Idyllic French Countryside Retreat: 2-Bedroom, Dual-Living Spaces, Garden & Pool in Le Bourdeix, Dordogne, Aquitaine

Step out onto the terrace on a Saturday morning and the first thing you notice is the silence — not the dead kind, but the alive kind. Birds in the walnut trees, a faint breeze off the Dordogne valley, and the faint scent of woodsmoke from a neighbouring farm. That's Saint-Avit. And once you've stood here with a coffee in hand, watching the mist lift off the rolling Lot-et-Garonne hills, it's very hard to imagine being anywhere else. This three-bedroom stone house sits in one of the quieter, greener corners of Aquitaine — a region most people think they know from Bordeaux wine routes and the Périgord truffle markets, but which holds far more than that in its folds. Lot-et-Garonne is sometimes called the "garden of France," and it earns the name. Orchards line the roadsides in spring. The weekly markets in Villeneuve-sur-Lot and Monflanquin spill over with strawberries from the Garronne plain, foie gras from local farms, and cheeses you won't find behind supermarket glass. Life here runs at a pace that feels deliberate rather than slow. The house itself has the bones of something built to last centuries — because it was. Terracotta floor tiles throughout the ground floor, thick exposed stone walls, and chestnut ceiling beams that have absorbed decades of firelight from the wood burner in the main living and kitchen space. That open-plan room clocks in at nearly 28 square metres, big enough for a long Sunday lunch with family but intimate enough to feel genuinely cosy on a January evening when the burner is doing its job. The dining room opens directly onto the terrace through double doors — the kind of detail that becomes central to daily life from May through October, when you'll eat outside more often than not. The g ... click here to read more

On a clear morning in Vienne-en-Arthies, you open the French doors off the living room and the Vexin countryside rolls out in front of you — soft hills, open sky, not a rooftop in sight. Coffee in hand, the only sound is birdsong and the distant rhythm of a tractor somewhere beyond the tree line. This is rural Île-de-France at its most honest, and it's just 70 kilometres from Paris. Vienne-en-Arthies sits in the Parc Naturel Régional du Vexin Français, a protected landscape of limestone plateaus, wheat fields, and stone villages that feels like it belongs to another century. Five minutes down the road is Vétheuil, the riverside village that captivated Claude Monet before he ever reached Giverny — and you can see exactly why when you walk the Seine bank at dusk. The light here does something extraordinary in the late afternoon, the kind of golden slant that makes even a grain silo look like a painting. The house itself sits on around 1,500 square metres of land, and at 104 square metres of living space it strikes that rare balance — enough room for family and friends without becoming a maintenance burden. The ground floor revolves around a 29-square-metre living and dining area with an open-plan kitchen at one end and a fireplace with an insert at the other. In January, when the Vexin frosts bite, that insert earns its keep. Come July, the glazed doors fold back and the terrace becomes the de facto dining room, the garden stretching away toward open countryside. Upstairs, two generous bedrooms sit under partially mansard rooflines — the sloped ceilings give them a tucked-in quality that guests tend to love. The garden level adds real versatility: a third room currently configured as an additional bedroom, with an adjo ... click here to read more

Sunday morning in Bouquetot moves slowly. The smell of fresh bread drifts up from the boulangerie in Bourg-Achard five minutes down the road, church bells carry across flat green fields, and beyond the tall hedgerows that frame this property's 4,580 square metre plot, there's almost nothing to hear but birdsong and the occasional tractor on a distant lane. This is rural Normandy at its most genuine — not the postcard version, the real one. Built in 1960 and kept in consistently good condition by owners who clearly cared about the details, this 103 square metre house sits on a fully enclosed, tree-lined lot that feels more like a private park than a garden. Step outside on a June evening and the light stays golden until nearly ten. The flat lawn is wide enough for a game of pétanque, a badminton net, or simply a table long enough to seat the extended family for a Norman spread — think camembert straight from the market at Pont-Audemer, a terrine from the charcuterie in Bourg-Achard's Wednesday market, and a bottle of local Calvados to close things out. The entrance through the veranda-style extension sets the tone: this is a house that has been lived in and loved. The 26 square metre living room faces southwest, which matters enormously in Normandy — afternoon sun floods the room, and you earn every one of those winter hours around the fireplace insert. The tiled floors are easy to maintain, practical in the way that a proper country house should be. The fitted kitchen is ready to go from day one, no renovation project standing between you and your first summer here. Three bedrooms give the property genuine flexibility. Use it as a family holiday home and everyone gets their own space. Rent it out during peak summer we ... click here to read more

The church bells from the village of Ménéac carry just far enough on a still morning to reach the kitchen window — but you'd have to open it first, and by then the smell of coffee and woodsmoke from the stone fireplace has already pulled you firmly into the day. This is the kind of place that resets your clock. Six hectares of Breton countryside, two independent dwellings carved out of a grand old granite longhouse, and a second stone longère waiting in the wings. At €292,000 for the whole estate, it's not a fantasy — it's a real opportunity that doesn't come around often. Let's start with what's here right now. The main property is a large traditional Breton stone house, divided into two fully functional dwellings. Both are in good condition and ready to live in, which matters more than people realize when you're buying remotely from abroad. No months of waiting on contractors before your first stay. The first dwelling runs across two floors. Ground level gives you a living room anchored by a fireplace with a wood-burning stove — the kind you'll actually use from October through April — plus a proper kitchen, a laundry room, and a toilet. Upstairs, one bedroom has its own en-suite bathroom, there's a second bedroom, a family bathroom, and a room currently used as an office but flexible enough to become a third sleeping space when the cousins arrive in August. The second dwelling mirrors this layout almost exactly: a living room with its own fireplace and wood-burning stove, a kitchen-dining room (slightly more sociable in its configuration), a laundry room, a toilet downstairs, then an en-suite bedroom, another bedroom, a family bathroom, and an office upstairs. Two complete homes. Same stone walls, same slate roof, s ... click here to read more

Picture a Saturday morning in late September. You pull open the roller shutters and the light that floods the living room is that particular gold you only get this far south — thick, warm, almost edible. Outside, the vines on the Agly plain are turning amber. There's a market in Rivesaltes, twenty minutes on foot, where someone is grilling merguez next to a stall piled with Muscat grapes and local honey. This is not a fantasy. This is a regular weekend when you own this 233 m² villa on a quiet residential street in one of the most quietly compelling corners of the French Midi. Rivesaltes sits in the Pyrénées-Orientales department, tucked between Perpignan and the coast, flanked by vineyards that have been producing wine since the Romans passed through. The town's name is practically synonymous with the famous Muscat de Rivesaltes and the rich Rivesaltes Ambré, and the Cave de Rivesaltes cooperative — one of the largest in the region — welcomes visitors year-round for tastings that won't cost you a fortune. This is everyday life here, not a tourist attraction you visit once. The villa itself is a proper single-storey family home with a footprint that feels rare at this price point in southern France. At 233 m² of living space spread across one generous floor — plus a 16 m² upstairs office — the layout is genuinely practical rather than just spacious on paper. The main living room stretches to 38 m², and with the open-plan kitchen flowing into it, the whole social heart of the house breathes. Five bedrooms, two full bathrooms plus en-suites, a separate laundry room — this is a home that can absorb a large family or a revolving cast of guests without anyone feeling crowded. The 22 m² garage keeps a car out of the Roussill ... click here to read more

On a Sunday morning in the Périgord Vert, the church bell from Saint-Pierre de Brantôme carries across the valley before the rest of the world has stirred. You're standing at the veranda doors, coffee in hand, watching the light move across the pool. The figs on the old tree in the garden are almost ripe. This is what you bought it for. Just five minutes from the historic heart of Brantôme — the town they call the Venice of Périgord, carved around a loop in the River Dronne — this 120 m² stone house sits on a generous 1,863 m² garden plot and has been well maintained throughout. It's move-in ready, properly liveable from day one, and the kind of property that rewards you the longer you sit with it. The house itself tells you where it comes from. Original exposed stonework lines the living room walls, rough-cut beams cross the ceiling, and a working fireplace anchors the room when the evenings cool in October. That 30 m² living space is genuinely large enough for a family to spread out without getting on each other's nerves after a long drive from Bordeaux-Mérignac. The fitted kitchen runs practically — well-positioned, light, and leading directly into the veranda, which is where you'll end up spending most of your time anyway. The veranda looks out over the 10x4 swimming pool and the wider garden, and once you've had lunch out there under the afternoon sun with a cold glass of Bergerac Sec, going back to a city apartment feels like a genuine hardship. Three bedrooms across the house, one of them conveniently on the ground floor — a real advantage if you're hosting older family members or anyone who'd rather not deal with stairs. Two shower rooms keep the morning routine running smoothly when the house is full. The who ... click here to read more

On a still morning in the Périgord Noir, the only sounds you'll hear from this hamlet courtyard are birdsong, the faint echo of a church bell drifting over from Castels, and the soft splash of water in a 12-by-6-metre saltwater pool that looks straight out over a valley that hasn't changed much in centuries. That's not a selling point — that's Tuesday. This is a rare opportunity to acquire not one but two authentic Dordogne stone houses sitting side by side on roughly 8,000 square metres of grounds in the commune of Castels et Bézenac. A shared cobbled driveway and a gated private courtyard connect them, and together they form a property that functions equally well as a large family holiday compound, a multi-generational retreat, or a live-in renovation project with serious long-term upside. The asking price of €294,000 for the entire ensemble — pool, dovecote, garage, outbuildings, courtyard and all — is the kind of number that makes people do a double-take when they check it against what comparable Dordogne properties have been selling for. The larger of the two houses is the one that stops you at the door. Ground floor: a proper country kitchen with an adjoining shower room and WC, and a living-dining room anchored by a character stone fireplace and a pellet stove — the kind of room you want to be in when November rain is hitting the terrace outside and a cassoulet is on the hob. French doors open both toward the front courtyard and the rear garden, so the space breathes in summer and feels sealed and warm come autumn. Upstairs, two bedrooms and a small bathroom with WC. It's not complicated. It's exactly what a Dordogne farmhouse should be. The second house, slightly more compact, has its own kitchen, a living roo ... click here to read more

On a Sunday morning in Louignac, the only thing that wakes you is birdsong. Not traffic, not neighbours, not the hum of a city that never quite switches off. Just the breeze moving through the oak trees at the edge of your garden, and the faint smell of damp grass catching the early light. That's what life feels like in this four-bedroom stone house in the Corrèze — and once you've felt it, it's hard to unfeel. This is rural France as it actually exists, not as it's romanticised on a postcard. Louignac sits in the rolling green Limousin countryside, a place where the land hasn't been manicured for tourists. The fields are real working fields. The stone walls lining the roads are a few centuries old. The weekly market at Objat — just twenty minutes away — sells duck confit, walnuts, and cheeses from farms you could cycle to. This is the kind of France that people spend years searching for, and rarely find still available at a price that makes sense. The house itself is solid and full of character. Stone construction throughout, which means thick walls that keep rooms cool in July and hold the warmth of the pellet stove through January without breaking a sweat. The ground floor is anchored by a generous kitchen-dining room — genuinely fitted and equipped, not the vague claim you see on listings where the "equipped kitchen" turns out to be a single plug socket. This room opens directly into the living room, so the whole social heart of the house flows together as one connected space. In winter, the pellet stove becomes the gravitational centre of every evening. In summer, the doors open and the room breathes out into the garden. Behind the kitchen, there's a laundry room that has a second life waiting for it. The proport ... click here to read more

Saturday morning in the Dordogne, and the air through the kitchen window carries woodsmoke and the faint sweetness of walnut orchards baking in September sun. You're putting on coffee, the terracotta tiles cool underfoot, and through the sitting room's old beams you can hear absolutely nothing except birdsong and the occasional tractor two fields over. This is what you came to France for. Set in Parcoul-Chenaud, a quiet commune in the northern Dordogne where the pace of life has been politely ignoring the 21st century for decades, this four-bedroom Périgord-style house sits on roughly 5,000 square metres of garden and land that gives you genuine room to breathe. At 190 square metres of living space spread across two naturally separated levels, it's a house with real character — not the kind manufactured by a renovation company, but the kind accumulated over generations of French rural life. The layout deserves a proper explanation, because it's one of the property's most interesting qualities. The upper entrance level holds a welcoming hall, a dining room, a fully equipped kitchen, two bedrooms and a bathroom. So far, so practical. But descend to the lower level and the house opens up into something altogether more generous: a large sitting room with original terracotta floor tiles and a beamed ceiling, a proper fireplace for January evenings when the Dordogne mist rolls in, and a staircase climbing to two further bedrooms and a second spacious bathroom. The split-level configuration means a family of six or eight could live here without anyone getting in each other's way. Or you could use the lower level as a self-contained space for guests — the bones are clearly there. A study, utility room, cave, and an oversized g ... click here to read more

Sunday morning in rural Vienne, and the only sound you can hear from the kitchen window is birdsong and the distant clank of someone's tractor heading up a dirt track. That's not a fantasy—that's a Tuesday. This three-bedroom character house in a quiet hamlet outside Civray sits on 2,500 square metres of wooded land, and the second you step through the gate, the outside world drops away entirely. The house itself stretches across more than 200 square metres of living space, with three en-suite bedrooms—a layout that already hints at something versatile. Live in one half, let out the other. Run it as a chambres d'hôtes. Install family in their own wing and keep yours private. The floorplan makes all of this genuinely workable, not just theoretically possible. One portion of the home sits entirely on a single level, which opens up options for guests with mobility considerations or older relatives who want their independence without the stairs. Character houses with this kind of built-in flexibility don't come up in this part of France very often, and when they do, they rarely stay on the market long. Then there's the 40-square-metre workshop—a proper one, not a glorified shed. For anyone with a woodworking habit, a restoration project, a ceramics practice, or simply a stash of tools that deserves a real home, this space is genuinely exciting. Add in the woodshed and the Alpine-style chalet on the grounds and you've got an ensemble that feels more like a small rural estate than a single-family home. Civray itself sits in the Vienne department of the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, roughly equidistant between Poitiers and Angoulême—two cities worth knowing. Poitiers is about an hour north and carries real historical weight: th ... click here to read more

The kitchen window faces east, and on a clear morning in the Périgord Vert you get the light before the rest of the house does. Stand at the sink with a coffee, and through the glass you're looking out over nearly two hectares of your own land — meadow rolling gently toward an oak grove on the far side of the lane. Church bells from a neighbouring village drift over occasionally. That's the opening scene of daily life at this four-bedroom farmhouse on the edge of a tiny cul-de-sac hamlet between Mareuil and Nontron, and it sets the tone for everything else. At 154,500 euros, this is the kind of French country property that doesn't stay on the market long — and for good reason. The house itself has been thoroughly renovated and sits in excellent condition, with 120 square metres of living space and a total floor area of 180 square metres. Nothing here needs tearing apart or starting over. Move in, unpack, and start living. The 38-square-metre living room is the heart of it: original hardwood floors that creak in exactly the right way, walls that have absorbed a century of winters and summers, enough space for a generous sofa arrangement and a dining table that seats eight without anyone knocking elbows. There's a real generosity to the proportions here that photographs don't fully capture — you have to stand in the room to feel it. The kitchen runs to 23 square metres, which is significant. In a French rural property this size, a kitchen that large is not accidental — it's a statement of priorities. It's a room designed for slow Sunday lunches that drift into the late afternoon, for friends crowding around while someone makes a walnut tart, for the kind of cooking that takes time and company. The Périgord Vert is truff ... click here to read more

Picture a Sunday morning in the Périgord Vert. The kitchen window is open, a coffee is brewing, and the only sound reaching you from outside is birdsong and the faint rustle of the walnut trees at the edge of your enclosed garden. No traffic. No crowds. Just 1,560 square metres of private land, a covered pool glinting under its dome, and a pace of life that feels like it belongs to another century — the good kind. This fully renovated three-bedroom house sits in a quiet hamlet just ten minutes from Nontron, a town that punches well above its weight for a place of its size. Nontron is the capital of the Périgord Vert, the green and deeply underrated northern pocket of the Dordogne département, and it wears that title with quiet confidence. The old knife-making tradition still lives here — the Nontron knife, with its boxwood handle and distinct silhouette, has been crafted in the same spot since the 15th century, and you can visit the workshop on Rue Carnot and watch blades being finished by hand. It's the kind of place that reminds you France hasn't been entirely swallowed by modernity. The house itself spans 185 square metres across two levels and has been renovated to a standard that means you genuinely can walk in, unpack, and spend the first evening by the pool rather than drawing up a list of contractors. That matters enormously for buyers coming from the UK, Ireland, or northern Europe who want a second home without a five-year renovation saga attached to it. Good condition here means good condition — solid roof, clean interiors, functional systems. Downstairs, the scale of the living spaces is the first thing that catches you. A single-story living room of 58 square metres flows openly into a 28-square-metre din ... click here to read more

Picture a Thursday morning in late June. You've driven seven minutes down a quiet lane from La Fouillade, windows down, and the air already smells of cut grass and warm stone. Back at the house, coffee is on, the fireplace insert still holds a little warmth from last night, and through the kitchen window you can watch a buzzard circle lazily over your 8,617 square metres of land. This is what it feels like to own a piece of the Aveyron — unhurried, deeply French, and entirely your own. This former farmhouse in the commune of Bor-et-Bar has the kind of bones that reward a buyer with vision. At 126 m² across two floors plus a full basement, the main house is solid and liveable right now, while the constellation of outbuildings surrounding it opens up a range of possibilities that few rural French properties at this price point can match. A 50 m² double garage. A 60 m² former pigsty. And then — the showstopper — a 300 m² stone building that once housed livestock and could, with the right project, become gîtes, a workshop, an artists' residency, or simply extraordinary storage for the serious hobbyist. Planning permission in this part of the Aveyron has historically been sympathetic to thoughtful rural conversions. That 300 m² building alone makes this property worth serious attention. Inside the main house, the ground floor revolves around a generous 38 m² open living space where kitchen, dining, and sitting areas flow together around a fireplace with an insert — the kind that throws real heat on a January evening when the Ségala plateau gets its occasional frost. Three bedrooms of 9, 13, and 14 m² sit off this level, along with a bathroom and a separate WC. Upstairs, three further bedrooms, a second WC, and a convertible ... click here to read more

On a clear morning in Louignac, before the rest of the world has quite caught up, the view from the pool terrace is the kind that stops you mid-coffee. Rolling green hills, not another rooftop in sight, just the odd buzzard circling over the tree line and the faint mechanical hum of a tractor somewhere far off in the Corrèze countryside. This is rural France doing what it does best — unhurried, unfiltered, and quietly extraordinary. This four-bedroom stone house sits at the heart of one of the Limousin's most genuinely peaceful corners. The region doesn't shout about itself the way Provence or the Dordogne do, and that's precisely the point. Property prices here still reflect reality rather than hype, the markets are full of locals rather than tourists, and the land rolls on in every direction without apology. For buyers chasing authentic French country life — not a postcard version of it — Louignac delivers. Step inside and the kitchen-dining room sets the tone immediately. It's a proper working kitchen, fitted and equipped, with enough space that Sunday lunch becomes an event rather than a logistics challenge. This room opens directly into the living area, where a pellet stove anchors the space — genuinely efficient, low-maintenance, and exactly what you want when October mist rolls in off the hills. The view through the back windows is the kind interior designers try to replicate with wallpaper. You won't need to. Behind the kitchen, a laundry room gives you the practical backbone every country house requires. But it's also a flexible space — with the right desk and a decent internet connection (fibre has arrived in much of rural Corrèze), it converts into a quiet home office without much effort. Remote workers and ... click here to read more

Step through the wide sliding door of a former barn on a quiet hillside above Morlhon-le-Haut, and the first thing that hits you is the scale of the place. That 65-square-metre living room opens up before you like the inside of a cathedral — timber overhead, light slanting in from the south-facing terrace, a wood-burning stove already crackling on a November afternoon. It smells faintly of oak and old stone. Outside, the orchard is dropping its last apples into the wet grass, and across the flat, open grounds you can count two wells and a fish pond without taking a single step. This is the kind of property that takes a few minutes to fully comprehend. At just under ten kilometres from Villefranche-de-Rouergue and a short drive from Rieupeyroux, the address sits at a genuinely quiet crossroads of rural Aveyron — a département that most international buyers haven't yet discovered but seasoned France-watchers have been quietly watching for years. The land here is a deep, folded green, crossed by the Dourdou de Conques river valley and threaded with country lanes where you might go twenty minutes without seeing another car. The nearest TGV connection runs through Figeac or Rodez, both reachable in under an hour, and Toulouse-Blagnac Airport — the main gateway for international arrivals — sits roughly two hours southwest. You're remote enough to properly decompress, close enough to civilisation that it never becomes inconvenient. The main house, the converted barn, is where the real story of this property begins. The original structure — massive, honest stonework dating back generations — has been carefully opened up rather than gutted. Entering via a sloping ramp that still echoes the barn's working past, you arrive in the ... click here to read more

On a still April morning in Lussac-les-Églises, the fields around this old stone farmhouse turn into something you'd struggle to describe to someone who hasn't seen it themselves. Wild orchids push up through the grass in clusters, the kind of thing you read about in nature guides but rarely actually stumble upon. Swallows cut low over the carp lake. The only sound from inside the kitchen is the creak of a wooden beam settling in the warmth. This is what 4.7 hectares of organically managed Limousin countryside looks like when no one's been rushing it. This is a four-bedroom house in genuinely good condition, sitting on land that's been farmed without chemicals for fifteen years, with a small carp lake, maintained paddocks, a polytunnel, and a converted bread oven that serves as one of the most characterful ground-floor bedrooms you're likely to find anywhere in rural France. At 238 square metres, it has enough room to breathe — and enough quirks to make it feel like somewhere, not just somewhere else. The entrance hallway sets the tone immediately. Original encaustic floor tiles run the full length from front door to back, the kind that would cost a fortune to source and lay today. To the right, the living and dining room opens up around a proper fireplace fitted with a wood-burning stove, with exposed timber beams overhead that have been doing their job for well over a century. This is a room for long winter evenings, for board games with the grandchildren, for the specific kind of quiet that only deep countryside delivers. Then comes the bread oven room. Fully restored, converted into a ground-floor bedroom, and genuinely unlike anything else in a comparable property. The curved stonework has been kept intact. It's ... click here to read more

Stand on the terrace on a Saturday morning and the only sounds you'll catch are birdsong, the distant bark of a hunting dog somewhere in the oak woods, and the faint clatter of a tractor on the lane. That's life in Roziers-Saint-Georges — unhurried, grounded, and genuinely rural in a way that most of France has long since traded away for tourism infrastructure. This three-bedroom stone house sits in the Haute-Vienne department of Limousin, a region most international buyers haven't discovered yet, which is precisely what makes it worth paying attention to right now. The house itself is honest architecture. Thick granite walls — the kind that keep rooms cool in July without air conditioning and hold warmth in October without the heating working overtime. The original stone structure has been extended with a timber-clad addition that widens the ground floor living space and gives the interior an unexpected texture: rough-hewn stone on one side, warm wood on the other. Single-level living runs across the main floor, making the everyday practical and comfortable. Head upstairs and the sloping ceilings of the upper floor add a certain character — the kind of attic-ish charm that adults secretly love and children turn into dens within minutes of arriving. At 85 square metres, this is a manageable property. No vast rooms to heat or maintain, no sprawling grounds to upkeep when you're back in your home country. The garden is real enough to feel like a garden — space to eat outside, to grow tomatoes, to sit and do absolutely nothing — without becoming a burden. A stone terrace extends the living space outdoors through the warmer months, and given that Limousin enjoys genuine summer heat from late June through September, that te ... click here to read more

Friday morning. You unlatch the kitchen door and step out into the courtyard while the coffee is still brewing. Somewhere beyond the old gates, the weekly market on the Grande Rue is already in full swing — the baker from Rue du Marché has set up his table, and the smell of warm bread drifts over the stone walls. This is what life looks like in Richelieu, and this house puts you right at the centre of it. Cardinal Richelieu didn't just build a palace. He built an entire town from scratch in the 1630s — planned streets, a grid layout, arcaded market halls, and ramparts that still stand. It remains one of the most complete examples of 17th-century French urban planning in existence, and this three-bedroom house sits within those original walls, in the historic heart of it all. You're not on the edge of somewhere interesting. You are somewhere interesting. Step through the large gates into the shared courtyard and the house opens directly into a fitted kitchen of 12 square metres, tiled underfoot and practical in the best French sense — not a showroom, a room for actual cooking. A couple of steps up and you're in the dining room, 24 square metres with a fireplace and the kind of wooden floors that creak just enough to feel alive. Wall panelling in the reception rooms gives everything a settled, unhurried quality. A small door leads to a ground-floor WC, then along to the living room — another fireplace, more wooden floors, another reason to stay inside when October turns the town amber. Upstairs, the landing splits left and right. To the left, a 16-square-metre bedroom with fitted cupboards. To the right, a second WC. Keep going and you reach the shower room — a generous 15 square metres with shower, sauna, and sink. The ... click here to read more

Welcome to Le Bourdeix, a quaint slice of paradise nestled in the picturesque Dordogne region of France. Here, where rustic meets serene, we have a property that's ripe for opportunity—a house that whispers stories of potential to those who are ready to listen. Now, for our valued overseas buyers and expats yearning to experience French provincial life, this isn't just any house—it's a lifestyle. Located in Aquitaine, specifically the peaceful area of Le Bourdeix, this home is a solid starting point for anyone looking to embrace country living with a touch of finesse. You see, Le Bourdeix is not just a place; it's a way of life. In the vicinity, charming villages and vast landscapes invite explorers to discover hidden gems, centuries-old history, and a community that seems untouched by the passage of time. Moving around to the property itself, we have a cleverly designed dual house setup. Imagine it: two cozy sanctuaries under one roof, yet utterly distinct till you wish them otherwise. Perhaps you see a family reunion in the making, or a blend of privacy and togetherness that allows for an imaginative living arrangement. Let's dive into the specifics. There are two sections to this lovely abode. The first, a warm 115m2 space, offers a snug living room perfect for inviting sunsets, an idyllic lounge, and a sleeping area upstairs complete with a bathroom and bedroom. The second house section blows you away with its bright ambiance and high ceilings, uses every inch of its 115m2 wisely with a welcoming living room, a mezzanine that doubles as an airy office space, and another inviting bedroom with its own bathroom. Outside, the grounds are vast and inviting—a 1500m2 area that practically begs for a garden full of fres ... click here to read more

Ah, where to even begin with this exquisite opportunity? Let me paint a picture for you because there's quite a bit to think about with this unique estate. Tucked away in the idyllic commune of Le Bourdeix, nestled in the heart of southwestern France’s Dordogne department, stands a piece of history—a 13th-century chateau set on 12 hectares of diverse landscapes. Imagine waking up to the soothing whispers of the Périgord-Limousin Regional Natural Park, a paradise for anyone with a love for nature. Here, the vistas of rolling hills, dense woods, and gentle rivers create a harmonious backdrop for those seeking tranquility miles away from the frenzied pace of city life. This chateau is more than just a home; it’s an adventure waiting to unravel. A historical manor, it’s a property that pays homage to an era gone by, blending the charm of Romanesque, Gothic, and Renaissance styles while still accommodating today's necessities. Don't be fooled; while this place retains its historic vibe, it’s beautifully restored to offer the comforts you would expect from a place that cares about its legacy. - 8 spacious bedrooms - 5 well-appointed bathrooms - 405 square meters of living area - Set on 12 hectares of varied terrain - Includes 3 separate residences - Picturesque enclosed courtyard - Swimming pool for relaxation - Traditional barns for additional usage - Expansive woodlands surrounding the estate Understand that living in such a grand estate requires a knack for appreciating the finer things in life, and yes, there’s ample room for family gatherings, dream events or simply enjoying the vastness with your loved ones. While the grounds are extensive, they offer an opportunity for personalized landscaping projects or perhaps ... click here to read more

Welcome to a quaint and captivating house in Étouars, a serene commune in the Aquitaine region of Dordogne, France. This property, a former forge, offers an excellent opportunity for anyone looking to embark on a renovation project that promises not just a home but a slice of French historical charm. The house currently comprises two ground-floor rooms with a spacious attic above, which spans approximately 50 square meters. This attic space offers potential for conversion into two bedrooms and a bathroom, subject to the necessary permissions. The authenticity of the house is preserved with original features like the classic sink and a grand fireplace in the kitchen, hinting at the property’s rich past. A rear room opens to a private garden, offering views over tranquil fields, ideal for peaceful mornings. While the house beams with potential, it is a true fixer-upper with significant renovations required. The roof, in particular, needs attention with the main beam and structure necessitating replacement. An adjoining barn offers further opportunity for expansion, transforming this space into additional living quarters or perhaps a workshop, again subject to relevant permissions. The setting is equally enchanting, with a lovely private garden in the back and a traditional courtyard at the front, featuring a functioning well and various outbuildings that await restoration. The property is semi-detached, with a currently unoccupied neighboring house, ensuring privacy and tranquility. Located in a peaceful hamlet, the essence of countryside living can be genuinely appreciated here with numerous walking paths right at your doorstep, amidst lush natural landscapes. Despite its secluded feel, the house is merely a five-minu ... click here to read more

Nestled in the picturesque region of Dordogne in Aquitaine, France, lies the charming village of Étouars, where a delightful stone house awaits new owners. This 2-bedroom property presents a wonderful opportunity for those looking to immerse themselves in the tranquil pace of French rural life while embracing the charm of a home ripe for personalization. The house spans approximately 70 square meters and retains a rustic aesthetic, merging old-world charm with the comforts of modern living. The ground floor features three spacious living areas, each brimming with character, highlighted by traditional architectural elements. Upstairs, a cozy bedroom and a small, accessible attic provide comfortable private spaces, offering serene views of the surrounding nature. Adjacent to the main residence, a barn with a substantial 50 square meter floor area includes a mezzanine. This space holds potential for creative reimagining—perhaps as additional bedrooms or a workshop—subject to the necessary approvals. The south-facing terrace and a garden adorned with mature trees create an idyllic outdoor setting perfect for relaxing and entertaining. While the property is immediately habitable with double glazing, a wood stove, and efficient electric radiators in place, there are a few aspects where the new homeowners can add value. The septic tank requires updating to meet current standards, presenting a fantastic project for those looking to contribute their personal touch and add value to their investment. Living in Étouars offers a lifestyle steeped in tranquility away from the hustle of metropolitan chaos. The region is famed for its rolling landscapes, vineyards, and historical sites. Nearby, the town of Javerlhac, only a 6km driv ... click here to read more

One can't help but imagine the appeal and allure of residing in the charming countryside of Étouars, France. Nestled in the heart of Aquitaine, an idyllic region brimming with beautiful landscapes and rich history, is an exquisite four-bedroom stone house awaiting its new owners. This inviting domicile, distinguished by its authentic French country aesthetic, is accessible via a quiet, intimate road, ensuring the utmost privacy. A one-of-a-kind country home fashioned from stone, it boasts a ground area of 150 square meters, providing ample space for a comfortable and relaxing countryside life. Upon entering the abode, you are welcomed by a spacious living room that houses a stunning fireplace and is embellished with exposed stones, adding an elegant touch of rustic beauty to the place. Adjoining the living room is a well-equipped kitchen, ready to inspire delicious culinary creations. Privacy abounds with a bedroom on the ground floor, featuring a convenient bathroom nearby. Climbing up to the first floor, you will discover three more charming bedrooms. One of these rooms enjoys an attached water point, a luxury meant to encourage relaxation within its inviting proximity. Also located on this floor is a bathroom and a toilet. This decently-sized country home features additional structures that vastly increase its potential. Just outside the main house, you can find a small house outfitted with a fireplace. With some creativity and the necessary permissions, this space could be transformed into an attractive guesthouse. An adjoining barn enhances the property's charm. A small stone barn, all about 25 square meters, is set across the road, marking the start of the generous 695-square-meter garden. This outdoor space ... click here to read more

If you're seeking a serene slice of French life away from the bustle but with the convenience of nearby amenities, this quaint stone house in Étouars might be just what you’re searching for. Set in the picturesque Aquitaine region of France, this property combines rustic charm with modern potential for those wishing to embrace a tranquil lifestyle or invest in a second home. The property, positioned accessibly by a small private road, promises both privacy and the charming presence of French countryside living. Embrace the unique ambience as you enter through the sturdy doors into the spacious ground floor. Exposed stone walls paired with a traditional fireplace in the large living room invite residents to imagine cozy nights filled with warmth and harmony. The accompanying kitchen remains functional, ideal for those keen to indulge in culinary adventures inspired by the rich local produce. The ground floor also houses one bedroom and a bathroom, ensuring convenience alongside comfort—perfect for guests or those preferring single-level living accommodation. Upstairs, the charm continues with three additional bedrooms, each whispering potential. One of these rooms cleverly includes a water point, offering the budding interior designer within you an opportunity to craft a cozy en-suite or a functional office space. Another bathroom and convenient toilet add to the practicality of this floor, promising that the hectic morning routines run smoothly. Now, let's step outside to unearth more exciting features. A small adjacent house, equipped with its own fireplace, could be a future gite—a charming retreat for visiting family and friends or perhaps an additional income stream for the entrepreneurial-minded. The necessary pe ... click here to read more

Immerse yourself in the tranquillity of the charming French countryside with this gorgeous 12-bedroom residence, situated in the small village of Saint-Estèphe, Aquitaine, France. Notably, this bucolic destination rests within the scenic Dordogne region, renowned for its idyllic countryside, impressive castles, vineyards, and fantastic local markets offering local delicacies and fine wines. The property itself comprises a grand total of 490 m2 of livable space, spanning across three beautifully maintained stone-built dwellings. Should you choose to venture outside and nearby, you'll find yourself just 2 km away from a well-appreciated leisure lake, providing hues that add a perfect backdrop to your residence. Let's take a more profound look at what each dwelling holds: - The primary house is a model of traditional French living replete with modern amenities. It offers a grand living room adjoined by a kitchen and dining room, a study, a cozy living area, and a practical laundry room. For accommodation, it possesses 4 bedrooms, with one boasting its private shower room and dressing area and a bathroom and dressing room to complete the layout. - The amiably independent secondary dwelling offers a sense of warmth with its large living room featuring a welcoming fireplace. This property also encompasses a fitted kitchen, 5 bedrooms, two shower rooms, and an upstairs covered balcony delivering sweeping views of the encompassing countryside and nearby lake. - Last but certainly not least, the third dwelling is a quaint little haven offering a homey living room with a fireplace, equipped kitchen, three bedrooms, two bathrooms, and plenty of character. Each dwelling comes with its own private terrace where you can enjoy a ... click here to read more

Uncover the essence of peaceful rural living with this charming three-bedroom stone-built house in Teyjat, nestled within the scenic region of Aquitaine in Dordogne, France. This idyllic property offers a serene environment, surrounded by lush countryside vistas, and is complemented by a spacious barn that holds potential for conversion into additional living space, workshops, or secure parking for large vehicles—subject to relevant permits, offering a wealth of opportunities to tailor this space to your liking. Entering the property, you are welcomed by a generous courtyard that leads to a homely interior, which spans approximately 139 square meters. The house opens into a large farmhouse kitchen, the heart of daily life, complete with a central island for gatherings and a wood-burning stove that adds warmth and character. Adjacent utilities and a dedicated wood store provide practical space for everyday chores. The living room, bathed in natural light from triple-aspect windows and patio doors, promotes a cozy atmosphere, especially with its own wood-burning fire. An adjoining office space also generates the perfect remote-working environment, and a convenient cloakroom with a toilet completes the setup on this floor. On the upper level, three well-appointed bedrooms await, each designed as a tranquil retreat. The master suite boasts en-suite facilities and a dressing room, ensuring private and luxurious living quarters. The terraced style gardens attached to the property feature a vegetable garden and well-established fruit trees, nurturing a perfect hobby for those with a green thumb and a preference for sustainable living. Despite its rural charm, Teyjat remains well-connected with vital amenities nearby, such a ... click here to read more

Discover the charm of rural living with this captivating three-bedroom farmhouse located in the serene countryside of Teyjat, Aquitaine. Being set back from the quaint country lane, this stone-built property provides a unique combination of privacy and unspoiled scenic views, making it an ideal refuge for those who cherish tranquility. Boasting sturdy construction and good condition, this farmhouse presents an appealing setup for a renovation enthusiast to personalize or for a family ready to move right in. The spacious courtyard entrance to the property sets a welcoming tone, leading into a characterful home that melds rustic charm with practical living spaces. The ground floor of the farmhouse is the heart of the home, featuring a large kitchen with a central island and a warming wood-burning stove—perfect for family gatherings or baking sessions on cool evenings. Adjacent to this, a utility room and a wood store add to the practical elements of the home. The lounge, with its triple aspect windows and cozy wood-burning fireplace, serves as an ideal spot for relaxation while enjoying views of the surrounding landscape. This space is complemented by patio doors that open up to the attached terraced style gardens, an office space, and a handy cloakroom with a WC. The gardens are a true delight with a vegetable patch and an assortment of well-established fruit trees—promising delightful outdoor activities for gardening enthusiasts and a playground for children to explore. Additionally, the property features an enormous barn which holds potential for conversion into additional living space or for use as secure parking for a large camper van, subject to necessary permissions. On the upper level, the home offers three bed ... click here to read more

Nestled within the tranquility of the picturesque Périgordian countryside, this splendid country home offers a unique opportunity for those in search of a serene lifestyle. Located in the charming commune of Soudat, in the enchanting region of Aquitaine, Dordogne, this property provides a delightful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life. To start your journey into this lovely abode, one is welcomed by the spacious kitchen and dining area. This warm and inviting space is ideal for family gatherings or hosting friends over a delicious meal prepared from the fresh produce available at nearby local markets. The cozy living room, which features a charming wood burner, serves as the perfect space for unwinding after a long day or sharing stories by the fire on cooler evenings. With its two well-proportioned bedrooms and a dressing room, this property ensures comfort and tranquility for its residents. The bathroom, conveniently located on the ground floor, adds to the practicality of the home. What really sets this country house apart is the large mezzanine space that spans over 30 square meters. This area could be transformed into a home office, studio, or even an additional guestroom, offering flexibility to suit your lifestyle needs. The outdoors is just as captivating with almost one hectare of wooded grounds enveloping the property. It is a haven for nature lovers, with several outbuildings, including a garage, a summer kitchen or cabin, and various garden sheds. These structures offer great potential for those with a penchant for gardening or creative outdoor projects. Living in Soudat offers a genuine taste of French rural life, catering well to those who value peace and space. The community, though small, ... click here to read more

Nestled within the scenic landscapes of Aquitaine, Dordogne, the quaint town of Nontron presents an enticing real estate opportunity in the form of a charming country home, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the tranquil French countryside. This six-bedroom property offers a versatile living arrangement that can cater to a variety of needs, whether you’re envisioning a bustling family home or exploring potential commercial ventures like a boutique hotel, subject to proper permissions. The main residence exudes rustic charm with its traditional stone construction and features a spacious 352 square meter layout. The entrance hall warmly welcomes visitors and seamlessly flows into a large kitchen/diner, ideal for family gatherings. Adjacent to this, a luminous double aspect living room opens up to an additional living area located in the base of an impressive round tower. This highlight of the home boasts a double-height ceiling with an elegant granite fireplace and patio doors that lead out to the garden, enhancing the indoor-outdoor living experience. The ground floor includes four well-proportioned bedrooms, offering ample space for family and guests alike. In addition, the property features a recently renovated billiard/games room, a laundry area, pantry, bathroom, and cloakroom, ensuring practicality alongside its aesthetic appeal. While the main house retains much of its original character, certain areas have been marked for renovation, providing new owners the unique opportunity to customize aspects of the home to their taste. Accompanying the main house is a fully renovated two-bedroom cottage. This independent unit includes an open-plan kitchen and living/dining area, with two generous upstairs ... click here to read more

Welcome to the enchanting realm of Nontron, nestled in the heart of the picturesque Dordogne region, Aquitaine, where the allure of a historic chateau awaits. As a bustling agent for a global real estate agency, I'm thrilled to present a property that offers an exquisite blend of historical grandeur and modern living conveniences. This opportunity is particularly exciting for overseas buyers and expats looking for a charming slice of French history to call their own. Before I dive into the property details, let's wander through the area a bit. Nontron is located within the lush and captivating Dordogne valley, renowned for its timeless landscapes, rolling vineyards, and tranquil rivers. Living here, you'll often find yourself immersed in an authentic French cultural experience, where history and everyday life weave seamlessly together. Imagine waking up in a house that embodies centuries of tradition—the property in question is a 4-bedroom chateau, meticulously maintained and ready for your family to make memories. Spanning a generous 333 square meters, this house is not just a place to live, but an invitation to become part of a living story. With its sturdy stone façade and timeless architecture, it stands proud on a verdant expanse of 7,700 square meters of land, providing ample space for every conceivable outdoor activity, from leisurely sun-drenched afternoons to vibrant summer gatherings with friends and family. Inside, history comes alive with spacious rooms bathed in natural light, each corner whispering tales of bygone eras. The living room offers a cozy setting for both quiet evenings and lively family conversations, while the equipped kitchen invites culinary adventures awaiting those special family meals. ... click here to read more

Immerse yourself in the charming and unique culture of France with this five-bedroom house nestled within the scenic town of Nontron in the Dordogne region of Nouvell-Aquitaine. This property affords breathtaking views of the lush Bandiat Valley, with its diverse flora and fauna creating a picturesque tapestry of nature's beauty. Spread over three ample floors, the house covers a generous 240m², providing ample space for comfortable living and quality bonding. It also has the charm of an old-world maison de maitre, with an enclosed garden to guarantee privacy. Many of the residence's original features have been preserved, adding a timeless appeal that balances modern functionality and classic elegance. • Entrance hall featuring an original staircase • Living room with wooden floor, a cozy fireplace, and doors leading out to the terrace • Fully fitted and equipped dining kitchen • Well-maintained guest cloakroom • Five spacious double bedrooms, each with original wooden floors • Three well-appointed bathrooms • A functional loft area • Full-size cellar, partially featuring a vaulted ceiling • Welcoming exterior terrace, perfect for outdoor dining or entertaining • Spacious 298m² garden affording remarkable views of the scenic landscapes A pleasant climate is one of the many attributes of Nontron's location. Enjoy warm summers, ideal for numerous outdoor activities, and cosy winters perfect for indoor gatherings, hearty stews, and glasses of locally-produced red wine. Living in Nontron means experiencing the unmistakable vibrancy of French market-town life. The town brims with essential and leisure facilities, from boutique shops to general amenities and gourmet eating establishments. Famed for its artisan knife-ma ... click here to read more

Perfect for families or expatriates looking to settle in the scenic French countryside, this five-bedroom house promises a balanced lifestyle of tranquility and accessibility. Located in the picturesque town of Nontron, in the Dordogne department of the Aquitaine region, this property presents an appealing opportunity for those ready to embrace a serene rural life within close reach of all necessary amenities. Nestled atop the heights of Nontron, this contemporary villa enjoys panoramic views of the verdant landscape of Perigord Vert, an area renowned for its lush woodlands and traditional French villages. The house, constructed in 1995, spans 219 square meters and is designed for comfort and functionality wrapped in a stylish layout. The ground floor of this two-story villa welcomes you with a spacious reception area that leads into a brightly lit living room of approximately 40 square meters, featuring an open, fitted, and fully-equipped kitchen—ideal for entertaining and family gatherings. Two cozy lounges provide additional space for relaxation. The sleeping quarters on this floor include two well-sized bedrooms complemented by a shared bathroom, offering convenience for family living. Ascending to the upper level, you'll find three additional bedrooms, each providing ample space and privacy. These are serviced by a well-appointed bathroom and adjoined by a mezzanine that hosts a quaint reading room, a perfect quiet corner for leisure and study. For those with a penchant for DIY or requiring additional storage, the basement offers a generous space including a garage, a workshop, a laundry room, and a cellar. The property sits on a 4200 square meter plot, which is fully fenced and beautifully landscaped with an ... click here to read more

Discover the charm of French living with this beautifully renovated two-bedroom stone village house, situated just a short drive from the picturesque market town of Nontron in the heart of Dordogne, Nouvelle-Aquitaine. This mid-1800s gem has been thoughtfully brought into the 21st century while retaining its original character, offering a unique blend of history and modernity, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in French culture. Local Area Nontron is nestled in the scenic Perigord Vert area of the Dordogne region, renowned for its lush landscapes, historic sites, and vibrant local markets. Living near Nontron means being surrounded by nature, with plenty of opportunities for hiking, cycling, and simply enjoying the tranquility of the French countryside. The town itself provides all essential amenities, including shops, restaurants, and healthcare facilities, making everyday life convenient and enjoyable. For overseas buyers, it's a chance to experience authentic French living in a community that welcomes diversity and offers a slower, more quality-filled lifestyle. Climate Residents of this area enjoy a temperate climate with distinct seasons. Summers are warm and inviting, perfect for enjoying outdoor activities and dining al fresco in your summer kitchen. Winters are mild, with occasional rain, making it an ideal location for those who appreciate a more moderate climate year-round. House Features: - Fully renovated with quality materials, presenting a very good living condition. - Open plan living room (46 m²) featuring a cozy fireplace and a fitted, equipped kitchen. - Sitting/dining room (36 m²) with direct access to the terrace and garden, ideal for indoor-outdoor living. - Two generous double bedro ... click here to read more

Nestled in the heart of the scenic Perigord Vert in Dordogne, this superb 15-bedroom country estate captures the serene charm of Nontron, France. This property is an inviting space for nature enthusiasts, large family gatherings, or those seeking a peaceful retreat for creative inspiration. The estate comprises two characteristic Nontronnais stone houses, together capable of accommodating up to 30 people. This expansive property is a haven for those who appreciate the allure of rustic living, while also considering the appeal of a property that presents potential for personal touches or modernization. The houses are settled on a remarkable plot spanning 6 hectares, enveloping you in an abundance of private woodland and the gentle sounds of a bordering river. The tranquility found here is a rare commodity, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. In terms of property condition, the houses are in good, livable shape but would benefit from some renovations to enhance both functionality and aesthetics. This presents a wonderful opportunity for those looking to engage in a fixer-upper project that allows for personalization to one's taste and to potentially increase the value of their investment. The local area of Nontron offers a rich tapestry of French rural life. Residents enjoy access to essential amenities including local markets, bakeries, and quaint cafes that are characteristic of this region. The area is also known for its outdoor activities; whether it’s kayaking along the river, hiking through endless forest trails, or exploring the historical sites scattered throughout the Perigord Vert region. Living in a house in this region allows you to immerse yourself fully in the calmness ... click here to read more

Property Description: Introducing an inviting and spacious five-bedroom contemporary villa located in the serene region of Aquitaine, Dordogne, in the charming town of Nontron, France. Perfectly positioned to capture enchanting views of the verdant Perigord Vert, this property offers a perfect blend of comfort, style, and tranquility. Property Overview: - Generously sized at 219 square meters, this two-story villa boasts nine well-appointed rooms. - A sunlit living room of about 40 square meters featuring a fitted and fully equipped kitchen offers a great space for family gatherings and culinary adventures. - Two cozy living rooms provide additional space for relaxation and entertainment. - The house features five elegantly designed bedrooms, including two on the ground floor and three upstairs, offering ample accommodations and privacy. - Facilities include one bathroom on each floor, ensuring convenience for both family members and guests. - A mezzanine with a comfortable reading room serves as a peaceful retreat for those quieter moments. - The basement hosts a garage, a workshop, a laundry area, and a cellar, affording multiple functional spaces for various household needs. Exterior Features: - The property sits on a generous 4200 square meter plot, which is fully fenced, ensuring privacy. - Beautifully landscaped gardens with mature trees and an array of flowers create a picturesque outdoor space ideal for relaxation and outdoor activities. Living in Nontron: For those considering a move to Nontron, the area presents a blend of historical charm and modern conveniences, nestled amidst the natural beauty of the Dordogne. The region is renowned for its scenic landscapes, rich history, and vibrant local cult ... click here to read more

Discover a slice of tranquility and timeless charm with this 7-bedroom farmhouse nestled within the picturesque landscape of Nontron, in the scenic Dordogne department of Aquitaine, France. Surrounded by an enchanting estate spanning over 14 hectares, the property harmoniously blends meadows and densely wooded areas, offering a perfect retreat for nature and equestrian enthusiasts alike. This stunning property promises more than just breathtaking views and serene surroundings; it presents a rewarding opportunity for those ready to embrace the local lifestyle. As you enter the serene edges of Nontron, a small town famed for its rich history and vibrant culture, you'll find that this idyllic setting is only 1 km from local shops, making everyday necessities readily accessible while retaining an atmosphere of peaceful seclusion. The area, known for its artisanal crafts and traditional French gastronomy, provides a true cultural immersion that's ideal for overseas buyers or expats seeking a genuine French countryside experience. The farmhouse itself, spanning two floors and covering a total of 220 square meters, is divided into two comfortable living units, each boasting its unique charm. The first unit, a spacious 136 square meters, features a living room with a cozy stove set on a waxed concrete floor, expansive bay windows that open onto a covered terrace, and an equipped kitchen. Accompanying amenities include a laundry room, an office, four bedrooms, and two bathrooms. The second living space offers 85 square meters of livable area with a similar level of comfort, marked by a private terrace and rustic wooden floorboards that add to its farmhouse appeal. For those with a keen interest in equestrian pursuits, the prop ... click here to read more