This neglected French fairy tale chateau is being restored by an Australian couple

An abandoned, crumbling castle is being brought back to life - by Madeleine Curby

Château de Gudanes

Built in the mid-1700s by Parisian architect Ange-Jacques Gabriel for nobility, Chateau De Gudanes is a stunning, whimsical 94-bedroom castle with 360-degree views of Château-Verdun’s breathtaking mountain ranges.

The gorgeous estate looks like something right out of a Disney fairy tale and in 2013, after four years of negotiations, Perth couple, Craig and Karina Waters, bought the chateau hoping to restore it to its former glory.

"Our aim is to tread lightly and gently – to preserve the atmosphere and authenticity of the chateau and region as much as possible. She will be renovated but her rawness, wear and history will not be erased, but instead integrated."

Château de Gudanes

After years of neglect, the interiors were in a bad state and repairs were much needed. The grand rooms tell of former lives and the secrets of past families and slowly the rubble is being cleared and layers stripped away to reveal its former glory.

Château de Gudanes

Château de Gudanes

Château de Gudanes

Château de Gudanes

Château de Gudanes

Château de Gudanes

Involved in every aspect of the restoration, the Waters help to lay the tiles in the main hallway. Trying to minimise their footprint, the couple plans on upcycling and recycling where possible.