History of the Domaine
A twenty-seven-year (and counting!) project to breathe fresh life into the Domaine.
Here, we document the story and progress of the ongoing renovation.
How it started
Living in Paris in the late nineties, hosts Tim & Sarah spent weekends exploring forgotten regions of France with the idea of finding a little renovation project. Stumbling across the sleepy rural village of Aubepierre-sur-Aube in July 1998, an ‘A Vendre’ sign at the entrance to a derelict wine merchant estate started the renovation project of a lifetime.
Aubepierre-sur-Aube
A major part of the initial attraction came from the village itself. Aubepierre is a picturesque village nestled in the Haute-Marne department of France, in the Grand Est region. Known for its tranquil atmosphere and rich history, it offers visitors a glimpse into authentic French rural life. With a population of around 200, Aubepierre is a quiet village where life moves at a leisurely pace. Its Gothic church, Notre-Dame-de-l'Assomption, dates back to 1554, and the surrounding forested countryside provides a peaceful escape from bustling city life. Over the centuries, the hills and forests of the region have witnessed significant history - from Caesar’s final conquest of Gaul at Alesia to daring action by the SAS in the months after D-Day. Today, Aubepierre is a close-knit community and the rural charm of the local people contributes to the village's welcoming ambiance. In 2019, the French Government proclaimed the nation’s 11th National Park to be created, with Aubepierre at its centre.
