"Maisons de maître" translates to "manor houses" or "grand houses" in English.
The master houses are emblematic properties of French real estate, reflecting the architectural elegance and prestige of a bygone era. These exceptional residences offer a unique living environment, combining the charm of yesteryear, generous living spaces, and noble materials such as stone and wood. Whether located in the city, in the heart of picturesque villages, or in the countryside, their rarity makes them highly sought after in the real estate market.
Discover this exceptional estate, ideally located a few kilometres from Arles and Maussane les Alpilles. This authentically charming farmhouse offers spacious, light-filled living areas, refined décor and a distinctly Provençal...
Reference : MZISR1303
920 m2
200 000 m2
Some properties are visited. Others are felt. Places whose presence is unmistakable from the very first moment, as though they had always been waiting for you. This estate belongs to...
Reference : MZISM154
455 m2
14 780 m2
At the heart of an unspoilt natural setting, just minutes from the Mediterranean, this rare property offers a unique balance between elegance, authenticity and the Provençal art of living. With...
Reference : MZIOP1347
851 m2
83 521 m2
Nestling in the heart of an estate of almost 5 hectares, this former mill and wine press dating from the 15th, 17th and 18th centuries offers almost 1,100 m² of...
Reference : MZISR1351
1 100 m2
50 000 m2
Nestled within one of Provence’s best-kept secrets, directly bordering the Alpilles Regional Nature Park, this character property of approximately 300 sq m perfectly embodies Mediterranean refinement. Set in 1.1 hectares...
Reference : MZISR1394
300 m2
11 164 m2
Immerse yourself in the Provençal art of living with this superb family property, consisting of an elegant, typically Aix-en-Provence building and numerous outbuildings, nestled in a peaceful, unspoiled area with...
Reference : MZIAX0458
1 750 m2
30 000 m2
On the outskirts of Aix-en-Provence, in a privileged residential setting where absolute calm and privacy reign, discover this exceptional property of over 650 sq m, nestled in the heart of...
Reference : MZIAX0495
581 m2
11 245 m2
Located in the heart of unspoilt Provençal countryside, close to L'Isle-sur-la-Sorgue, this unique property is housed in a former 14th-century priory, once occupied by Carmelite nuns. Surrounded by more than...
Reference : MZIGO3441
774 m2
11 300 m2
In the countryside near the charming village of Ménerbes, in a setting of absolute tranquility, discover this exceptional property: a former hamlet transformed into a unique estate that blends authenticity...
Reference : MZIGO3452
469 m2
7 077 m2
Discover this magnificent renovated property just 10km from the prestigious village of Lourmarin in the Luberon, offering an exceptional living environment with its 470 m² spread over several buildings, all...
Reference : MZILR945
Exclusively for sale, this exceptional property in Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer, just steps from the Frégate golf course and nestled in a preserved natural setting nestled between hills and forest, offers this magnificent,...
Reference : MZIAX0680
723 m2
33 000 m2
Located in Murs, in a rare and protected natural setting, this recently built bastide of approximately 280 m² of living space welcomes you at the heart of a 7-hectare estate...
Reference : MZIGO3207
337 m2
70 000 m2
Close to the charming village of Murs, near Gordes, nestled in the heart of a preserved and unspoilt natural setting, lies this superb stone house of approximately 317m², set on...
Reference : MZIGO3476
317 m2
34 397 m2
In the prestigious Cap Brun district, discover this architect-designed villa with a contemporary aesthetic, offering a perfect alliance between luxury and comfort. Located just a few steps from the beaches,...
Reference : MZIAX0631
471 m2
Just a few minutes from the famous village of Gordes, in an elevated position, this magnificent Provençal house, set in the heart of a beautiful landscaped garden with mature trees,...
Reference : MZIGO3448
265 m2
3 366 m2
Located in one of the most desirable spots on the Marseille coastline, this villa of approximately 190 m² boasts private and direct access to the sea, a rare privilege. From...
Reference : MZIAX0814
190 m2
256 m2
In one of the most sought-after residential areas of La Ciotat, just a 10-minute walk from the beaches, this exceptional house of approximately 200m² sits on a superb plot of...
Reference : MZIAX0702
200 m2
2 000 m2
Nestling in a privileged setting on 2500 m2 of land, this superb stone residence with 250 m2 of living space combines Provencal charm with clean contemporary lines. Inspired by restored...
Reference : MZIGO3421
252 m2
2 526 m2
Situated between Arles, Fontvieille and Maussane-les-Alpilles, this 350 m² property combines contemporary elegance with Provençal authenticity. Set on over one hectare of land, the estate comprises two separate residences featuring...
Reference : MZISR1385
Exclusively listed, this exceptional property in Saint-Cyr-sur-Mer, just steps from the Frégate golf course, is nestled in a protected natural environment between hills and forest. This magnificent and rare 2.7-hectare...
Reference : MZIAX0813
380 m2
27 000 m2
Just minutes from the center of Aix-en-Provence, in a sought-after and tranquil residential area, this elegant property of approximately 275 sq m sits at the heart of a magnificent 4,485...
Reference : MZIAX0218
275 m2
4 485 m2
Dominant and in an exceptional setting, this property offers breathtaking panoramic views over Gigaro Bay and La Croix-Valmer. Facing southeast, it enjoys soft, constant natural light throughout the day with...
Reference : MZIST1889
165 m2
2 343 m2
This attractive home, brand new and in a perfect niche in Cavalaire only 5 minutes walk from the port, is the perfect opportunity to create the house of your dreams.....
Reference : MZIST1894
168 m2
0 m2
This former winegrowing estate dating from the 17th century is a real gem of prestigious property in the Arles region. Set in a peaceful location just 5 minutes from the...
Reference : MZISR1323
Less than 10 minutes from the iconic village of Gordes, this magnificent property is located in a peaceful and authentic setting and offers absolutely exceptional views of the Luberon and...
Reference : MZIGO3398
276 m2
23 000 m2
Just a stone’s throw from the center of the famous village of Fontaine-de-Vaucluse, this 17th-century stone farmhouse—recently renovated with understated elegance—perfectly combines authenticity with modern comfort. With a living area...
Reference : MZIGO3434
340 m2
3 620 m2
Nestled in a privileged setting, one of the best areas of Cavalaire and just 5 mins walk to the port, this elegant villa built with the very best high end...
Reference : MZIST1895
150 m2
0 m2
Located in the countryside of the prestigious village of Cucuron, just a few minutes from Lourmarin, discover this exceptional property, nestled in the heart of a green setting, offering a...
Reference : MZILR887
330 m2
65 000 m2
Nestled on the heights of Aix-en-Provence, this majestic 284 m² stone bastide is a real gem in the heart of a landscaped park of 3600 m², offering breathtaking views of...
Reference : MZIAX0672
285 m2
3 645 m2
Discover this magnificent hamlet house, which has been carefully renovated to offer the perfect blend of tradition and modernity. Thanks to the use of high-quality materials, the stone-built house enjoys...
Reference : MZISR1375
Nestled in the heart of the Massif des Maures, just a few minutes from the authentic village of Le Plan-de-la-Tour and less than fifteen minutes from the beaches of the...
Reference : MZISM140
243 m2
50 000 m2
Nestled at the end of a cul-de-sac, in the heart of a preserved natural environment, this superb property of approximately 260 m² offers a rare living environment, combining serenity, space,...
Reference : MZIAX0734
259 m2
3 178 m2
This elegant and character-filled property, a former wine estate, is set in a peaceful location on flat, beautiful grounds complete with orchards, just a stone's throw from the center of...
Reference : MZISR1325
700 m2
40 000 m2
EXCLUSIVE TO MICHAEL ZINGRAF REAL ESTATE: Nestled in the hills above Grambois, this unique property captivates first and foremost with its privileged setting and exceptional size. Set on 8,270 m²...
Reference : MZIAX0790
200 m2
8 270 m2
Just a few minutes’ walk from the famous village of Roussillon and its iconic ochre hills, this elegant stone house enjoys an elevated location offering spectacular panoramic views of the...
Reference : MZIGO3475
267 m2
2 670 m2
Just a few minutes' walk from the iconic village of Gordes, this charming stone house has been carefully renovated, elegantly combining modern comfort, quality materials and Provençal authenticity. With a...
Reference : MZIGO3466
128 m2
2 262 m2
Located in the countryside, just a few minutes from the iconic village of Gordes, this beautiful stone house enjoys a dominant position and offers a Provençal lifestyle combining modern comfort,...
Reference : MZIGO3402
172 m2
9 580 m2
Discover this exceptional residence, only 15 kilometers from the prestigious village of Lourmarin, on over 8.5 hectares of land, this unique property includes a truffle farm that adds a touch...
Reference : MZIAX0746
268 m2
85 123 m2
In a rare and privileged setting, discover this superb 19th-century Provençal bastide, imbued with charm and authenticity. Nestled in the heart of a 5-hectare estate planted with over 200 olive...
Reference : MZIAX0818
230 m2
55 000 m2
Located in a peaceful setting yet close to all amenities, this beautiful house in a commanding position offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area. It is set in magnificent landscaped...
Reference : MZIGO3388
310 m2
24 455 m2
Each master house tells a story through its architectural details and refined ornaments. The stone facades, high ceilings, moldings, oak floorboards, and marble fireplaces bear witness to the craftsmanship of past centuries. These properties contribute to the local cultural identity and the preservation of the French heritage.
These residences are distinguished by a generous living space, often ranging from 250 to 600 m², and a large number of rooms including spacious bedrooms and vast living rooms. They often feature outbuildings such as barns, stables, or guest houses, as well as expansive grounds or landscaped gardens, sometimes enhanced with a park or pool. The careful architecture manifests through decorative elements like cornices, balustrades, and monumental staircases.
Although these terms are sometimes used interchangeably, there are distinctions. A master house is an elegant residence associated with rural bourgeoisie or local notables, located in towns or countryside. The bourgeois house is a prestigious urban property, reflecting the social status of the 19th-century bourgeoisie. The manor, on the other hand, is a noble residence, often fortified, dating from the Middle Ages or Renaissance, generally situated in the countryside.
Investing in a master house offers numerous advantages. It guarantees an exceptional living environment with bright spaces, spacious rooms, and quality materials. It also involves participating in the conservation of local history and architecture by preserving a valuable heritage. These properties offer considerable development potential, allowing for the creation of additional bedrooms, modern bathrooms, a contemporary kitchen, or leisure spaces. A large garden or park adds an extra dimension, ideal for enjoying nature, hosting gatherings, or adding amenities like a pool. Moreover, these houses often retain and increase their value in the real estate market, representing a sound financial investment.
Before purchasing a master house, it is essential to consider several criteria. Location is crucial, whether it is the proximity of amenities, the environment of the village or city, or accessibility. The living area must meet your needs in terms of rooms and bedrooms. It is also important to assess the overall condition of the property, including renovation work required and the state of electrical and plumbing installations. The land and outbuildings should also be taken into account, including the presence of a large garden, convertible outbuildings, or a pool. Be informed about potential geological risks in the region, such as flooding or landslides. Finally, it is important to set a budget taking into account the purchase price and additional costs such as renovation, taxes, and fees.
Several regions of France are renowned for their master houses. Provence offers stone houses with views over lavender fields, situated in picturesque villages. The Côte d'Azur features luxurious properties with pools and Mediterranean gardens, close to the sea. The Alps present homes with architecture combining stone and wood, offering panoramic views of the mountains. In Gironde, one can find master houses surrounded by prestigious vineyards, near Bordeaux.
Each region adds its unique touch. In Provence, the houses display ochre facades, blue shutters, and Roman tile roofs, creating a warm atmosphere. In the Alps, the residences feature large bay windows to enjoy the view, with cozy interiors equipped with fireplaces. On the Côte d'Azur, elegant villas boast sunny terraces, close to beaches and marinas.
The price of a master house depends on several factors. Location is decisive, with properties in tourist areas or cities like Saint-Tropez or Paris being considerably more expensive. The size of the land also influences the price, as a large park or garden enhances the value. The presence of outbuildings such as barns, workshops, or guest houses is an additional asset. The condition of the property is also a factor, as a renovated house will have a higher cost than one needing renovation. Lastly, amenities like a pool, spa, or modern facilities can affect the price.
Renovating a master house is an exciting endeavor that requires respect for heritage by preserving original elements such as moldings, fireplaces, and wooden staircases. It is also about adapting the residence to modern comfort by installing an equipped kitchen, modernizing bathrooms, or improving insulation. A well-executed renovation increases the property's value. It is advisable to seek assistance from professionals such as architects or craftsmen specialized in restoring old buildings.
A large garden or park adds an extra dimension to the master house. It offers relaxation areas such as terraces, reading corners, or shaded zones. It also allows for outdoor activities with the installation of a pool, tennis court, or children's play areas. Landscaping with walkways, flower beds, or centennial trees contributes to the aesthetic and enhancement of the property.
To assist you in your buying project, Michaël Zingraf Real Estate offers a personalized service. Our team of experts in prestigious real estate provides you with an exclusive portfolio of master houses available for sale. We organize tailored visits to help you discover properties that meet your expectations. Furthermore, we assist you with all administrative and financial procedures to facilitate your acquisition.
Owning a master house means acquiring a unique place to live, rich in history and character. It also contributes to the preservation of a precious architectural heritage. Whether you are attracted to a residence in the heart of a Provençal village, a seaside property on the Côte d'Azur, or a house surrounded by vineyards in Gironde, Michaël Zingraf Real Estate is at your service to make your dream come true.
Do not hesitate to send us a message or contact us for more information or to schedule a visit. Our team of experts in prestigious real estate is ready to assist you in this exceptional adventure and help you find the master house that perfectly matches your aspirations.
