confirmed in the listing that the “charming” pavilion is in need of “complete restoration”, while also admitting at the end of the post that there is “no connection to water or electricity”.
Access to the island shouldn’t cost too much for you though – in the summer months, you can simply wade through the water, while for the rest of the year you’ll need a boat for a two-minute journey.
The neo-medieval pavilion has a large living room with “impressive high ceilings” and a fireplace bearing the Bouvet-Ladubay family crest, a kitchen and two staircases which lead up to two bedrooms and an attic.
Among the natural features include a raft of Lebanese cedar trees, while the estate agents label it a “rare environmental haven”.
The island is located just down the river from the small town of Saumur, and is not too far from Angers, and beyond that, the western city of Nantes.
