Entre Ville Et Vignobles, Dans L'écrin Préservé Du Château De La Villeneuve

AT THE GATES OF CHALON-SUR-SAÔNE, THE ELEGANCE OF A 19TH-CENTURY ESTATE

Behind a circular honor courtyard lined with century-old trees, the Château de la Villeneuve reveals an instantly recognizable silhouette. Two corner turrets, a rare slate roof in the region, and the balance of a symmetrical layout define the identity of this 19th-century bourgeois residence. Connected to a spectacular contemporary orangery opening onto the park, the estate today combines a characterful residence, an established hospitality business, and a refined lifestyle just minutes from Chalon-sur-Saône and the vineyards of the Côte Chalonnaise.

19TH-CENTURY ARCHITECTURE EXTENDED BY A CONTEMPORARY ORANGERY

Built during the heart of the industrial era, the Château de la Villeneuve belongs to a generation of bourgeois homes whose architecture expressed both success and a way of life. Its symmetrical plan, two corner turrets, dormer windows, ridge ironwork, and slate roof create a silhouette immediately identifiable in the regional landscape. Rare in Burgundy, this roofing contributes to the estate’s unique character and recalls the architectural codes of the grand residences of 19th-century notables. Inside, original elements naturally extend this elegance. Wood paneling, moldings, fireplaces, spiral staircases, and antique parquet floors complement generous, light-filled spaces. Every detail seems perfectly placed, maintaining a balance between historic character and modern comfort.

Extending from the château, the contemporary orangery opens a new perspective on the estate. Spanning nearly 125 m², this large glass structure interacts with the park through wide openings that blur the line between indoors and outdoors. The 60 m² wooden terrace naturally extends this bright reception area, designed to host large family gatherings, wellness breaks, or more intimate receptions.

THE MARK OF MARGUERITE BOUCICAUT IN A PRESERVED PARK

The history of Château de la Villeneuve bears the discreet yet essential mark of Marguerite Boucicaut. Born in Chalon-sur-Saône and co-founder of Le Bon Marché in Paris alongside her husband Aristide Boucicaut, she remains one of the most notable figures in 19th-century French philanthropy. Thanks to the inheritance she passed on, the Charrier-Guérin family was able to acquire the property, firmly embedding the estate in a unique family and heritage history. This legacy still shapes the identity of the place today. It connects the château to a human story that transcends Burgundy and highlights Marguerite Boucicaut’s major role in French social and economic history.

Surrounding the residence, the 5,500 m² historic park forms a setting worthy of this heritage. Structured by a large circular honor courtyard, dotted with century-old trees and open vistas, it offers a preserved landscape where greenery accompanies every view. The seasons fully express themselves here, between soft shadows, lush foliage, and clear views of the château’s façades. This plant presence gives the estate a special breath while maintaining immediate proximity to the city.

AN ADDRESS FOCUSED ON HOSPITALITY IN THE HEART OF THE CÔTE CHALONNAISE

The location of Château de la Villeneuve greatly contributes to its appeal. Situated at the gates of Chalon-sur-Saône, the estate enjoys quick access to shops, services, the train station, and major transport routes. The A6 motorway connects Lyon and Paris, while the vineyards of Mercurey, Rully, and Givry anchor the property in one of the most sought-after areas of the Côte Chalonnaise. This privileged location directly supports the hospitality vocation developed over the years. The estate attracts visitors eager to discover Burgundy’s wine landscapes, travelers seeking a more private retreat, and professionals passing through the Chalon area.

Already successfully operated as guest rooms, distinguished by the Green Key label for their commitment to more responsible tourism, the property currently generates an annual turnover of approximately €100,000 excluding tax. Its current setup allows for significant growth in this activity. Hosting wellness stays, expanding accommodation offerings, or creating new experiences around the region all offer opportunities to continue the estate’s story.

AGENCY OPINION

Château de la Villeneuve combines the elements that define great character properties: a perfectly maintained 19th-century bourgeois residence.
Information on the risks to which this property is exposed is available on the Géorisques website: https://www.georisques.gouv.fr/