Charming Stone House in Gurat, Poitou-Charentes: Ideal Second Home Retreat

Sunday morning in Savignac-Lédrier, and the smell of woodsmoke curls up from the stove before you've even put the kettle on. Through the kitchen window, open fields stretch out to the tree line, the kind of view that makes you put your phone down and just stand there for a minute. This is rural Dordogne — unhurried, deeply rooted, and still genuinely affordable for buyers who move quickly. At 99,000 euros for a four-bedroom stone village house with a flower garden and unobstructed countryside views, this property sits in a price bracket that barely exists in France anymore, particularly in the Dordogne — a département that has quietly become one of the most sought-after corners of southwest Europe for second home buyers from the UK, Netherlands, and Scandinavia. The bones are solid, the condition is good, and someone has clearly loved this house for years. It shows. Step inside through the entrance hallway and you're immediately greeted by a small interior courtyard bursting with potted plants and climbing flowers — the kind of detail that takes years to cultivate and costs nothing to inherit. The ground floor opens into a generous living and dining room anchored by a wood-burning stove, which transforms the space from October through to March when the Périgord evenings drop sharply. There's a fitted kitchen that actually functions — not a renovation project, but a room you can cook in from day one. A ground-floor bedroom with its own wood-burning stove and a built-in library doubles brilliantly as a reading room or a guest suite for friends who can't manage stairs. A shower room with WC completes the lower level. Upstairs, three further bedrooms and a bathroom with WC give the house real flexibility — a family with c ... 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

On a quiet summer evening in Bourg-de-Visa, you pull a chair into your stone courtyard, pour something cold, and listen. Swallows cutting low arcs over the square. A muffled football commentary drifting from Rémy's café across the way. The smell of bread from the village boulangerie still hanging faintly in the warm Quercy air. This is not a simulation of French village life — it's the actual thing, and this 19th-century stone house sits right at the center of it. The house occupies an almost theatrical position on a secondary square, its stone frontage running nearly the full length of one side. That matters more than you might think. In a village this size, your address is your identity, and this one announces itself with quiet confidence. Four bedrooms, two bathrooms, three barns, a sheltered courtyard, off-street parking, and a small garden — all of it in genuinely good condition, all of it inside walking distance of everything Bourg-de-Visa has to offer. Step through the entrance and you're into a large open-plan living space that the current owners have transformed with real care. A log-burning stove anchors one end — a genuinely useful thing here from October through April, when Tarn-et-Garonne mornings carry a sharp chill. The kitchen is modern and properly fitted, which anyone who has renovated a French country property will tell you is a gift not to be taken lightly. It opens directly onto the courtyard, that private outdoor room that becomes the true heart of the house from May onwards. Aperitifs out there on a June evening, the old stone still warm from the afternoon sun, is the kind of simple pleasure this property was made for. Period features survive throughout — exposed stonework, original proportions, ... 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

Some mornings in Masseret, the only sound is the wood-burning stove ticking to life and the distant call of a kite circling above the tree line. You push open the kitchen shutters and the Corrèze countryside rolls out in front of you — green fields, oak woodland, farmsteads half-hidden in the folds of the hills. It's the kind of view that makes you put the coffee down and just stand there for a while. This 132-square-metre stone house sits in the commune of Masseret in the Corrèze department, one of the least-crowded and most quietly compelling corners of the Limousin region. The price — €180,000 — reflects the real French countryside, not the glossy version sold to tourists. This is the France that locals actually live in, and it's exactly what draws a growing wave of international buyers looking for something genuine. The house reads as traditional from the outside: natural stone walls, a slate roof, timber detailing around the windows. These aren't cosmetic additions. They're original, and they carry the kind of weight and texture that new builds spend fortunes trying to fake. The mature garden wraps around the property — established trees, flowering shrubs, a sense of things that have been growing here for decades. You won't be planting hedges and waiting ten years for privacy. It's already here. Step inside and the living room does the work that every French country house should. Exposed oak beams run across the ceiling. The wooden floors are warm underfoot even in January, which matters here, because Limousin winters are real winters — crisp, clear, properly cold. The fireplace is the room's anchor, with a wood-burning stove that connects directly to the central heating system. So you're not choosing between atm ... click here to read more

Sunday morning in Verfeil, and the smell of fresh bread from the boulangerie at the end of the lane drifts through the kitchen window before you've even made coffee. That's not a fantasy — it's just Tuesday here, or any other day of the week. This is a village with an actual bakery, an actual restaurant, and an actual rhythm that you slot into almost immediately. The house itself is built from the same warm ochre stone you see throughout this corner of the Tarn and Tarn-et-Garonne borderlands — thick walls that keep things cool in July and hold heat in February. It's been restored with care. The kind of restoration where someone made good decisions: a quality kitchen that doesn't feel like a showroom, a dining area that flows without forcing it into an open-plan living space, all on the ground floor so there's a logic to how you move through the day. Cook, eat, spill out onto the terrace. It just works. And that terrace. There's a generous covered area purpose-built for long lunches that start at one o'clock and end when the light changes — something the French have perfected and visitors quietly adopt. Beyond it, the garden drops into a plunge pool, cold enough to actually matter during the weeks in July and August when temperatures in this part of Occitanie climb well into the mid-30s. Shade, stone, water. You don't need much more than that. Back inside, the stairs take you up to two bedrooms on the first floor, each with its own ensuite — so two couples, or parents and older children, can coexist without the usual morning queue for the bathroom. Then above that, the attic bedroom. It's the kind of room that people argue over quietly: sloped ceilings, the faint creak of old timber, a sense of being under the rooftop ... click here to read more

Picture this: it's a Tuesday morning in late June, and you're sitting on a stone terrace with a bowl of café au lait watching the mist lift off the Tarn-et-Garonne valleys below. No traffic. No notifications. Just the low clang of a cowbell somewhere down the hill and the smell of warm limestone. That's the ordinary Tuesday this 19th-century farmhouse in Roquecor makes possible. This is a proper French country house — solid walls, real character, a past you can feel in the thick stone and hand-worn steps. At 120 square metres it's not trying to be a château. It's a house you could actually live in, maintain without a team of groundskeepers, and love without it becoming a second job. Two bedrooms, one bathroom, and a kitchen that opens into a living room with a wood-burning stove. When January comes and the Quercy Blanc plateau turns silver with frost, you'll understand exactly why that stove exists. The covered terrace deserves its own paragraph. Long, generous, and oriented toward the kind of view that makes guests go quiet — rolling countryside in every direction, no rooftop intrusions, no pylons cutting the horizon. This is where summer happens. Lunch bleeds into afternoon, afternoon into apéro, and suddenly it's dark and nobody's moved in three hours. The productive vegetable garden alongside it means that summer lunch might involve tomatoes picked twelve minutes ago, which changes things entirely. Roquecor itself sits in the northern reaches of Tarn-et-Garonne, close to the border with Lot-et-Garonne, in a part of France that doesn't feature on the overrun tourist trail. That's the point. The village of Puylaroque is a ten-minute drive and has everything for daily life — a bakery, a pharmacy, a market on Wednesda ... click here to read more

Step out of the front door on a Sunday morning and the smell of fresh bread from the boulangerie two streets over drifts past you before you've even decided where to walk. That's Castelsagrat. A proper bastide village perched above the rolling farmland of Tarn-et-Garonne, where the main square still functions exactly as it was intended — people gathering, locals arguing cheerfully over pétanque, market stalls spilling color onto the old stone paving. This three-bedroom house sits just off that square on a quiet side road, and the address alone tells you something: you're in the middle of the action, but shielded from it. The building has its own quiet history. Before it became the house it is today, it was a workshop where craftsmen built wooden horse-drawn carriages — you can still feel that purposeful, practical quality in the bones of the structure. Thick 19th-century stone walls that keep rooms cool through the heat of July. Ceiling beams worn smooth. Wide wooden floorboards that creak in exactly the right places. The previous owners had the good sense to leave all of that alone and simply update around it — the kitchen is fitted and contemporary, the bathrooms are clean and modern, and part double glazing means the winters are manageable without the kind of heating bills that haunt older stone properties. The layout makes everyday life easy. The sitting room is on the first floor, elevated above the lane below, so the log-burning stove does its work while you watch the light change across the valley through the windows. In autumn, when the plane trees along the road start dropping leaves and the air sharpens, this room becomes the reason you bought the house. The kitchen opens directly onto a balcony — not a symbo ... click here to read more

On a still weekday morning in Bourg-de-Visa, the smell of fresh bread drifts from the boulangerie four minutes' walk up the lane before you've even thought about making coffee. That's the pace of life here — unhurried, rooted, real. This 1850s stone barn, once a working forge, has been carefully converted into a two-bedroom house that sits quietly behind a stone wall on the village edge, its garden opening up to rolling Tarn-et-Garonne countryside that stretches further than you'd think possible for somewhere so easy to reach. Midi-Pyrénées is one of those parts of France that doesn't announce itself loudly. No famous coastline, no ski resort posters plastered at Charles de Gaulle. What it has instead is the kind of slow, unselfconscious rural beauty that people spend years searching for and rarely find — and Bourg-de-Visa sits right in the heart of it. The village has genuine life to it. A weekly market, a café where the same retired farmers have been occupying the same chairs since the 1980s, and those summer night markets that run through July and August: outdoor tables, local wine, grilled meats, children chasing each other between the stalls until well past dark. It's the France visitors imagine and tourists rarely stumble across. The house itself carries its history well. The original stone walls are thick enough to keep rooms cool through the heat of a Quercy summer — and this corner of France runs hot from June through September, with long golden evenings that make the tiled terrace off the kitchen feel like an extension of the living room. Step through the gated entrance off the lane, and the first thing you notice is the well at the centre of the lawn, flanked by established trees that throw proper shade. The ... click here to read more

On a still morning in Coussac-Bonneval, the only sound you'll hear from the kitchen window is birdsong and the faint clang of the village church bell marking the hour. That's not a selling point — that's just Tuesday. This is a corner of rural France that hasn't been polished for tourists, and that's exactly what makes it worth your attention. This three-bedroom stone village house sits in the heart of Coussac-Bonneval, a quietly compelling commune in the Haute-Vienne department of Limousin, and it has been fully renovated without losing the bones that make it genuinely special. The original parquet floors are still there, worn smooth in the best possible way. The exposed timber beams cross the ceilings upstairs with the kind of presence you simply can't recreate. Two fireplaces anchor the interior, and a wood-burning stove in the living and dining room turns a rainy October evening into something you'd want to repeat every year. At 153 square metres spread across two levels, the house has real breathing room. The ground floor opens with an entrance hall that leads into a generous 39-square-metre living and dining space — French doors push open to a south-facing terrace, and in summer you'll barely bother eating indoors. The kitchen is fully fitted and functional, with a ground-floor WC keeping the layout practical. Upstairs, three bedrooms share two bathrooms, each with its own WC, plus a further separate WC — sensible for families or groups of friends who all need to be somewhere at the same time on a Saturday morning. Outside is where this property really opens up. The walled garden runs to 1,101 square metres, giving you genuine privacy without feeling like you're managing an estate. There's a paved terrace for lo ... click here to read more

The bread oven is still there. So is the wine press. Standing in the larger of the two stone barns on a warm June morning, with swallows threading in and out of the rafters above you, it doesn't take long to understand that this 1847 farmhouse near Beauville wasn't just built — it was assembled with the kind of patience and permanence that nobody bothers with anymore. That original stone sink in the kitchen still works. The cast iron roll-top bath still gleams. Some things, if they're good enough to begin with, don't need replacing. This is a three-bedroom farmhouse in the rolling countryside of Lot-et-Garonne, priced at €199,000, sitting on a generous 3,500m2 garden with a separate 1.2-hectare plot attached. Two stone barns come with the property. The house itself runs to 93 square metres. It's in good condition — not a ruin, not a renovation project from hell — but it carries that particular lived-in warmth that a period property only gets after a century and a half of occupation. A little refreshing here and there, and it would be exactly what it already nearly is: one of the most quietly singular farmhouses in this corner of southwest France. Approach along the lane — and it really is a quiet lane, the kind where you occasionally have to pull over for a tractor and nobody minds — and the first thing you notice is how the house sits in the landscape. The Lot-et-Garonne valley rolls out around it in every direction, the kind of view that you'd pay an architect a fortune to fabricate if nature hadn't already done it for free. Established trees frame the garden. Gnarled vines push along their rows. Box hedging holds everything together. There's a vegetable patch, multiple fruit trees, and a small terrace positioned, wh ... click here to read more

Step outside on a Tuesday morning and you can hear the market vendors setting up in Montaigu-de-Quercy — the clatter of trestles, the smell of roasting garlic and fresh-cut lavender drifting up the hill — and you're only five minutes away by car. That particular detail matters more than you might think. This is the Quercy countryside at its most liveable: genuinely rural, genuinely quiet, but never cut off from the rhythm of a functioning French village life. The property itself is a converted stone barn, originally built in 1867, and it carries that age well. The walls are thick — proper thick, the kind that keep the ground floor cool through a July afternoon without air conditioning. About 45 years ago it was turned into a family home, and it's been lived in and loved since. Today it sits in good condition with some cosmetic updating still ahead of it, which is honestly where the opportunity lies. The bones are exceptional. The scale of the rooms, the exposed timber beams, the traditional tomette floor tiles in the living area — these are things you'd pay a premium for in a newly built property and still not quite get right. Here they're original. At 152 square metres across four bedrooms and two bathrooms, there's genuine room to breathe. The kitchen has the kind of proportions that make sense for a long Sunday lunch — enough counter space, a connection to the covered terrace through a door that you'll probably leave open from May through October. That terrace faces out over the garden and the view beyond it: a broad sweep of Quercy countryside rolling toward the Lot valley, with Roquecor's medieval silhouette visible on a clear day. The living room has a wood-burning stove set into the wall, flanked by exposed ston ... click here to read more

Stand at the French doors of this stone farmhouse on a July morning and the view hits you before the coffee finishes brewing — a rolling sweep of sunflower fields, all turned east, soaking up the early Poitou-Charentes light. Church bells carry from the village center just ten minutes on foot. The air smells of warm grass and something vaguely of lavender from the neighbor's garden. This is not a postcard. This is a Tuesday. Set in a quiet hamlet in the commune of Champniers in the Vienne department, this fully renovated stone farmhouse sits on 3,208 square meters of land and does something rare in the French countryside property market: it genuinely earns the word versatile. Three distinct buildings on one plot. A main house with soul, a ready-to-let gîte with its own wood-fired hot tub, and an independent stone structure currently serving as an art studio — but with serious potential as a second rental unit. For buyers who want a vacation home in rural France that also pays for itself, this is the kind of find that doesn't come around often. The main house is where you feel the bones of the place. Exposed limestone walls, original oak beams overhead, a pellet stove doing quiet work in the corner on cooler autumn evenings. The ground floor opens into a generous living, dining and kitchen space — the kind of layout that naturally pulls people together. Large double-glazed French doors spill onto a south-facing terrace, and from there the garden opens up into fruit trees and countryside views with no other rooftop in sight. Downstairs there's a bedroom with a freestanding bathtub — the sort of thing that stops house hunters in their tracks — plus a separate WC. Upstairs, a second bedroom connects to its own shower room. ... click here to read more

Experience the tranquil lifestyle of Vendoire, nestled in the picturesque region of Dordogne, Aquitaine, France. This charming four-bedroom stone house offers a delightful blend of rustic appeal and modern amenities, perfect for those looking to enjoy the peaceful French countryside. Set within a beautifully managed estate, this property provides residents with the benefits of low-maintenance living. Highlights include access to a large communal swimming pool, tennis court, boules court, and wonderfully maintained gardens. Whether you are looking for a serene holiday home or a permanent residence, this house caters to all needs with its comprehensive facilities and stunning surroundings. The house itself has been thoughtfully renovated to a good standard. The ground floor features a spacious kitchen equipped with modern appliances, leading into a cozy lounge complete with a wood burner and doors opening onto a lovely terrace. Here, you can unwind and enjoy views over the pool area and lush estate grounds. Additionally, a convenient downstairs bathroom adds to the practical layout of this home. Ascending to the first floor, the master bedroom boasts an en-suite shower room, offering privacy and comfort. Three additional bedrooms and a family shower room ensure there is ample space for both family and guests. Living in Vendoire provides a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and enjoy an array of activities. The estate is a mere ten-minute drive from a vibrant town that hosts supermarkets, a variety of shops, and restaurants. Explore local markets, indulge in traditional French cuisine, or partake in outdoor activities such as hiking and cycling that the region is famous for. For overseas buyers ... click here to read more

Embrace the serene countryside lifestyle in this charming 3-bedroom property in Vendoire, located in the Dordogne region of Aquitaine, France. Tucked away in a peaceful hamlet among the rolling hills and abundant greenery lies a beautiful stone barn, lovingly converted and extended into an immensely characterful home. This residential marvel weaves the charm of traditional construction materials with the sophistication of modern amenities, all seamlessly brought together by a blend of professional craftsmanship and building techniques of the highest standards. One eye-catching feature is the unique 'pigeonniere' tower that enhances the aesthetic appeal of the property, complemented by three terraces boasting stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Key property features: - A spacious kitchen (29m2) - Large living room (56m2) - Utility room - Pigeonnier tower - 2 bathrooms - 3 bedrooms - Size: 162m2 - Price: €299,000. Privileges of the Property: 1. Kitchen: Encapsulates the heart of a home, this roomy kitchen sports free-standing wood and brushed steel units, a Rangemaster bottled gas double-oven range, an electric griddle, five hobs, and an extractor fan for outstanding culinary adventures. The presence of a dishwasher, dryer, and space for an American-style fridge/freezer makes it incredibly user-friendly. Limestone flagstone floors add the perfect rustic touch. 2. Living Room: An entertainer's dream, this spacious room brings together limestone flagstone floors, massive oak beams, and a custom-made sliding glass barn door with an electric shutter for a comfortable gathering. 3. Bedrooms: All three bedrooms are brimming with charm and character, with solid oak flooring, ample plug sockets, and be ... click here to read more

Property Overview: Delve into the charming lifestyle of Champagne-et-Fontaine with this classic four-bedroom stone house, ideal for those seeking a genuine French countryside experience. Positioned in the heart of a quaint village that boasts a friendly local bar, this property offers a blend of comfort, character, and convenience, presenting itself as a perfect full-time residence or a holiday retreat for a family. Property Description: This inviting residence encapsulates the essence of rural French architecture with its timeless stone construction. Within its walls, the house encompasses four well-appointed bedrooms and two shower rooms, including an ensuite, making family living both practical and private. The large farmhouse-style kitchen serves as the heart of the home where meals and memories are made, complemented by two additional spacious reception rooms that can serve multiple purposes, whether it be a cozy lounge for relaxation or an activity room for children. Step outside to discover a charming walled garden and a picturesque courtyard entrance, creating a safe and secluded environment for children to play or for hosting outdoor gatherings. Adding to the ample space and potential of this property are the substantial outbuildings, which could be transformed into workshops, studios, or additional storage solutions. Despite its evident traditional charm, the residence is in good, liveable condition, yet leaves room for new owners to imprint their style and enhancements, truly making it a 'home'. New residents might consider some refurbishing to modernize and personalize the space further, particularly to maximize the functionality and aesthetic appeal of the outbuildings. Local Area and Amenities: Champagn ... click here to read more

Discover a charming, well-presented 1-bedroom house located in the serene and picturesque area of Nanteuil-Auriac-de-Bourzac in Dordogne, Aquitaine, France. This detached property offers a unique living experience, nestled within a generous plot that includes additional land across the lane. It features a recently added pigeonnier, enhancing the typical French architectural charm of the home. Upon entering the home, you're greeted by the cozy living room situated in the pigeonnier which smoothly transitions into an inner hallway. This space leads to a practical shower room and a separate toilet. The house provides versatile living spaces including two smaller rooms currently utilized as bedrooms, an office area, and a charming mezzanine. The dining kitchen is spacious, offering a warm and inviting atmosphere for family meals and gatherings. The romance of the property is elevated by the bedroom located on the first floor of the pigeonnier, which includes an en-suite shower room and double doors opening onto a quaint balcony. This is the perfect spot for morning coffees or quiet evening reflections. Outdoor living is equally gratifying with seating areas both at the front and rear of the house. The rear garden features an above ground pool surrounded by a deck, ideal for sunbathing and al fresco dining, allowing one to fully embrace the tranquil rural lifestyle. The local area of Nanteuil-Auriac-de-Bourzac is peaceful and typifies rural French charm, yet the property is not isolated. The bustling village of Verteillac is approximately 7 kilometers away and offers a good range of everyday amenities including shops, cafes, and a lively community atmosphere. For wider travel connections, Angouleme with its TGV links is a ... click here to read more

Experience the ambiance and stunning views of French countryside with this charming residence nestled in the rolling hills of South Charente and Dordogne, situated in the heart of the picturesque village of Salles-Lavalette, Poitou-Charentes, France. This stately property with an asking price of €795,000, offers a unique blend of historical charm and contemporary convenience, boasting no less than 13 bedrooms spaciously spread over the 499 m² estate. This captivating, characterful house provides an array of possibilities for prospective owners. Whether you dream of a roomy family dwelling, a guest cottage for itinerant family members, or a cozy bed and breakfast establishment, the property has the adaptability to suit your aspirations with minor modifications, or perhaps none at all. Property features include: - 13 roomy bedrooms - 5 well-appointed bathrooms - Multiple inviting reception rooms - Several comfortable lounging areas enhanced by natural stone fireplaces - A practical, sophisticated kitchen - An airy mezzanine featuring a sitting area - Various terraces, relaxation spaces, and panoramic views Discover the charm of authentic French architecture with every corner of the house offering a picturesque view over the charming local landscape. Enjoy the flow of natural light throughout the residence, amplifying the beauty of the home’s rustic details and infusing the entire structure with warmth. Outside, the 5500 m² of land features a meticulously maintained, landscaped garden; a spacious, heated pool; a tastefully designed sheltered outdoor kitchen area; a useful garage; and even a dedicated area for a sauna. All of these features are carefully curated to offer a complete rejuvenation experience. Ameni ... click here to read more

Sunday morning in Salles-Lavalette and the smell of fresh bread from the boulangerie two streets over drifts through the tall kitchen windows before you've even put the coffee on. That's not a fantasy — the bakery is genuinely that close, and yes, it's the kind of village where the baker knows your order by your second visit. This is Charente at its most unhurried, and this six-bedroom stone house sits right at the heart of it. At 293 square metres across a thoughtfully restored, characterful layout, the property is substantial without feeling cavernous. Step through the entrance hall and you're immediately in the 44-square-metre grand salon — a proper room with genuine presence, the sort of space where long dinners stretch past midnight without anyone feeling crowded. Original timber-framed doors and windows have been kept throughout, which matters enormously in a house like this. The bones are old and honest; the comfort is modern and discreet. That balance is hard to find and harder to get right, but whoever restored this property understood it. The ground floor also holds a rustic kitchen with real personality — this isn't a showroom kitchen, it's one you actually want to cook in — plus a second petit salon that flexes easily into a library or home office depending on your needs. A cloakroom completes the ground level. Upstairs, the six bedrooms and three bathrooms are arranged across a layout that makes genuine sense for families or groups, not just on paper but in daily use. Adjoining rooms on both the ground and first floors carry real development potential, subject to the usual permissions, which opens up everything from a self-contained annexe to an expanded B&B operation. Speaking of which — this house is ge ... click here to read more

Nestled in the heart of the picturesque village of Salles-Lavalette, this delightful three-bedroom house offers a unique opportunity to own a slice of French countryside charm. Perfectly suited for those seeking a second home or a vacation retreat, this property combines modern comforts with the timeless allure of rural France. Imagine waking up to the gentle sounds of village life, with the aroma of freshly baked bread wafting from the local bakery just a short stroll away. This is the lifestyle that awaits you in Salles-Lavalette, a quaint commune in the Charente department, renowned for its scenic landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Property Highlights: - Spacious Living: With 96 square meters of living space, this house offers ample room for family gatherings and entertaining guests. - Modern Amenities: Recently renovated, the property boasts new electrics, plumbing, and a septic system that meets current regulations. - Comfortable Climate: Double glazing and pellet central heating ensure a cozy atmosphere year-round. - Outdoor Oasis: A 300 square meter garden provides a serene escape, perfect for alfresco dining or simply soaking up the sun. - Additional Potential: Above the garage, an apartment with three rooms awaits your personal touch, ideal for a gîte or summer lounge. - Village Convenience: Enjoy the convenience of a local bar/restaurant and bakery within walking distance. - Scenic Views: The terrace offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, a perfect backdrop for relaxation. The Salles-Lavalette Experience: Salles-Lavalette is more than just a location; it's a lifestyle. This charming village is a gateway to the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, known for its rolling hills, historic architectur ... click here to read more

Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Poitou-Charentes region, this charming villa in Salles-Lavalette offers an idyllic retreat for those seeking a second home in France. With its serene surroundings and proximity to local amenities, this property is a haven for relaxation and adventure alike. Imagine waking up to the gentle rustle of leaves and the sweet scent of nut and fruit trees that envelop this delightful villa. The morning sun filters through the windows, casting a warm glow over the cozy living area, where you can enjoy a leisurely breakfast before stepping out onto the raised terrace. Here, the panoramic views of rolling fields stretch out before you, inviting you to savor the tranquility of rural France. The villa's design seamlessly blends comfort and functionality. The ground floor features two well-appointed bedrooms, a practical kitchen, and a bright dining room and lounge area. Large windows on three sides ensure that natural light floods the space, creating an inviting atmosphere for family gatherings or quiet evenings with a good book. Downstairs, the basement offers a private retreat with a third bedroom, complete with its own shower room and toilet. A sitting area with patio doors provides direct access to the garden, where you can enjoy the fresh air and the beauty of the surrounding landscape. The expansive 1,890 m² garden is a true gem, offering multiple shaded areas perfect for picnics or afternoon naps. The back of the property, with its unobstructed views, is ideal for sunbathing or hosting barbecues with friends and family. An above-ground swimming pool, though in need of a new liner, promises refreshing dips on warm summer days. Salles-Lavalette is a charming village that embodies the ... click here to read more

Discover the charming allure of rural France with this expansive five-bedroom farmhouse located in the scenic area of Villebois-Lavalette, within the Poitou-Charentes region of Charente. Perfectly placed amidst picturesque landscapes, this property promises a tranquil lifestyle, away from the bustling city life yet conveniently close to necessary amenities and cultural sites. Nestled in its own private, fenced gardens and grounds that span nearly 4000 square meters, this detached farmhouse offers substantial living space, accentuated by its improvements and extensions over the years. The house is ideally set up for both comfort and functionality, equipped with central heating and double-glazed windows that provide year-round comfort. The interior layout includes three bedrooms on the ground floor complemented by two bathrooms—ideal for accessibility and ease of living. The living quarters are divided between two cozy living rooms and a separate dining room, perfect for family meals or entertaining guests. The heart of the home is undoubtedly the large, beautifully fitted kitchen, complete with a welcoming wood burner and adjacent utility room, which will surely be the site of many family gatherings. Upstairs, you will find two additional bedrooms and a convenient toilet, offering privacy and space for a growing family or visiting guests. For those with a penchant for gardening or simply embracing the outdoors, the extensive grounds provide ample opportunity for landscaping, vegetable gardening, or even setting up outdoor recreational spaces for children and pets. Additionally, the property’s outbuildings, including two garage blocks, further enhance its appeal by presenting options for storage, workshops, or potential ... click here to read more

Discover the charm of rural France with this spacious 5-bedroom farmhouse located in the picturesque region of Villebois-Lavalette in Poitou-Charentes, Charente. Perfect for those seeking a serene lifestyle amidst the French countryside, this property offers an expansive living space of 180 sqm, set within its own 4000 sqm of fenced gardens and lands. For families or expats contemplating relocation, this property promises a blend of tranquility and community spirit found in Villebois-Lavalette. The area is renowned for its scenic landscapes, historic sites including the stunning Villebois-Lavalette Chateau, and a warm, welcoming local community that embodies the rural French charm. The house itself, though in good condition, presents a wonderful opportunity for customization to truly make it your own. The ground floor features a large fitted kitchen with a cozy wood burner and a utility room, ideal for family gatherings. The kitchen opens to two living rooms and a dining area, establishing a flow ideal for entertaining and daily living. Also on this level are three bedrooms and two well-appointed bathrooms, ensuring ample space for family and guests. The first floor contains two additional bedrooms and a toilet, providing privacy and space for a growing family or visiting friends. The presence of double glazing and central heating throughout ensures a comfortable living environment year-round. External features include several useful outbuildings, two garage blocks, and a gated gravel driveway offering plenty of parking space. These outbuildings represent potential for various uses, whether storage, workshops, or even conversion into additional living space subject to the appropriate permissions. Living in Villebois ... click here to read more

Welcome to the captivating, rustic charm of rural France, specifically to the quaint community of Blanzaguet-Saint-Cybard, nestled in the region of Poitou-Charentes, Charente. In this serene locality, we present to your consideration, a unique and truly French property - a distinguishable five-bedroom house complete with its own historic water mill. Lending itself beautifully to the rustic French countryside, this house is perfectly set up within a private garden sprawled across 29898m². The total built size is a sizeable 256m² with the living area at 44m². The house boasts a terrace size of 30m² that overlooks the verdant vistas of its pastures. This could be a domain for horses or any livestock, offering complete privacy and a tranquil lifestyle. Indeed, the wind whispers tales of history and tradition as you walk up the secluded driveway. The water mill is habitable and is an excellent canvas for those wishing to leave an individual print on unique, historical architecture. Further warming up to this singular property, you would find the heating system is an eco-friendly, hybrid one utilizing wood/gas, heat pumps, and solar panels. Outside, the terrace area basks in the sunshine and looks out to the generous pool, making it an ideal place for summer soirees. The large open barn and various outbuildings tease with potential for further development, subject to planning. One of the property's unique features is its private access to the river. This charming feature invites those invigorating morning walks with the chorus of nature providing the soundtrack. Living in Blanzaguet-Saint-Cybard guarantees a tranquil, slow-paced life. This place is blessed with the typical French 'joie de vivre'. It is an excellent loca ... click here to read more

Located in the charming region of Poitou-Charentes in Blanzaguet-Saint-Cybard, France, this 5-bedroom house offers a delightful blend of historical charm and abundant potential. Sprawling over a sizable plot of nearly 30,000 square meters, the property features a picturesque setting, complete with a traditional water mill. Surrounded by lush pasture suitable for horses or livestock, and with private access to the river, the residence provides a peaceful and private lifestyle that's hard to find. The mill itself, a historic structure, is habitable but awaits the personal touch of a new owner ready to undertake a bit of renovation to restore and perhaps modernize it. This is an excellent opportunity for those looking to invest in a property with character and make it their own. The total built area of the property is 256 square meters, including a comfortable living area of 44 square meters. The outside space includes a terrace of 30 square meters, perfect for outdoor dining and enjoying the serene views, complemented by a generous pool. For heating, the property uses a hybrid system combining wood and gas, enhanced with heat pumps and solar panels, making it environmentally friendly and potentially cost-effective in the long term. Additional outbuildants on the property offer further development potential, subject to planning permissions, whether you're considering extending the living space or creating facilities for hobbies or storage. The climate in this part of France is generally mild, with distinct seasons that each bring their own charm—from vibrant spring blooms to warm, sun-filled summers, and crisp autumns. This makes the region ideal for outdoor activities and enjoying nature year-round. Living in Blanzague ... click here to read more

Located in the picturesque commune of Champagne-Et-Fontaine, Aquitaine, 24320, France, awaits this charming 2-bedroom house ready to be called home. For those looking to embrace the essence of French countryside living while still being close to essential amenities, this property serves as a delightful intersection. Nestled amidst the tranquil scenery of the region, this character property comes with multiple attributes, making it a splendid investment or a lovely abode for those seeking a serene lifestyle or even considering a potential gîte business (subject to necessary permissions). The property has been tastefully renovated, ensuring modern comforts without losing its rustic charm. Property Features: - 2 bedrooms - 1 bathroom with shower and WC - Combined living/dining room with kitchenette - Well-maintained garden - Potential for a guest house/gîte business - Located in a quiet yet accessible area - Size: 67m² - Land Size: 612m² - Price: €178,200 Step into the story: Upon entering, you'll find yourself welcomed by a cozy living and dining area combined with a practical kitchenette. This open space exudes warmth and invites you to imagine cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends. On this same floor, there's a bedroom that could easily serve as a snug guest room or a home office. Venture upstairs, and a spacious second bedroom awaits, offering ample room for relaxation. The modern shower room and WC are conveniently located on this floor, ensuring easy access and providing the necessities of everyday living. The property retains the charm of the former gamekeeper's house, seamlessly blending historic elements with contemporary updates. The renovations have been done with care, preserving the character whi ... click here to read more

Nestled in the serene and picturesque village of Palluaud, in the charming region of Poitou-Charentes, Charente, this five-bedroom house offers a delightful living environment, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the tranquil French countryside. Set on a generous plot of nearly half an acre, this property features a well-tended garden, complete with an above-ground pool, providing an idyllic setting for relaxation and outdoor entertainment. The residence comprises two houses and a one-bedroom apartment, offering ample living space and flexibility, ideal for accommodating family and guests or for potential rental opportunities. The main house exudes rustic charm, equipped with a fitted kitchen and breakfast room that leads into a spacious salon. This living area is enriched with a cozy fireplace, a wood burner, and exposed beams, adding to the home's character. The bathroom on this floor benefits from underfloor heating, ensuring comfort during the cooler months. Upstairs, the sleeping quarters consist of two bedrooms, with one open to the mezzanine, offering a unique architectural element. A convenient WC with a wash basin is also located on this floor. The second house features a large living space on the ground floor and two bedrooms upstairs, along with a bathroom, offering privacy and tranquility. Additionally, an external terrace area enhances this structure, perfect for enjoying the peaceful outdoor surroundings. An independent one-bedroom apartment provides additional accommodation or could serve as a private retreat for guests. The property also boasts a games room and a barn, which houses the central heating boiler and laundry facilities, adding practicality to its charm. The garden is a true ... click here to read more

On a quiet summer morning in the Périgord Vert, the kitchen windows are already open. The smell of damp grass comes in with the light. Somewhere beyond the mature trees at the garden's edge, a wood pigeon calls. You're standing in 44 square metres of farmhouse kitchen with underfloor heating warming your feet, a coffee on the exposed-beam counter, and absolutely nowhere you have to be. That's the daily reality of owning this four-bedroom farmhouse in Bouteilles-Saint-Sébastien — a rare find in the northern Dordogne that delivers exactly what buyers dream about when they picture rural France, without the usual compromises. No major works needed. No years of renovation ahead of you. Just 277 square metres of genuinely habitable space, a landscaped garden stretching over 5,260 square metres, and a 10m x 5m heated pool surrounded by stone-paved terrace ready for the first swim of the season. The property sits in genuine peace and privacy, set back from the lane with fully fenced grounds and mature trees that give the garden a settled, unhurried feeling. But it's not remotely isolated. A local restaurant and bar is just a few minutes away — handy for those evenings when you want a carafe of Bergerac rosé without getting in the car. Saint-Séverin, with its supermarket and full range of shops, is a short drive. And then there are the two villages that anchor social life in this corner of the Dordogne: Verteillac, 15 minutes away, with its Friday morning market where local producers line the square selling walnuts, goat's cheese, and jars of duck confit; and Aubeterre-sur-Dronne, about 20 minutes south, one of the most visited medieval villages in the Charente, perched above the river with its monolithic church carved directly ... click here to read more

Welcome to the sunny and picturesque province of Aquitaine, nestled in the charming countryside of Dordogne, where we're offering an inviting 4-bedroom house that might just be the home for you. Located in the tranquil commune of Saint-Martial-Viveyrol, this property spans over 185 square meters and is perfectly poised for those seeking a combination of rural serenity and the classic French lifestyle. Thanks to my busy schedule, I've got to point out this particular property truly stands out in its own way, offering the beauty of countryside living with all the comforts you might seek. Saint-Martial-Viveyrol lies in the heart of the French countryside, providing a harmonious blend of peaceful environment and rich historical culture. Infused with small-town charm, this area is perfect for expatriates and international buyers who are searching for a genuine French experience. Here, you can immerse yourself in the local lifestyle, indulging in regional foods, wines, and an array of cultural festivities that dot the calendar year-round. The town itself is surrounded by lush rolling hills that mark the picturesque landscape of Dordogne, giving residents stunning panoramic views and a sense of calm. It's a place where tranquillity and history come together gracefully, capturing the essence of rural France. You're only a short drive from the noted markets of Riberac and the engaging Dordogne River, where you can enjoy delightful canoeing experiences amidst the overall serene climate that blesses this region. Let me take you on a journey about the home itself. It's equipped with four spacious bedrooms, allowing ample space for family and friends. The bedroom dimension breakdown is as follows: Bedroom 1 measures 14.10 sqm and ... click here to read more

Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Charente region, this delightful home in Montignac-le-Coq offers a unique opportunity to embrace the serene French countryside lifestyle. With its charming blend of traditional architecture and modern comforts, this property is perfect for those seeking a tranquil retreat or a new chapter in the idyllic Poitou-Charentes. Imagine waking up to the gentle sounds of nature, with the sun casting a warm glow over the rolling hills and vineyards that surround your new home. This is the daily reality for residents of Montignac-le-Coq, a quaint village that embodies the essence of rural France. Here, life moves at a slower pace, allowing you to savor each moment and truly appreciate the beauty of your surroundings. Property Highlights: - Spacious Living: The house boasts three well-appointed bedrooms and two bathrooms, providing ample space for family and guests. - Open-Plan Design: A bright and airy living area seamlessly connects the lounge, kitchen, and dining spaces, creating a welcoming environment for entertaining or relaxing. - Outdoor Oasis: A generous terrace wraps around two sides of the property, offering both sunny and shaded areas for al fresco dining or simply unwinding with a good book. - Shared Pool Access: Enjoy the luxury of a 12m x 6m saltwater pool, shared with a small community of neighbors, perfect for cooling off on warm summer days. - Expansive Gardens: Set within 3,090m² of beautifully maintained gardens, the property provides plenty of space for outdoor activities and gardening enthusiasts. - Proximity to Amenities: Just a short drive away, the nearby village of Saint-Séverin offers a range of amenities, including restaurants, a supermarket, a pharmacy, and medic ... click here to read more

Nestled in the serene landscapes of Poitou-Charentes in the charming area of Montignac-le-Coq, this delightful three-bedroom house combines comfort with beautiful countryside vistas. Spanning 99 square meters, the property is well-suited for families or individuals seeking a peaceful retreat or a permanent residence amongst the rolling hills of Charente. Upon entering, you are greeted by a spacious living area that seamlessly integrates the lounge, kitchen, and dining space, offering a fluid environment for family activities and entertainment. The house comprises three well-sized bedrooms and two bathrooms, accommodating a family comfortably while providing space for guests. The property boasts a large terrace that wraps around two sides, presenting both sun-soaked and shaded spots perfect for any time of the day. It's an ideal setting for outdoor dining or simply enjoying the splendid views of the verdant surroundings. Additionally, residents have access to a well-maintained, shared saltwater swimming pool that measures 12 x 6 meters, providing a refreshing escape during warm days. Living in Montignac-le-Coq offers a taste of authentic rural French life. The nearby village exudes traditional charm with its friendly community and establishment such as a quaint restaurant. A mere five minutes away is Saint Severin, where you can find more dining options along with essential services including a supermarket, medical doctors, and a pharmacy, ensuring convenience is never far away. The local area is ripe for exploration. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the numerous walking, hiking, and cycling trails that traverse the lush countryside. The historical and cultural richness of the region offers numerous festivals, mark ... click here to read more