The History

Le Parc is an elegant 1930s villa set in 10 acres of gardens.  It was built to a very high standard, and many original features remain.  The oak floors and window frames are still in excellent condition and the marble staircase adds an air of glamour to this charming house.

The house was built on the side of a hillside that had once been a granite mine.  The gardens are terraced, and the terrace walls are built from the very granite that was within the hillside.  There is an outcrop remaining known locally as Fox’s Rock.

The gardens are packed with rhododendrons, azaleas and hydrangeas and are a riot of colour.  Shade is provided by chestnut trees.  It is a restful and peaceful place to enjoy sunny days.

Built by a local businessman, the house was used by the occupying German army in 1940 as a billet for their officers.  It was sold in 1990 to a family who lived off the land and kept rabbits, sheep, ducks and chickens.

At Present:

I purchased the house with Sheila Marrin in 2006, with the intention of running it as a bed and breakfast.  It hadn’t been modernised for over 40 years!

We have spent over £ 120,000 to bring the property up to the highest standard.  It has taken eighteen months of hard work, but the house is now completely rewired and replumbed.   All six bedrooms are furnished with comfortable furniture and the bathrooms are modern and have power showers.

The bed and breakfast has been very successful, with visitors finding us through our website, the tourist board and through personal recommendations.  The visitor’s book is testament to the venture’s success.

FUTURE PLANS

Sadly Sheila’s mother became unwell and she had to return to the UK to care for her.  I am unable to run the house and care for the visitors on my own.

With the property having been recently valued at £400,000, with an additional £ 18,000 for fixtures and fittings, we have decided to convert Le Parc into luxury apartments for rental.  The house, with its beautiful gardens, will be a real attraction for holiday makers and local businesses alike, that plus the fact it lies within easy access of the Ferry Port.

Cherbourg has a thriving tourist industry – there is a large naval academy, and a substantial commerce and industry, hospitals and colleges.

There is an additional plot over the road suitable for two properties to be built.  I plan to use an experienced British builder, who is also a family friend and shareholder, to take on this work.

What you would get is a free concierge, your apartment would always be serviced, secure parking, and total use of tended gardens, picnic and barbeque areas, together with beautiful walks in the gardens and surrounding areas.

Pets are welcome.  Close attractions are beaches, sailing, golf, biking, walking, fresh and salt water fishing, visiting chateaux and historical sites and the Normandy beaches.  Paris is only a direct train ride, or a three hour drive.

Part shareholders would benefit from the use of a holiday home, while watching their investment grow as the economy picks up and the planned developments take shape.