P275: Spacious Antique Stone House in Medieval Hillltop Village, Views, Courtyard, Beautiful Hayloft, Stunning Wine Cellar, in Need of Renovation
See also a P275 Picture Gallery with 15 images
Between Acqui Terme and Ovada
This charming property includes a very spacious, solid-stone antique house in the centre of a sought-after medieval hilltop village conveniently situated between Acqui Terme and Ovada. The house enjoys a southerly aspect and has a long sunny balcony on the first floor, with lovely views over rolling countryside. Although the house was lived in until recently, it needs some straightforward renovation to be made habitable. The house includes a stable and a hayloft that could - with significantly more work - be converted into further accommodation. It once accommodated a small shop, so it would suit conversion into a gallery, a bar, or again a shop. The property benefits from a small gated courtyard. All the facilities in the village - including a bank, a post office, a bar, several shops and a weekly market - are within walking distance.
The Region
The area between Acqui Terme and Ovada marks the transition from Piedmont into Liguria. The area is known for its great scenic beauty, its picturesque hilltop villages and its pleasant climate. The characteristic wine of this area is Dolcetto di Ovada, a rich and full-bodied red which ages well - but doesn't usually get the chance! The area is a well-known truffle hunting zone, and the woodlands are well-stocked with porcini mushrooms. The historic towns of Acqui Terme and Ovada with their excellent shopping and entertainment facilities can be reached within 10 to 15 minutes, and the nearest motorway is about 15 minutes by car from the property.
The House
The house dates from medieval times and features massive stone walls. The outside render could be removed to expose the beautiful stone work, thereby recovering the rustic character of the building.
Accommodation
Ground Floor: The main entrance into the house from the road leads into the former shop. From there doors lead to two further rooms which have been used in recent years for storage. Also on the ground floor, but only accessable from the small courtyard behind the house, are 2 stables: these could be turned into accommodation if desired.
First Floor: Internal and external stairs lead from the ground floor to the first floor. Here are 4 spacious, bright rooms and a dated bathroom. Three of the rooms have access onto a long stone balcony along the front of the house, with pleasant views. Also on the first floor, but currently only accessable via a ladder from the courtyard, there is a very high and spacious hayloft which could also be converted into further accommodation.
Wine Cellar: Currently only accessable from the front of the house, the large underground medieval cantina / wine cellar features a stunning grotto carved into the rock and beautiful arched vaults that can easily be restored. In the past internal stairs connected the cantina with the ground floor above: these stairs can be rebuilt to provide more convenient access.
The Courtyard
A gate leads from the village road to the courtyard which is separated from the neigbouring property by a tall wall. The courtyard could be used to create a small sheltered outdoor space, but could also be used for car parking.
Services
Mains water, mains electricity, mains gas
Sporting Facilities
There are a number of golf-courses in Southern Piedmont. The two nearest, Colline in Acqui Terme and Villa Carolina in Capriata d'Orba, can both be reached by car in 20 minutes. Tennis courts can be found in the local towns, and horse riding is also very popular, with stables nearby. The excellent network of small, tarmac-surfaced country roads makes the area very popular with cyclists. The beaches of the Riviera to the west of Genoa can be reached within 35 minutes, and popular Italian ski resorts can be reached in 90 minutes.
Viewing
Strictly by appointment with the sole agents, Piedmont Properties.
Our opinion: Right in the centre of a sought-after Piedmontese village, this property has interesting development potential - either as a lovely home or as a small business.
See also a P275 Picture Gallery with 15 images.
For more information contact us quoting reference P275. Please note that all quoted measurements are approximate.
