Charming 19th Century Mill Home on River La Dronne

On a still Tuesday morning in late June, you open the kitchen's ancient wooden shutters and the first thing you hear is nothing. Not the compressed silence of earplugs—actual, honest quiet, broken only by a wood pigeon somewhere in the oak trees and the faint clank of a tractor working a field two valleys over. The smell drifting in is warm stone and cut grass. That's it. That's the whole morning's agenda if you want it to be. This four-bedroom, three-bathroom country house in the hamlet just outside Roquecor sits on the kind of land that reminds you why people first started building in southwest France. The Tarn-et-Garonne countryside rolls in every direction—soft green ridges, sunflower fields gone gold by July, the occasional red-roofed farmstead catching the afternoon light. From the sun terrace beside the saltwater pool, you can see for miles. No rooftops crowding the view. No road noise. Just the particular stillness that this corner of Midi-Pyrénées does better than almost anywhere in Europe. Roquecor itself is five minutes by car or a genuinely pleasant forty-minute walk through the fields—the kind of walk that makes you feel you've earned the pastis waiting at the café. The village has a proper restaurant that locals actually eat at (not the tourist-facing kind), a reliable café, and enough daily life happening around the square to feel connected without ever feeling crowded. The Wednesday morning market in Lauzerte, twelve kilometres northeast, is the one to pencil in first. Lauzerte is a bastide village on the Pilgrimage of Saint-Jacques-de-Compostelle route, and the market spills down the medieval lanes with regional producers selling duck confit, aged Caussade walnuts, raw-milk Tomme, and the kind of straw ... click here to read more

Sunday morning in Beauville starts with the smell of bread. The boulangerie on the main square fires up early, and if your bedroom window is open—which it will be, because the air here in July is warm but never stifling—the scent reaches you before your alarm does. That's not a selling point you'll find in any brochure. It's just what life is like in this particular corner of Lot-et-Garonne, and it's the kind of thing that turns a holiday home purchase into one of the best decisions you ever made. This four-bedroom village house sits right in the heart of Beauville, one of the most intact bastide villages in Aquitaine. Built to a medieval grid plan in the 13th century, Beauville has the kind of architectural coherence that planners in other towns spend millions trying to recreate. The covered arcades around the central square, the honey-coloured stone, the church tower that chimes the quarter-hours—it's all still here, and this house is part of it. From the front door, the market square is a two-minute walk. From the top-floor living space, you can watch the whole village go about its business. The house covers around 190 square metres across three floors, and what strikes you first is how much space there actually is. Village properties in the Lot-et-Garonne often look compact from the street and reveal themselves slowly. This one does exactly that. The ground floor has a bedroom that works perfectly for guests who don't want stairs, or for owners who eventually want single-level living as a practical option. The first floor holds three more well-proportioned bedrooms and two bathrooms. And then there's the top floor—converted, bright, sitting under the original roof timbers—currently used as a family room and home of ... click here to read more

Sunday morning in Lascaux sounds like this: a woodpecker working through the oak stand at the edge of your land, the faint clang of horses being led to pasture somewhere down the lane, and the smell of last night's wood fire still clinging to the stone walls as you open the kitchen doors onto the garden. This isn't a fantasy version of rural France — it's the ordinary Tuesday here. And it can belong to you. This former fermette, a working farm since at least 1768, has been rebuilt from the inside out over three decades into something genuinely rare: three independent homes, a stone barn, a four-bay oak-framed garage-carport, a productive fruit orchard, vegetable garden, and 11,383 m² of mixed land that rolls into distant Corrézienne countryside. Eight bedrooms spread across the three houses. Three bathrooms. 299 m² of combined living space. All of it sitting quietly in the Limousin hills, ten minutes from Arnac-Pompadour. The headline property — the first renovated barn, originally built in 1859 — sets the tone immediately. Ground floor: an open-plan living, dining and kitchen space running to 57 m², Portuguese limestone tiles underfoot with the warmth of underfloor heating radiating up through them, French doors opening straight into the garden. There's a bedroom and shower room on this level too, which makes the whole ground floor workable for guests or elderly family who can't manage stairs. Up top, the mezzanine lounge stops people mid-step. A picture window frames a long view over the fields — the kind of view you don't get tired of — and two en-suite bedrooms sit either side with fitted wardrobes already in place. Gas central heating, a wood-burning stove, energy rating C. This house is move-in ready and properly ... click here to read more

Step into the kitchen of the converted barn on a Saturday morning in October, French doors flung open, the smell of woodsmoke drifting in from the garden, and you'll understand immediately why someone spent years restoring this 1778 farmstead with such patience. The Limousin countryside rolls out in every direction. Nothing but birdsong, the faint trickle of a natural spring feeding an old stone washing basin, and the knowledge that Paris is three hours north and you'd rather stay exactly here. This is a property with real bones and a real story. Built in 1778 and sitting on just over 10,000 square metres of mature gardens, terraces, and lawns in a quiet rural hamlet near Coussac-Bonneval in Haute-Vienne, the estate comprises three separate living spaces — a 173 m² converted barn serving as the main residence, a 124 m² original farmhouse restored as a two-bedroom gîte, and a 29 m² studio apartment currently generating income on short-term rental platforms. That's 325 square metres of habitable space across the full property, plus a workshop, the old pigsty (ripe for conversion), an above-ground pool, and a working well. For a second home that pays for itself, or for two families who want to share a slice of rural France without actually sharing a kitchen, this configuration is genuinely rare. The barn conversion is where the architectural confidence shows most clearly. Downstairs, a 30 m² kitchen anchors the space — big enough to actually cook in, with French doors that open onto two separate terraces so you can chase the shade or the sun depending on the season. A 54 m² living room with fireplace. A laundry room, a WC, and a ground-floor bedroom with en-suite shower, useful when knees or houseguests become a considera ... click here to read more

Sunday mornings here have a particular rhythm. You wake up to birdsong — actual birdsong, not the muffled city kind — push open the shutters, and the 1.13-hectare garden sprawls out in the early light, dew still sitting on the fruit trees, the pool catching the first gold of the day. By ten o'clock you're at the Valence d'Agen market, picking up a wedge of Ossau-Iraty and a bottle of Côtes du Marmandais, and by noon you're back under the covered terrace with a long lunch that somehow stretches into a slow, unhurried afternoon. That's the daily tempo this property sets. Situated in peaceful countryside just five minutes from the prosperous market town of Valence d'Agen, this 19th-century stone house — 160 square metres of it, plus a separate guest cottage — is the kind of place that feels lived-in and genuinely loved. Not a renovation project dressed up as a lifestyle choice. It's in good, move-in condition, furnished with care, and ready to be someone's second home in southwest France from essentially the first weekend. The stone exterior has that unmistakable Gascon solidity: thick walls that keep the interior cool through July and August when temperatures climb into the mid-thirties, and cosy through winter when the oil-fired central heating takes the edge off. Step inside through the entrance hall and the original 19th-century staircase stops you immediately. It's not a decorative feature — it's a structural statement, the kind of craftsmanship that simply doesn't exist in new builds. Exposed beams run across the living room ceiling, the open fireplace sits at the room's heart, and fitted cupboards line the walls in a way that suggests this house was always meant to be used hard and enjoyed properly. The kitchen is ... click here to read more

Stand on the terrace on a Tuesday morning in late June and you'll understand exactly why people keep coming back to this corner of the Dordogne. The medieval bastide of Domme rises above the river valley to the northwest, its golden limestone walls catching the first proper heat of the day. Swallows cut arcs over the gardens below. Somewhere between the lavender and the old walnut tree, a pool pump hums quietly to life. This is not a fantasy. This is what owning this three-property gîte complex in La Roque-Gageac actually looks like on a weekday. The property sits on roughly three-quarters of an acre, a well-planted, private plot that took two decades to reach the kind of maturity most garden designers can only sketch on paper. Three independent houses, each around 50 square metres, each with its own pool, its own entrance, its own self-contained rhythm. Combined, they offer six bedrooms and three bathrooms across approximately 150 square metres of living space. The layout was conceived from the start with rental income in mind, and it has delivered exactly that for the current owners across nearly twenty years of operation. Each house follows a sensible, practical floor plan: an open living and kitchen space of around 24 square metres, a shower room, a WC, and sleeping arranged partly in mansard-style upper rooms that children tend to adore. Reverse-cycle air source heat pumps handle both heating and cooling, which matters more than people expect — Périgord summers can push past 35°C, and October evenings carry a definite chill. These are not draughty stone barns waiting for a renovation budget. They are ready to work, move-in ready, and have been maintained by owners who clearly understood the guest experience. From ... click here to read more

Step off the gravel drive on a September morning and you can hear absolutely nothing except the wind moving through the oaks and the occasional plop of a frog jumping into one of the ponds. No traffic. No neighbors. Just 2.27 hectares of Mayenne countryside wrapping around a stone house that has been standing since 1685. That quiet — real, total quiet — is rarer than people admit, and here it comes standard. This is a four-bedroom, 240 square metre residence in Livet, a rural commune in the Pays-de-la-Loire that most French people from Paris have never heard of, let alone British or Dutch buyers scrolling through listings on a Sunday afternoon. That obscurity is precisely the point. Prices in Mayenne remain well below what you'd pay for comparable stone properties in Brittany or Normandy, and the landscape — rolling farmland, dense forest corridors, hidden valleys — is every bit as compelling. The house itself was built during the reign of Louis XIV, and while the walls are three centuries old and counting, the property is in good condition and ready to move into or rent out immediately. Wood-burning stoves, stone floors, exposed beams overhead: the bones of this place are the kind architects try to recreate and rarely quite manage. The ground floor kitchen runs to nearly 27 square metres and is anchored by a wood-burning stove that connects directly to the heating system — so on a cold February evening, one fire heats the whole downstairs, the smell of woodsmoke threading through the dining room and into the two reception rooms beyond. The dining room itself is almost 20 square metres, big enough for the kind of extended family dinners that French country houses seem to demand. Two separate living rooms give you optio ... click here to read more

On a Sunday morning in early October, you step out through the veranda doors into cool Dordogne air and the countryside rolls out in front of you — gold, amber, russet — all the way to the tree line. Not another rooftop in sight. No road noise. Just the faint cluck of distant farmland and the particular stillness that this corner of southwest France does better than almost anywhere in Europe. That's the daily reality of owning this five-bedroom Perigourdine house on its 1.2-hectare private plot just outside Bergerac. This is a proper French country house — the kind that has real architectural bones. The thick stone walls, the pitched roof with dormer windows punching through the upper floor, the way the building sits low and confident in its landscape like it's been there for centuries. It has. But inside, a thoughtful renovation carried out in 2017 means you get all of that character without any of the headaches. The plumbing works. The kitchen is genuinely modern. You're not buying a renovation project — you're buying a house that's already done. The ground floor is more generous than most. A 78-square-metre open-plan living space anchors the home — kitchen flowing into a dining area flowing into a sitting room, with a glazed veranda tacked on the end that catches the afternoon light. In the cooler months, that veranda becomes the best room in the house: warm, bright, watching the mist lift off the fields while you drink your second coffee. There are two bedrooms on this level as well, along with a shower room and WC, making the ground floor entirely self-sufficient if you want to host guests or eventually manage your mobility differently. A laundry room keeps the mess out of the main living spaces. Upstairs, three ... click here to read more

Step out onto the terrace on a Saturday morning in Riantec and you'll hear it before you see it — the low hum of fishing boats heading out across the Rade de Lorient, the calls of gulls cutting through salt-sharp air, and somewhere down the street, the mechanical clatter of a boulangerie shutter rolling up. This is not a postcard version of Brittany. It's the real thing. A working coastal town where the rhythm of the tides still shapes daily life, and where a five-bedroom house with this much space and this much potential doesn't stay on the market long. Built in the 1970s in a style typical of solid Breton residential construction, this 147-square-metre house sits in Riantec with a full basement, an attached garage, a proper garden, and a terrace that asks you to sit down and stay a while. The bones are good. The layout is generous. And the renovation opportunity here is exactly what buyers who know this part of Morbihan have been waiting for. The garden level does something rare — it allows genuinely comfortable single-floor living if you want it. An entrance hall opens into a bright living and dining room, there's a functional kitchen, two bedrooms, a family bathroom, and a separate WC. Come summer, with the terrace doors thrown open and the garden spilling light through the windows, this floor alone becomes a complete holiday retreat. Upstairs, a landing leads to three more bedrooms, two of which come with dressing areas — a detail that matters enormously when you're hosting family for an extended August stay. The second bathroom has both a bath and a separate shower, which anyone who's coordinated a full house of guests will appreciate immediately. The full basement is the kind of space that gets people thinking. ... click here to read more

Step outside on a Saturday morning in late June and the air carries two things simultaneously: the cool, resinous breath of the Camors forest drifting across your garden, and somewhere down the lane, the faint clang of a neighbour closing a gate before heading to the weekly market in Auray. This is life in one of Morbihan's most quietly compelling corners — and this four-bedroom house on a generous 2,800m² plot sits right at the heart of it. The house has been fully renovated and kept in genuinely good condition. Not the kind of "good condition" that means you'll spend your first summer replacing boilers and re-grouting tiles. The previous owners invested properly — in a contemporary aesthetic that feels coherent from room to room, in recent drainage infrastructure, in the kind of upkeep that only comes from people who actually love a home rather than simply occupying it. At 146 square metres of living space across two floors plus a complete basement, there's real room to breathe here. Ground floor life revolves around a fitted kitchen that opens directly into a glazed veranda — the kind of space that makes March genuinely liveable in Brittany. On grey days you're still sitting in light. On sunny ones you slide the door and take your coffee to the covered terrace, where a retractable awning lets you stay outside even when the Atlantic decides to remind you who's boss. The main living room has a fireplace with a wood-burning insert, and on December evenings, with chestnuts from the forest and a bottle of Muscadet sur Lie from a producer near La Chapelle-Hermier, you'll understand why people come to Brittany and never quite leave. A master suite on this level comes with its own shower room — genuinely useful when guests ... click here to read more

Sunday morning in Elne moves at its own pace. The market on the Place de la République is already alive by nine — vendors stacking fat Roussillon peaches, wheels of aged sheep's cheese from the Pyrenean foothills, bottles of Banyuls and Maury that catch the light like dark garnets. You walk back up the hill with a baguette tucked under one arm, push open the gate, and drop everything beside the pool. The water is that particular shade of blue you only ever get under a southern French sky. This is what owning a house in Elne actually feels like. Set in one of the most historically layered towns in the Pyrénées-Orientales, this three-bedroom house spans 130 square metres on a 463-square-metre plot — enough garden and terrace space to feel genuinely private without becoming a weekend maintenance project. The property is in good condition and move-in ready, which matters enormously if you're buying from abroad and can't oversee a renovation from another country. The ground floor revolves around a single, generous living space of around 50 square metres. Open-plan kitchens tend to sound better on paper than they live in practice, but this one earns its footprint — the dining and lounge areas flow naturally into each other, and when you throw the doors open in July the distinction between inside and outside more or less disappears. There's also a separate WC on this level and a 22-square-metre garage that international buyers often find more useful than expected: storage for bikes, a surfboard for trips down to the coast, garden furniture through winter. Upstairs, three proper bedrooms — not the shrunken secondary rooms that often get dressed up with that description — sit alongside a dedicated office that works equally wel ... click here to read more

Stand on the covered terrace on a clear October morning and you can see all the way across the Roussillon plain — the vineyards turning rust and gold, the Mediterranean a thin silver line on the horizon, and the Albères mountains pressing up close behind you. This is Laroque-des-Albères. Not the tourist brochure version of southern France, but the real, lived-in one, where the weekly market on the square smells of thyme and grilled blood sausage, where the locals drink their grenache at tables that have never moved, and where the light in late afternoon turns the stone walls the color of warm honey. The property itself is a two-part setup that gives you rare flexibility. A detached villa of around 95 square meters sits at the heart of the plot, solid in construction and in good condition throughout. Ground floor living is set up sensibly: two bedrooms, a shower room, a separate toilet, an independent kitchen, and a living room that opens directly onto a 30-square-meter covered terrace. That terrace is where life actually happens — morning coffee in the shade of the overhang, long lunches that drift into the afternoon, the smell of wild rosemary carried down from the hills above. Upstairs, a third bedroom, a mezzanine space, and an office give you room to spread out, whether you're working remotely for a week or hosting three generations of family across the summer. Beyond the villa, a completely independent T3 apartment changes the entire financial conversation around this property. Two bedrooms, a shower room, an open kitchen flowing into the living area, its own private terrace with that sweeping view over the plain, and a storage shed. The apartment is fully self-contained — guests, family members, or tenants have t ... click here to read more

Picture a Sunday morning in high summer: you open the kitchen door and the smell of warm stone hits you first, then cut grass, then something faintly floral drifting in from the garden. The pool is already glinting in the early light. Nobody else is awake yet. This is what 215 square metres of well-built French country life actually feels like, and it's waiting for you in the Charente. Civray sits in the Vienne department of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, a part of rural France that still rewards people who choose to slow down. This isn't the Dordogne with its tourist caravans and inflated prices. Civray is real, working, lived-in France — a market town with a proper Saturday market on the Place du Marché, a Wednesday morning brocante that turns up the occasional serious find, and a Romanesque church facade on the Saint-Nicolas that art historians make detours to see. You walk to the boulangerie before 8am and you're back with a still-warm baguette before the household stirs. That's the rhythm here. The house itself is substantial. At 215 square metres of habitable space, it's built to the kind of standard that was common in this part of France in the late twentieth century — solid concrete and stone construction, thick walls that keep things cool through July and August without air conditioning fighting the heat. The layout is practical rather than fussy. On the ground floor, a 46-square-metre open-plan dining and living room is anchored by a fireplace that earns its keep from November through March. French doors push open onto the terrace and, from there, directly to the pool. The kitchen — 18 square metres, fully equipped — sits adjacent, so meals move naturally from prep to table to outdoors. The ground-floor bedr ... click here to read more

On a quiet Sunday morning in Saint-Étienne-de-Maurs, the smell of bread drifting from the boulangerie on Rue du Commerce reaches you before you even open the kitchen window. That's the kind of place this is. A village where people still nod to strangers, where the weekly market on the square sells raw-milk Salers cheese and jarred walnut confiture made two valleys over, and where a 265-square-metre house with an architect-designed extension can still be yours for a price that would barely buy a two-bedroom flat in Lyon. The property itself is a genuinely rare find in the Cantal. The original stone building — solid, unpretentious, the kind that's been weathered into character rather than manufactured with it — has been extended by an architect with a confident eye. The result is a 65-square-metre living area that floods with southern light through oversized glazing, the kind of room where the boundary between inside and the garden terrace quietly dissolves on warm evenings. A suspended mezzanine floats above the dining room below, visible from the kitchen, adding a vertical drama you simply don't expect in a village house at this price point. It's the detail that stops you mid-tour. The layout is thoughtful in ways that matter day-to-day. The fitted kitchen opens directly into the dining room — not through a corridor, not around a corner — so cooking for eight people on a Friday night feels social rather than isolating. The original building retains a master suite with its own shower room and WC on the ground floor, meaning guests or older family members never need to navigate stairs. Three further bedrooms and a well-equipped bathroom with both bathtub and shower occupy the main sleeping wing, while the upper level — c ... click here to read more

Stand on the patio on a still September morning and watch mist lift off the surface of your own one-acre lake. The water lilies have opened. A kingfisher cuts across the far bank. The only sound is the creak of the old oak at the water's edge. This is not a postcard. This is Tuesday. That is the kind of morning that comes with this four-bedroom house on the quiet edge of Dournazac, a compact, self-sufficient little village deep inside the Perigord Limousin Regional Natural Park. The property sits on just over two hectares — roughly 21,283 square metres — and includes not one but two private spring-fed lakes. That detail alone puts this in a completely different category from almost anything else available in this price range in southwest France. The house itself was built in the mid-1970s to an individually commissioned design, and the quality of its construction is still obvious today. Solid materials. Wide windows that pull in far more light than you'd expect from a house of this era. The rooms feel generous without being cavernous, and the whole place has been kept in good condition — move-in ready while leaving room for a buyer who wants to put their own stamp on the interior. Think of it as a sound, well-maintained canvas rather than a renovation project. Ground floor living revolves around a large lounge with a proper wood-burning stove and a dining area that opens directly onto the patio through French doors. On a warm evening, that threshold between inside and out effectively disappears. You're eating outside, the lake thirty metres in front of you, the sun dropping behind the treeline. A well-equipped modern kitchen sits just off the main living space, practical and ready to use from day one. Two bedrooms and ... click here to read more

Picture this: it's a Tuesday morning in July, and the only sound reaching you through the open kitchen window is birdsong and the faint rustle of wind through the oak trees bordering your garden. No road noise. No neighbors. Just 140 square meters of 1800s Quercy stone, your swimming pool catching the early light, and absolutely nowhere you need to be. That's the daily reality at this four-bedroom farmhouse on the elevated plateau above Montaigu-de-Quercy — and once you've spent a morning here, the idea of going back to city life gets harder to justify. The house itself has been through a careful restoration that didn't sand away its soul. The original stone staircase is still there, worn smooth by two centuries of footsteps. Exposed oak beams cross the ceilings the way they were intended to — not as a design affectation, but because they're structural, honest, and genuinely beautiful in the way that only old things can be. The stone walls, thick enough to keep the interior cool through August without air conditioning, bear the marks of the craftsmen who laid them. This is a building with a geological patience to it. On the first floor, two generous double bedrooms look out across open countryside toward the rolling Tarn-et-Garonne patchwork of sunflower fields and walnut orchards — the view changes colour almost month by month. Downstairs, the country kitchen with its traditional terracotta-tiled floor is the kind of room that makes you want to cook slowly. A built-in wood-burning stove anchors the living room — and from November through March, when the Quercy plateau gets cold and clear and the stars over the garden are ridiculous, that stove becomes the centre of everything. The practical side has been handled pro ... click here to read more

On a Sunday morning in the Charente, you wake up to nothing. No traffic, no sirens — just the faint ticking of cooling stone walls as the sun climbs over the cypress trees lining the garden, and the smell of coffee drifting up from a kitchen that was clearly built for living rather than showing off. This is Paizay-Naudouin-Embourie. Small, unhurried, and quietly extraordinary. This four-bedroom stone farmhouse sits in a village that most people drive past on their way to somewhere louder. That's exactly the point. Set within the rolling Charente countryside of Poitou-Charentes, the property spans 201 square metres of thoughtfully renovated living space arranged around a generous gravel courtyard, with a heated pool, a private tennis court, and the kind of silence you actually have to travel to find. At €375,000, it's the sort of property that makes buyers wonder why they waited so long. Pull up through the wrought-iron electric gate and the first thing you notice is the scale of it. The main house commands the courtyard with the quiet confidence of a building that has stood through several centuries — original stonework, weathered and golden, contrasting with the crisp glazed facade that was added during renovation. Step inside and the 78-square-metre open-plan living space genuinely stops you in your tracks. Soaring ceilings, exposed timber beams, stone walls that stay cool even in August, and a wood-burning stove at the heart of it all. The room flows from lounge to dining area to kitchen without feeling like a floor plan exercise — it feels like someone actually thought about how a family moves through a space. A mezzanine overlooks it all from above, useful as a reading perch, a home office, or a sixth sleeping spo ... click here to read more

Some mornings you wake up to the distant sound of boots on gravel. Pilgrims passing through Bach on the Way of St. James, heading southwest toward Cahors before the long push to Spain. You pour a coffee, step out onto the south-facing terrace, and the Lot countryside does what it always does — sits there quietly, certain of itself, needing nothing from you. That's the rhythm of this place. Unhurried. Real. This is not one house. It's a small private hamlet: three independent dwellings sitting on nearly 9,000 square meters of flat, wooded land just 500 meters from the village center of Bach. At 210 square meters of combined living space, seven bedrooms, and six bathrooms spread across the buildings, the property works equally well as a multi-generational family retreat, a gîte operation, a bed-and-breakfast, or a combination of all three. Very few properties along the Lot offer this kind of structural flexibility at this price point. The heart of everything is the main house. Walk into the living room and you feel the scale immediately — generous ceiling height, thick stone walls that keep things cool through July and August, a fully equipped kitchen designed for actual cooking rather than show. Three bedrooms upstairs each have their own private shower room and toilet, which matters enormously if you're hosting guests who don't know each other well, or family members who do know each other too well. The covered south-facing terrace on the ground floor catches the afternoon light and becomes, without any effort, where everyone ends up after dinner. Then there's the dovecote. Not a decorative one — a real, working piece of Quercy architectural history, built from the pale limestone that defines this corner of France. Th ... click here to read more

Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Dordogne region, this exquisite 3-bedroom house in Villetoureix offers a unique blend of rustic charm and modern convenience, making it an ideal second home or holiday retreat. Imagine waking up to the gentle rustle of sunflower fields and the serene beauty of the French countryside, all while being just a stone's throw away from the vibrant market town of Riberac. A Gateway to French Countryside Living Villetoureix is a quintessential French village, where time seems to slow down, allowing you to savor every moment. The region is renowned for its rolling landscapes, historic châteaux, and a climate that promises warm summers and mild winters, perfect for year-round enjoyment. Whether you're seeking a peaceful escape or an active holiday, this location offers the best of both worlds. Property Highlights: - Spacious Living: The ground floor boasts a generous 45m² open-plan living area, seamlessly integrating the kitchen, dining, and lounge spaces. The kitchen is equipped with modern appliances, including a dishwasher, double ovens, and a gas hob, making it a culinary enthusiast's dream. - Cozy Evenings: A separate living room with a fireplace and wood burner provides the perfect setting for cozy evenings, whether you're enjoying a quiet night in or entertaining guests. - Luxurious Bathrooms: The first floor features three well-appointed bedrooms, each with access to a bathroom. The master suite includes an en-suite shower, while the family bathroom offers a freestanding bath with breathtaking countryside views. - Light-Filled Spaces: A striking glass-fronted entrance floods the home with natural light, leading to a mezzanine level that serves as a versatile office space. - O ... click here to read more

Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Villetoureix, within the heart of the Dordogne region in Aquitaine, France, stands a splendid manor house that captures the quintessence of French country living. This elegant property, with 7 spacious bedrooms and 3 well-appointed bathrooms, spans over an area of 290 square meters. It offers ample space and comfort suitable for both family life and vacation retreats, currently on the market for a price of 434,600 euros. Upon entering the property, guests are welcomed by a grand entrance hall, featuring a stately staircase that sets the tone for the rest of the home. The ground floor boasts a fully-equipped kitchen and dining room, perfect for family meals or entertaining guests, complemented by a large living room that provides a serene space for relaxation. A standout feature on this level is the master suite, complete with a shower room, offering a private oasis of luxury. Upstairs, the accommodation is divided thoughtfully across two wings. One side houses three bedrooms, including a substantial dressing room and a contemporary shower room, while the opposite wing features four additional bedrooms accompanied by a full bathroom. This layout is ideal for housing guests or accommodating a large family, providing everyone with their own personal space. The exterior of the home is just as impressive as the interior. A covered terrace features a barbecue area, perfect for outdoor dining and gatherings. The terrace overlooks a charming swimming pool, bordered by the historical walls of an old building, adding a touch of character and nostalgia to the outdoor living spaces. List of Property Features: - 7 bedrooms - 3 bathrooms - Fully-equipped kitchen/dining room - Large living ro ... click here to read more

Discover the charming town of Ribérac, nestled in the scenic Dordogne region of Aquitaine, France, by considering this delightful two-bedroom house that captures the essence of rural French living. Offering a blend of traditional character with the promise of modern living, this property appeals to those looking to immerse themselves in the tranquil French countryside while enjoying the comforts of a well-maintained home. Set on an inviting plot featuring a gated entrance and lush gardens that are mainly laid to lawn with carefully paved terraces, this residence is designed for both privacy and outdoor enjoyment. The outdoor spaces provide the perfect setting for leisurely afternoons spent reading under the shade of trees or hosting dinner parties on balmy evenings. Upon entering the house, one is greeted by a central entrance hallway adorned with stunning floor tiles that lead to well-proportioned living spaces. The sitting room and dining room feature high ceilings and maintain original features that evoke a sense of history and charm. These rooms offer ample space, ideal for family gatherings or relaxing evenings at home. The fully equipped kitchen serves as a functional space for culinary enthusiasts to prepare meals using local ingredients sourced from nearby markets. The kitchen’s layout and facilities encourage a delightful cooking experience, whether you are whipping up a quick breakfast or a sophisticated French meal. The property includes two generous double bedrooms located on the first floor, each offering comfortable living quarters and views over the serene gardens. A conveniently placed shower room provides practicality and ease for family living. Additional space is available in the loft, which could ... click here to read more

Welcome to Ribérac, a picturesque town nestled in the heart of the lovely Dordogne region in France. My name is [Your Name], and I'm a busy real estate agent juggling clients from around the globe, but I always have time to help you find the perfect escape here in this tranquil yet vibrant part of the world. Let me paint a picture for you: imagine a large, welcoming house set at the end of a quiet private lane, embraced by rolling farmland that's ideal for those seeking peace and privacy. This 4-bedroom, 2-bathrooms home is just waiting for you to step inside and make it your own. The 130 square meters of space provides plenty of room for family and visitors, with electric gates at the entrance giving a sense of security and seclusion, yet convenience is within reach. Ribérac, a charming market town, is within walking distance, offering a real taste of life here with its local shops, cafes, and lively markets. Life in Ribérac is defined by its rich history, friendly locals, and a remarkably laid-back lifestyle. The climate here is forgiving, with warm summers perfect for outdoor activities and mild winters that keep the flowers blooming. Saturdays are special, with the market being the heart of the town where you can sample local produce, mingle with the locals, and truly feel a part of the community. The heart of the house is its new kitchen, fitted in 2023, which flows seamlessly into open-plan living and dining areas. You'll love the travertine flooring that keeps everything easy yet stylish. Enjoy your meals or morning coffee on a lovely balcony that lets you soak up those peaceful rural views. The home's practical layout ensures a natural light everywhere, courtesy of its large patio doors on the ground floor. ... click here to read more

Nestled in the quaint town of Ribérac, situated in the heart of the Dordogne region of France, lies a property that beckons for exploration—a stone house waiting to become a cherished home. As a real estate agent who's constantly on the go, I see houses like this and instantly think of the stories yet to unfold within its walls. Imagine waking up in a community rich in culture and history, ideally suited for those yearning for a life enriched with both adventure and tranquility. Positioned in the scenic aquitaine region, Ribérac offers a pleasant blend of rural charm and modern conveniences, making it a coveted spot for expatriates and global buyers. With its mild climate, Ribérac experiences warm summers and cool winters, perfect for enjoying al fresco dining on the terrace or cozying up by the fireplace during chillier months. The rhythm of life here ebbs and flows with the seasons, offering activities ranging from bustling weekly markets filled with local delicacies, to serene walks along the verdant countryside. Speaking of the property itself, this sturdy stone house offers not just a place to live but a place to grow and thrive. Handling multiple listings and inquiries—I hardly catch a breath these days—but when I walk through a home like this, it's an experience worth pausing for. The residence boasts four spacious bedrooms, making it ideal for a growing family or hosting guests. The single bathroom, although modest, is practical and serves its purpose efficiently. Inside, you will find: - Fully equipped kitchen - Generous dining-sitting room with fireplace - Versatile office or potential guest room - Sun-drenched veranda - Covered terrace - Double garage and a smaller garage Upstairs, the home unfolds furthe ... click here to read more

Charming 3-Bedroom House in Ribérac, Dordogne - Ideal for a Refreshing Lifestyle Change Nestled in the picturesque region of Dordogne, in the well-preserved town of Ribérac, this detached house offers a serene retreat coupled with the rustic charm of Aquitaine, France. Spanning an area of 181 square meters, on a substantial plot of 11,875 square meters, this property provides ample space for relaxation and enjoyment in a stunning natural setting. As you step into this traditional longere, you are greeted by an array of appealing features that reflect a blend of comfort and practicality, accented by the quintessential French countryside ethos. The residence boasts three inviting bedrooms and two bathrooms, making it suitable for families or those looking for a peaceful holiday home. Property Features: - Three spacious bedrooms - Two well-appointed bathrooms - Open plan kitchen, dining, and living area for a modern lifestyle - Additional separate living room complete with a gallery/mezzanine, perfect as an office or study space - Cozy fireplaces in living areas, creating a warm ambiance during cooler months - Galleried area overlooking internal spaces, adding an element of grandeur Amenities Include: - Private swimming pool, ideal for leisurely summer days - Pool house to complement outdoor activities - Summer kitchen, perfect for al fresco dining and entertaining guests - Extensive outdoor space, unoverlooked, featuring rolling countryside and woodland views Living in Ribérac: Living in Ribérac offers a blend of tranquility and activity. The town is known for its vibrant weekly markets, offering local produce and goods, providing a taste of authentic French village life. The community here is welcoming, with a mixtur ... click here to read more

Nestled in the picturesque region of Dordogne, in the charming town of Ribérac, you'll find this inviting four-bedroom stone cottage that might just be the dream home you're looking for. One thing is for sure, life here is full of surprises every single day! As a busy realtor dealing with properties all over the globe, this one still catches my eye for its unique character and potential. Let's take a leisurely stroll through this property and the captivating surroundings, shall we? This lovely stone cottage is practically a neighbor to the vibrant market town of Riberac, just a short 15-minute drive away. Imagine weekends spent wandering the outdoor market known for fresh produce and local delicacies. The renowned French lifestyle really shines here with a laid-back atmosphere and a rich tapestry of culture. Boasting an area of 156 square meters, this dwelling isn't just a house; it’s a potential home waiting for new life to be breathed into it. Enter into a sprawling 40 square meter living room/dining area that becomes the heart of the home with a newly installed wood burner, perfect for those cozy nights with family or friends when the temperatures drop. It's not uncommon here to experience warm summers paired with crisp, cool winters, offering a dynamic range of activities year-round. Shall we step into the kitchen? It tells stories of many family meals and heartfelt conversations in its farmhouse style, yet is well equipped with a pellet burner for extra efficiency. The efficient design means cooking becomes a joyful experience here, no matter what dish you decide to conjure up. The property features: - Spacious living room with wood burner - Farmhouse-style kitchen with pellet burner - Gas-fired central heating ... click here to read more

Charming Stone House in Ribérac, Dordogne - A Haven of Peace Nestled in the picturesque landscape of Dordogne, this three bedroom stone house offers a delightful blend of character and tranquility in the small, serene hamlet near Ribérac. For those considering an authentic French provincial life, this property serves as a perfect gateway to the lush rural surroundings of Aquitaine. Property Features: - A serene living room with access to a welcoming front terrace, perfect for morning coffees while indulging in the surrounding nature. - A cozy dining room that promises memorable family dinners. - A practical fitted kitchen with the convenience of doors opening onto a large veranda, presenting panoramic views over a secluded, enchanting garden and woodlands. - A convenient ground floor bedroom complemented by a neighboring shower room. - An enlivening internal hallway with stairs leading up to a spacious landing. - Two additional bedrooms on the upper floor; one boasts an en-suite bathroom and the other offers substantial space, including a sitting area with captivating countryside vistas. Additional Amenities: - Attached workshop/garage of 35m². - Private parking space at the front. - Well-maintained garden area with mature shrubs and a gentle slope leading to a delightful woodland extension. Living in Ribérac offers more than just the serenity of the French countryside. It's a community vibrant with cultural heritage and local life. The town is known for its weekly markets that are a treasure trove of local crafts and freshest produce, making it a gastronomic delight for anyone fond of French cuisine. Moreover, Ribérac is enriched with galleries, quaint cafés, and historical sites, ensuring there's always something ... click here to read more

### Enchanting Three-Bedroom Country Home in Picturesque Ribérac, Dordogne Experience the undeniable charm of country living in France with this scenic and modestly appointed three-bedroom house, located in the tranquil area of Ribérac in Dordogne, Aquitaine. Ideal for a family, this property offers ample space both inside and out, nestled on an expansive plot of nearly 2000 square meters adorned with mature trees that provide not just beauty but a sense of peace and nature-infused surroundings. Property Overview - Bedrooms: Three spacious rooms with potential for an additional master suite upstairs. - Bathrooms: One full bathroom. - Living Room: Generously sized—perfect for family gatherings and relaxation. - Dining Room: Ideal for family meals and entertaining guests. - Land: Almost 2000m2, featuring lush greenery and trees. - Additional structures: A barn in need of renovation, which introduces numerous possibilities for customization. - Price: €169,000 - Size: 120 square meters of living space. Property Condition The house is in good overall condition but does not shy away from the fact that it presents an excellent opportunity as a fixer-upper, specifically the barn, which awaits transformation. For those looking to infuse a personal touch or expand their living space, the renovation process could be carried out to include a new workshop, extra living quarters, or even a creative studio. Living in Ribérac, Dordogne Living in Ribérac offers a seamless blend of relaxation and modest country charm with the conveniences of modern life not far from your doorstep. Known for its friendly community and scenic views, Ribérac is a small town with an authentic French vibe. The local market, held on Fridays, is an event ... click here to read more

Nestled in the charming town of Ribérac in the Aquitaine region of Dordogne, France, this spacious 4-bedroom stone house is a real gem. Ribérac is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, rich history, and vibrant community, making it a wonderful place to call home for both families and expats alike. This bustling town offers a mix of peaceful residential streets and active market squares filled with local vendors selling fresh produce, handmade crafts, and more. Living here, you'll find that the local climate is generally mild, with warm summers perfect for enjoying outdoor activities and cool winters that make the town feel cozy and festive. Now, let's take a tour of this inviting property. The house, in good condition, boasts a generous size of 154 square meters and offers ample space for a growing family or those looking for a comfortable, sizeable home. As you step inside, the fully equipped kitchen welcomes you, ready for you to whip up meals and entertain guests. The heart of the home is the expansive dining and sitting room, featuring a charming chimney that provides warmth and adds character to the space. Whether you're hosting family gatherings or cozy movie nights, this room is perfect for all occasions. To the side, there's an office that can easily be converted into an additional bedroom if desired. The ground floor also includes a bright veranda and a convenient WC for guests. Upstairs, you’ll find four spacious double bedrooms - plenty of room for everyone to have their own private sanctuary. The large bathroom on this floor comes equipped with both a shower and a WC, ensuring there’s no morning rush. Outside, the property continues to impress. A covered terrace offers a lovely spot for outdoor dining ... click here to read more

Nestled in the picturesque town of Ribérac, France, is a delightful little townhouse that's yearning for new ownership. Perfectly situated in the heart of Aquitaine, Dordogne, this cozy abode promises a charming lifestyle among the tranquil rhythms of a classic French town. Known for its lush landscapes and idyllic atmosphere, Ribérac offers a slice of authentic France, with a laid-back pace that's perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle. Located in a town with a population of about 4,000, Ribérac offers the amenities of small-town living while ensuring all essential services are within close grasp. Shopping for daily essentials won't be a hassle, as shops and public services are conveniently nearby. For those who treasure a good drive, the highway being a mere 35 minutes away makes excursions and weekend getaways a breeze. While the town isn’t a sprawling metropolis, it makes up for it with its genuine charm and warm community feel. Life here is marked by cultural festivals, which frequently draw in locals and tourists alike, offering an authentic glimpse into regional traditions. The peaceful ambiance is coupled with a mild climate characterized by warm summers and cool, pleasant winters—a perfect combination for enjoying the town's natural beauty. The 68 square meter house itself is a quaint retreat that is perfectly suited for a young couple or perhaps a couple looking to downsize in their retirement. The property's layout is compact yet efficient, with two bedrooms that offer a snug retreat at the end of the day. Imagine waking up with the fabulous morning light filtering through, courtesy of the efficient thermal insulation and electric roller shutters that ensure comfort in every season. One ... click here to read more

Nestled in the heart of the charming town of Ribérac, this delightful 4-bedroom stone house awaits its new owner. Bursting with potential and boasting a good condition, it stands as a beacon of opportunity for the discerning homeowner. Whether you're an expat or a foreign buyer seeking the tranquillity of the French countryside, this property offers just that, along with the convenience of modern living. As you arrive at the property, you're immediately greeted by its classic stone façade, a true embodiment of traditional French architecture. The house speaks softly of the region's historic charm, where rustic elegance blends seamlessly with contemporary comfort. Boasting a generous size of 154 square meters, you'll find spacious rooms that beckon you to make it your own. Ribérac, located in the Dordogne department, is widely known for its stunning landscapes, mild climate, and rich cultural heritage. The region enjoys warm summers and cool winters, making it an ideal location for those who appreciate a moderate climate. Surrounded by rolling hills and verdant countryside, life here is a gentle embrace from nature itself. The bustling town of Ribérac is a mere stone's throw away, providing the perfect blend of urban convenience and rural tranquillity. Locals and visitors alike enjoy the lively weekly market, a tradition that dates back centuries. If you're a foodie, the local cuisine will not disappoint; the area is renowned for its delectable truffle dishes and exquisite wines. Ribérac offers everything you need for daily living, right at your doorstep. Living in Ribérac means you’ll have plenty of activities to immerse yourself in. Outdoor enthusiasts will relish the hiking trails and cycling routes that wind throu ... click here to read more

Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Dordogne region, this exquisite five-bedroom house in Ribérac offers a unique opportunity to own a slice of French paradise. With its expansive grounds and charming architectural features, this property is more than just a house; it's a gateway to a lifestyle filled with relaxation, adventure, and cultural richness. Imagine waking up to the gentle rustle of leaves and the soft chirping of birds in your own private parkland. This property, set on over an acre of lush grounds, provides a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. As you enter through the electric gates, a sense of tranquility envelops you, promising a retreat where cherished memories are made. ### A Home Designed for Comfort and Elegance The house itself is a testament to classic French architecture, seamlessly blending traditional charm with modern comforts. The open terrace invites you to enjoy al fresco dining, while the original open fireplace in the kitchen and dining room adds a touch of rustic elegance. The spacious living room, with its snug seating areas and additional dining space, is perfect for hosting family gatherings or simply unwinding with a good book. On the ground floor, you'll find two well-appointed bedrooms and a bathroom, offering convenience and accessibility. The covered terrace provides a shaded retreat, ideal for sipping your morning coffee or enjoying a glass of local wine as the sun sets. ### A Versatile Layout for Family and Guests The first floor is a haven of privacy and versatility. Accessible via two staircases, it features a mezzanine and a large bedroom on one side, while the other side boasts a second mezzanine and two additional bedrooms, one of which is uni ... click here to read more

Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Dordogne region, this enchanting 5-bedroom house in Ribérac offers a unique opportunity to own a slice of French paradise. With its rich history and serene surroundings, this property is more than just a house; it's a gateway to a lifestyle filled with relaxation, adventure, and unforgettable memories. Imagine waking up to the gentle sounds of nature, the sun streaming through the French windows, and the aroma of fresh croissants wafting from the local boulangerie. This is the everyday reality for those fortunate enough to call this Ribérac gem their second home. A Home with Character and Comfort Upon entering, you're greeted by a stunning wooden staircase that sets the tone for the rest of the house. The cozy living room, complete with a traditional fireplace, invites you to unwind with a good book or enjoy a glass of local wine. The adjacent kitchen, also featuring a fireplace, is perfect for preparing meals with fresh ingredients from the nearby markets. The house boasts a spacious master bedroom with French doors that open onto a tranquil rear garden, offering a private retreat to enjoy the beauty of the Dordogne countryside. Upstairs, four tastefully renovated bedrooms provide ample space for family and guests, each with its own unique charm. A Lifestyle of Leisure and Exploration Ribérac is renowned for its vibrant market, where you can immerse yourself in the local culture and savor regional delicacies. The town's rich history and charming architecture make it a delightful place to explore, while the surrounding countryside offers endless opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and canoeing. For those seeking a more leisurely pace, the property's ... click here to read more

Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Dordogne region, this delightful 3-bedroom house in Ribérac offers an idyllic retreat for those seeking a second home or vacation property in France. With its charming architecture and prime location, this property is a gateway to the quintessential French countryside lifestyle. Imagine waking up to the gentle sounds of nature, the sun streaming through your windows, and the promise of a day filled with exploration and relaxation. This house, in good condition, is more than just a property; it's a canvas for creating cherished memories with family and friends. A Glimpse into Your New Lifestyle: Ribérac, a quaint village known for its vibrant market, offers a unique blend of tranquility and community spirit. As you stroll through the cobbled streets, you'll discover local artisans, fresh produce, and the warm hospitality of the locals. The market, held every Friday, is a must-visit, offering everything from gourmet cheeses to handcrafted goods. Local Attractions and Activities: - Outdoor Adventures: The Dordogne region is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking and cycling through lush landscapes to canoeing along the serene rivers, there's no shortage of activities to keep you engaged. - Cultural Experiences: Explore nearby historical sites, including ancient castles and charming villages that tell the story of France's rich heritage. - Gastronomic Delights: Indulge in the local cuisine, with an array of restaurants offering traditional French dishes. Don't miss the opportunity to savor the region's renowned wines. - Seasonal Festivals: Ribérac and its surroundings host various festivals throughout the year, celebrating everything from music to gastronomy, providing a ... click here to read more

Nestled in the heart of the enchanting southwestern region of France, in the picturesque town of Ribérac, lies a 4-bedroom stone house that exudes both character and comfort. This property, with its classic French architecture and inviting ambiance, provides a perfect backdrop for a life of tranquillity and charm. As a real estate agent with my hands quite full these days, especially given the interest in such a bustling locality as Ribérac, I am compelled to share what makes this home and its surroundings truly special. Ribérac sits in the idyllic Dordogne department, renowned for its verdant landscapes and rich history. The climate here is generally mild, with warm summers ideal for exploring the local countryside or enjoying a leisurely meal outdoors. Winters are gentle, making Ribérac a pleasant all-year-round destination, inviting you to enjoy the cozy comfort of your stone residence during chillier months. Living here means being part of a warm community, where the pace of life is slightly slower, encouraging residents to enjoy the simple pleasures. Upon entering the property, you’ll immediately appreciate the spaciousness of its layout. At 154 square meters, this house offers ample room for both intimate family life and social gatherings. The ground floor welcomes you with a fully equipped kitchen, an essential space for preparing those classic French meals. Adjacent to the kitchen is a vast dining and sitting room complete with a charming chimney, perfect for relaxing evenings or entertaining guests. There is also a versatile room that can be used as an office or an additional bedroom, offering flexibility to suit varying needs. The ground floor is completed by a quaint veranda and a convenient WC. Let's take ... click here to read more

Welcome to a delightful opportunity for those looking to immerse themselves in the rustic charm of the French countryside. This 4-bedroom house, located in the picturesque town of Ribérac in the Dordogne region of Aquitaine, offers a canvas awaiting your personal touch. Ribérac is a vibrant market town known for its weekly markets that bring the finest local produce and crafts to the forefront, making it a gateway to experiencing true French culture and the art of living. Property Features: - 4 bedrooms, ideal for family living or as guest accommodations. - 1 family-sized bathroom with room for modern upgrades. - Open plan kitchen integrated with a spacious living and dining area, perfect for entertaining. - A sunroom leading to a large terrace, which brings in plenty of natural light and offers expansive views of the garden. - Robust mains gas and drainage systems. - Large basement suitable for multiple uses, from storage to a home cinema setup. - Outdoor spaces include a standalone studio/workshop and an independent garage, offering ample room for creative hobbies or extra storage. - Generous garden size of approximately 1005 square meters, promising privacy and space to cultivate a personal haven of greenery and relaxation. Local Area and Lifestyle: Ribérac lies at the heart of Dordogne and is steeped in history and natural beauty. Living in this area, you can expect a lifestyle that is both tranquil and culturally rich. The local markets are a focal point for community interaction and source of local delicacies and artisan products. For those interested in outdoor activities, the region offers numerous hiking, biking trails, and river sports on the Dronne River. The town is not only friendly and welcoming to newc ... click here to read more

Discover serene living in Ribérac, Aquitaine, where this five-bedroom house promises a blend of tranquility and convenience, set amidst just over an acre of lush grounds. Priced at €371,000, this generously sized 232 square meter home offers ample space and numerous original features, ideal for both expats and overseas buyers in search of a genuine French country lifestyle. Property Overview: - Five spacious bedrooms - Two well-appointed bathrooms - Expansive grounds over one acre - Secure property with electric gates - Charming original open fireplace - Two cozy mezzanines - Covered terrace ideal for outdoor dining and relaxation - Includes a garage for secure parking or additional storage Situated in the picturesque region of Dordogne in Ribérac, France, this property combines the characterful elements of a traditional French house with the need for some modernization, making it an excellent project for those looking to imprint their personal style onto their new home. The ground floor features an expansive living room that seamlessly flows into a dining area and features a snug seating area near the fireplace, creating a warm, welcoming environment during chilly evenings. Two of the bedrooms are conveniently located on the ground floor alongside a bathroom, offering accessibility and privacy. As you ascend the stairs, you are greeted by charming mezzanine spaces that lead to an additional three bedrooms. One of the highlights is a unique bedroom located within the home's tower, providing delightful views of the surrounding gardens and beyond. This homes’ layout and features make it ideal for a growing family or those who enjoy hosting guests. Local Area & Climate: Ribérac, nestled in the heart of Dordogne, is reno ... click here to read more