Charming 3-Bed Country Home with Gite Potential, Near Montmorillon

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sunday morning in the Loire Valley sounds like this: a wood-burning stove crackling under cathedral ceilings, the faint ring of church bells drifting across the fields from Amboise, and the smell of butter and stone that only old French farmhouses seem to hold. This is the kind of place you stop looking once you've found it. Built in the 19th century and sitting on an enclosed 398 square metre plot near the village of La Croix en Touraine, this authentic Touraine farmhouse carries the bones of its era without the headaches. The stone walls are still there. The exposed beams are still there. But so is a heat pump, a fitted kitchen, a 2022-built workshop, and south-facing terrace access from virtually every ground-floor room. It's been lived in properly, looked after, and it shows. Step inside and the ground floor sets the tone immediately. The kitchen opens directly onto the sunny terrace — the kind of layout that turns a Tuesday lunch into something you actually look forward to. The living and dining room runs to roughly 40 square metres under a genuine cathedral ceiling, with parquet underfoot and that wood-burning stove as the clear centerpiece. On cold January evenings when frost sits on the vines outside, this room earns its keep. A bedroom with French doors, a home office, a full bathroom with both bathtub and walk-in shower, and a utility room round out the ground floor — more practical square footage than you'd expect at this price point. Upstairs, two more bedrooms and a second WC occupy the attic floor. Above the living room, a mezzanine adds around 20 square metres of bonus space — a reading loft, a kids' sleeping area, a home studio. The property's 149 square metres in total include that vaulted cellar tuck ... click here to read more

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sunday morning in Molières, and the only sound reaching you through the kitchen window is birdsong and the faint creak of the old tobacco barn in a light breeze. No traffic. No neighbors close enough to matter. Just the smell of coffee, a terrace at arm's length, and 4,231 square meters of Dordogne countryside rolling away in every direction. That's the daily reality this property delivers — and once you've felt it, you won't forget it. Set in the deep green countryside of the Périgord Noir, this four-bedroom stone house in Molières is the kind of place that doesn't announce itself. It earns you. Three floors of authentic stonework, thick walls that keep the summer heat at arm's length, and a layout that moves naturally from generous living and dining spaces on the ground floor up to four proper bedrooms above. At 126 square meters of interior space, it's not oversized — it's exactly right. Room enough for a family, friends, and a way of life that slows down on purpose. The ground floor centers around a large, open living, dining, and kitchen area — 41 square meters in the salon alone, confirmed — with direct access to a terrace that looks out over the land. Underfloor heating runs beneath your feet on this level, warm in the cooler months without the visual noise of radiators. The upper floors are served by radiators running off a gas system, and double glazing throughout means this is a home that works year-round, not just in July. Four bedrooms spread across the upper levels give the house a quiet rhythm — mornings up there feel genuinely removed from the world. Then there's what sits outside the main house, and this is where the property earns its character. A vast independent stone barn dominates the land — the k ... 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

Introducing this lovely three-bedroom house welcoming you in the heart of the charming region of Poitou-Charentes, in the vibrant historic town of Montmorillon, France. Situated at the pinnacle of the old village, this property presents a unique opportunity for buyers to invest in one of France's most sought-after regions. Sprawling across four levels, this house offers an open and airy feel. Covering a total of 85 square meters, the house promises a comfortable living experience paired with old-world charm. Stepping inside, you are first greeted by a spacious kitchen and living area, acting as the hub of the home, with generous space for all your entertaining and day-to-day activities. Each of the three bedrooms span across different levels, offering a distinct character and a sense of privacy. Double-glazed windows ensure a peaceful atmosphere, blocking the outside noise while allowing an abundance of natural light in each room. Another advantage is the presence of a decent-sized bathroom located conveniently on the first floor. The house also includes a basement, accessible via steps within the living area, providing a great amount of storage space or potential for further customization. One significant feature you'll appreciate surely is the property's connection to the main drainage system, saving you the hassle of dealing with septic tanks and their maintenance. Moving outside, a lovely terrace awaits you, presenting a wonderful place to host an alfresco dining experience or simply enjoy a quiet morning with a cup of coffee. As for the location, Montmorillon is a history-laden town within the Vienne department. Known for its majestic medieval architecture and the beautiful Gartempe River that flows through, ... click here to read more

Nestled in the enchanting town of Montmorillon, within the serene landscape of Poitou-Charentes, Vienne, this charming 2-bedroom house offers a wonderful blend of comfort and potential, set at a competitive price of €135,000. This delightful home, spanning 114 square meters across two floors, captures the essence of a tranquil French lifestyle with its well-considered layout and picturesque surroundings. ### Property Features: - Size: 114 square meters - Bedrooms: 2 - Bathrooms: 1 - Kitchen: Open plan with a breakfast bar - Additional Rooms: Large dining/sunroom, lounge, ground floor WC, second-floor dressing room/potential en-suite - Storage: Includes a wine cellar - Outdoor Space: Landscaped garden, low maintenance with flower borders - Parking: Gated entrance with off-street parking - Outbuildings: Useful for additional storage or potential workshop space ### Amenities: - Local Shops and Markets: Within walking distance - Schools: Nearby primary and secondary schools - Transport Links: Close proximity to local transport services - Healthcare: Local clinics and a hospital are accessible within the area - Recreational Areas: Numerous parks, river walks, and cultural sites such as the Montmorillon Cité de l'Écrit ### About Montmorillon: This small yet vibrant community is renowned for its rich history and cultural significance, particularly as the "City of Writing and Book Professions." Residents can enjoy peaceful strolls along the Gartempe river, visit historic churches, or explore local bookshops and the quaint cafés of Cité de l'Écrit. Community life in Montmorillon is enriched by frequent local markets offering fresh, regional produce, fostering a close-knit atmosphere that welcomes both locals and newcomers. ## ... click here to read more

Welcome to this delightful chateau nestled in the charming town of Montmorillon, located in the picturesque Vienne region of France. With 283 square meters of living space, this property is a wonderful opportunity for those looking to invest in a characteristic French home. With six bedrooms, four bathrooms, and a price of just €450,000, this place provides plenty of room for family gatherings or entertaining guests. The property spans over a generous plot of land, offering a mix of delightful homes. The main house treats you to three bedrooms, a country-style kitchen, and a cozy lounge complete with a wood burner. The second house is perfect for families looking to host guests or even rent out, featuring two bedrooms spacious enough for any visitor. A charming gite, nestled to the side of the property, adds a single-bedroom space perfect for a couple seeking a little privacy. Now, for the outdoors. The property stretches across the land, including a large barn and an idyllic garden. One of the showcase features is the stream-fed pond nestled among trees, creating a serene oasis perfect for weekend relaxation or family picnics. The gentle ambiance around the pond makes it an excellent spot for quiet reflection or morning coffee. In the lively vicinity of Montmorillon, life has the peace of the countryside with some modern conveniences. This small town, known for its picturesque book fairs and rich history, offers a taste of traditional French life. A stroll down the quaint streets leads to an array of bars, restaurants, and supermarkets, where locals and visitors alike enjoy the local delicacies. The weekly market fills the air with the fresh scent of local produce, tempting even the busiest of residents to indulge i ... click here to read more

Nestled in the heart of the French countryside, this delightful 3-bedroom house in Saulgé offers a slice of serene living that many dream about. Located in the captivating Poitou-Charentes region of Vienne, France, this property is perfectly poised for those seeking a peaceful retreat with convenient access to local attractions and amenities. With an area of 97 square meters, this house is both manageable and welcoming, with enough room to meet the needs of a family or anyone looking for a cozy home. Its design effortlessly caters to the quintessential French country lifestyle. Picture yourself savoring morning coffee under the sun on the rear garden terrace, which can be accessed directly from the charming kitchen/diner. The kitchen is equipped with a wood-burning stove and features exposed stone walls and large beams, adding to its rustic appeal. The warmth of another wood burner graces the spacious and light-filled living room, which even boasts a mezzanine, offering a unique architectural touch. Also, on the ground floor, you'll find a convenient bedroom and a shower room with WC, making everyday living practical and comfortable. The upstairs of the property features a small landing that leads to two additional bedrooms. One of these rooms is presently utilized as a dressing room, complete with a petite en suite toilet, providing flexibility in how you choose to use the space. Step outside, and you are greeted by an undercover terrace and a BBQ area - just perfect for leisurely sunny days spent with friends and family. The outdoor features don't stop there: a functioning bread oven, a garage, a workshop, a wine cave, and multiple outbuildings add considerable value to this property. Plus, there’s ample parking spa ... click here to read more

Property Overview: Nestled in the tranquil surroundings of Journet within the picturesque region of Poitou-Charentes, this charming three-bedroom house presents an attractive proposition for those looking to immerse themselves in French rural life. Ideal for a family or for those who enjoy the simplicity of countryside living, the property is a grounded yet inspiring space needing light renovation. Property Description: Upon entering the property, one is greeted by a cozy living area complete with a traditional fireplace that adds a rustic charm and warmth to the room. The kitchen is functional and, with a little updating, has the potential to become a central hub for culinary activities. On the same level, there is a bedroom equipped with a washbasin area which provides convenience and practical use of space. Furthermore, you'll find an additional bedroom and a shower room that complete the ground floor setup. The layout is family-friendly, with another bedroom located upstairs offering privacy and tranquility. Above, an attic presents an opportunity for conversion into additional living space, pending the necessary permissions, which could suit a variety of uses such as a playroom, study, or additional bedrooms. Outside, the property includes a barn that doubles as a garage alongside a covered terrace. Here one can enjoy the peaceful views of the extensive land that surrounds the home, which totals approximately 3500m². The plot stretches across both sides of a seldom-traveled road, ensuring plenty of private outdoor space for garden enthusiasts or those who dream of cultivating their own vegetables. Local Area and Climate: Journet, although serene and somewhat secluded, benefits from proximate amenities located ... click here to read more

Welcome to an enchanting 4-bedroom house nestled in the picturesque village of Antigny, located in the Poitou-Charentes region in Vienne, France. This charming home, priced at 142,790 €, is just waiting for you to move right in, making it an ideal choice for either a permanent family residence or a delightful vacation home. As you drive down the tranquil street that leads to the house, you'll immediately appreciate the serene and peaceful surroundings. Located just a short distance from the vibrant town of Saint Savin, you'll have easy access to essential amenities such as bars, restaurants, and shops. Whether you're looking to enjoy a quiet evening at home or immerse yourself in the local culture, this location offers the best of both worlds. Now, let's step inside and explore what this lovely property has to offer. The ground floor welcomes you with a spacious communal room, an ideal spot for hosting family gatherings or entertaining friends. The adjoining kitchen diner is a practical and functional space where you can whip up delicious meals, and it flows effortlessly into the communal area. Towards the rear of the ground floor, you'll find a cosy lounge area perfect for relaxing with a good book or watching your favorite movies. This area leads to a convenient WC and a boiler/storage room, ensuring you have all the practicalities covered. From the lounge, you can step out onto a charming terrace, a perfect spot to enjoy an evening aperitif as you soak in the tranquil ambiance. Heading upstairs to the first floor, you'll discover three generously sized bedrooms, each offering ample space for comfort and relaxation. The family bathroom on this floor is well-appointed and provides easy access to a balcony. The balco ... click here to read more

Nestled in the serene hamlet of Antigny in the picturesque Poitou-Charentes region of Vienne, France, this inviting three-bedroom farmhouse offers a unique opportunity for those looking to embrace the quintessential French countryside living. With a modest price tag of €51,000, this property presents itself as an idyllic retreat for overseas buyers seeking a serene getaway or a delightful project to infuse with their personal touch. The farmhouse spans 162 square meters, providing ample space for family living or entertaining guests. The ground level welcomes you with a spacious lounge adorned with a wood burner, setting a cozy atmosphere for the cooler months. Adjacent to the lounge, the kitchen, surprisingly large for a property of this stature, awaits your culinary explorations. Ascending to the first floor, you are greeted by three well-sized bedrooms, offering a quiet respite from the busyness of life. Also located on this level are a shower room and a family bathroom, catering to both practicality and comfort. Outside, the property features a generous patio area to the front, perfect for enjoying aperitifs or dining under the starry sky, offering a taste of the al fresco lifestyle favored in this region. An external storeroom provides additional storage solutions or potential for conversion into a creative space. While this farmhouse is in need of renovation, it is precisely this aspect that holds the allure for those with a vision to create their dream home in the countryside. The property's condition is reflective of a genuine fixer-upper, presenting a canvas awaiting transformation by those who cherish the charm and potential embedded within its walls. Amenities: - Spacious lounge with wood burner - Large ... click here to read more

Discover the charm and potential of a rustic country home nestled in the serene landscape of Saint-Léomer, within the Poitou-Charentes region of Vienne, France. This unique fixer-upper is ideally positioned for those who relish the peace of rural living and the opportunity to bring their architectural vision to life. Property Overview: This traditional French farmhouse awaits a complete renovation, offering a remarkable canvas for creating a bespoke residence. The property spans approximately 90 square meters, comprising four ground-floor rooms and a spacious attic ripe for conversion, potentially increasing living space or adding bedrooms. Structurally, the farmhouse demands significant updates, including a new roof and septic system installation, to restore its former glory and modern functionality. Amenities Include: - Water access - Electricity connection Additional Buildings: - A sizable barn presenting further development opportunities. - A charming former stable set around a quaint courtyard, perfect as an artist's studio or workshop. Location and Lifestyle: Living in Saint-Léomer offers a deeply tranquil countryside experience, with just two neighboring properties nearby, ensuring privacy and a tight-knit community feel. Nature enthusiasts will delight in the local landscapes, featuring verdant fields and meandering paths right at your doorstep, ideal for hiking and enjoying the bucolic surroundings. The nearest town, Montmorillon, is just a 15-minute drive away and caters to all daily needs. Montmorillon, known as the 'City of Writing and Book Professions,' not only provides essential amenities but also cultural enrichment through its museums, bookshops, and annual literary festivals. Local Climate: The re ... click here to read more

Nestled in the picturesque village of Saint-Léomer, this delightful two-bedroom house offers an idyllic escape in the heart of the Poitou-Charentes region. With its serene countryside views and proximity to the vibrant town of Montmorillon, this property is a perfect retreat for those seeking a second home in France. Imagine waking up to the gentle sounds of nature, sipping your morning coffee in the garden as the sun rises over the rolling hills. This is the lifestyle that awaits you in Saint-Léomer, a quaint village that embodies the charm and tranquility of rural France. Property Highlights: - Location: Situated in the peaceful village of Saint-Léomer, just a short drive from Montmorillon. - Size: Cozy 70 square meters, perfect for a holiday retreat. - Bedrooms: Two comfortable bedrooms, ideal for family or guests. - Bathrooms: One well-appointed bathroom. - Garden: A wrap-around garden offering privacy and stunning countryside views. - Additional Building: A separate prefabricated structure with potential for renovation or use as a workspace. - Condition: Good, with opportunities for personalization and upgrades. - Price: Affordable at €66,000, making it an excellent investment opportunity. Local Lifestyle and Amenities: Saint-Léomer is a hidden gem in the Vienne department, offering a peaceful lifestyle with easy access to modern conveniences. The village itself is a tapestry of traditional French architecture, with charming stone houses and narrow lanes that invite exploration. Climate: The region enjoys a temperate climate, with warm summers perfect for outdoor activities and mild winters that allow for year-round enjoyment of the beautiful surroundings. Activities and Attractions: - Montmorillon: Just a shor ... click here to read more

Delightfully positioned in the tranquil setting of Lathus-St-Rémy in the scenic Poitou-Charentes region of Vienne, France, this four-bedroom house presents a wonderful opportunity for those looking to immerse themselves in French village life. With a moderately sized 123 square meter floor area and a generous 750 square meter fenced garden, this property blends comfort with the serene pleasures of the countryside. Overview of the Property: As you enter the recently updated kitchen diner, you'll notice the space is both modern and welcoming, an ideal setting for preparing family meals or entertaining guests. The large living of the house provides a cozy retreat with ample natural lighting, making it perfect for relaxing evenings. A convenient toilet is also located on the ground floor. Ascending to the first floor, the residence features four well-appointed bedrooms, each offering a peaceful ambiance, essential for rest. This level also includes a shower room equipped with a toilet for added convenience and an additional toilet separately. Access to the attic is available from this floor, providing extra storage options or potential for further customization. The house is equipped with heat pump heating and connected to mains drainage, ensuring modern comforts. Additionally, a detached garage with a mezzaninemezzanine floor offers extensive storage and workspace possibilities, accessible from outside, alongside a handy utility room. Condition and Opportunities: Currently in good condition, this property does appear as a ready-to-move-in home. Yet, for those with a vision for customization, it offers an excellent canvas to further enhance and personalize to taste, especially in the spacious attic and outdoor areas. Lo ... click here to read more

Nestled in the serene and picturesque landscape of Poitou-Charentes in the Vienne department, the charming village of Lathus-Saint-Rémy invites you to discover a hidden gem that awaits your touch. This delightful 3-bedroom house, situated moments away from the whispering currents of the Gartempe River, offers a blend of rustic charm and potential, making it an ideal consideration for those looking to plant roots in France or secure a quaint getaway in the countryside. The property features a well-structured floor plan spread over 128 square meters of living space, designed thoughtfully to cater to both private life and social gatherings. Upon entering, you're greeted by a cozy entrance that leads to a practical galley kitchen, setting the scene for homely culinary adventures. The dining room, adjacent to the kitchen, provides a warm setting for meals and memories. A snug, which can double as an office, offers versatility, whether for work or leisure. The ground floor also includes two generously sized double bedrooms, each boasting its own ensuite shower room with a toilet, ensuring privacy and convenience. As one ascends the gorgeous open staircase to the first floor, a small landing area unfolds into a spacious living room that invites natural light and tranquility, promoting relaxation and family time. The highlight of this level is the large master bedroom, complete with an ensuite bathroom and toilet, offering a private retreat within this charming abode. The exterior of the property does not shy away in terms of appeal and functionality. An attached garage provides ample space for vehicles and storage, with additional storage space available above. Practical small outbuildings accompany the structure, offering o ... click here to read more

Nestled in the charming rural expanse of Villemort, Vienne, France, this spacious 5-bedroom farmhouse invites you into a lifestyle that seamlessly blends tranquility with the beauty of panoramic views. Now, as a busy real estate agent frequently tied up in the hustle and bustle of property dealings, let me take a short break to introduce you to this remarkable retreat, perfect for those seeking a serene abode in the heart of the French countryside. Imagine a property that not only offers vast acreage—over 2 acres to be specific—but a home that has stood the test of time with grace and dignity. This farmhouse, with a generous 180 square meters of habitable space, is a true gem for overseas buyers and expats alike. While its condition is robustly good, the unpredictable charms of country living certainly promise an adventure worth taking on. Stepping through the entrance of this beautifully renovated haven, you are greeted by a spacious ground floor that encompasses a warm and welcoming kitchen-diner, complete with an island ideal for casual meals and a broad dining area perfect for entertaining guests. The sitting room claims the coziness of a Godin wood-burning stove and benefits from double-exposure windows that bathe the space in natural light. This level also features two practical and comfortable bedrooms, a shower room with a WC, and a utility room for added convenience. Ascending to the first floor, you'll find three additional bedrooms, masterfully designed to offer privacy and comfort, alongside a large family bathroom and a separate WC. Each room resonates with the charm characteristic of French farmhouses, making it a truly unique living space for you and your family. But let's not forget the outdoors, whe ... click here to read more

Located in the heart of Poitou-Charentes, Vienne, the charming town of St-Savin, this six-bedroom house presents a unique opportunity for those looking to embrace the French lifestyle in a substantially sized and well-maintained family home. With a gracious nod to its historical roots, the property beautifully balances period charm with modern living standards, making it an appealing choice for overseas buyers who dream of owning a slice of French heritage. This distinguished residence is perfectly poised on a serene street, just moments away from the flowing waters of the River Gartempe and the spellbinding UNESCO-listed Abbey, grounding it in a sense of both tranquility and rich cultural heritage. Its central location affords easy access to the bustling town square, inviting potential homeowners to a variety of local amenities including quaint bars, reputable restaurants, artisan bakeries, and essential shops. Families will find the proximity to educational institutions, including infant and primary schools a few minutes' walk away and a secondary school a short distance further, particularly convenient. Upon entering the home, you are greeted by an inviting period hallway adorned with original tiled flooring, setting the stage for the range of historical features this property meticulously preserves. To the right, a living room seamlessly transitions into a dining room, both rooms echoing the timeless elegance of the past while ensuring comfort. The dining room, which includes a cloakroom and access to the enchanting rear garden, the neighboring smaller house, and the wine cellar, accentuates the home's capacity for hosting and leisure. To the left, a cozy television room offers potential as a ground-floor bedroom, ... click here to read more

A Timeless Retreat in the Heart of Poitou-Charentes Imagine waking up to the gentle rustle of leaves and the soft chirping of birds in the serene French countryside. Nestled in the picturesque village of St-Savin, this exquisite 5-bedroom manor offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern comfort, making it the perfect vacation home for those seeking a tranquil escape. A Journey Through Time As you step through the grand entrance of this storied property, you're immediately enveloped by its rich history. The manor, lovingly restored to preserve its original character, boasts an array of period features that tell tales of a bygone era. High ceilings, intricate moldings, and original fireplaces create an ambiance of elegance and warmth. Daily Rhythms and Seasonal Splendor Life at the manor unfolds at a leisurely pace. Mornings begin with a stroll through the expansive park gardens, where the scent of blooming flowers mingles with the fresh country air. As the sun rises, the heated swimming pool beckons for a refreshing dip, while the tennis court invites friendly matches under the clear blue sky. In the cooler months, the manor transforms into a cozy haven. Gather around the crackling fireplace in one of the two spacious reception rooms, or indulge in a culinary adventure in the fully-equipped kitchen, where local ingredients come to life in traditional French dishes. A Gateway to Local Delights St-Savin, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is just a short drive away, offering a wealth of cultural and historical attractions. Explore the stunning abbey, wander through charming streets lined with quaint shops, or savor the region's renowned cuisine in local bistros. For outdoor enthusiasts, the surrounding country ... click here to read more

Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Poitou-Charentes region, this expansive six-bedroom house in St-Savin, Vienne, offers a unique opportunity for those seeking a second home in France. With its riverside garden and fully renovated interiors, this property is not just a house; it's a gateway to a lifestyle steeped in French charm and tranquility. Imagine waking up to the gentle sounds of the river, sipping your morning coffee in the conservatory as the sun filters through the glass, casting a warm glow over the immaculate garden. This is the essence of life in St-Savin, a town renowned for its historic Abbey and vibrant cultural scene. Property Highlights: - Location: Situated in the charming town of St-Savin, known for its rich history and cultural festivals. - Size: A generous 396 square meters, providing ample space for family and guests. - Bedrooms: Six spacious bedrooms, including a ground floor suite perfect for visitors or family. - Bathrooms: Four well-appointed bathrooms, ensuring comfort and convenience. - Living Spaces: Multiple living areas, including a large conservatory and a first-floor living room with stunning garden and river views. - Kitchen: A large, double-aspect kitchen ideal for entertaining and family gatherings. - Garden: A beautifully maintained riverside garden with irrigation from a private well. - Additional Features: Vaulted cellar, underfloor and central heating, and a large garage for off-road parking. Local Lifestyle and Amenities: St-Savin offers a quintessential French lifestyle, with its cobblestone streets, local markets, and friendly community. The town is a hub of activity, with cultural events and festivals that celebrate its rich heritage. The historic Abbey, a UNESCO Wor ... click here to read more

Welcome to a unique opportunity in the picturesque town of Saint-Savin, nestled in the charming region of Poitou-Charentes, France. Located at the heart of this delightful town, this stone house is an inviting prospect for overseas buyers seeking a blend of traditional French architecture and the serenity of French countryside life. With six bedrooms and four bathrooms, this spacious property spans across 391 square meters and is listed at a competitive price of 475,000 euros. As you approach the property on a quiet road, you're greeted with a sight that harks back to a time when craftsmanship meant something different. This house, with its stone façade, has been developed and maintained to high standards while preserving its original period features. The allure of original tiled flooring and beautifully detailed woodwork sets the stage for what lies within. Step into a charming period hallway, and you'll be drawn immediately to your right, where a living room opens up to connect with a dining room. These interconnected spaces are perfect for family gatherings or entertaining guests. The dining room further leads to doors that open into a rear garden, creating that much sought-after indoor-outdoor living experience. Also accessible from these spaces are a cloakroom, the adjoining smaller house, and a traditional wine cellar that any connoisseur would appreciate. If you take a turn to the left, you'll discover a cosy television room. With a bit of imagination, this space could easily be transformed into an additional ground-floor bedroom, perfect for guests or an elderly family member. As you wander down the corridor, you'll find yourself in a well-equipped kitchen. Fitted to high specifications, this culinary space fe ... click here to read more

Introducing an intriguing investment opportunity: a delightful, rustic property nestled in the heart of the picturesque Poitou-Charentes region, in the charming village of Lussac-les-Châteaux, France. This charming cottage, made from the local stone known for its delightfully warm hue, presents a fantastic opportunity as a renovation project. Upon exploring this property, you'll discover a captivating blend of original and functional features. The ground floor provides spacious room, adorned with a butler sink and original built-in shelves, offering a real sense of history and a glimpse into the past. A cosy and comforting fireplace takes its proud place, setting the scene for many enchanting nights. Moving upstairs, an attic room is waiting to be transformed into a cosy bedroom. It comes equipped with artisan shutters, complete with diamond-shaped cut-outs, poised to filter the gentle rays of morning sunlight. The property features: - One large room on the ground floor - An attic room that could be converted into a bedroom - Original built-in cupboards and a fireplace - A functional bathroom with a shower and sink situated in an attached outbuilding - An additional outbuilding leading to a spacious cellar with good headroom, ideal for further living space development. Providing more than just a dwelling, this house puts you in possession of a charming, walled courtyard, adorned by beautiful climbing wisteria. A dream setting for summer evenings dining al fresco. The surrounding area offers no shortage of outdoor delights. Just across the road, you will find a sizeable garden complete with a one-of-a-kind cabin. The garden juxtaposes well-kept lawn and diverse woodland, creating a space perfect for nature love ... click here to read more

A Tranquil Escape in the Heart of Poitou-Charentes Imagine waking up to the gentle rustle of leaves and the soft chirping of birds in the serene countryside of Béthines, France. This charming 4-bedroom house, nestled in the picturesque region of Poitou-Charentes, offers a perfect blend of rustic charm and modern convenience, making it an ideal vacation home or second residence. A Home Designed for Comfort and Connection Step inside to discover a spacious ground floor that seamlessly integrates the kitchen, dining, and lounge areas. This open-plan design fosters a warm, inviting atmosphere, perfect for family gatherings or entertaining friends. The ground floor also features a practical laundry/store room and a convenient downstairs loo. Upstairs, the home continues to impress with four generously sized bedrooms, each offering a peaceful retreat after a day of exploring the French countryside. The large landing space, versatile enough to serve as a home office, connects these rooms, while a family bathroom equipped with both a shower and a bath ensures comfort for all. Outdoor Living at Its Finest The allure of this property extends beyond its walls. A large covered area at the rear of the house provides an idyllic setting for al fresco dining or enjoying an evening apéro as the sun sets over the rolling fields. The garden, thoughtfully designed to be both manageable and dog-friendly, offers a perfect balance of space and ease of maintenance. Sustainable and Efficient Living Embrace a sustainable lifestyle with the home's energy-efficient features. Solar panels and a heat exchanger significantly reduce running costs, allowing you to enjoy the comforts of modern living while minimizing your environmental footprint. ... click here to read more