Charming 1-Bedroom Stone House in Serene Monbahus, France – Ideal Renovation Project with Expansive Countryside Views

On a still morning in this quiet Limousin hamlet, the only sounds are birdsong and the occasional creak of the old barn doors swinging open in the breeze. You pour your first coffee and carry it through the glazed door into the garden, past the fruit trees coming into blossom, and sit beside the ancient stone bread oven your architect friend keeps saying you should convert. That's the rhythm of life in Dournazac — slow, deliberate, and quietly extraordinary. This renovated three-bedroom stone house sits in one of the most underrated corners of southwest France, a region where property prices still reflect genuine value and the countryside hasn't been polished into a tourist postcard. The Haute-Vienne département rewards those who seek it out: rolling wooded hills, medieval châteaux, winding rivers, and a food culture that puts Sunday markets at the absolute center of social life. The Saturday market in Châlus — just three kilometres down the road — is where you'll find the region's famous clementines in winter, truffles if you know which stall to hover around, and a very decent andouillette that the locals will insist you try. Nearby Nexon holds one of the finest horse fairs in France each spring. Oradour-sur-Glane, a preserved WWII memorial village, is a sobering and important half-day trip that draws visitors from across Europe. The house itself carries the architectural honesty that Limousin stone buildings do so well. No decorative veneer, no awkward additions — just solid granite walls, exposed ceiling beams, and a staircase hand-built in oak that feels almost too good to rush up. The craftsmanship throughout the renovation was taken seriously. You notice it in the custom kitchen, which stops visitors in their tra ... click here to read more

Step out onto the front terrace with a coffee in hand on a Tuesday morning in September, and the Vézère Valley spreads out below you in that particular golden light the Dordogne does better than almost anywhere else in France. The walnut trees are starting to drop. Someone two streets down is baking. The cliffs behind you still hold the night's cool air. This is what 115,000 euros buys you here — not just a stone cottage, but a specific, irreplaceable foothold in one of the most historically layered corners of rural France. Les Eyzies-de-Tayac-Sireuil sits at the confluence of the Vézère and Beune rivers, and it carries that geographical confidence like a village that knows exactly what it is. This is the self-styled capital of prehistory, and the claim is not idle boasting — the Cro-Magnon rock shelter is literally at the edge of town, and the Musée National de Préhistoire, rebuilt into the limestone cliff face above the main street, draws serious visitors from across Europe year-round. Walk to the Font-de-Gaume cave with its original polychrome bison paintings (one of the last sites in the world where you can still stand in front of authentic Paleolithic art), and you'll understand why UNESCO gave this entire valley World Heritage status. Living here, even part-time, means all of that is just a twenty-minute stroll. The cottage itself is perched on the hillside with the kind of elevated position that means you catch the morning light early and the evening breeze reliably. Stone walls that have stood for well over a century have been carefully renovated — not stripped and sanitised, but worked with. The character is intact: the rough-cut limestone exterior, the proportions that belong entirely to this part of the Péri ... click here to read more

Picture a Tuesday morning in late June: you're at the twice-weekly market in Montguyon, five minutes down the road, picking up a wedge of goat's cheese from the local fromagère and a bunch of sunflowers that cost less than a coffee back home. You drive back through a hamlet so quiet the loudest thing you'll hear is a woodpigeon in the oak at the back of the garden. That's Saint-Martin-d'Ary. And that's what owning this place actually feels like. Set between Montguyon and Neuvicq in the southern stretch of Charente-Maritime, this three-bedroom detached house sits on a generous 3,000 square metres of mature land in a small, unhurried hamlet. It's the kind of spot that takes a minute to find on the map but stays with you long after you leave. At 102m², the house is compact enough to manage easily as a second home, yet laid out with enough rooms that a family or a group of friends won't be tripping over each other. Inside, the ground floor flows from an entrance hall into a comfortable lounge and separate dining room — the sort of arrangement that still works for a long Sunday lunch the way open-plan never quite does. The kitchen has a fireplace, which tells you something important: this room was built to be the heart of the house, not just a functional corner. On cold December evenings when you're down here for a long winter weekend, a fire in the kitchen while something slow-cooks on the hob is exactly the right kind of warmth. There's also a utility room for the practical side of country living — muddy boots, firewood, market bags. At the back, a summer room and veranda opens the house out toward the garden, catching afternoon light and giving you somewhere to eat outside without the full commitment of a terrace meal in ... click here to read more

Sunday morning in Pleuville moves at its own pace. The shutters creak open, the coffee's on, and through the kitchen window you catch that wide roll of Charente countryside—fields fading into tree lines, not another rooftop in sight. This is what 193 square metres of genuine Maison de Maître feels like when it's yours. Set right in the heart of the village, this four-bedroom house carries all the bones that make old French architecture so satisfying: generous proportions, solid stone, rooms that breathe. But it's been updated where it counts. The kitchen was fitted last year—clean, functional, properly equipped for the long lunches that Charente life demands. A new 7 x 5 metre inground swimming pool was also installed last year, sitting just outside where the garden opens up and the views stretch away over the surrounding countryside. On a hot July afternoon, that pool earns its place fast. Inside, the layout flows well. A wide hallway sets the tone as you enter—the kind of entrance that makes guests pause. To the right, the new kitchen leads into a utility room, and there's a shower room with WC on the same side, which makes practical sense for a house that sees wet dogs, muddy boots, or kids coming in from the pool. To the left, the dining room and living room run together in an open plan arrangement, giving you a generous shared space that works for family dinners, lazy evenings, and everything in between. Upstairs, four well-sized bedrooms line up comfortably—room for the whole family, or the friends who always seem to arrive for August—alongside a bathroom with WC. Outside is where this property really delivers. The garden wraps around the house on multiple sides, so you're never short of options: a spot in full ... click here to read more

Step outside on a Tuesday morning and the only sounds competing for your attention are the stream at the edge of the hamlet and a woodpecker working its way up an oak somewhere in the tree line beyond the balcony. No traffic. No neighbor's television bleeding through a shared wall. Just the Périgord Limousin Regional Natural Park doing what it does — quietly making the rest of the world feel very far away. Abjat-sur-Bandiat sits in the northern reaches of the Dordogne, right where the department bumps against Haute-Vienne. It's the kind of village that doesn't try to impress you. There's no tourist office handing out maps, no souvenir shop selling fridge magnets. What there is: a genuine rural France that moves at its own pace, stone lanes that wind past ancient farmsteads, and a landscape of rolling woodland and meadow that turns copper and amber every October like someone slowly turning up a dimmer switch. This former barn — fully converted and completed not so long ago — sits at the tail end of a hamlet, with countryside pressing in on three sides. The conversion was done with real care for proportion. Ground floor living spaces feel open without feeling cavernous: a proper entrance hall with enough room to actually use it, a sitting room where exposed timber beams overhead anchor the space without making it heavy, and a kitchen that opens onto a dining area rather than being squeezed into a corner. The underfloor heating throughout the ground floor is the kind of detail you only truly appreciate on a raw February morning when the mist is sitting on the fields and you're padding around in socks on warm stone. The original character of the barn hasn't been scrubbed away. An oeil de boeuf window — that small circula ... 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

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 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 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

Stand at the kitchen window on a October morning and you'll hear it — the wind cutting across open bocage fields, leaves skittering along the stone path to the barn, and somewhere in the distance the faint toll of the church bell from the village of Hudimesnil. This is Normandy at its most honest. No tourist gloss, no weekend crowds. Just raw countryside, salt-threaded air, and the kind of quiet that most people have to drive three hours from Paris to find — except from here, Paris is less than four hours by road and the Normandy coast is a ten-minute drive. The property sits in the commune of Le Loreur, tucked into the Manche department — an area that most international buyers haven't yet discovered, which is precisely why the prices still make sense. At 107,000 euros for nearly two acres of land, a three-bedroom country house, a semi-attached barn, and a convertible loft of 50 square metres, you're buying raw potential at a price point that frankly doesn't exist anymore in the better-known corners of France. Let's be straightforward about what this is. The house needs a full renovation — the energy rating is G, there's single glazing throughout, and the heating relies on electric radiators and two open fireplaces. This isn't a lock-up-and-enjoy situation. It's a project. But for the right buyer, that's the whole point. The bones are good: thick stone walls, proper room proportions, an entrance hall, a generous kitchen and dining room with an open fireplace, a rear kitchen, and a sitting room that measures over 29 square metres — a room that, once restored, will be the kind of space you spend entire winter evenings in, fire going, local Calvados on the table, not wanting to be anywhere else. Upstairs, two double bedr ... click here to read more

Stand on the rear terrace with a coffee in hand and watch the Vienne river catch the morning light. No traffic noise. No neighbouring rooftops crowding your view. Just the slow, green current below, a treeline on the far bank, and the occasional heron making its unhurried crossing. This is the kind of quiet that most people only find on holiday — and here, it can be yours every day. Sitting on the edge of the village of Moussac in the Vienne department of Poitou-Charentes, this renovated bungalow occupies a genuinely rare position: elevated above the river, it commands unobstructed views across the water to open countryside and woodland beyond. A handful of steps separate you from the village café. A few kilometres of road take you into the market town of L'Isle-Jourdain. But the place itself feels like it exists in its own world entirely — and that contrast is precisely what makes it so compelling. The house itself is compact and honest: 53 square metres of well-organised living space with a main room generous enough to hold a proper sitting area and dining table without feeling squeezed. Light comes in from multiple directions, and the room opens directly onto that terrace, which faces south across the garden toward the trees. In July, you'll eat out there almost every evening. In October, you'll sit with a glass of Charentais Pineau and watch the mist settle on the water. Both are worth getting on a plane for. The two double bedrooms are properly sized — not the afterthought rooms that often come with smaller properties. The bathroom has both a walk-in shower and a full bathtub, a small luxury that makes a genuine difference when you're using a place as a true retreat rather than just a stopover. Recent double-glaz ... click here to read more

Picture yourself stepping through ancient wooden doors into a centuries-old Breton village where morning mist rolls over canal waters and church bells mark the rhythm of unhurried days. This substantial stone property sits in the heart of Châteauneuf-du-Faou, a working Finistère village where authentic Brittany unfolds beyond the tourist trail. Here, two adjoining houses connected by history and stone walls offer 5 bedrooms across 80 square meters of lived-in character, waiting for vision and energy to unlock their considerable potential as your family's Brittany vacation home base. Châteauneuf-du-Faou occupies a privileged position in Brittany's interior, where the Nantes-Brest Canal threads through green valleys and the Montagnes Noires rise to the south. This is rural Brittany at its most authentic: working farms, weekly markets overflowing with Breton produce, and stone villages where everyone still greets neighbors by name. The property sits steps from bakeries, butchers, cafés, and essential shops, making daily life wonderfully walkable while positioning you perfectly for exploring Brittany's dramatic coastlines, medieval forests, and cultural treasures. The dual-house configuration creates fascinating possibilities for vacation home ownership. The first house welcomes you through an entrance hall into a generous living and dining space anchored by a working fireplace, where winter evenings gather around crackling wood and summer doors open to garden breezes. The kitchen includes an integrated shower area, reflecting the practical Breton approach to space, while a connecting living room provides passage to the second residence. Upstairs, two bedrooms offer sleeping quarters under slate eaves. The adjoining second ... click here to read more

Picture yourself sipping morning coffee in a sun-filled kitchen as mist lifts from the Breton countryside, revealing rolling green hills dotted with ancient stone farmhouses. This is life in Saint-Thois, where your 4-bedroom family home sits on nearly 5,000 square meters of private land, offering the perfect blend of authentic Brittany character and comfortable modern living. Here, just minutes from the artistic town of Quimper and the wild Atlantic coastline, you've found your anchor point for exploring one of France's most distinctive regions. This 158-square-meter house combines traditional stone construction with contemporary updates, creating flexible living spaces that adapt to family gatherings, summer visitors, or peaceful winter retreats. The ground floor flows naturally from the entrance into an open-concept living area where the fitted kitchen merges with the main living space, centered around a wood-burning insert that becomes the heart of the home during cooler months. The generous room currently serving as a games area offers endless possibilities: transform it into a guest suite, home office for remote work, or artist's studio flooded with northern light. A separate laundry room and ground-floor WC complete this practical level. Upstairs, the sleeping quarters provide genuine family accommodation with three bedrooms including one with an ensuite shower room, plus a full bathroom and separate WC. The second floor adds even more versatility with a mezzanine space and an additional bedroom, perfect for teenagers seeking independence, visiting friends, or creating rental income by offering a private floor to holiday guests. Throughout, PVC double-glazing ensures comfort and energy efficiency, while the natur ... click here to read more

Picture yourself morning coffee in hand on a sunlit terrace, surrounded by oak and chestnut trees that have stood for generations, their leaves rustling in the gentle Périgord breeze. The medieval village of Valojoulx lies just minutes away, where weekly markets overflow with fresh walnuts, foie gras, and locally pressed oils. This is the authentic Dordogne experience, where history meets modern comfort in one of France's most captivating corners. This move-in ready single-story house in Auriac-du-Périgord offers international buyers an exceptional opportunity to own a vacation home in the heart of the legendary Dordogne Valley. Set on an expansive one-hectare wooded property, this residence combines the tranquility of rural French countryside living with remarkable proximity to essential amenities and world-renowned cultural attractions. The home delivers practical comfort for extended holiday stays and weekend retreats alike. The 90-square-meter interior provides well-proportioned living spaces designed for relaxed entertaining and comfortable family gatherings. Three bedrooms accommodate visiting friends and relatives, making this an ideal base for those seeking a second home in France where memories are created season after season. Natural light flows throughout the single-level layout, eliminating stairs and creating an accessible, easy-to-maintain vacation property. Two terraces extend your living space outdoors, one for morning sun and breakfast under the trees, another positioned to capture golden evening light perfect for aperitifs and al fresco dinners. These outdoor rooms become the heart of summer living, where meals stretch into long conversations and children play freely in the security of your private wood ... click here to read more

Picture yourself stepping through the heavy wooden door of what was once the beating heart of Saint-Agnan village—a working bakery where generations gathered for their daily bread, where the scent of fresh croissants mingled with morning conversation, and where stone walls absorbed decades of community life. This 180-square-meter property in Hautefort, nestled in France's celebrated Périgord Noir region, offers more than just a vacation home; it presents a rare chance to own a piece of authentic French heritage while crafting your ideal European retreat. The original bread oven still stands as a testament to the building's storied past, while its flexible layout opens up extraordinary possibilities for modern holiday home ownership. This three-story residence embodies the architectural character that draws international buyers to the Dordogne—exposed stone walls that breathe history with every season, a solid slate roof that has weathered countless winters, and traditional wooden floors that creak with authenticity beneath your feet. The ground floor spans 60 square meters across two distinct rooms: the former bakery workshop at 36 square meters, complete with its preserved traditional oven, and an adjacent 15-square-meter space. This commercial potential is virtually unprecedented in European vacation properties of this price range, offering income-generating opportunities that can offset ownership costs or simply provide creative workspace for remote professionals seeking their French escape. The first floor unfolds as a light-filled duplex apartment of approximately 120 square meters, where double-glazed windows frame views of this quintessential Périgord village. The kitchen opens onto a combined living and dining ... click here to read more

Residing in the heart of the French countryside is this classic, 2-bedroom stone house in Monbahus, Aquitaine, 47290. Situated in a tranquil hamlet, this home offers you the opportunity to live a life steeped in authenticity and charm. On offer is an expansive property spread across 108 square meters, a comfortable space is within which to craft your ideal home. As an added advantage, consider the fact that this property is all on one level, offering accessibility to all without the concern of stairs. Enter into a sizeable living room, a canvas ready for your personal style to shape. Flowing from the living area is an equipped kitchen and dining room combination, providing the charms of open concept living. Here, you can concoct delicious meals while still being part of the conversation. Two ample bedrooms offer a respite from the day, spaces to unwind and rejuvenate in peace. Serviceable, with room for personal upgrades and modernization, the current bathroom presents an opportunity for the re-modeler in you to create a personal oasis. Privacy is key with this property. A generous cellar within the basement provides extra storage space or could be transformed into a wine cave or hobby space. The house is kept warm and inviting with an oil-fired central heating system. The potential of this property doesn't stop at the main house. There is a secondary stone house of approximately 48 square meters on the property. This secondary house is a "fixer-upper," providing an open canvas for transformations, from guest house to workspace, the possibilities are endless. However, currently, there is no heating, bathroom or toilets in this building. Supporting these two houses on the premises are a spacious 36 square meter ... click here to read more

Nestled at the end of a private road on a serene hill, this 4-bedroom bungalow is where tranquility meets convenience, creating a wonderful opportunity for buyers seeking a serene life in the heart of Monbahus, Aquitaine, France. As a busy real estate agent in the global market, let me walk you through what makes this property an ideal place for expats and overseas buyers. It's not every day you get a chance to own a piece of the peaceful French countryside, yet have all essential amenities within walking distance in the charming area of Monbahus. Set in the Aqutaine region, this bungalow offers spectacular views of the rolling French countryside and promises a peaceful setting unlike any other. Picture yourself living in a home that’s strategically positioned in a place where you can enjoy the tranquility of country living while still having accessibility to modern conveniences such as an international school, local stores, dining spots, and a cozy neighborhood bakery. Whether you're seeking a laid-back lifestyle or a keen interest in French culture, this property presents a harmonious blend of both. The bungalow itself is characterized by its stone facade and is immediately habitable, although it may inspire those with a penchant for customization to embark upon potential renovations. At 110 square meters, it’s a comfortable size for families and has a wealth of features waiting to be personalized: - Single-story design for easy living - Four spacious bedrooms - Comfortable living room - Cozy dining room - Functional kitchen - Recently updated bathroom with shower - Wood heating facilitated by an Aga stove - New double-glazed windows - Roof that was recently renovated - Garage and a traditional stone barn ready fo ... click here to read more

Welcome to Monbahus, Aquitaine! You're lookin' at a splendid stone house that's a real gem in the heart of the French countryside. Before I dive into the house itself, let's talk a bit about Monbahus. This quaint village is nestled in the scenic Lot-et-Garonne department, about an hour and a half from bustling Bordeaux and its world-famous vineyards. Here, life is charmingly laid-back, with picturesque fields stretched 'cross rolling hills, offering an idyllic retreat from the hustle and bustle typical of city life. Monbahus is a small slice of heaven for those who cherish the serene rhythms of rural living. The climate here is comfortably mild. Summers are warm and inviting, perfect for rowing out onto the local rivers or hiking through nearby forest trails. Winters are cool but rarely unforgivably cold, making it pleasant year-round. The community is friendly, with locals who greet you with a nod and a smile, making it easy for newcomers to feel right at home. There aren't big shopping centers nearby, but that only adds to the charm. Instead, you'll find vibrant farmers' markets where you can mingle with the locals and pick up fresh produce and regional specialties. Now, about the property itself – what you're lookin' at is a stone house, spread across 155 square meters of simply good living space, all set on impressive 3,500 square meters of lush land. It's a family home, ripe with potential for creating lasting memories. This place ain't just a house; it's a sanctuary. As you step inside, you’re welcomed by a spacious ground floor. The large living and dining area sprawls around an open-plan fitted kitchen, perfect for family gatherings or entertaining guests – all while soaking in views of the countryside beyond. ... click here to read more

Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Aquitaine region, this expansive 8-bedroom country home in Monbahus offers a unique blend of rustic charm and modern comfort. Perfectly suited for those seeking a second home or a holiday retreat, this property promises a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Imagine waking up to the gentle sounds of nature, with the sun casting a warm glow over the rolling countryside. This is the daily reality for those fortunate enough to call this stunning property their second home. With its spacious layout and thoughtful design, it caters to both relaxation and entertainment, making it an ideal choice for families and friends. Property Highlights: - Main House: Features 4 bedrooms and 4 bathrooms, providing ample space for family living. - Guest Houses: Two separate guest houses, each with 2 en suite bedrooms, perfect for hosting visitors or generating rental income. - Heated Pool: Enjoy the luxury of an 11m x 5m heated pool, shared by the main house and guest accommodations. - Modern Amenities: The main house is equipped with oil central heating, a wood-burning stove, and reversible air-conditioning units for year-round comfort. - Gourmet Kitchen: Recently refitted with built-in appliances and an induction hob, ideal for culinary enthusiasts. - Outdoor Living: A large covered terrace off the kitchen and a sun deck with a gazebo offer perfect spots for al fresco dining and sunset views. - Investment Potential: The guest houses have been successfully run as holiday rentals, offering a lucrative opportunity for those interested in the hospitality business. - Expansive Grounds: Set on a generous plot of 13,155m², providing privacy and space for outdoor activities. Local Life ... click here to read more

Imagine waking up to the gentle rustle of leaves and the distant hum of village life in the heart of Aquitaine, Lot-et-Garonne. This exquisite stone house in Monbahus offers not just a home, but a lifestyle steeped in tranquility and charm. With five spacious bedrooms and three bathrooms, this property is a haven for those seeking a second home or a vacation retreat in the picturesque French countryside. A Slice of French Countryside Paradise Nestled at the end of a private drive, this property is surrounded by fields of golden sunflowers, offering a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The house itself is a testament to timeless elegance, with its stone façade and rustic charm. A Home Designed for Comfort and Entertaining Step inside to discover a newly fitted kitchen that serves as the heart of the home. This space is perfect for family gatherings, featuring a cozy seating area by the fireplace and a generous dining area ideal for entertaining guests. The entrance hall, with its comfortable seating nook, invites you to relax and enjoy the views on cooler evenings. The authentic living room exudes rustic charm with exposed beams, stone walls, and a fireplace, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Additional ground floor features include a practical laundry room, a summer kitchen, a separate WC, and a garage. Upstairs Retreat The upper floor houses five spacious bedrooms and three stylish shower rooms, ensuring ample space for family and guests. A bright, airy reading room overlooks the pool, providing a perfect spot to unwind and take in the breathtaking countryside views. Outdoor Oasis The outdoor space is a true highlight of this property. A large front terrace is perfect for soaking up s ... click here to read more

Nestled in the picturesque heart of the Lot-et-Garonne region in Monbahus, France, this stone and colombage property offers two bedrooms and two bathrooms spread across 125 square meters. In this serene locale, buyers can find a beautiful blend of rustic appeal and modern convenience. The house stands in an area renowned for its rolling countryside, where life unfurls at a pace dictated by the rhythms of nature. And although I’m quite busy balancing multiple clients, I couldn’t resist taking a moment to share what makes this property and its location an enticing opportunity for overseas buyers. The adventure begins as you approach the house, situated on a peaceful plot with panoramic views of the surrounding open countryside. The air is crisp, enriched with the earthy scent of rural life, creating a sense of escape without isolating you entirely. Yet, the convenience of being just a short drive from the local village means everyday essentials are always within reach. Monbahus offers a quaint shop, a delightful bakery where the scent of freshly baked bread entices you in the mornings, and schools for families considering relocation. This home’s charm lies in its character and potential. Walk through the sturdy timber-floored hallway where the kitchen and sitting room greet you on one side, holding possibilities for cozy family dinners and relaxed evenings by the fire. On the opposite side, two spacious bedrooms and a bathroom offer comfortable living quarters. But if you're someone with a vision, perhaps eyeing a future project, the stairs from the second hallway lead to a first-floor mezzanine. With the necessary permissions, this space could easily be converted into a third bedroom, offering an opportunity for expansi ... click here to read more

Nestled in the charming southwest region of France, in the picturesque village of Monbahus, we present to you a beautiful and spacious 4-bedroom house, ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in a quintessential French countryside lifestyle. This contemporary property, at Aquitaine, Lot-et-Garonne, offers an inviting mix of modern comfort and the serene, idyllic beauty of rural France. Imagine waking up to stunning panoramic views of lush, rolling hills every morning. Perched elegantly on its elevated position, the house captures the essence of tranquil living. The large, open-plan kitchen, living, and dining area serve as the heart of the home, boasting glazed doors that open up to a wraparound terrace. Whether you enjoy your morning coffee or unwind with a glass of wine in the evening, the terrace is the perfect spot to soak in the breathtaking scenery that surrounds you. Entering the home, you are greeted by a spacious entrance hall that sets the tone for the airy and light atmosphere within. The main level features two generously sized bedrooms, each equipped with en-suite shower rooms, providing comfort and privacy for family members or guests. There is also a third bedroom/study on this level, versatile enough to suit your needs whether as an additional bedroom or a cozy home office. The pièce de résistance is the unique "pigeonnier" bedroom located upstairs. This enchanting room comes complete with its own en-suite shower room, adding a touch of charm and history to the home. This intimate space can serve as a romantic retreat or a delightful guest room. Downstairs, the lower level reveals two spacious garages, a workshop, utility room, and ample storage areas. This level is perfect for the practicalitie ... click here to read more

Discover this 8-bedroom delight nestled in the heart of the quintessentially French, Aquitaine, Lot-et-Garonne region. An excellent find, located in the quaint village of Monbahus, France, this property features a captivating stone house with two separate, self-contained guest houses. Each residence on the 311 sqm estate is in good condition and offers a landscape of lush, rolling countryside, providing the perfect backdrop for a serene family abode or an enticing rental property. Begin your French adventure in the main, 4 bedroom, 4 bathroom stone house that brings authenticity together with modernity. Enjoy the hygge vibe on cold winter days thanks to the wood-burning stove in the main living room. On warmer Days, the reversible air-conditioning units in the kitchen/dining room and main bedroom provide welcomed relief. For your culinary exploration, the recently re-fitted kitchen includes integrated appliances and an induction hob. It opens onto a large, covered terrace that creates an inviting outdoor living space. The living room, on the other hand, extends to a sun deck with a gazebo, the perfect place to marvel at the breathtaking French sunsets. On the estate, you'll also discover two independent guest houses, each with two en-suite bedrooms. They have been operated as holiday rentals in the past, sharing the delightful, heated 11x5m pool. This feature presents an opportunity for continuing a rental business for the discerning buyer. Nestled in the heart of southwestern France, Monbahus, Aquitaine experiences a temperate Maritime climate, with warm summers and mild winters. The region, known for its scenic countryside and stunning traditional architecture, offers locals an array of outdoor activities and ... click here to read more

Nestled in the serene countryside of Aquitaine, Lot-et-Garonne, Monbahus, this 4-bedroom house offers a distinctive blend of tranquility and accessibility. For potential buyers or expatriates envisioning a peaceful life in the French countryside, this property may very well be your new retreat. Situated on a private plot set back from the main road, the home is built with traditional stone, exuding character and charm. Privacy is paramount here—there are no close neighbors, and the nearest village, offering essential amenities such as a school, shop, bakery, hairdresser, and restaurant/bar, is only a short drive away. This connection to local community paired with substantial privacy creates a balanced lifestyle for those seeking refuge from the hustle and bustle of urban centers. The main house features a spacious L-shaped open plan that integrates the kitchen, dining, and living room. The layout's highlight is the double-height ceiling in the living area that extends up to the first-floor mezzanine, adding an air of grandeur and openness. The ground floor houses a double bedroom equipped with an en-suite bathroom, beside an additional separate shower room. Ascend to the first floor to find two more double bedrooms, each with their own en-suite shower rooms, ensuring comfort and privacy for all residents. Adjacent to the main residence is a one-bedroom "gite" that offers flexible options—perfect for hosting family and friends or serving as a potential source of rental income. The grounds include two expansive barns which could serve a variety of purposes, from storage to workshop spaces. Landscaping around the home is manageable yet sufficient for those who appreciate outdoor living, complete with a heated 10m x 5m ... click here to read more

Nestled within the picturesque scenery of Aquitaine, in the Lot-et-Garonne department, lies the charming village of Monbahus, home to a spacious family residence that promises comfort and convenience for a discerning buyer. This five-bedroom house, enveloped by lush countryside, is a well-appointed retreat ideally priced at €219,000, catering to families or individuals seeking both peace and connectivity. The main floor of this property introduces an inviting open-plan arrangement of the kitchen, dining, and living area, graced by a cozy wood burning stove that adds a touch of rustic charm. The kitchen is well-fitted, and the space flows into a delightful dining or summer room—a perfect spot for entertaining guests or enjoying tranquil views of your surroundings. Accommodation on this level includes four generously sized double bedrooms and a bathroom equipped with a separate shower and WC, ensuring ample space for family and guests alike. For added comfort throughout the seasons, the living area, summer room, and two of the bedrooms are fitted with reversible air conditioning units. Distinctly featured, the lower level hosts a self-contained studio apartment with its own private entrance, perfect for hosting extended family or potentially renting out for additional income. This floor also includes practical spaces like a laundry/utility room and a workshop/storage area, ideal for hobbies or extra storage needs. Outdoors, the property features beautifully maintained gardens both at the front and the rear. The highlight is a 7x5m swimming pool set within a decked terrace, inviting relaxation and outdoor family fun during warmer months. Additional outdoor terraces provide serene spots to enjoy the rural vistas or dine a ... click here to read more

Nestled in the picturesque countryside of Monbahus, Aquitaine, this exquisite stone house offers a unique opportunity for those seeking a second home or holiday retreat in the heart of France. With its tranquil setting, surrounded by lush landscapes and the gentle hum of nature, this property is a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation. Imagine waking up to the soft chirping of birds, the sun casting a golden hue over the rolling hills, and the scent of fresh pastries wafting from the nearby village bakery. This is the lifestyle that awaits you in Monbahus, a charming village that embodies the quintessential French countryside experience. Property Highlights: - Spacious Living: The main house boasts an expansive L-shaped open-plan kitchen, dining, and living area, perfect for entertaining or enjoying quiet family moments. The double-height ceiling and mezzanine add a touch of grandeur and openness. - Comfortable Accommodation: With four bedrooms and four bathrooms, including en suites, this home provides ample space for family and guests. The ground floor bedroom offers convenience and accessibility. - Income Potential: A separate one-bedroom gîte presents an opportunity for rental income or a private space for visiting friends and family. - Outdoor Oasis: The property features a heated 10m x 5m pool, ideal for leisurely swims or sunbathing. The surrounding garden offers panoramic views and a serene environment for outdoor dining or relaxation. - Additional Space: Two barns, measuring approximately 250m² and 150m², provide versatile options for storage, workshops, or creative projects. - Natural Beauty: Adjacent to a lake with fishing rights, the property offers a unique blend of leisure and nature, perfect for fis ... click here to read more

Nestled in the heart of the Dordogne countryside lies a charming slice of French rural life waiting for its new owners. Picture yourself in this splendid stone country home located just outside Serignac Peboudou, in the enchanting region of Aquitaine. This 3-bedroom residence offers a unique combination of tranquility, charm, and convenience, perfect for those yearning an authentic French country experience without being completely off the grid. As a busy real estate agent, I've seen it all, and I can assure you this property is a genuine jewel. Upon approaching this delightful home through electric wrought iron gates, you are greeted by a sense of peace and exclusivity. Surrounded by lush greenery, the property provides both privacy and picturesque views, making it a perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle of modern life. For families or retirees looking to escape the city and embrace rural living, this here is a wonderful oppurtunity. The house itself has been lovingly maintained by its current owners and truly embodies the rustic charm typical of the region. With 168 square meters of living space, the property's heart is its impressive 62m2 open-plan living and dining area. This expansive space is ideal for both entertaining friends and cozy family nights. The fitted kitchen adjoins the living area, providing a seamless flow that’s practical for day-to-day living. As you move through the house, the sense of charm continues with three generously-sized bedrooms. One is conveniently situated on the ground floor alongside a chic shower room/WC, perfect for guests or those who prefer a single-level lifestyle. Upstairs, you’ll find two more bedrooms and a second bathroom, offering plenty of space for family or visitin ... click here to read more

Picture yourself sipping morning coffee on a sun-drenched terrace, surrounded by 4,400 square meters of private grounds where ancient trees cast dappled shadows and the skeletal remains of an old windmill frame endless views across the Garonne Valley. This 190-square-meter stone house in Sérignac-Péboudou offers the authentic rural French experience that international buyers seek: peaceful elevation with panoramic vistas, yet just ten minutes from the market towns of Lauzun and Castillonnès where weekly markets overflow with local produce and generations-old boulangeries open before dawn. The Lot-et-Garonne region delivers what the Dordogne once promised before crowds discovered it—genuine village life at accessible prices, where you can still find farmers selling foie gras from their doorsteps and winemakers who invite you into their chai for tastings that last until sunset. This three-bedroom property sits in that sweet spot between remote retreat and practical vacation home, offering the solitude necessary for true escape while keeping civilization comfortably close. The house itself tells a story of thoughtful enhancement rather than heavy-handed renovation. Current owners have invested in double-glazed wooden windows that preserve the stone cottage aesthetic while eliminating winter drafts, and installed gas central heating throughout—crucial upgrades that many period properties in this area still lack. Walking through the ground floor, you discover a layout designed for the relaxed rhythms of holiday living: two reception rooms flowing into each other create flexible entertaining spaces, while a proper utility room handles the practical realities of country life. The ground-floor bedroom with en-suite bathroom ser ... click here to read more

Here’s an opportunity that oozes potential. A charming, 13th-century castle nestled in the mesmerising French landscape of Aquitaine, in the picturesque Lot-et-Garonne region. Located in the tranquil commune of Montastruc, a bastide so typical of Southwestern France, the property is a veritable fairy-tale brought to life. But be prepared: with grandeur comes responsibility. This monumental estate, laced with history and brimming with authenticity, is not for the faint-hearted. It essentially awaits someone with a unique vision to restore it to its former glory. It is a remarkable 'fixer-upper'. Do you have what it takes? The estate's architectural features whisper stories from a bygone era. Comprising three primary rooms, punctuated with three characteristic towers, the castle was constructed on two levels. Presently bathed in an air of antiquity, the property possesses all the elements to be transformed into a lavish residence or perhaps a luxury boutique hotel, subject to planning permission of course. The promised reward for the dedicated renovator is a breathtaking view of the sprawling countryside that surrounds this grand property. Every window and tower-top opens to panoramic vistas of verdant vineyards, working farms, and small settlements that apologise for disrupting the unbroken green landscape. Let's walk you through the features of this historic estate: - A 13th-century Castle waiting to be restored. - A two-level construction with three rooms and three towers. - An area of about 140 square meters. - A beautifully raw and ready-for-gardening plot. Amenities in the area envelop you in a dreamy countryside existence; - Small communal church - A quaint post office - Rustic French bistros - Country-style ... click here to read more

Picture yourself sipping morning coffee on the terrace of your own stone house in the Lot-et-Garonne countryside, watching mist lift from the valley as church bells echo from the nearby village. This is the rhythm of life in Southwest France, where medieval hamlets dot rolling hills planted with sunflowers and vineyards, and every season brings new treasures to discover. This 190-square-meter stone property with its traditional pigeonnier tower offers an authentic French country experience just five minutes from daily amenities in Douzains, perfectly positioned for exploring one of France's most captivating yet accessible regions. The property anchors a peaceful hamlet where stone farmhouses stand testament to generations of rural life. The main house opens into a spectacular sitting and dining area crowned by soaring chapel ceilings that flood the space with light and create an immediate sense of grandeur. Original stonework and traditional beams frame this gathering space where family meals extend into evening conversations, while a mezzanine level above adds architectural interest and additional living space. The kitchen-diner flows naturally from this central hub, offering modern convenience within historic walls, with direct access to the gardens where summer dining becomes a daily ritual. The ground floor bedroom and bathroom provide practical single-level living, ideal for guests or family members seeking accessibility. Upstairs, the mezzanine leads to three additional bedrooms, two cleverly built into the eaves where original timber framing creates cozy, characterful sleeping spaces. These rooms capture the essence of French country living, where centuries-old construction techniques create warmth and intimacy. ... click here to read more

Nestled in the charming commune of Douzains, in the picturesque Lot-et-Garonne region of Aquitaine, this delightful stone cottage offers a classic countryside living experience. With its warm and inviting ambience, it stands as a perfect home for those hankering for a serene life in France. The property, measuring 116 square meters, is an epitome of rustic charm mixed with small modern touches. As you step inside, you'll immediately feel at home in the cosy living room, featuring a wood-burning stove that promises to keep winters snug. The open-plan kitchen and dining area make for a wonderful space to cook and entertain. The kitchen layout is both practical and inviting, making meal preparation and family gatherings a delightful experience. The property includes three generously sized, double bedrooms, ideal for family living or hosting guests. The modern bathroom, equipped with a separate shower, and the additional two WCs add convenience for a larger household. Here is a quick rundown of the property features: - 3 Double bedrooms - Modern bathroom with separate shower - 2 WCs - Open-plan kitchen/dining area - Cosy living room with wood-burning stove - Small garden to the rear - Two terraces - Potential to purchase more land - A short walk to the hamlet - A few minutes' drive to the local town Though the house is in good condition, it has minor updating needs, which offers a fantastic opportunity for buyers to put their own stamp on the place. Whether it's simply a fresh coat of paint or more extensive personalized renovations, this property has immense potential to become your dream home. Douzains itself is a quaint and serene hamlet, providing a peaceful atmosphere that is hard to find elsewhere. The climate here ... click here to read more

Welcome to the heart of the delightful French countryside, where this magnificent manor house unfolds its charm on the outskirts of Cancon, nestled in the enchanting region of Aquitaine, Lot-et-Garonne. As a real estate agent with far too little time and much to say, I am eager to share with you the promise and potential of this elegant residence. Let's take a moment to envision life in this impressive property while exploring everything the local area has to offer. With 307 square meters of living space, this glorious home offers ample room for whatever your heart desires. Boasting six airy bedrooms and three bathrooms, this house isn't just a place to live—it’s a lifestyle to experience. Upon entering the central hallway, you are greeted by the grandeur of travertine flooring that leads you into living spaces filled with natural light, courtesy of a thoughtful designer renovation. The living rooms and the study both hold a story within their walls—perfect for cozy evenings or entertaining guests. On ground level, you’ll find two snug bedrooms along with a handy WC and bath, while the kitchen shares its delightful west-facing aspect with a terrace, ideal for alfresco dining as you revel in the soft glow of a setting sun. A venture upstairs introduces you to four additional bedrooms, complete with two modern shower rooms. The presence of a laundry room here adds a touch of practicality, alongside potential space just waiting to be transformed into an extra bathroom or a sumptuous dressing room. Comfort doesn’t cease within; the property is furnished with new aluminum double-glazed windows ensuring comfort and efficiency in all seasons, supported by reliable gas central heating. A home for all seasons, the property al ... click here to read more

Property Overview: Discover a charming 4-bedroom house centrally nestled on the edge of the quaint village of Cancon, in the picturesque region of Aquitaine, Lot-et-Garonne, France. Ideal for those interested in embracing the local culture and enjoying a serene village life, this house offers a comfortable living space that awaits your personal touch. House Features: - Size: Approximately 125 square meters of living space. - Bedrooms: Four well-proportioned double bedrooms, offering ample natural light and storage space. - Bathrooms: Two bathrooms, including one en suite in the master bedroom and a full, separate bathroom. - Living Area: Spacious open-plan living and dining area with an insert fireplace, perfect for cozy evenings. - Kitchen: A fitted kitchen with convenient access to the garden, making outdoor dining and entertainment an easy delight. - Additional Rooms: - Converted garage now serves as a versatile games room. - A separate room houses the oil-fired central heating boiler. - Outdoor Space: Enjoy a lovely chlorine swimming pool, fully secured and fenced, within an attractive garden landscape. - Entrance: Entry through a covered terrace that leads into a hallway adorned with a tiled floor and equipped with considerable storage space. Local Area & Lifestyle: Cancon, often referred to as the 'Hazelnut capital,' is a vibrant community known for its lush landscapes and agricultural prowess, particularly in hazelnut farming. The village not only offers scenic beauty but also hosts various festivals and markets that showcase local produce and crafts, promoting a close-knit community feel. Living in Cancon, you'll experience a peaceful rural lifestyle with the convenience of modern amenities and a friendly ... click here to read more