Charming Stone Farmhouse with Pool in Vanxains, Aquitaine: Private 2-Bed Oasis with Countryside Views and Spacious Barn

Sunday morning in the Charente countryside sounds different from anywhere else in France. The birds start before the light does, and by the time you've made coffee and pushed open the terrace doors, there's nothing between you and a wide green horizon except your own 7,000 square metres of garden, a few oaks, and the distant church tower of Mansle catching the early sun. That's the daily reality of this four-bedroom house just outside Mansle-les-Fontaines — a genuinely well-built contemporary home from the early 2000s that's been looked after with real care, set in a quiet hamlet a couple of kilometres from everything you actually need. Let's talk about the space first, because 160 square metres of living area spread thoughtfully across two floors makes this feel like a proper family home rather than a weekend squeeze. The ground floor revolves around a 40-square-metre living and dining room that gets generous natural light throughout the day. It's the kind of room that naturally absorbs a family gathering — long lunches that drift into afternoons, kids spread across the floor, someone always in the kitchen. That kitchen, at 19 square metres, is large enough to be genuinely functional, not just a gesture toward cooking. Three bedrooms sit on the ground floor too, alongside a bathroom, a separate WC, and a pantry and laundry room that handles all the practical business of a real home. Head upstairs and there's a fourth room currently working as a bedroom or office, with its own private shower room and toilet — ideal for older kids, guests who want independence, or anyone who needs a quiet corner away from the rest of the house. The underfloor heating on the ground floor is worth pausing on. It's the kind of detail that ... click here to read more

Stand at the kitchen window on a November morning and watch mist roll off the wooded acres behind the stone walls, curling around the old longère like smoke. The fire's already been lit — the cast-iron stove in the living room takes the edge off fast — and the only sound is the distant caw of rooks settling in the tree line. This is Ménéac, deep-green Brittany, and this place is the kind of property that stops serious buyers mid-scroll. Set in a small hamlet just 2.1 kilometres from the village of Ménéac itself, this substantial granite house sits on roughly 6.3 hectares of mixed land, part cultivated, part wooded. It's been divided into two fully independent dwellings — a detail that changes everything about how you might use it. One wing for your family, one for guests, rental income, or an elderly relative who wants proximity without sacrifice of privacy. The arithmetic of that arrangement is immediately appealing for anyone buying a second home in France who wants flexibility without compromising the experience of actually being there. The main dwelling opens at ground level into a living room anchored by an open fireplace paired with a wood-burning stove — two heat sources, which tells you something about how the previous owners felt about Breton winters. Through from there, a fitted kitchen and laundry room keep the practical side of things contained, along with a ground-floor toilet. Head upstairs and you get a bedroom with its own en-suite bathroom, a second family bathroom, a further bedroom, and a room currently used as an office but easily repurposed. The second dwelling mirrors this layout almost exactly: a living room with fireplace and stove, a kitchen-dining room (combined this time, which most families ... click here to read more

On a Sunday morning in Guern, the only sounds are the wind moving through the old oak at the edge of the garden and the distant bell from the village church carrying across the fields. You're standing at the kitchen window of a house that has been standing since 1638, watching mist lift off the Morbihan countryside, and thinking you could get used to this. Really get used to this. This five-bedroom stone property sits just ten minutes from Pontivy, a proper Breton market town with a working canal, a 15th-century château, and Saturday markets where the cheese vendor knows everyone by name. Guern itself is a quiet rural commune — the kind of place where neighbors wave from tractors and the post arrives without fail. At 187 square metres of living space on a landscaped plot of around 2,857 m², this is a genuinely substantial home, not a weekend cottage. It has real scale, real history, and the kind of bones you simply cannot manufacture. The oldest section of the main house traces back nearly four centuries. You feel that age in the best possible way — in the weight of the stone walls, the depth of the window reveals, the massive fireplace that anchors the double-height living room. That fireplace isn't decorative. Light it on a November evening with a bottle of Muscadet and a cassoulet on the hob, and you understand exactly why the French have been doing this for hundreds of years. The living room's unceilinged section creates genuine drama, with the mezzanine above looking down over the space — a reading corner, a desk, a spot for teenagers who want to feel separate without being far away. The ground floor layout is practical in a way old farmhouses often aren't. Two independent entrances give the house real flexibilit ... click here to read more

Stand on the upper landing on a clear October morning and the Pyrenees are right there — not a distant suggestion, but a full wall of snow-dusted peaks running the entire width of the horizon. That view alone stops people mid-sentence. Add a hectare of land, a pool, a barn with real potential, and a five-minute walk to one of the friendliest village squares in the Pyrénées-Atlantiques, and you start to understand why properties like this one in Laàs don't sit on the market for long. Laàs itself is quietly special. It sits in the heart of Béarn, a region that most people outside France haven't quite discovered yet — which is exactly the point. The village has a genuine rhythm to it. On Sunday mornings, the smell of coffee and warm bread drifts out from the boulangerie before eight o'clock. The château de Laàs, a 17th-century manor house with formal French gardens, stands just up the road and opens to visitors through the warmer months. The restaurant near the village centre — and yes, there's one worth going to, not just one that exists — draws locals from across the valley for long Friday lunches that tip over into the early evening without anyone checking their watch. The house itself is spread across 190 square metres and laid out in a way that actually works for family living. Downstairs, the kitchen connects through to a dining room which opens into the living room — the kind of fluid ground floor arrangement that means nobody's stuck in the kitchen alone while everyone else is gathered around the fire. There's also a separate snug, the sort of small room that ends up becoming everyone's favourite: the right size for a book and a glass of Jurançon wine on a winter evening when the mountains turn purple at dusk. Up ... click here to read more

On a still July evening, the only sounds you'll hear from the sun room terrace are the cicadas starting up in the oaks, the faint clink of glasses drifting from the village café a few hundred metres down the lane, and the occasional splash from the pool where someone couldn't resist one last swim before dinner. That's the rhythm of life at this 169 m² single-storey house on the edge of Saint-Maurin, one of the most quietly compelling villages in the Lot-et-Garonne — and a property that genuinely earns the word "immaculate" without you having to take anyone's word for it. Built in 1989 and then thoroughly reimagined by its current owners over the years since, the house sits on 6,875 m² of private grounds just a short walk from the medieval heart of Saint-Maurin. The village itself is the kind of place that still makes you stop walking and stare — a 12th-century abbey, honey-coloured stone arcades, a weekly market that the locals actually use, not one staged for tourists. Summer brings the famous night markets, where the square fills with tables, local Gascony producers set out their charcuterie and Armagnac, and at some point someone wheels out a projector for the open-air cinema. You can walk to all of it in five minutes, then come home to complete silence. Step inside and the architecture does something clever: it keeps things open without feeling exposed. A wide entrance hall with a feature arch sets a quiet tone of quality that the rest of the house follows through on. The living room is generous and very well lit, with three sets of French doors that fold the indoors out into the garden. A handsome brick fireplace with a wood-burning stove anchors the room in winter, while underfloor heating — the sort of detail th ... click here to read more

On a Sunday morning in southwest France, this is what you wake up to: birdsong filtering through mature oak canopy, the faint smell of dew on old stonework, and the kind of silence that cities charge a premium to escape. Step out onto the balcony off the main bedroom, coffee in hand, and you're looking across more than half a hectare of private park-like gardens that feel entirely your own. No neighbors visible. No road noise. Just the trees, the pool glinting in the early light, and the slow rhythm of Lot-et-Garonne life beginning to stir. This is a house with a genuine story. Built in the 1970s to the design of an architect — someone who clearly cared about proportion, natural light, and character — it has been owned by one family since the day it was completed. That alone says something. Properties like this rarely surface on the market in this corner of Aquitaine, and when they do, they don't stay long. Walk through the gated entrance and the house reveals itself gradually, framed by specimen trees that have had decades to reach their full, impressive height. The façade has a quiet confidence about it — nothing showy, just solid mid-century lines that hold up exceptionally well. Inside, the living room is the heart of everything: generous in scale, with a working fireplace anchoring one wall, a mezzanine gallery adding vertical drama, and light coming in from multiple directions. The parquet floors throughout have the warmth that only real wood develops over time — no laminate shortcut here. Exposed stonework and original plaster cornices add layers of detail that would cost a fortune to replicate today. The four bedrooms are arranged sensibly for a family or for hosting guests across the seasons. One opens onto a ... click here to read more

On a warm July evening in Saint-Maurin, the smell of grilled duck and lavender drifts up from the village square, where the weekly summer night market has spilled across the cobblestones beneath strings of amber light. You pull open the tall French doors in your living room and step straight into the garden, glass in hand, the low Lot-et-Garonne hills rolling out ahead of you in that particular shade of gold that only exists in southwest France at dusk. This is what owning this 19th-century stone house actually feels like. Not a renovation fantasy — a life. Saint-Maurin sits quietly in one of the most genuinely lovely historic villages in the Lot-et-Garonne, the kind of place that shows up on lists of the most beautiful villages in France and somehow still hasn't been discovered by the crowds. The old Benedictine abbey anchors the village center, its warm stone facade unchanged for centuries, and the weekly rhythms here are comfortingly real: a proper épicerie within walking distance, a café where the same faces appear every morning, and a village that actually lives rather than merely performs its heritage. Summer brings the marchés nocturnes that the whole surrounding area comes to — a proper, food-forward evening market with regional producers, live music drifting across the square, and a festive atmosphere that feels earned rather than manufactured. Come September, the vendanges and walnut harvests begin in the surrounding farms, and the air carries that unmistakable mix of woodsmoke and ripe fruit that marks autumn in Gascony. The house itself is 189 square metres of original 19th-century fabric, and it has kept its soul intact. Step inside and the sequence of original details is genuinely impressive: exposed ston ... click here to read more

Picture this: a Sunday morning in Moncaut, the kitchen window propped open, the smell of a café crème drifting up from somewhere down the lane, and absolutely no reason to be anywhere else. That's the particular magic of this three-bedroom 18th-century village house in the Lot-et-Garonne — a part of southwestern France that doesn't try to impress you, because it doesn't need to. Moncaut sits just outside Agen, the kind of small French village that hasn't reinvented itself for tourists and is better for it. The Wednesday market in Agen's old quarter has been running for generations — stalls selling Agen prunes (the area's famous AOC export, eaten fresh in season or soaked in Armagnac in winter), duck confit from local farms, goat's cheese wrapped in chestnut leaves. Life here moves at a pace that feels deliberate rather than slow. The Garonne river runs through the valley below, and on clear mornings you can see mist lifting off the water from the upper floor of the house. The property itself spans 145 square metres across three levels and dates to the 1700s — but don't let that conjure images of damp walls and draughty floors. This house has been properly sorted out. New double-glazed windows keep winters quiet and warm. Aluminium shutters go up or down in seconds. A pellet-burner heating system means running costs stay sensible, and the whole place has been redecorated with a palette that manages to feel both period-appropriate and genuinely liveable — warm tones, no fussy details, nothing you'd want to change the moment you arrived. Walk through the front door and you're straight into the sitting room, which opens directly into the fitted country kitchen. High beamed ceilings make the space feel generous without bei ... click here to read more

Sunday morning in Anais moves slowly. The kind of slowly you forget exists until you're standing in a French kitchen at 8am, coffee in hand, watching light creep across a garden that actually has room to breathe. That's the rhythm this four-bedroom Charente house runs on — and once you feel it, city life starts to look a little absurd. Built in the 1970s on a full basement, this solid family home in the Poitou-Charentes region sits in good condition and carries the kind of practical bones that make a second home genuinely liveable from day one. No romantic ruin-restoration headaches here. The ground floor opens into a kitchen, dining room, veranda, a corridor connecting to the basement and upper level, a toilet, a dressing room, a first bedroom, and a master suite with its own shower room. Upstairs, you'll find a second bedroom, a bathroom, a dedicated office — useful for those who can't fully unplug even on holiday — and a landing corridor linking it all together. Four bedrooms total, spread across a generous 138 square metres of interior space. The wood-burning insert in the main living area earns its keep the moment October arrives in Charente. Double glazing keeps things quiet and comfortable year-round, and the septic tank sanitation system is already in place — a detail international buyers often overlook until the paperwork stage. The outbuilding is one of those genuinely rare finds: it houses a traditional bread oven. Not a decorative one. A working bread oven waiting to be fired up for weekend baking sessions or the kind of long, smoky dinner parties that only happen in French countryside. Then there's the covered swimming pool, enclosed under a dome structure — currently in need of restoration to bring it b ... click here to read more

Step outside on a Tuesday morning and the only sounds you'll hear are the distant moo of Charolais cattle in the field next door and the wood pigeons working the oak at the far end of the meadow. That's Rom. Not a place most tourists pass through, but exactly the kind of unhurried corner of Poitou-Charentes that people who've done the Dordogne circuit a dozen times eventually find their way to — and then quietly start buying. This five-bedroom stone house sits on just over 6,400 square metres of land in the commune of Rom, in Deux-Sèvres, priced at €230,000 all in. At 164 square metres of living space in the main house, plus a fully independent 49-square-metre gîte, a 130-square-metre barn, a gym, a games room, and a carport — this is not a property that runs out of purpose. Walk through the front door and the bones of the place hit you immediately. Exposed limestone walls, thick and cool in summer. Original oak beams crossing the ceilings in every bedroom upstairs. Parquet underfoot. These aren't cosmetic details someone stapled on during a renovation — they're structural, authentic, the kind of craftsmanship that stopped being common practice a century ago. The open-plan kitchen and dining room is big enough to actually feed a crowd, which matters when this becomes the gathering point for extended family summers. Off to one side, the separate sitting room has a stone fireplace with a wood-burning stove — the kind of room that earns its keep from October through March when the Deux-Sèvres countryside turns cool and golden and quiet. Upstairs, four bedrooms with beamed ceilings share a family bathroom with a bath. The ground floor has a shower room and utility room, keeping daily life functional without fuss. The prop ... click here to read more

On a slow Sunday morning in Le Pin, the smell of bread drifting from the boulangerie two streets over is enough to make you forget the rest of the world exists. The church bell marks the half hour. A neighbour waves from across the lane. Your coffee is getting cold, but you don't much care, because you're sitting on the covered stone porch of an 18th-century village house in southwest France, and there is genuinely nowhere better to be. That's the daily reality of owning this four-bedroom stone house in Le Pin, a quietly confident little village tucked into Tarn-et-Garonne, in the heart of Midi-Pyrénées. This isn't a postcard version of rural France that collapses under scrutiny. It's the real thing — a proper community, real stone underfoot, 900 square metres of land, and a house that has already done the hard work of becoming somewhere worth living. The renovation story matters here. Too many houses in this corner of France sell the dream and deliver a project. This one doesn't. The current owners have gone through the property methodically and spent seriously — new heat pump, double glazing throughout, an energy rating of B, which in this region and this era of construction is genuinely remarkable. The result is a house that runs cheaply and comfortably year-round. You arrive with your bags, you open the shutters, and you start living. That's it. Inside, the bones of the 18th century are still very much present. The original stone staircase anchors the entrance hall. Travertine flooring catches the afternoon light in a way that no reproduction material ever quite manages. Exposed beams run the length of the ceilings in the main rooms, and the proportions throughout are the kind that modern construction simply doesn ... click here to read more

Saturday morning. The log burner is crackling in the sitting room, the smell of woodsmoke drifting toward the open window, and out past the terrace, the rolling valleys of the Tarn-et-Garonne stretch as far as you can see — all golden fields, dark tree lines, and absolutely nobody else. This is the kind of quiet that people spend years trying to find. This 19th-century stone house in the commune of Castelsagrat sits in one of the most underrated corners of southwest France. Three bedrooms, two bathrooms, 110 square metres of honest, well-kept interior — and then the land, the views, the silence. At €229,000, it's the sort of property that makes you recalculate your priorities. The house itself has real bones. The rendered stone facade is classic Tarn-et-Garonne — solid, thick-walled construction that keeps rooms cool through the scorching July and August heat without you touching a dial. Inside, the sitting room centres on a log-burning stove that earns its keep from November through March. Terracotta-tiled floors run underfoot, exposed oak beams cross the ceilings above, and the country kitchen feels like the kind of room where Sunday lunches start at noon and end somewhere around four. Electric heating supplements the wood-burner during shoulder seasons when it's more chilly than cold. The whole ground floor has a relaxed, unhurried feel — this isn't a house that's trying to impress you. It just works. The storage rooms are worth special mention. Large, with genuine potential — convert them into a gite, a guest annex, a studio, or leave them as generous working storage for a household that actually uses its land. The groundwork is there for anyone who wants to expand the footprint without touching the main character ... click here to read more

On a still morning in Corneilla-del-Vercol, the air already carries warmth before nine o'clock. You slide open the wide glass doors from the living room, step out onto the sun-warmed terrace, and the pool catches the light in that particular way it only does in the Roussillon — deep blue, almost unnaturally vivid against the ochre and terracotta of the surrounding landscape. The Pyrenees are visible to the southwest. The Med is twenty minutes by car. This is the South of France that people actually live in, not the postcard version sold to tourists. Corneilla-del-Vercol sits in the Pyrénées-Orientales, tucked between Perpignan and the coast, in a part of France that locals call the Pays Catalan. It's a genuinely Catalan corner of France — bilingual road signs, sardane dancing in village squares on summer evenings, and a food culture that pulls as much from Barcelona as it does from Paris. The Saturday market in Perpignan's Place de la République sells goat cheese from the Conflent valley, anchovies from Collioure packed in salt the old way, and the blood-orange jurancons that grow practically in your backyard. You get to Perpignan's city centre in under fifteen minutes. The TGV station there connects you to Paris in under five hours, or Barcelona in ninety minutes — which matters enormously if you're buying this as a second home and flying in from London, Amsterdam, or Brussels. The villa itself sits entirely on one level, which sounds like a minor detail until you actually live in it. No stairs. Every room flows directly outward. Three bedrooms, each fitted with oversized windows that push open to let in the evening garrigue breeze — that dry, wild-herb scent that drifts down from the scrubland above the plain. One be ... click here to read more

Saturday morning in Laroque-des-Albères starts with a sound: swallows cutting sharp arcs over the rooftops, the distant clang of the church bell on the main square, and somewhere close by, someone firing up a wood-fired grill. You open the south-facing terrace door, coffee in hand, and the entire ridgeline of the Albères massif sits right there in front of you — no cranes, no apartment blocks, just the ancient limestone spine of the Pyrenees catching the early Catalan sun. That's the daily reality of this fully renovated single-storey house in one of the Pyrénées-Orientales' most sought-after villages. Two bedrooms, a brand-new kitchen, landscaped terraces, a 350m² garden plot, and energy costs running between €810 and €1,160 per year. At €330,000, it represents serious value for a turn-key second home in French Catalonia. Laroque-des-Albères sits at the precise point where the Pyrenees give way to the coastal plain, tucked just above the valley floor on the road that threads between the French and Spanish Catalan worlds. The village itself has kept its shape — stone houses tight along narrow lanes, a café terrace where old men still play pétanque on weekday afternoons, a weekly market that spills across the square with vendors selling local honey, Roussillon wines, and anchovies from Collioure. It's not a tourist fabrication. People actually live here year-round, which gives the place a grounded, unhurried rhythm that resort towns simply can't manufacture. The house sits in a cul-de-sac less than two minutes' walk from the village centre. That proximity matters more than it might sound on paper. You can leave the car in the garage and forget about it for days. Bread from the boulangerie, a cold rosé at the bar, dinne ... click here to read more

Picture this: it's nine in the morning, the kitchen smells of strong coffee and toast, and through the full-height windows the hills of Quercy Blanc roll out in front of you, pale limestone and dark cypress under an already-warm July sky. You're not on holiday in some anonymous resort. You're in your own place — a converted barn in a hamlet outside Lauzerte, one of France's classified "Plus Beaux Villages", and the day is entirely yours. This is what 226 square metres of seriously well-considered living space feels like when someone with a genuine eye has put it together. The previous owner was an antique dealer, and it shows — not in a cluttered, fussy way, but in the confidence of someone who knows what works. Exposed stone walls meet polished concrete floors. Original oak beams run across ceilings that climb to full height. A Canadian 20kW log-burning stove anchors the sitting room, the kind of stove that makes winter weekends here feel like a gift rather than a compromise. The interplay of raw and refined — reclaimed architectural salvage alongside clean, contemporary lines — gives the interior a quality that photographs well but feels even better in person. The kitchen is properly equipped. Integrated appliances, modern fittings, no compromises for the sake of aesthetics. Three bathrooms across the four bedrooms mean no queuing, no negotiating over schedules, no friction — exactly what you need when you've got a family or a group of friends under one roof. Built-in storage throughout and double glazing on every window mean this isn't just a summer house. You can use it in February and be comfortable. Step outside and the 1,100 square metres of private garden immediately make sense. The 8x4 metre pool is the obvio ... click here to read more

On a still Sunday morning in Monflanquin, the bells from the Église Saint-André carry clear across the bastide rooftops, and if you're standing on the roof terrace of this late-19th-century town house with a coffee in hand, the view rolls out all the way across the Lot-et-Garonne countryside in shades of green and gold. That moment alone could sell this house. But there's so much more. Monflanquin is one of those rare places that hasn't been polished smooth for tourists. It earned its spot on the Les Plus Beaux Villages de France list the hard way — medieval bastide grid, arcaded central square, stone and silence — and it wears the accolade quietly. The Wednesday market on the Place des Arcades draws locals who've been shopping there for decades: wedges of aged Cantal, jars of foie gras, flat baskets of mirabelle plums in late summer. You can walk from the front gate of this house to that market in under ten minutes. Walk back with a baguette and a bunch of dahlias and you've already lived the kind of morning most people only imagine. The house itself was built to impress. Whoever commissioned it at the turn of the last century had ambitions — you can see it in every deliberate detail. The slate roof is laid in fish-scale tiles, a technique that demands a craftsman's patience and looks extraordinary in afternoon light. Original cast-iron gates hang between stone gate posts at the entrance, still swinging on their original hinges. Step through the grand entranceway, with its geometric tiled floor, and you're inside a property that has held its dignity through more than a century without losing its warmth. The sitting room has a log-burning stove that earns its keep on January evenings when the Périgord Noir wind picks ... click here to read more

Sunday morning in Loubigné, and the only sounds reaching the upstairs master suite are birdsong, the faint creak of old timber beams settling in the warmth, and somewhere below, the soft clatter of someone starting coffee in the kitchen. That's what 338 square metres of stone-built French country house feels like when it's yours. Not a hotel. Not a rental. Yours. This seven-bedroom property in the Deux-Sèvres department of Poitou-Charentes is one of those houses that genuinely surprises you. The gravelled courtyard you pull into, shaded by established trees and framed by stone outbuildings, gives you a sense of arrival — real arrival, the kind where you exhale and your shoulders drop. Three separate entrances. Two garages. A 70 m² cluster of stone outbuildings that could become a workshop, a studio, a games barn, or simply the best storage you've ever had. And behind it all, a large heated swimming pool surrounded by terrace, with an outdoor shower, a pergola for shade, and a pétanque court set into the lawn. This is the French countryside as it's actually meant to be lived. Inside, the house has genuine scale. The main reception rooms include a large living room anchored by a stone fireplace with a wood-burning stove — the kind of fireplace that becomes the social centre of the house from October through March. There's a separate dining space, a sizeable games room, and a utility room that keeps the practical business of a large household from bleeding into the living spaces. The ground floor has been thoughtfully arranged so that one double bedroom, complete with its own bathroom (both bath and walk-in shower), sits alongside a separate reception room with its own fireplace and independent exterior access. For a visi ... click here to read more

You wake up on a Saturday morning in late September and the first thing you hear isn't traffic or a neighbour's lawnmower—it's the low, rhythmic creak of old stone and timber as the mill mechanism stirs in the morning air. Step to the window and the view is all soft mist lifting off the Tarn-et-Garonne countryside, a dovecote catching the early light, and rows of trees slowly turning amber at the edges. This is what owning a piece of southwest France actually feels like. Not a postcard. A life. This five-bedroom stone watermill in Lacour sits just over an hour's drive from Toulouse-Blagnac airport—close enough for a long weekend, far enough that you'll never hear a flight overhead. The mill itself is a genuine rarity. The original mechanical workings are still intact and fully operational. You can set them turning if you like, grind your own flour, or simply let them stand as the extraordinary conversation piece they are. Either way, the ground floor—where the machinery lives—is unlike anything you'll find in a standard country house renovation. It's part living history, part childhood fantasy. The residential accommodation spreads across the first and second floors, covering 198 square metres in total. Five bedrooms give you space for the whole family, a rotating cast of friends, or a combination of both across a long summer. Two bathrooms, stone floors worn smooth over centuries, exposed beamed ceilings, and a living room built around a working fireplace with an opening wide enough to take serious logs. On a January evening with the fire going and a bottle of Cahors Malbec open on the table, you'll understand exactly why people fall headlong for this part of France and never quite manage to leave. The property sits ... click here to read more

Step into the delightful world of rural living at this charming stone house nestled in the heart of Vanxains, Aquitaine. Tucked away on the edge of a quaint hamlet, this property seamlessly blends seclusion and community, making it an exceptional find for those seeking a peaceful retreat in the French countryside. With a generous plot of land surrounding it, you can truly embrace the tranquil lifestyle that this region is celebrated for. Now, let's paint a picture of what your life could be like here. Imagine waking up in the cozy upstairs bedroom, where the sunlight filters gently through double-glazed windows. The two bedrooms are perfectly sized for a small family, or perhaps for hosting guests from afar, who wish to experience the idyllic setting. With a shower room and separate WC conveniently located upstairs, mornings are as straightforward as they are peaceful. The stone house, fully restored and ready for immediate move-in, radiates the robust charm typical of French countryside homes. The moment you step in, the ground floor welcomes you with a spacious living room of about 22 square meters, featuring a wood stove that not only adds warmth but also character to the home. The tiled floors offer a practical and cool surface, a boon during the warmer months. Moving through to the kitchen/dining room, imagine cooking up delightful meals using local produce from nearby farmers' markets – a true French experience if there ever was one. Each room on the ground floor seamlessly opens onto a terrace, the perfect spot for morning coffee or an evening glass of wine, and all set against the backdrop of the serene French countryside. With a large barn, linked to the house by a scenic arched porch, you have ample space fo ... click here to read more

Discover the charm and potential of this classic three-bedroom country house nestled in the serene hamlet of Chassaignes, in the picturesque Dordogne region of Aquitaine, France. Ideal for those seeking to immerse themselves in the tranquil French countryside, this property offers a peaceful retreat with ample space for personal touches and enhancements. The house presents a generous floor plan spread over 121 square meters, featuring three well-appointed bedrooms and two bathrooms. The master bedroom, conveniently located on the ground floor, is complemented by an adjacent bathroom, ensuring privacy and comfort. The open-plan kitchen and dining area provide a spacious environment for family meals and gatherings, while a separate living room offers a cozy space for relaxation. Upstairs, you'll find two additional double bedrooms, each offering serene views of the surrounding countryside. These rooms share access to a large, modern bathroom equipped with a shower, catering easily to family living or guest accommodation. The property is set on nearly an acre of lawned gardens, adorned with mature trees and an above-ground pool, perfect for cooling off during warm summer days. The gated entrance opens to a gravelled courtyard, leading to a covered terrace where outdoor dining can be enjoyed in the shade, overlooking the scenic garden. While the house itself is in good condition, there is exciting potential for further personalization and expansion. Several barns and outbuildings could be transformed into additional living spaces, home offices, or creative studios, subject to obtaining the necessary permissions. Property Features: - Three bedrooms - Two bathrooms - Open-plan kitchen and dining area - Separate living roo ... click here to read more

Charming Cottage in Saint Privat en Périgord Nestled in the verdant landscape of Aquitaine in the Dordogne region, this three-bedroom, two-bathroom cottage offers a serene escape and a splendid opportunity for those looking to live in a tranquil setting, away from the bustle of urban life. With a footprint of 96 square meters, the residence is ideal for families or individuals seeking a peaceful retreat in the picturesque countryside of France. The cottage exudes a rustic charm with its original features still intact. While it is in good condition, the property presents a fantastic opportunity for the new owners to infuse it with their personal touch. Some modernization is needed, which lends this country home to be a delightful project for those ready to undertake minor renovations to transform it into a customized haven. Located in a lovely hamlet, the cottage is not far from the Grand Etang de La Jameye, a gorgeous leisure lake known for its summer season activities like kayaking, beach outings, and waterside dining. This proximity to nature and recreation adds value to the daily lives of its residents, making it not only a home but a continuous holiday-like experience. For more practical amenities, the cottage boasts a generous garden area approximately 1400 m² in size. Mature and well-tended, this garden affords ample space for outdoor family activities, gardening enthusiasts, or simply unwinding amidst nature. Living in Saint Privat en Périgord offers a peaceful lifestyle surrounded by natural beauty. The climate here is temperate, marked by warm summers and mild winters, conducive to outdoor activities year-round. The community is inviting, perfect for expats or overseas buyers seeking a smooth transition int ... click here to read more

Nestled in the picturesque Dordogne countryside, just minutes away from the lively town of Ribérac, lies a country house with its own unique appeal. This four-bedroom home, situated in the village of Villetoureix, opens up a world of opportunities for those seeking an idyllic French retreat. With a plot size of 1505m² and a total built area of 184m², it's perfectly sized for those seeking both comfort and a taste of rural France. One of the first things you'll notice about this house is its traditional features, lovingly preserved to offer a glimpse into the past while meeting modern living standards. As you enter, the light-drenched rooms reveal exposed beams overhead and sturdy stone floors underfoot. The living area downstairs is open-plan, making it a welcoming space for family gatherings and entertaining guests. Imagine having lively conversations with friends by the cozy wood burner during those cooler winter months—there's a certain warmth to it all, quite literally and figuratively. Now, let's talk rest and relaxation. The upstairs is dedicated to four comfortable bedrooms, each offering a serene escape from the day's hustle and bustle. From the windows, you'll be mesmerized by the sweeping views of the immense green that characterizes the French countryside—views that you won't tire of any time soon. Two well-appointed bathrooms cater to the needs of a family or visiting guests, adding to the easy-living vibe. Outside, you'll find a private garden that feels almost timeless, with mature trees that might have a million stories to tell. There's a terrace that's practically crying out for alfresco dining occasions. Whether it's sipping coffee as the sun rises or enjoying a late afternoon aperitif, this space is ... click here to read more

Are you in the market for a charming country home in Ribérac, nestled in the stunning region of Aquitaine, France? This picturesque villa offers a taste of tranquil rural living while still being only a short distance from town. With its unique character and a practical layout, this property provides an inviting canvas for those seeking a serene lifestyle in the heart of the French countryside. Allow me to guide you through this appealing residence, bearing in mind that my busy schedule as a real estate agent assures you this opportunity is not to be missed! Ribérac, located in the Dordogne area, is known for its charming rustic atmosphere and warm climate. The area is blessed with sunshine for the better part of the year, yet it still enjoys a refreshing mildness—a delightful climate balance that makes living here particularly pleasant. The rhythms of life in Ribérac are no rush, charmingly slow and relaxed. Picture Sundays spent savouring a baguette or butter croissants from the local boulangerie or diving into deliciously fresh cheeses from the traditional saturday market. The villa itself is just 5 minutes from Ribérac. It provides the perfect blend of comfort and potential, standing ready for both your immediate enjoyment and future touches of personalisation. Encompassed by a sprawling 13,131 m2 plot of land, this property is set in a beautifully wooded park garden that promises an immersive nature retreat. This property's outdoors offers endless possibilities—perhaps a spot for barbecues, picnics, or even planting your garden as the previous owners did. It's such a big patch of land you'll never run out of ideas. Here’s a closer look at what this home offers: - Generous living room (53 m2) with fitted kitchen ... click here to read more

Nestled in the picturesque town of Ribérac, within the scenic region of Aquitaine, France, this charming 3-bedroom stone house offers a perfect blend of rustic appeal and ample space, making it an ideal purchase for those looking to settle into the tranquil pace of rural French life. This house, generously spread across a 104 square meter area, features a spacious living room, which is anchored by an impressive stone fireplace that promises cozy evenings. The traditional kitchen is functional and ripe for customization should new owners choose to infuse it with a more contemporary flair. The home also boasts a study, particularly useful for those who might work remotely or require a quiet space to read and relax. Accommodation is provided by two comfortably sized bedrooms and an additional mezzanine bedroom, which could serve as a delightful retreat for guests or be transformed into a hobby room. Further enhancing the living space is a summer room on the ground level, providing a sun-filled spot for leisurely afternoons with a book or hosting gatherings. Practical amenities include a utility room, a boiler room, and a cellar, offering ample storage and utility space. Outdoors, the property sits on a vast 5436 square meter land, graced with a large garden that invites a gardening enthusiast's touch and includes a well—an invaluable feature for maintaining the garden. Additionally, there is a separate barn that presents potential for various uses, whether as extra storage space, a workshop, or even conversion into additional living quarters with some refurbishment. While the house is in good condition, it holds the promise for further enhancements and personalization. It’s a welcoming canvas for those looking to imprin ... click here to read more

Discover the allure of living in the beautiful region of Aquitaine, France, with this captivating villa located in Bourg-Du-Bost. This property is nestled in a tranquil setting yet still in close proximity to some of the region's most enchanting attractions. A rare opportunity awaits for those seeking a serene lifestyle amid the picturesque landscapes of southwestern France. Upon arriving at this delightful three-bedroom villa, you'll immediately notice the sizable grounds in which the property is set, offering both privacy and space. The villa extends over a generous area of 175 square meters, providing ample space for comfortable living. As you step inside, you'll find a layout designed to accommodate family living or hosting guests with ease. The villa features: - 3 spacious bedrooms - A total of 3 bathrooms - An expansive master suite occupying the entire 1st floor - A bright lounge area perfect for relaxation - A fully equipped kitchen - A lovely dining area - Extensive grounds of 6395 square meters - A studio accommodate separate from the villa - Useful outbuildings for storage or potential projects - A large terrace ideal for entertaining - A refreshing 12m x 4m swimming pool, perfect for warm days - Mature gardens that beautify the property - Secure, gated entry While the property is ready to move in, there's room for enhancement, allowing new homeowners the chance to infuse their personal style. The villa might require some refreshment—perhaps a fresh coat of paint or a touch of modernization—but it holds immense potential to be transformed into a splendid retreat. Bourg-Du-Bost is perfectly situated to offer the best of both worlds: the rural tranquillity of village life and access to vibrant nearby towns. ... 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

Welcome to the enchanting town of Ribérac, nestled within the idyllic French countryside of Aquitaine, Dordogne. It is here that you will find a traditional, charming three-bedroom house eagerly awaiting its new owners. With numerous wonderful features and nestled on an extensive 11875 sq. meter estate, it’s the perfect abode for those seeking an authentic French lifestyle, away from the city's hustle and bustle. The interior of the house stretches over 181 sq. meters and includes two bathrooms, and three bedrooms that evoke a sense of tranquility and calm. Painted with a palette of calming light colors, the walls seem to whisper tales of serenity, reflecting the gentle splendor of the countryside surroundings. The bedrooms are at once cozy and spacious, with each offering ample room for personalization, from quirky bookshelves to artistic canvases. The startling beauty of the house extends to its open plan kitchen-slash-dining room that adjoins the living area—a space perfect for hosting soirees, informal brunches, or simply enjoying a quiet dinner. The centerpiece of this harmonious open-space environment is undeniably the welcoming glow and comforting warmth of the rustic fireplaces that make even the coldest winter nights a truly cozy experience. Another distinctive feature of this house is its separate living room that boasts an innovative mezzanine, offering the perfect perch for a home office, a reading nook, or an art studio. However, the magic truly lies outdoors. A well-maintained swimming pool invites you to indulge in a refreshing dip, forget about the sweltering summer, and immerse yourself in tranquillity. The accompanying pool house offers extra storage space or can be transformed into a charming summe ... 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

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 Aquitaine, Dordogne, within the charming town of Ribérac, France, lies a two-bedroom stone house that blends traditional architecture with modern comfort. This character-laden property, priced at €199,800, is poised as an attractive option for overseas buyers and expats seeking a serene lifestyle with a touch of rural French charm. Property Overview The house stands proudly on a generous plot of nearly 3580 square meters, offering expansive outdoor space for gardening, leisure, and potentially more. The main building includes two well sized bedrooms with the flexibility of reconfiguring spaces to add an additional bedroom. The ground floor features a family bathroom, with another WC en-suite located on the upper level. Among the highlights of this abode are the two commodious reception rooms, each warmed by cozy wood burners that promise comfort during the cooler months. Leisure and Renovation Opportunities The first floor unfolds into a bright and open 70 square meters leisure space, providing a blank canvas for new owners to infuse their personal touch. Attached to the main house is an old building of approximately 55 square meters needing full renovation. This space, subject to appropriate permissions, offers an excellent opportunity for those looking to dive into a project or create a separate dwelling for rental purposes, thus potentially adding to the property's value and function. Amenities Include: - Spacious garage - Private well - Greenhouse - Extensive garden space for outdoor activities or additional landscaping Living in Ribérac: An Overview Ribérac presents a blend of historical allure and contemporary convenience, making it an ideal locale for those seeking a blend of both. From ... click here to read more

If you're on the lookout for a tranquil yet charming place to call home in the French countryside, look no further than this delightful four-bedroom house located in Aquitaine, Dordogne, Ribérac, France. This pretty cottage, filled with traditional charm, offers a perfect blend of old-world character and modern amenities. Whether you're an expat seeking a new start or an overseas buyer looking for a serene retreat, this house could be just what you need. Let's start with the property itself. As you enter this inviting home, you're greeted by a family dining area with a charming chimney, setting the scene for cozy family meals. The recently renovated kitchen, featuring lovely travertine flooring, is well-situated in the center of the house. The welcoming ambiance is emphasized by lovely original elm stairs that lead you to the upper floor. This staircase guides you through a hallway to a family bathroom equipped with a shower, a laundry room, a separate WC, and eventually, a cozy lounge area filled with natural light and a built-in library. You’ll love the views of the garden from here! The house boasts four bedrooms. The parental bedroom, measuring 26m², comes with its own dressing area. In addition, there are two more bedrooms, an office space, and a storage room that could potentially be converted into a second bathroom – subject to necessary permissions, of course. Here are some key features of the property: - 4 bedrooms - 1 bathroom with shower - Separate WC - Laundry room - Cozy lounge with library - Parental bedroom with dressing - Office space - Storage room (potential for second bathroom) - Pellet burner (installed 2022) for heating - Additional electric radiators in bedrooms - Double glazing throughout - Fib ... click here to read more

Welcome to your potential new home in the scenic Ribérac, situated within the lush landscapes of Aquitaine, Dordogne, France. If you are considering purchasing a property abroad, particularly in a quaint French town, this four-bedroom stone house offers both charm and practical living in the heart of one of France's most picturesque regions. This generously sized townhouse stands as a testament to robust construction and thoughtful layout, spanning a total of 154 square meters. The house is in good condition, furnishing a ready-to-move-in space with considerable potential for customization to your taste. It offers a synergy of comfort and functionality, making it an ideal choice for families or those who relish spacious living. Upon entering the house, you are greeted by a fully equipped kitchen that promises to be the heart of culinary exploration and family gatherings. Adjoining this is a vast dining and sitting room, punctuated by a traditional chimney that promises cozy evenings during the cooler months. The ground floor also includes a versatile room that can serve as an office or additional bedroom, a veranda, and a conveniently located toilet. The upper level hosts four well-proportioned double bedrooms, providing ample private space for all members of the family. Supporting these bedrooms is a generously sized bathroom that includes both a shower and toilet, ensuring practicality alongside comfort. The house further extends its living space outdoors with a covered terrace—perfect for al fresco dining and enjoying the serene garden view. For those with vehicles, the property includes a sizable double garage and an additional smaller garage, offering plenty of storage space or the possibility to create a worksh ... 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

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 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

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