Experience the Unexpected: Mick Jagger's Private Sanctuary in France
A French Nobleman's Legacy Becomes a Rock Star's Haven
Many are unaware of Mick Jagger's captivating French château, La Fourchette, a significant architectural masterpiece situated in Pocé-sur-Cisse within France's renowned Loire Valley. This estate once served as the distinguished home of Duke Étienne-François de Choiseul, a celebrated military figure and diplomat from the 18th century. Today, it spans an impressive 50 acres, adorned with meticulously maintained gardens that exude elegance and tranquility.
Childhood Memories Rekindled: Jagger's Connection to La Fourchette
Jagger's choice to acquire property in this specific region of France is deeply rooted in his personal history. He spent his formative years vacationing at the Île d'Or campsite, merely a ten-minute drive from the château. In 1980, he purchased the stately rectangular edifice, characterized by its distinctive mansard roof, for 2.2 million francs (approximately $477,000 USD). He frequents the estate annually during the summer, and local residents often observe festive fireworks displays from the grounds on his birthday, July 26th. Beyond its vast land, which includes a tranquil pond, a cascading waterfall, a refreshing swimming pool, and a well-maintained tennis court, the château also boasts an authentic Japanese pagoda, adding to its unique charm.
The Birthplace of an Iconic Album and a Glimpse into Private Life
This historical setting also played a pivotal role in the Rolling Stones' musical journey, as it was here that they recorded their 2005 album, A Bigger Bang, marking their return after an eight-year hiatus. The château houses a professional recording studio, which occasionally makes an appearance on the rock icon's social media. During the challenging period of the COVID-19 lockdown, Jagger chose his château as the backdrop for several public appearances, including a segment on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon. Far from the rock-and-roll stage, he embraces a simpler life, dedicating time to gardening, pruning rose bushes, and even undertaking home improvement tasks like painting, car repairs, and tending to his sheep. Amidst his formal gardens, he also indulges in hobbies such as cooking and playing the guitar, showcasing a surprising blend of artistic passion and rural domesticity.
Local Echoes: Community's Perspective on a Global Icon
Mick Jagger's presence in Pocé-sur-Cisse is widely recognized, and locals openly share their fascinating encounters with the music legend. A French television report from 2011 featured a retired upholsterer who contributed to the château's interior design. He fondly recounted his experience working with exquisite fabrics to create the estate's luxurious furnishings. He noted how the materials would change color with the sunlight, transforming the room's ambiance. He described this opportunity as a significant turning point in his career, allowing him to work with fabrics of unparalleled beauty and complexity. The upholsterer confessed that some armchair designs were so intricate, he had to learn new techniques on the job.
Craftsmanship and Equality: A Unique Client Relationship
The upholsterer also shared a curious anecdote from his time at La Fourchette, recalling his bewilderment when asked to drape a sink, a task he initially found perplexing. He proudly displayed samples of the expensive, yet tasteful, English fabrics used for Jagger's sofas. He emphasized that these materials, though luxurious, possessed a comforting, "homey" feel rather than a museum-like austerity. He concluded by highlighting Jagger's equitable nature, stating, "I always charge the same price for an armchair. Mick Jagger pays the same as any other customer," underscoring the rock star's down-to-earth approach despite his global fame. This unique insight into Mick Jagger's French château was originally featured in AD France.