4-Bed Stone House with Barn & Paddocks in Tranquil Normandy Setting

On a still morning in Saint-Cyr-la-Campagne, you'd wake to the sound of water. Not distant or muffled — the river runs right along the edge of the property, close enough that you hear it through an open window while the coffee brews. There's no road noise, no neighbors peering over the fence, no reason whatsoever to be anywhere else. This is rural Normandy at its most honest: green, quiet, and completely unhurried. The house itself was built in the 1980s, solid and unpretentious, sitting on a fully enclosed and wooded 1,000-square-metre plot that feels twice as large thanks to the riverbank it borders. Since 2021, the owners have been steadily bringing it up to speed — new electrics throughout, a fitted kitchen, a redesigned bathroom with a proper walk-in shower and bathtub, and freshly renovated upstairs bedrooms completed in 2025. The bones were always good. Now the finishing is catching up. Come through the front door and the ground floor opens into a living room that immediately earns its keep. Terracotta floor tiles run underfoot — the warm, slightly uneven kind that makes a room feel lived-in rather than showroom-perfect — and a wood-burning stove anchors one wall. On a grey October afternoon, when the Normandy rain comes in sideways and the leaves on the riverbank go copper and gold, this room becomes the entire reason you bought a house in France. The kitchen adjoins it directly, recently fitted and fully equipped, functional without being clinical. A hallway off the living area leads to a ground-floor bedroom with its own dressing room — a practical touch that works well as a guest room or for anyone who'd rather avoid stairs entirely. The new bathroom sits nearby, tidy and complete. Upstairs, the landing is ... click here to read more

Sunday morning in Châteauneuf-du-Faou starts with the smell of buttered crêpes drifting from the boulangerie on Rue de la Mairie, and if you crack open the upstairs window, you'll catch the faint echo of church bells bouncing off the stone facades across the square. That's the kind of detail you can't manufacture. It's either there or it isn't — and here, it absolutely is. This is a rare find in the heart of one of Finistère's most quietly compelling villages: two adjoining stone houses, sold together as a single property, sitting right in the village core with everything you need within a short walk. At 80 square metres combined and priced at €123,500, this is the kind of opportunity that makes serious buyers move fast. Five bedrooms spread across two interconnected dwellings, a landscaped enclosed garden, a garage, and a timber-framed attic just waiting to be converted. The bones are solid — natural slate roof, mains drainage, stone walls that have quietly absorbed two centuries of Breton weather. Let's talk about the layout, because it's genuinely interesting. The first house opens at ground level into an entrance hall that flows into a living and dining room anchored by a working fireplace — the kind you actually use from October through April, not just for Instagram. A kitchen with a shower area sits alongside, and a connecting living room links the two houses together. Head upstairs and you get two good-sized bedrooms. The second house has its own front entrance, kitchen, shower room, WC, and a ground-floor bedroom, with two more bedrooms up top. An attic caps the whole structure, unconverted but full of potential — a home office, a games room for the kids, a reading loft. The layout gives you options that most s ... click here to read more

Step through the heavy front door of this brick-and-flint maître house on a crisp October morning and you hear it immediately — the kind of silence that costs money in most of France. No traffic, just a wood pigeon somewhere in the garden and the faint metallic ring of the Goderville church bell carrying across the Pays de Caux plateau. This is what 172,000 euros buys you in northern Normandy right now: a real house with bones, history, and a plot of land big enough to breathe. Bretteville-du-Grand-Caux sits right on the edge of the Seine-Maritime plateau, a few minutes from the market town of Goderville where the Tuesday morning market draws farmers and locals who've been shopping the same stalls for generations. Pick up a thick wedge of Neufchâtel heart-shaped cheese, a bottle of Calvados from a producer who doesn't export, and a baguette still warm from the boulangerie on Rue du Général de Gaulle. This is everyday life here, not a tourist performance. The house itself is the kind you used to find everywhere in Pays de Caux and now increasingly don't. Brick and silex — that distinctive local flint — laid in the traditional Norman pattern, with generous ceiling heights that make the reception rooms feel genuinely grand rather than merely large. The ground floor opens into spacious living areas that get proper afternoon light through tall windows facing the garden. There's a scale to these rooms that's hard to fake: wide floorboards, high cornices, proportions that belong to an era when builders weren't counting square centimetres. Upstairs, four bedrooms spread comfortably across the first floor. Two face the rear garden and catch the morning sun. The remaining rooms have that characteristic Normandy quietness that c ... click here to read more

On Sunday mornings in Fourges, the only thing you hear is the river. The Epte moves quietly past the old mill at the edge of the village, and if the kitchen window is open, you catch the faint smell of damp grass and whatever someone nearby is baking. This is a village that hasn't tried to reinvent itself. It's just still here — stone walls, a mill that's been grinding for centuries, a pace of life that feels almost unreasonably good. This two-bedroom house sits in that village, in good condition, single-storey, with a generous 1,000 square metre garden running down to the voie verte — a dedicated greenway trail that cuts through the Vexin-sur-Epte countryside. Step straight out of the back gate and you're on a route that takes you through meadows and orchards, past apple trees whose fruit ends up in the local calvados, all the way toward Gisors or down toward the Seine valley. You don't need a car to feel like you're deep in rural Normandy. The landscape just arrives at your doorstep. Inside, the layout is all on one level — no stairs, no fuss. The entrance leads into a living space with a wood-burning stove that makes the room feel entirely different in November than it does in July. In winter it crackles, the walls hold the heat, and the whole house takes on that particular quality of a place that's actually lived in rather than merely visited. The fitted kitchen is practical and fully equipped. There's a large master bedroom, a proper bathroom, a separate WC, and a second smaller room that works equally well as a guest bedroom or a home office for those who work remotely and want to do it somewhere with better views than their city apartment. Under the eaves, a third sleeping space with storage gives you genuine fl ... click here to read more

Stand on the 80-square-metre terrace on a late June morning and you'll hear the Lot River before you see it — a low, unhurried sound threading through the stone village below, mixing with the clatter of a market being set up on the square. That's the rhythm here. Slow, deliberate, and completely irreplaceable. This five-bedroom 17th-century house on the right bank of St-Geniez-d'Olt — the oldest quarter, where the streets are barely wide enough for two people to pass comfortably — sits at a kind of sweet spot that's genuinely hard to find anywhere in southern France at this price point. The village itself is the kind of place travel writers keep "discovering" and then quietly keeping to themselves. Crossed by the Lot River and framed by the wooded hills of Aveyron, St-Geniez-d'Olt sits at the edge of the Aubrac plateau — one of the last genuinely unspoiled high plateaux in France. The surrounding landscape is why people who come here for a week end up buying property. Rolling grassland grazed by the famous Aubrac cattle, forests of beech and oak climbing the valley sides, and the Lot cutting a clean green line through it all. In July, the village hosts its annual fête with fireworks over the river. In autumn, the hills go amber and rust, and local restaurants put aligot — that volcanic, cheese-pulled potato dish unique to this corner of France — on every menu. In winter, the Aubrac plateau gets real snow, and the cross-country skiing trails around Laguiole are less than 40 minutes away. The house carries its age with dignity rather than fragility. Push open the street door and the shift is immediate: pebble-set floors underfoot, walls of raw stone, and the particular cool quiet of a building that has absorbed three cen ... click here to read more

Sunday morning in Bergerac starts with the smell of fresh bread drifting up from the boulangerie two blocks away. You open the kitchen door onto the 17-square-metre terrace, coffee in hand, and catch the faint sound of the market vendors setting up along the Place de la Madeleine. That's the rhythm of life this house puts you inside — not on the edge of it, not behind glass. Right in it. This solid 1930s house sits a short walk from the old town centre of Bergerac, one of the most quietly rewarding towns in the entire Dordogne valley. The architecture still carries the bones of the interwar period — the proportions feel generous, the walls thick enough to keep rooms cool well into July — and recent upgrades have brought the practicalities firmly into the present. A newly installed heat pump, air conditioning, full double glazing, and a fitted kitchen mean you arrive and you live, rather than renovate and wait. The ground floor layout is genuinely sociable. The living room flows naturally toward the open-plan kitchen and dining area, which spills directly out onto the terrace. Summer evenings here have a particular quality: the Dordogne region holds its warmth well into September, and al fresco dinners under the fading light are less a special occasion than a Tuesday habit. The ground floor also holds a bedroom and shower room — useful for guests who'd rather skip the stairs, or for turning the upper floor into a private retreat when the house is full. Upstairs, two spacious double bedrooms and a dressing room give the house a flexibility that shorter-term rentals rarely achieve. There's room for couples, families, or the kind of extended-family gathering that the French countryside seems specifically designed to encou ... click here to read more

Step out onto the front terrace on a July morning and you'll hear it before you see it — the faint toll of the village bell drifting up the hillside, a pair of swallows cutting arcs above the limestone cliffs, and nothing else. That's the particular silence of Les Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireuil. Not emptiness — richness. The kind that costs nothing and stays with you long after you've gone home. This compact stone cottage sits elevated against the hillside, looking out over a deeply green valley that hasn't changed much since the Cro-Magnon people found shelter in these same cliffs 15,000 years ago. It's been recently renovated — properly done, not cosmetically patched — and the result is a property that works hard despite its modest 41 square metres. Two levels. An open-plan kitchen and living room on the ground floor where the original stone walls keep things cool without air conditioning even in August heat. A shower room tucked neatly beside it. Climb the stairs and you arrive at a single bedroom that catches the morning light and looks out over the terraced hillside below. Three terraces. That detail matters more than it sounds. The front terrace is where you'll drink your coffee. The side terrace catches the afternoon shade and is where you'll eat dinner — confit de canard from the butcher on the main road through the village, a glass of Bergerac rouge, the kind of meal that takes two hours because that's the pace here. The raised terrace at the upper side has a different quality altogether — quieter, more private, the kind of spot where you bring a book and lose an afternoon. Add a renovated outbuilding that can serve as a studio, office, or extra storage, a stone cellar for keeping wine at the right temperature year-r ... click here to read more

On a slow Sunday morning in Ceaux-en-Couhé, the bread oven in the stone shed still holds yesterday's warmth. Eight bedrooms, a pond catching the light through the oaks, and 4.8 hectares of parkland stretching out beyond the kitchen window — this is what a second home in rural Poitou actually feels like. Not a curated Instagram fantasy, but something real and rooted. This is a rare find in the Vienne department: a fully renovated maison de maître that has been operating as a group gîte, sleeping up to 24 guests across its eight bedrooms, all equipped with private shower rooms and WCs. It's move-in ready — or more accurately, move-in and open-for-business ready. The bones are solid, the renovation is done, and the layout is already designed for the kind of communal living that makes group holidays worth taking. Whether you're imagining family reunions across generations, a yoga and wellness retreat in the French countryside, or a creative residency program, the infrastructure is already in place. Step inside and the ground floor sets the tone immediately. There's a generous entrance hall that opens into a laundry room, a dedicated office, a proper kitchen, a dining room, and a sitting room — the kind of layout where a group of twelve can occupy the same house without tripping over each other. Three ground-floor bedrooms, each with their own shower room and WC, sit along a hallway with fitted storage. Upstairs, five more bedrooms follow the same logic: private bathrooms, cupboard space, and enough separation that guests actually sleep well. The boiler room sits in a separate annex, keeping mechanical noise well away from the living spaces. And then there's the bread oven shed — a detail that sounds minor until you've pull ... click here to read more

Stand at the front garden gate on a Tuesday morning and you'll hear the Blavet river before you see it. That low, constant murmur threading through the valley — that's the soundtrack to life in Saint-Nicolas-des-Eaux, one of the most quietly extraordinary villages in inland Brittany. The church bell chimes at eight. Someone at the bar-tabac two minutes' walk away is already pulling espresso. And your kitchen window in a house that has stood for over five centuries frames all of it. This is not a renovation fantasy or a project dressed up in estate-agent optimism. The property is in good condition — two stone houses, sold together, on a plot of around 1,093 square metres with gardens front and back and a workshop of 26 square metres. Move in, light the wood-burning stove, and work out what to do with the rest later. That's genuinely an option here. The older of the two houses is the one that stops people in their tracks. Thatched roof, stone walls thick enough to keep August heat out and January damp firmly in its place, a kitchen-dining-living room arranged around a fireplace that clearly earns its keep every winter. Upstairs, a mezzanine level — currently used as a bedroom — gives the space a kind of loft-like openness, and a large double bedroom sits alongside it. The bathroom with WC is on the ground floor, practical and sorted. The second house connects directly through a door, which makes the whole arrangement work brilliantly for families or visiting friends: two distinct spaces, one shared garden life. The ground-floor of the second house has a living room, bedroom, kitchen, bathroom with WC, and a useful storage room. Its first floor adds another mezzanine bedroom, a washbasin, and a further bedroom. Three bedr ... click here to read more

Sunday morning in Fourges starts quietly. A wood stove ticks as it warms up, the smell of coffee mixing with something faintly earthy drifting in from the garden — damp grass, river water, the particular cool greenness that only the Epte valley seems to produce. From the kitchen window, you can see the old mill wheel at the edge of the village, still and mossy in the early light. This is the pace of life that the Norman countryside does better than almost anywhere else in France, and this two-bedroom house on a thousand square metres of land puts you right at the centre of it. Fourges sits in the heart of the Vexin Normand, a natural regional park that most Parisians have never discovered — which is precisely the point. The village itself is famous locally for its 12th-century watermill on the Epte, a river that famously marked the medieval boundary between Normandy and the Île-de-France. Monet painted these fields. The light here has a quality that artists have been chasing for centuries, soft and diffuse in summer, dramatic and low in autumn, and frankly extraordinary on winter afternoons when the frost sits on the meadows and the river runs dark green. You will notice it every single day. The house is single-storey, a practical layout that makes it genuinely easy to manage as a second home or holiday property in France. The entrance opens into a living space anchored by a wood-burning stove — the real thing, not decorative — which handles the bulk of heating through the colder months without fuss. The kitchen is fitted and equipped, ready to use from day one, which matters when you're arriving on a Friday evening and want to eat well without a supermarket run. One generous bedroom and a bathroom complete the main fl ... click here to read more

Sunday morning in Marsac moves slowly. The kind of slowly you forget is possible until you're standing on a stone terrace with a coffee, watching mist lift off the Charente countryside while rosebushes climb the garden wall and a blackbird argues with itself somewhere in the orchard. This is the pace this house was built for. Set in a small town a short drive from Montmoreau-Saint-Cybard, this three-bedroom house has been carefully restored to keep what mattered — the thick stone walls, the original proportions, the sense that a building this solid has earned its place in the landscape. It sits on terraced grounds that step naturally down the hillside, and that slope is one of the property's quiet masterstrokes. Because of it, every level of the house has a relationship with the garden. Every room has air around it. The espaliered grounds are something you don't often see outside of a curé's garden — the kind of formal, patient planting that takes decades to establish. Rosebushes trained flat against stone, neat and fragrant in June, turning the whole space into something that feels more like a private botanical corner than a typical back garden. It's the sort of detail that stops people mid-sentence when they first walk through the gate. On the garden level, the living space is open and practical. The kitchen flows into a generous living area — no awkward walls dividing the two, just light moving through and the kind of layout that actually works when you have a houseful of people at the table. There's a pantry off the kitchen, which any serious cook will immediately appreciate. A shower room and a cellar round out this floor, the latter offering the kind of storage that makes a second home genuinely livable rather t ... click here to read more

Step out onto the front balcony on a clear October morning and the whole of the Charente-Maritime countryside unrolls in front of you — pale gold fields, distant church spires, the kind of quiet that city people spend years trying to find. That's Fontaine-Chalendray. A small village in the Poitou-Charentes region that most tourists drive straight past on their way to the Atlantic coast, which is precisely what makes it so good. This three-bedroom house sits on a fully enclosed plot and has been kept in genuinely good condition — not "good condition" as a euphemism for "needs imagination," but actually solid, move-in ready, and full of thoughtful details that someone clearly cared about. The 142m² of living space works hard, and a 150m² barn plus three separate garages mean you have more flexibility here than you'd typically find at this price point in France. Inside, the lounge anchors the ground floor with a Dutch wood-burning stove — a proper, cast-iron thing that radiates heat differently from a standard fireplace, warming the room evenly rather than scorching whoever's sitting nearest. On a January evening with the fire going, this room has real pull. Double doors at the rear open directly onto a glassed veranda, which then connects to a covered terrace outside. That sequence — lounge, veranda, terrace — creates a natural flow for entertaining across three seasons without anyone getting rained on. The kitchen and dining room is where this house gets interesting. Bamboo countertops that develop a warm honey tone over time, a breakfast bar for morning coffee and the newspaper, and a professional Italian range cooker with five gas burners plus an electric and solid-fuel oven combination. This isn't a show kitchen ins ... click here to read more

The church bell in Puyjourdes rings at eight on Sunday mornings, and if you're standing in the kitchen of this old stone house with the wood-burning stove crackling and a bowl of café au lait warming your hands, it hits differently than anything you've experienced in the city. That sound—unhurried, ancient, completely indifferent to your schedule—is the whole point of owning a place like this. This four-bedroom property in the Lot department of Midi-Pyrénées sits right on one of the recognised variants of the Chemin de Saint-Jacques, the medieval pilgrimage route that draws tens of thousands of walkers, cyclists and seekers every single year. That's not a footnote. It's a defining feature of daily life here, and—as we'll get to—a serious practical asset for anyone thinking about rental income. The main house has been looked after. Ground floor gives you a kitchen and dining room anchored by a wood-burning stove, a sitting area, a bathroom and a master bedroom with a sliding door that opens onto the garden in the warmer months. Move through to the second living room, which is heated by a mass stove—the kind of dense, slow-release heat source that keeps the room comfortable from a single evening fire well into the following afternoon. A pull-down staircase leads up to the mezzanine bedroom tucked above it, which has the kind of intimate, tucked-away quality that guests tend to request repeatedly. Above that living room on the first floor, a large loft sits waiting. It could become a third bedroom suite, a studio, a reading room with valley views—the permissions process in this corner of Lot is navigable, and local artisans who know the building codes are not in short supply. The two-storey stone barn is its own separate ... click here to read more

On a Tuesday morning, you wake up to the sound of nothing in particular — a wood pigeon somewhere in the garden, the faint creak of old beams settling in the warmth. You pad downstairs in the main house, light the wood-burning stove in the kitchen, and by the time your coffee is ready, you've already decided: today you'll drive the twenty minutes to Brantôme's Friday market for cheese and walnuts, and the rest of the week can take care of itself. That's the rhythm Saint-Pardoux-la-Rivière puts you in. And once it gets hold of you, you won't want to leave. This five-bedroom stone property sits at the corner of a quiet lane just outside the village, where the only traffic is the occasional tractor and the neighbour's dog. The house is actually two adjoining cottages — currently connected and working beautifully as one generous family home — with three bedrooms and a shower room in the main section, and two further bedrooms plus two en-suite shower rooms in the guest wing. It's the kind of layout that solves problems. Extended family coming to stay? They have their own entrance, their own living room with a wood stove, their own space. You have yours. Everyone's happy. Or close the connecting door and rent the guest cottage independently during the summer months — the demand for self-catering accommodation in the Dordogne is very real, and very consistent. Throughout both sections of the house, the period character is intact and unhurried: exposed stone walls that keep things cool even in August, heavy oak beams overhead, fireplaces that have been warming people in this valley for well over a century. The main sitting room has a handsome stone fireplace and a wood-burning stove that makes winter weekends genuinely cosy. T ... click here to read more

On a clear morning, you can stand at the upper-floor window of this stone house and watch the Dordogne River catch the early light while a pair of buzzards ride the thermals above the tobacco fields below. No traffic noise. No neighbors pressed close. Just the occasional tractor on the lane and the wind moving through the walnut trees. This is the Périgord Noir that people spend years searching for—and this two-bedroom, two-bathroom house in the La Rivière quarter near Domme puts you right inside it. The house sits in the lower, river-close part of the area, technically addressed to Domme but functionally tucked into working farmland, with fields running out to the Dordogne on one side and wooded hillsides rising behind. It's built in the local golden limestone—the same material that makes every village around here look like it was carved from honey—and its three floors give it a verticality that feels deliberate, almost tower-like. The raised rooms on the upper levels aren't just architecturally interesting. They earn their height. From up there, the views roll out across a countryside that hasn't changed fundamentally in centuries. At 110 square meters of living space, the layout is generous for two people and perfectly workable for a family. The séjour runs to nearly 26 square meters—big enough for a proper sofa, a reading corner, and a fire that you'll actually use from October through April. The separate salle à manger at almost 20 square meters means dinner parties don't require rearranging the furniture. The kitchen is compact at 8 square meters, which is honestly fine in a house where the rhythm of life encourages you to eat out half the time and cook slowly the other half. Two full bathrooms, including a suite ... click here to read more

On a warm August evening in Marciac, the sound of a trumpet drifts down the Rue de la Bascule, threading through the plane trees and landing softly at your kitchen window. That's not a recording. That's Jazz in Marciac — one of the most famous jazz festivals in the world — happening practically on your doorstep. This 124 m² house in the heart of Gers is the kind of property that doesn't need a sales pitch. The place makes the case for itself. Marciac sits in the Gers département of Midi-Pyrénées, a corner of southwestern France that most tourists speed past on their way to the Pyrenees or Biarritz. Their loss, your gain. The bastide town itself is genuinely medieval — the central arcaded square, the Place de l'Hôtel de Ville, was laid out in the 13th century and it still works exactly as intended, pulling people together on market days under those stone arches. Thursday morning market is the real one, where local farmers sell duck confit, aged Armagnac, haricots tarbais, and foie gras that has absolutely nothing in common with what you've tried elsewhere. The house sits in this setting in good condition, ready to use from day one. At 124 m², spread across a practical and generous layout of six rooms including three bedrooms, it's the right size for a second home — big enough to host family or friends without anyone feeling cramped, manageable enough that you're not spending your weekends maintaining a property rather than enjoying it. The fireplace in the main living space is the kind of detail that matters come November, when the Gers countryside turns amber and gold and the evenings get cool enough to appreciate a proper fire. Double-glazed PVC windows keep things quiet and insulated year-round, and electric shutters ... click here to read more

Stand at the edge of the wooded plot on a quiet Tuesday morning and the only sounds are the Auvézère river running somewhere below the village rooftops and a woodpecker working through the oak trees at the far end of your four thousand square metres of land. Ségur-le-Château does not announce itself loudly. It doesn't need to. This compact, deeply old village in the Corrèze département has been quietly ranked among France's most beautiful for good reason — and this three-building stone ensemble sits right inside that living medieval world, priced at just €132,500. The property is a genuinely rare find. Three separate stone structures on a wooded 4,590 m² plot: a traditional one-bedroom house, a barn of roughly 100 m², and a partially renovated bread oven. Each one built from the same warm, grey-gold Corrèze limestone that gives the whole village its unhurried, rooted quality. The main house is move-in ready in the sense that matters most — the bones are solid, the inglenook fireplace is the real thing, and the veranda entrance already sets a tone of rural gentleness before you've stepped inside. The attic, accessed by a wooden staircase from the living room, is the kind of raw space that experienced renovation buyers immediately recognise: open, structurally sound, and waiting to become a second bedroom, a studio, or a reading room that gets the morning light. Yes, there is work to plan. Electricity, heating, plumbing, insulation, and a septic tank installation are all on the list. That transparency matters. This is a project property for someone who wants to put their own mark on something genuinely historic, not a flipped renovation dressed up to hide its history. The purchase price reflects exactly that. For buyers ... click here to read more

On a clear morning in Lauzerte, you step outside and the whole of the Quercy Blanc valley rolls out below you in shades of green and gold. The village — one of the most striking medieval villages in southwest France, perched on its ridge like a crown — is a ten-minute walk. Down the hill, the weekly market on the square smells of ripe Chasselas grapes and lavender honey from the Lot. This is what you own when you buy here. Not just walls and land, but a front-row seat to a part of rural France that hasn't been polished into a postcard. The property itself sits on just over 3,000 square metres of flat land — rare in this rolling, hill-crested landscape. The main house covers 80 liveable square metres across two bedrooms, a living room, a kitchen, and a shower room. Stone walls, thick enough to keep the interior cool all the way through August, give the rooms a quietness that modern builds simply can't replicate. The house is in good condition and move-in ready, so your first summer here doesn't have to be spent navigating a building site. But what really makes this place interesting is what comes with it. The 120-square-metre barn — ground floor only — attached at the side is essentially a blank canvas the size of a generous family home. Whether you're thinking of converting it into a gîte to generate income during the high season, creating a self-contained guest annexe for visiting family, or simply expanding the main living space into something grander, the volumes are there. The bones are exceptional. The ceiling heights in a barn like this are the kind architects would charge you a premium to recreate from scratch. Beyond the barn, there's a garage, a cellar — perfect for storing the Cahors wine you'll be buying by ... click here to read more

Discover peaceful countryside living with this charming 3-bedroom country home nestled in the rustic hamlet of Vire-Normandie, situated in the heart of Normandy, Calvados, France. This lovely detached stone house is set on over an acre of picturesque gardens, perfect for those seeking tranquility and a connection to nature. The home itself, which covers 115 square meters, is primarily in good condition and offers a harmonious blend of modern amenities and traditional character. The stone exterior, coupled with modern double-glazed windows installed around 2016, assures a blend of efficiency and historic charm. While the house is comfortable and ready for immediate move-in, it also presents a wonderful opportunity for those looking to personalize a home without the need for extensive renovations. Upon entering, you're greeted by a cozy entrance hall featuring birch wood flooring and exposed stone walls. The lounge, which is comfortably sized and includes a modern pellet burner, offers a perfect space for family gatherings. It opens onto a well-equipped kitchen and dining area, making it ideal for entertaining guests. The utility room adds a practical touch with spaces allocated for washing and drying machines, along with additional storage. The upper level houses three bedrooms, each with unique features like "Juliette" balconies, sloping ceilings, and exposed stone walls adding to the charm. The master bedroom benefits from an en-suite shower room, while the other two bedrooms share a "Jack & Jill" style bathroom, ensuring convenience and privacy. Living in Vire-Normandie offers a blend of serene rural life with the convenience of nearby amenities. The town of Vire is just a few kilometers away, providing access to s ... click here to read more

Nestled between the vibrant community of Vire and the picturesque countryside of the Basse-Normandie region, lies a house that seamlessly merges comfort with potential. This post-war property, situated in Vire, Basse-Normandie, offers a unique blend of residential warmth and ample space for personalization, ideal for those seeking a home in France with its serene yet lively lifestyle. For a moment, picture yourself arriving at this welcoming abode. The structure stands with an understated grace, hinting at its history while also offering modern-day functionality. As you step through the entrance hall, you are greeted by a fitted kitchen that beckons the family chef to whip up their next culinary masterpiece. Adjacent to the kitchen is a cozy living room/lounge area that invites gatherings, laughter, and relaxation. The ground floor also features the convenience of a bedroom and a toilet, perfectly suited for guests or family members preferring single-story living. Heading upstairs, the home continues to deliver with two additional spacious bedrooms, providing comfortable resting spaces, and a shower room that caters to all daily needs with simplicity and ease. The layout is both practical and conducive to family life, offering not just rooms, but spaces where memories can be made. The house itself might need a touch of personalization here and there, but this gives you the opportunity to make it truly yours. Some areas might benefit from a bit of modern flare or a personal touch, but this can be seen as an exciting opportunity to imprint your style onto the property. The large outbuilding is a significant aspect of this home, offering extra space that could be transformed into anything you envision – perhaps a worksho ... click here to read more

A Tranquil Escape in the Heart of Normandy Nestled in the serene countryside of Vire Normandie, this charming stone house offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Imagine waking up to the gentle sounds of nature, the crisp morning air filled with the scent of blooming flowers, and the promise of a day spent exploring the picturesque landscapes of Basse-Normandie. This is more than just a home; it's a gateway to a lifestyle steeped in tranquility and natural beauty. A Home with Character and Comfort Step inside this delightful two-bedroom stone house, where rustic charm meets modern comfort. The interior exudes warmth and character, with exposed beams and stone walls that tell stories of a bygone era. The heart of the home is the inviting living room, where a granite fireplace and wood-burning stove create a cozy ambiance perfect for relaxing evenings. The fitted kitchen, equipped with modern appliances, opens seamlessly into the living area, making it ideal for entertaining family and friends. A Garden Lover's Paradise Outside, the property unfolds into a sprawling 6986m² garden, a haven for nature enthusiasts and gardening aficionados. Whether you're cultivating your own vegetable patch, enjoying a leisurely afternoon picnic, or simply soaking in the sun, this expansive outdoor space offers endless possibilities. The garden also features an outbuilding, garage, and workshop, providing ample storage and creative space for hobbies and projects. A Gateway to Normandy's Rich Heritage Living in Vire Normandie means immersing yourself in a region rich with history and culture. Explore the medieval architecture of Vire, with its ancient fortifications and charming town center. Indulge in th ... click here to read more

Step into this charming home nestled in the serene landscapes of Vire, Basse-Normandie, a sublime locality that promises a placid yet vibrant living experience. This welcoming 5-bedroom abode spreads over 186 square meters and is sited on an expansive plot of land measuring approximately 3455 square meters. If you've been contemplating a life in the picturesque French countryside, this property beckons with its open promise of comfort and space. The house exudes a character that fits seamlessly into the bucolic surroundings of the Normandy region. As you enter, you're greeted by a commodious entrance hall that leads you into the fitted kitchen, well-equipped for culinary adventures. The living room, accented by a cozy fireplace, invites gatherings and quiet evenings alike. The residence comprises five well-appointed bedrooms, offering ample personal space for each family member. Additionally, the property includes a practical laundry room, a bathroom, and a shower room—catering to the needs of a modern family. Property Features: - Five spacious bedrooms - Fitted kitchen - Living room with a fireplace - One bathroom and one shower room - Laundry room - Extensive land size of 3455 square meters - Garage - Annual property tax: 1963 € For those envisioning a venture into renovation or simply making this space their own, the property offers a solid foundation to build upon. Its good condition allows for immediate occupancy, while still leaving room for personalized enhancements and decorations. Living in Vire Normandie is experiencing a blend of historical richness and contemporary convenience. The town is famed for its lush landscapes, historic architecture, and vibrant community life. From traditional markets offering l ... click here to read more

Discover the charms of French provincial living with this delightful four-bedroom stone house nestled on an ample plot of 8,776 m2 in Saint-Germain-De-Tallevende-La-Lande-Vaumont, Basse-Normandie. This classic property evokes rustic elegance and provides a serene retreat in a sought-after part of France, ideal for families or those seeking a spacious second home. The house itself is well-appointed with a kitchen that includes a cozy dining area, ideal for family meals or entertaining guests. A generous living room serves as the heart of the home, with a warming wood-burning stove that adds to the home's rustic charm. With four bedrooms, the property comfortably accommodates a family, with additional spaces such as a laundry room, a bathroom and a shower room providing both functionality and convenience. Another major highlight is the inclusion of a garage, an indispensable feature for security and storage. Property Features Include: - Spacious kitchen with dining area - Large living room with wood burning stove - Four well-sized bedrooms - One bathroom, one shower room, and a separate toilet - Laundry room - Garage - Central heating (gas) - Large garden and terrace The property is characterized as being in good condition but, being realistic, it holds potential for some renovation to tailor it to personal tastes or modern standards. This aspect makes it a compelling choice for those looking to invest in a property and mold it into their dream home. Local Amenities and Lifestyle Living in Saint-Germain-De-Tallevende-La-Lande-Vaumont offers a peaceful lifestyle, deeply intertwined with the natural beauty and the historical backdrop of the Basse-Normandie region. The property's proximity to a tranqui ... click here to read more

Nestled in the serene heart of Saint-Germain-De-Tallevende, Basse-Normandie, 14, France, this beautiful stone house offers an idyllic retreat for those yearning for a peaceful life in the French countryside. Life here is wonderfully laid-back, with its quiet surroundings, fresh air, and the distinct charm only found in small villages in France. The property itself is a good example of traditional French architecture, a comfortably-sized home with plenty of room for a family, and enough land for twice the optimism. Welcoming you is the sound of birds singing in the trees and the gentle rustle of leaves in your country garden—a blissful reminder that you are far from the bustling city life. The house is in good condition and ready for new families or adventurous expat buyers who seek to embrace the tranquil rural life. It features four cozy bedrooms that promise peaceful slumber after a day spent exploring the enchanting landscapes of Normandy or nearby historical sites. The quaint village of Saint-Germain-De-Tallevende is synonymous with serenity and a tight-knit community spirit. The local area offers an array of activities and attractions suitable for residents and visitors alike. You can try your hand at golfing at the nearby course or take long, leisurely strolls around the picturesque lake—an idyllic spot for picnics or simply enjoying a quiet afternoon with a good book. For families moving in, the area is perfect for creating cherished memories with numerous outdoor activities to keep every member engaged. Vire Normandie itself is a region that’s overflowing with history and cultural richness. Its cobblestone streets and aged buildings whisper tales of the past, while the local markets tempt your senses with fres ... click here to read more

Imagine a tranquil little haven nestled in the picturesque village of Le Mesnil-Robert, located in the heart of Calvados, Normandy, France. A place where life moves at a beautifully relaxed pace, embracing the charm of its rustic surroundings. This charming 3-bedroom house gives you not only a cozy place to call home but also a slice of French country life that many dream of experiencing. Before diving into this lovely abode, let's explore what makes living in Calvados such a treat. Known for its stunning landscapes, Calvados is a gem in the north-east region of Normandie. Here, you're enveloped by diverse cultural and geographical areas, from the rolling hills of Swiss Normande to the alluring flatlands of Caen. The Auge area, in particular, offers the quintessential Normandy landscape, dotted with half-timbered houses and verdant meadows. Of course, history enthusiasts and beach lovers will delight in the proximity of the famous WWII landing beaches—a poignant reminder of times past. The climate in Calvados complements the region’s beauty, with warm summers and mild winters, perfect for enjoying the breathtaking countryside and coastal vistas year-round. Whether you're exploring the local farmers' markets, savoring the region’s renowned apple brandy, or taking a leisurely stroll along quaint country paths, life here is all about simplicity and savoring each moment. Now, let's delve into what this property has to offer. Situated in a peaceful setting, this detached house boasts a panoramic view of the countryside. It's a picturesque location that lets you truly unwind, away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The house stands on a generous stretch of land, over 1.1 hectares to be exact, giving you ample space ... click here to read more

Discover the beautiful charm and serenity of rural France with this enchanting 10-bedroom house, nestled in the peaceful area of Vire, Calvados, 14500. Situated in the picturesque region of Lower Normandy, this former farmhouse, surrounded by lush landscapes and a rich historical setting, awaits those looking for a genuine and vibrant French experience. This substantial residence, spread over 288 square meters, offers a spacious lifestyle with its ensemble of 14 well-appointed rooms. Set on an expansive 1.2 hectares of fertile land, this property provides not just a home, but a retreat into the heart of Normandy. Perfect for large families or those looking to pursue a hospitality venture, this property has immense potential and character. Entering the home, you're welcomed by a grand entrance hall that sets the tone for the rest of the house. The main living area includes a cozy, well-equipped kitchen just waiting for culinary exploration, a formal dining room ideal for hosting family gatherings, a living room that exudes comfort, and three bedrooms that promise restful nights. Personal space is no issue, thanks to the inclusion of a dressing room, a bathroom with an adjoining toilet, and a separate toilet for added convenience. The guest wing of the property is perfect for visitors or could even serve as a bed and breakfast, featuring a reception room, a second living room, and seven additional bedrooms each boasting their own shower and sink. This section of the house is perfectly designed to offer privacy and practicality with two shared shower rooms and two toilets. Stepping outside, the magic continues. The property offers numerous outdoor spaces to enjoy the tranquility and natural beauty of the area. Whether y ... click here to read more

Nestled in the serene village of Truttemer-Le-Petit in the picturesque region of Basse-Normandie, this charming stone house offers a tranquil lifestyle coupled with a touch of the rustic French countryside. This property, with a total internal area of 88m² spread over a generous land plot of 2695m², presents an excellent opportunity for those looking to immerse themselves in the peaceful settings of rural France. Constructed in the early 1900s, this house has stood the test of time, seamlessly blending historic charm with modern amenities. Recently renovated, the home is in good condition, ready for new owners to move in or customize further to their taste. It presents a unique chance for those keen on adding personal touches to create their ideal rustic retreat. Upon entering this distinguished home, you are greeted by a functional kitchen that leads into an inviting living room, which forms the heart of the home. Adjacent to this, a cozy lounge area provides a perfect space to relax and unwind. The property features three well-sized bedrooms, offering ample space for a family or guests. The accompanying bathroom is well equipped, ensuring practicality and comfort within this rural haven. Main Property Features: - Three bedrooms - One bathroom - Kitchen - Living room - Lounge - Land size of 2695m² - Interior house size of 88m² Vire Normandie, nestled in Normandy, France, holds an appeal for expatriates and overseas buyers with its rich history, lush landscapes, and slower pace of life compared to the bustling city environment. Locally, residents benefit from the charm of small-town living while still being connected to larger cities like Caen and Rennes by a well-maintained road network. The region offers plentif ... click here to read more

Picture yourself awakening to the soft morning light filtering through PVC double-glazed windows as the Normandy countryside comes alive around you. The aroma of fresh coffee mingles with the earthy scent of dew-covered grass drifting through your open kitchen door. Your three-bedroom country house in Sourdeval, nestled in the heart of Manche, offers more than shelter—it provides a gateway to the authentic French rural lifestyle that international vacation home seekers dream about discovering. This 75m² stone house stands on 1,500m² of private land, offering the perfect balance between manageable property size and generous outdoor space for family gatherings, vegetable gardens, or simply enjoying the changing seasons of Lower Normandy. The ground floor welcomes you with an entrance flowing into a living room anchored by a traditional fireplace fitted with an efficient pellet stove, creating that quintessential French country ambiance during cooler months. The separate kitchen provides space for preparing regional specialties using local ingredients from nearby markets, while the ground-floor shower room and WC offer practical convenience for daily living and hosting guests. Upstairs, three generous bedrooms provide flexible accommodation for family members and friends visiting your Normandy retreat. Whether you envision children's laughter echoing through the hallways during summer holidays or accommodating multiple couples exploring the region together, this layout delivers versatility. The landing connects these private spaces, while the attic above offers potential for additional storage or future expansion, subject to planning permissions. The property's outbuildings transform this from a simple house into a compo ... click here to read more

Picture yourself standing in the enclosed courtyard of your own Norman retreat, where centuries-old stone walls shelter flowering gardens and the morning mist rolls in from the Manche countryside. This substantial three-bedroom house in Sourdeval offers international buyers an authentic slice of Lower Normandy life, where traditional architecture meets the practical comforts modern vacation homeowners need. With 95 square meters of living space plus a generous 45-square-meter convertible attic ready for your personal vision, this property presents opportunities many second home seekers spend years searching for. Sourdeval sits in the heart of the Manche department, where rolling green pastures meet bocage hedgerows and history echoes through medieval market squares. The rhythm of life here follows Normandy's agricultural calendar: spring apple blossoms that perfume entire valleys, summer farmers markets overflowing with Camembert and cidre, autumn harvest festivals celebrating the region's legendary calvados, and winter evenings gathered around crackling fireplaces. This house captures that rhythm perfectly, with its traditional layout offering both communal spaces for gathering and private retreats for quiet moments. The ground floor centers around a welcoming kitchen where you can prepare meals with ingredients from Sourdeval's weekly markets, while the adjacent living room with its working fireplace becomes the natural heart of the home during cooler months. A second living room provides flexible space that many international owners convert into dining areas, home offices, or cozy reading rooms overlooking the garden. This configuration serves vacation homeowners exceptionally well, allowing simultaneous activities ... click here to read more

Welcome to a tranquil retreat nestled in the heart of Normandie, in the serene village of Saint-Christophe-de-Chaulieu, France. This captivating three-bedroom house is an unfolding story of charm, potential, and pastoral beauty, offering a perfect canvas for those seeking a serene lifestyle or a delightful holiday escape. Property Features: - Three bedrooms: two doubles and a twin, accommodating various family sizes or guest visits. - Two bathrooms: a ground-floor shower room with WC and a separate WC with washbasin upstairs, ensuring convenience and privacy. - A semi-open modern fitted kitchen, seamlessly integrating functionality with living space, perfect for modern living. - A cozy sitting/dining room, highlighted by a granite fireplace in an exposed stone wall and equipped with a wood burner, providing warmth and ambiance during cooler evenings. - Tasteful interior design elements including tiled floors and exposed beams, adding character and rustic charm throughout the home. - An inviting outdoor space, boasting a well-established garden spreading across 0.36 of an acre. The property's south-facing orientation ensures ample sun exposure, enhancing the beauty of its rural surroundings and offering splendid views with complete privacy – a rare find with no immediate neighbors. - A gravel area at the front, perfect for setting up outdoor dining or a comfortable seating area to enjoy the tranquil environment. Amenities: - Fully renovated, ready to move in or to be personalized further to your taste. - A peaceful, rural setting with abundant greenery and an intimate connection with nature. - Proximity to local attractions, historical sites, and the majestic landscapes of Normandie. - Easy access to essential service ... click here to read more

Nestled in the tranquil and picturesque village of Saint-Christophe-de-Chaulieu in Basse-Normandie, this charming three-bedroom stone house offers a serene and rustic living environment ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in the authentic French countryside lifestyle. Built in 1900, the property retains its original rustic charm while being ready for immediate occupancy. This home features an inviting kitchen that opens into a cozy living room, complete with a wood-burning stove that adds warmth and character. The living spaces are pleasantly laid out over two levels, with the ground floor hosting the communal areas and the upper level housing three snug bedrooms and a bathroom. The property spans 80 square meters of living space and is situated on a generous plot of 1483 square meters, offering ample outdoor space for gardening, relaxation, and family activities. To potential overseas buyers and expats, Saint-Christophe-de-Chaulieu represents quintessential rural French living. The region is blessed with lush landscapes, offering a range of outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and horse riding through the scenic trails and green pastures. Living in Saint-Christophe-de-Chaulieu, residents enjoy a peaceful existence away from the bustle of city life. The community is welcoming and friendly, ideal for expatriates looking to integrate into French culture and lifestyle. Local amenities ensure convenience without compromising the village’s rustic charm. Shops, markets offering local produce, and quaint restaurants are within a short driving distance. Property Features: - Stone house with original features - Three bedrooms - One bathroom - Open kitchen leading to living room/lounge - Wood-burning stove - ... click here to read more

Nestled within the picturesque village of Gathemo, in the heart of the charming region of Basse-Normandie, France, stands a quaint stone house that calls out to those looking for a cozy refuge rich with potential and history. As a busty realtor, I know how hard it can be to find that perfect blend of charm and practicality, but this delightful two-bedroom home might just be the answer you didn't know you were searching for. Let's dive a little deeper into what makes this property — and its surroundings — such a special find. Let's start with the stone house itself, a structure that elegantly captures the rustic allure of Normandy's architecture. The home spans across 85 square meters, offering a harmonious balance of intimacy and welcoming spaces. With two bedrooms, it’s ideal for a small family, a couple, or perhaps even someone seeking an artist's retreat. This property presents itself in good condition, so you can move in and start your new chapter with minimal fuss. Property Features: - 2 cozy bedrooms - 1 bathroom - Traditional stone facade - Situated on a generous 1200m² plot - Charming rural setting - 2 levels of living space - Ample natural light - Comfortable 85m² of interior space - Ample potential for personal touches - Spacious garden area perfect for outdoor activities As you arrive, you can’t help but admire the quaint, stone exterior that's symbolic of homes in this region. The traditional architecture speaks to the longevity and durability of its construction, while the generous portion of land it sits on offers a blank canvas for gardening enthusiasts or space for family gatherings. While the house is ready to live in, it’s the kind of property that allows room for personal touch-ups and creative impr ... click here to read more

Nestled in the picturesque countryside of Basse-Normandie, the charming village of Gathemo invites you to explore this endearing stone house that's waiting to become your next adventure. The journey to homeownership in France doesn't get more enticing than this, balancing price with potential. Let's dive into what makes this property such a catch and what life in this idyllic French region is like. Gathemo, a small village tucked away in the rolling hills of the Normandy region, is where tranquility and beauty go hand in hand. It offers a slower pace of life that many overseas buyers and expats find appealing. The local area is teeming with lush landscapes and rich history, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the French countryside's serene lifestyle. Known for its lush greenery and tranquil environment, Gathemo is a place where you can truly escape the hustle and bustle and rediscover peace. While Gathemo might seem like a remote retreat, it's well-connected to nearby larger towns where you can access essential amenities. Owning this stone house is an opportunity to enjoy the wonderful climate of Lower Normandy, which boasts mild, temperate weather. Summers are warm but not too hot, perfect for enjoying your spacious 1,200 square meter land without sweating buckets. Winters are cool but not harsh, often covered in a gentle mist that befriends the old-world charm of the region. The property itself is a delightful stone house that stands proudly with two bedrooms and one bathroom, spread over two levels. It's a storybook home with a mix of cozy comforts and room for you to add your personal touches. While it's in good condition, eager homeowners can think about how to tweak its personality a bit more to ... click here to read more

Nestled in the heart of the charming countryside of Gathemo, Basse-Normandie, France, this quaint stone house awaits its next chapter. With the serene beauty of rural France as its backdrop, this property offers a unique blend of traditional architecture and the opportunity for personalization. Whether you're dreaming of a peaceful retreat or a new beginning, this home provides a delightful canvas to create your very own haven. This two-bedroom, one-bathroom home sits comfortably on a generous 1,200 square meters of land, making it a perfect spot for those who love the outdoors or envision cultivating their own garden. The stone facade speaks to the timeless construction typical of the region, evoking a sense of history and permanence that many modern homes simply cannot match. At 85 square meters, this home is cozy, yet the intelligent use of space ensures that it feels open and accommodating. The property's location in Gathemo, situated in the picturesque region of Basse-Normandie, offers both tranquility and accessibility. The climate here is temperate, characterized by mild summers and cool winters, making it perfect for those who enjoy experiencing all four seasons without the extremes. The area's natural beauty comes alive in every season, whether it’s the blossoming flowers of spring or the golden hues of autumn leaves. As a busy real estate agent, I’ve seen that many expatriates and overseas buyers are drawn to Gathemo not just for its affordably priced real estate, but for its traditional French village lifestyle. Life in Gathemo promises a slower pace, where neighbors know each other by name and community events bring everyone together. The village itself is equipped with necessary amenities and provides a s ... click here to read more

Nestled in the heart of Normandy, near the quaint village of Campeaux, lies a hidden gem waiting to become your dream vacation home. This spacious 4-bedroom house, set amidst the serene landscapes of Souleuvre en Bocage, offers a perfect blend of rustic charm and modern comfort. With its expansive gardens and panoramic views, this property is more than just a house; it's a gateway to a lifestyle filled with relaxation, adventure, and cherished memories. Imagine waking up to the gentle rustle of leaves and the distant chirping of birds, as the morning sun filters through the lush greenery surrounding your home. This is the everyday reality in Souleuvre en Bocage, a region renowned for its picturesque countryside and rich cultural heritage. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat or an active holiday, this location offers something for everyone. Local Lifestyle and Attractions: - Cultural Richness: Normandy is steeped in history, from the iconic D-Day beaches to the medieval charm of nearby towns like Bayeux and Caen. Explore ancient cathedrals, museums, and local markets that offer a glimpse into the region's vibrant past. - Gastronomic Delights: Indulge in the culinary wonders of Normandy, famous for its cheese, cider, and seafood. Enjoy a leisurely meal at a local bistro or try your hand at cooking with fresh, local ingredients. - Outdoor Adventures: The surrounding countryside is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Hike through scenic trails, cycle along quiet country roads, or enjoy a leisurely picnic by the river. - Seasonal Festivals: Experience the local culture through various festivals and events that celebrate everything from music and art to food and history. - Accessibility: Despite its tranquil setting, Sou ... click here to read more

Step into the gentle embrace of Normandy and discover a wonderful opportunity nestled in the heart of the serene village of Landelles-et-Coupigny, in Calvados, France. This charming property offers not only a lovely home but a ticket to the unhurried lifestyle of the French countryside. For those of you exploring the chance to own a little slice of France, let me paint a picture of this 3-bedroom house that could be your future sanctuary. Situated within a stone’s throw from the bustling town of Vire, the house is perfectly placed to offer tranquility and convenience. The region, Calvados, is known for its diverse landscape ranging from the picturesque beaches of the northwest to pastoral fields in the center. It's a place rich with history and culture, offering both residents and visitors a deep sense of connection to the past. Now, let’s talk more about the property itself. The house is a detached country home standing proudly on a spacious plot, giving you all the room you need to enjoy outdoor life. Recently renovated, it promises a blend of the old and the new. It's in great condition - a true move-in ready home which means you can focus on adding your personal touches or simply enjoying it as it is. Inside, the property unfolds its charm with five main rooms, each with its own story to tell. You’re greeted by a cozy fitted kitchen complete with a wood stove, perfect for those cool French evenings. The living area is just a few steps away, inviting you to gather with family or friends. With three generous bedrooms, there's room for everyone to settle in comfortably. There's also an office space for remote work or hobbies and two shower rooms to ensure convenience for all family members or guests. But the explorat ... click here to read more