"The alleged fraud centres on a château in Noth, near Limoges in south-west France, which the two Brits bought in 2024 for €2.5 million. They created brochures showing a planned luxury golf and spa retreat - the Halcyon Retreat and Golf Spa - complete with private chalets in the woods surrounding the château, and began advertising for investors, promising them free use of the chalets as well as a hefty profit on their investments in the luxury development."
"According to the financial crimes unit in Limoges, work never even began on the site and instead the cash from investors - estimated to be around €16 million - was funnelled into a network of offshore bank accounts. Investigations began in 2025 and the estate was seized by the French recovery agency - but the pair were still advertising 'Your dream holiday home in France.'"
"Advertisements still published on Facebook promise: 'Fully furnished and completely maintained, so all you need to do is turn up and enjoy a hassle-free escape. Just a short stroll from the golf course, spa, our grand historic château hotel, patisserie and restaurants, indoor kids' play areas, parks, sports facilities and so much more.'"
Two British men are suspected of orchestrating a €16 million scam involving a château in France. One man has been arrested in Spain, while the other remains at large. They purchased the château for €2.5 million and advertised a luxury golf and spa retreat, promising investors significant returns. However, no construction occurred, and investor funds were diverted to offshore accounts. Investigations began in 2025, leading to the seizure of the estate, yet advertisements continued to lure potential investors, resulting in complaints from those unable to contact the company.
Read at The Local France
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