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Le "Papillon Mignon" which means "playful butterfly" is the appropriate name for this delightful 1800’s French manor property. A short 35-minute drive, or train ride, from Paris. It is in the most delightful storybook "French country" setting; untouched in 100 years.
The house itself, is situated in Arbonne la Foret in the best central location. In all directions, there are interesting villages: Barbizon (five minutes) home of the Impressionist and Barbizon school of painters, Fontainebleau (ten minutes) with Louis XIV’s famed hunting lodge, Milly la Foret with the outdoor marketplace dating from the 15th century and within 20 minutes Le Veau le Viconte, the magnificent palace that Versailles was patterned after.
Ideal for biking, hiking, tennis, golf, horse back riding, as well as outdoor farmer’s markets in every direction. The domain dates back to the 13th century called Gilo of Arbonne. In 1660 the area belonged to the Baron of Milly or "miles", short for knight because it was awarded by the king to his favorite knight in the 1500’s.
Papillon Mignon was entirely renovated in April 2005, with all the latest amenities: including central heating, comfy American mattresses and lovely period antiques and accessories. It is totally appointed with pieces of great charm and charisma that are perfectly in keeping with the flair of a 1800’s French manor house.
The entrance to the property is through a 16-foot, wrought-iron gate that works with remote control and opens onto an enchanting huge courtyard romantically lit with four, large period lanterns. It has century-old trees and a profusion of colourful flowers. The house itself is in an L-shape. There is a working well, a stable, a wine cellar and a magnificent "granier" that serves as a summer living room with a 45-foot antique, beam ceiling and spectacular original stone walls.
The entrance hall is enchantingly French with its period mannequin still dressed in Louis XIV attire. Adjoining powder room in type. Huge dining/family room, garden at one end, and massive stone fireplace at the other. It is equipped with: sub-zero refrigerator and ice machine, dishwasher, new plasma, flat-screen 73-inch TV screen, CD sound system, and DVD video system.
First principal bedroom suite with antique four-poster, super king-sized bed, fireplace and bathroom with large shower. Second bedroom: four-poster, super king-sized canopy bed with fireplace. First floor: Third principal master bedroom suite with super king-sized canopy bed, complete with antique wash stand in the room. Bathroom: lions-foot bath tub. Fourth bedroom: queen-sized bed; bath: marble tub and excellent shower.
Exterior: Huge, sunny, half-acre backyard has private, gravelled parking. It is accessed through a second large gate. It consists of apple orchard, manicured lawn, a rose garden, and a vegetable patch. There is a profusion of greenery and color in summer. Curved terrace ideal for al fresco dining.
English-speaking manager assists guests upon arrival, assures that the house is cleaned and well stocked with the necessary essentials (an additional three bedrooms are available, if desired). |
