Reminiscent of the elegant 19th century provincial-style homes in the south of France, it’s difficult to believe this delightful residence sits on the doorstep of Perth’s eclectic port city of Fremantle.

This four-bedroom property in Fremantle is currently on the market. Picture: realestate.com.au

Built in 1862, the old Port Flour Mill was once the hubbub of activity where flour was milled for the district of Fremantle and for export. It has historical significance as the last surviving mill in the port city.

The Essex Street property was restored and converted into seven residential units in 1993, with six of the units approved as residential, while this one operates as a commercial bed and breakfast, the Port Mill B&B.

“It’s a beautiful old building – the old flour mill that has been copied directly on the other side to create a wonderful courtyard and southern French provincial feeling the minute you walk through the gate,” says selling agent Peter Clement, from Mint Real Estate – Claremont.

“It’s the most extraordinary feeling. As soon as you walk out of the gates, you walk out of the south of France to the buzz of Fremantle, which has such a cool, eclectic mix of cafes, people and vibrancy.

“If someone fell in love with it, it could be a really, really successful little business,” adds Clement.

This charming property operates as the Port Mill B&B. Picture: realestate.com.au

Set behind a secure wrought iron gate on Essex Street, the charming four-bedroom property enjoys close proximity to Fremantle’s café strip, heritage landmarks, markets and fishing boat harbour.

A quaint central courtyard features a paved terrace courtyard, fountain and limestone walls.

The residence opens into a welcome lobby through a large wooden front door with lead light panels.

High ceilings and timber flooring extend through the home, which includes an open-plan kitchen and dining room, a separate bathroom and a laundry.

The property sits within a heritage listed development. Picture: realestate.com.au

There are four large bedrooms, each with ensuites or connecting bathrooms, private balconies and air conditioning.

The property has been identified as being of “exceptional cultural heritage significance” in Fremantle and was classified by the National Trust in 1974. It’s also included on the Heritage Council of WA’s Register of Heritage Places.

Heritage Council of WA documents state that the mill “has a landmark quality in Essex Street, and the interesting internal courtyard space makes a strong contribution to the historic streetscapes of Fremantle”.

In particular, the buildings embody the character of the earlier colonial townscape, much of which has now been lost.

Clement is selling the property via an online auction through Open Negotiation. There are three active bidders, with the current bid at $750,000