Spacious 6-Bedroom Stone House in Tonnay-Boutonne: Ideal Vacation Home

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

Stand on the terrace on a July evening and you'll understand immediately why the French have always built their finest houses on hills. The Aude valley spreads out below in bands of gold and green — sunflower fields giving way to vineyards, then the jagged silhouette of the Pyrenees catching the last of the light. A glass of Blanquette de Limoux in hand, the bubbles still sharp and cold, the smell of lavender drifting up from the garden. This is not a fantasy sequence from a travel magazine. This is Tuesday. This four-bedroom villa sits at one of the highest residential addresses above Limoux, in France's Languedoc-Roussillon region, and the position alone justifies serious attention. But the house itself earns that attention right back. Three levels of generous, well-proportioned living space — around 186 square metres in total — have been laid out with real intelligence. The heart of the home is a single open-plan space that runs to over 60 square metres, pulling together the sitting room, dining area and kitchen into one fluid room without sacrificing any sense of definition between them. Large glazed doors open directly onto the views. On a clear morning, with coffee on the go and those panoramas unfolding through the glass, it's hard to think of a better argument for a second home in France. A bedroom and bathroom sit on the same main level, which matters more than it sounds — it means the house works for guests who don't want to navigate stairs, or for those weeks when you simply want everything within reach. The first floor adds further bedrooms and a second bathroom, giving the layout real flexibility for families or groups. Below, the lower ground floor is the kind of practical bonus that experienced property ... click here to read more

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Stand on the terrace and the Lot River is right there, maybe a hundred metres below, curving through limestone gorges that turn amber in the late afternoon sun. The church bell above tolls the hour. A swallow cuts past at eye level. It takes about thirty seconds to understand why this house hasn't been easy to give up. Saint-Cirq-Lapopie has been voted France's favourite village more than once, and the title doesn't feel like marketing. The medieval streets of pale stone, the 15th-century church perched at the top of it all, the painters who've been coming here since the Surrealists — André Breton lived and worked up the road — there's a reason this village on the Lot Valley's cliff edge has drawn people for centuries. And within that village, few houses sit where this one does: directly below the church, on the lip of a sheer 100-metre drop, with a private garden that runs right to the edge. The wrought-iron gate is easy to miss from the lane. That's rather the point. Once through it, the world shifts. Mature wisteria covers a pergola where a summer kitchen and dining table sit in dappled shade — this is where long lunches happen, the kind that drift into evening without anyone noticing. The gardens wrap around the property and along the cliff, a genuinely rare thing here; outdoor space of this size and privacy simply doesn't come up in Saint-Cirq-Lapopie. Seating areas tuck into different corners depending on the time of day and the angle of the light, and every one of them faces something worth looking at. The house itself is old stone and brick, honest about its age in the best possible way. Terracotta floors, exposed ceiling beams, a wood-burning stove that makes the living room feel like exactly the right place ... click here to read more

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

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

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

Step outside on a Tuesday morning and the cobblestones of the Grand Rue are already humming — a potter carrying clay, a boulangerie door swinging open releasing a warm rush of butter and crust, a cat stretched across a sun-warmed stone step that's been there since the 13th century. This is the daily texture of life in Cordes-sur-Ciel, one of the most quietly extraordinary medieval hilltop villages in southwest France, and this fully renovated three-bedroom house with a self-contained gîte puts you right in the middle of it. The house sits just off the Grand Rue on the village's south-facing flank, which means light — generous, consistent, south-facing light — floods through every room from morning through late afternoon. That matters in a village where some properties are tucked into the hillside and live in perpetual shade. Not this one. The kitchen-diner downstairs looks directly onto the garden, and there's something quietly satisfying about cooking a Sunday lunch with the window open while the bells of the Église Saint-Michel drift across the rooftops. The renovation here was done properly. New roof, new plumbing, new electrics, double-glazed windows throughout, updated bathrooms — not a cosmetic refresh but a complete structural overhaul. The result is a house that carries all the character of its medieval context — thick stone walls, the particular acoustic stillness that old buildings have — while functioning with entirely modern reliability. The wood-burning stove in the living room isn't decorative nostalgia; on a January evening when the Tarn valley mist rolls in below the village, you'll want exactly that kind of warmth. Upstairs, two large bedrooms share a well-appointed bathroom. The layout is generous fo ... click here to read more

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

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

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

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

Nestled within the charming landscape of Saint-Savinien in the Charente-Maritime region, this 7-bedroom detached house offers a blend of generous living space and a hearty touch of French rural character. Priced at 572,000 Euros, this property stands on a considerable plot of 28,966 sqm, showcasing a delightful balance between natural scenery and built space. For those looking to immerse themselves in French provincial life while having the scope to imprint personal touches, this home presents a notable opportunity. The main house, draped in traditional stonework, offers spacious accommodation across three floors. It demands a mention that while the house is in good condition, certain elements await rejuvenation, providing a canvas for those inclined towards customization or those with a penchant for design. ### Property Features: - Main House: Comprises a cellar in the basement; a ground floor with a fitted kitchen featuring a fireplace and wood-burning stove, a living room with a fireplace, a study, two bedrooms, a separate toilet, and a full bathroom; first floor hosts five additional bedrooms (three with fitted closets, one with an attic cupboard), a full bathroom, a shower room, and two separate toilets. - Attic: Offers potential for conversion, presenting a unique opportunity to expand living space or create bespoke areas such as a studio or home office. - Heating: Combination of oil-fired and electric central heating systems. - Windows: Double glazed throughout, maintaining energy efficiency and comfort. ### Outbuildings and Exterior Features: - Three courtyards and three awnings, providing ample outdoor relaxation and entertainment areas. - A range of functional spaces including a workshop, shed, wine storehou ... click here to read more

Are you looking to make a move to a charming village in the picturesque French countryside? Well, let me tell you about a delightful opportunity in Saint-Savinien, nestled in the heart of Poitou-Charentes, Charente-Maritime, France. Though I'm extremely busy, with clients calling me day and night from every corner of the world, I couldn't resist telling you more about this intriguing property! This could be the perfect place for you, especially if you're seeking a spacious home in a serene location to escape city life's hustle and bustle. Saint-Savinien is often called an artists' village, boasting a rich tapestry of history and culture. Imagine living just a stone's throw away from a beautiful, emblematic church, right in the heart of this vibrant community. Ideal for a large family looking to relocate, or even for those of you hoping to secure a cozy second home abroad, this property promises plenty of space and opportunity. As we step into this house, you'll discover an authentically constructed town house that beautifully reflects the historical richness of this inviting village. It stretches out to a generous 180 square meters, offering enough room for everyone to have their own haven with its five bright bedrooms and two bathrooms. The expansive accommodation is a significant aspect of what makes this residence a real catch. Now, let’s paint a picture of your days in this lovely abode. Wake up to the gentle sunlight peeking through the windows of your spacious bedroom. After a leisurely breakfast in the inviting dining area, the day is yours to explore. The town of Saint-Savinien will quickly become a favorite for those keen to experience a unique blend of nature and history. Amble through the village and enjoy ... click here to read more

Located in the serene and picturesque countryside of Saint-Savinien, in the charming region of Poitou-Charentes, this inviting farmhouse offers the perfect blend of rustic charm and thoughtful modern renovations. The property is ideally positioned just 7km from the scenic Saint Savinien sur Charente, renowned for its beauty and vibrant local culture, making it an excellent choice for overseas buyers and expats looking to immerse themselves in the French lifestyle. This beautifully restored farmhouse spans 110 square meters and stands on a generous plot of 1060 square meters, enveloped by a lush garden filled with fruit trees. A distinctive feature of the outdoor space is the shaded terrace, which provides idyllic views of the expansive fields beyond, offering a tranquil setting for relaxation or entertaining guests. The interior of the home beautifully marries traditional elements with modern comforts. On entering, one is greeted by the unique charm of the 'cottage' kitchen, followed by a dining room and a spacious living room. Both the dining and living areas offer convenient access to the garden, enhancing the indoor-outdoor flow that is so desirable in country living. The ground floor also features practical spaces including a cellar and a laundry room. Upstairs, the accommodation comprises three well-sized bedrooms and two bathrooms, ensuring ample space for family and visitors. A large landing also serves as an office space, perfect for those considering remote work options. Throughout the home, the integration of stones and beams preserves its historical essence, while offering comfortable living spaces. While the farmhouse is in good condition, it presents as a delightful fixer-upper opportunity for those wish ... click here to read more

Nestled in the charming town of Saint-Savinien, situated within the beautiful region of Charente-Maritime (17350) in France, a delightful three-bedroom house is available for purchase. A home filled with character and classic French charm, this unique property offers a chance to own a piece of authentic French countryside, at a competitive price of €112,270. This picturesque home provides a generous living space of 235 square meters, complemented with an additional 120 square meters of non-adjoining garden space, creating a wonderful opportunity to indulge in a true French way of life. Positioned within a peaceful community, the house is less than an hour away from the Charente-Maritime coastline, making it a perfect spot for those who love the perfect balance between country living and coastal serenity. Features of the Property: 5 rooms 3 bedrooms 1 bathroom 1 shower room Usable area: 111 sqm Living space: 36 sqm Land area: 355 sqm Property tax is €521 annually Kitchen equipped with ceramic hob, oven, cooker hood, kitchen furniture, a table and chairs, and a double bowl sink. Electric meter, water meter Garden with trees High-speed internet TV and Cable Smoke detectors Fireplace Double glazing Attic: Insulated non-convertible attic Upon entering, charm emanates from the fitted kitchen complete with modern conveniences, leading to a cozy living room adorned with an inviting fireplace. Here, you can entertain guests or enjoy serene moments basking in the warmth of the hearth. Furthermore, the ground floor features a pantry and separate WC, perfect for maintaining privacy in the main areas of the house. Upstairs, three spacious bedrooms offer ample space for rest and relaxation. The master suite boa ... click here to read more

Located in the serene and picturesque region of Charente-Maritime, this 2-bedroom house in Surgères offers a comfortable living environment with its spacious layout and charming outdoor setting. Spanning 110 sqm on a single-story, this villa, constructed in 1994, positions itself as a pleasant home for those looking to enjoy the delights of rural France. The property sits on an enclosed garden plot of approximately 753 sqm, adorned with mature trees providing a scenic and private atmosphere. Inside, you're welcomed by a bright entrance hall leading into a well-appointed kitchen. The kitchen opens onto a sizable living and dining room area, complete with a cosy fireplace, perfect for family gatherings or quiet evenings. The residence features two versatile bedrooms, one boasting built-in storage, and two additional rooms with windows that could serve as offices or guest rooms. Furthermore, the house includes a bathroom, a separate toilet, and a heated conservatory—ideal for enjoying views of the verdant garden irrespective of the weather. The house is equipped with air conditioning, a thermodynamic water heater, and double glazing, ensuring year-round comfort. Additional conveniences include an attached garage and an electric gate for secure, private access. Despite its proximity to a railway line, the area remains tranquil, offering a peaceful living environment. Property Features: - Air conditioning - Double glazing - Attached garage - Electric gate - Fireplace - Thermodynamic water heater - Heated conservatory with garden access Amenities: - Mature garden with enclosed plot - Proximity to local shops and public transportation - Easy access to countryside and coastal areas Surgères stands out with its historic cha ... click here to read more

Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Poitou-Charentes region, this exquisite 18th-century country home in Mazeray offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern comfort. Just a stone's throw from the future thermal spa town of Saint Jean d'Angely, this property is a sanctuary for those seeking a tranquil retreat or a lucrative investment in the French countryside. Imagine waking up to the gentle rustle of leaves and the distant chirping of birds, as the morning sun filters through the lush greenery surrounding your home. This is the everyday reality for those fortunate enough to own this stunning country home. With five spacious bedrooms and three well-appointed bathrooms, this property is perfect for families or those who love to entertain guests. ### A Glimpse into the Lifestyle Living in Mazeray offers a unique lifestyle that combines the serenity of rural life with the convenience of modern amenities. The region is renowned for its mild climate, making it an ideal location for a second home. Whether you're looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life or seeking a peaceful retreat, Mazeray has something for everyone. - Local Attractions: Explore the nearby Château de Mazeray, a historical gem that adds a touch of grandeur to the area. The future thermal spa in Saint Jean d'Angely promises relaxation and rejuvenation just minutes away. - Outdoor Activities: The expansive 9380m² of adjoining land is perfect for equestrian enthusiasts or those who simply enjoy the great outdoors. The heated pool and lounging area provide a perfect spot for summer relaxation. - Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of the Charente-Maritime region. From local markets to traditional fest ... click here to read more

Imagine waking up in a picturesque French village, where the morning sun filters through the lush greenery surrounding your elegant manor house. Welcome to Saint-Porchaire, a hidden gem in the Charente-Maritime region, where your dream of owning a second home in France becomes a reality. This exquisite 6-bedroom property offers not just a home, but a lifestyle steeped in history, culture, and tranquility. A Prime Location for the Discerning Buyer Nestled in the heart of Poitou-Charentes, Saint-Porchaire is perfectly positioned to offer the best of both worlds. Just a short drive from the bustling towns of Saintes and Rochefort, and within easy reach of the stunning Atlantic coastline, this location is ideal for those seeking a balance between vibrant city life and serene countryside living. With La Rochelle and Bordeaux just a stone's throw away, you have access to international airports, making travel to and from your holiday home a breeze. A Home with Character and Modern Comforts This manor house is a testament to timeless elegance, with its original features beautifully preserved and enhanced by modern amenities. As you step through the entrance hall, the original cement tiles set the stage for the grandeur that unfolds. The spacious reception rooms, including a living room, dining room, and kitchen, are bathed in natural light, creating an inviting atmosphere for family gatherings or entertaining guests. A Sanctuary for Relaxation and Recreation The property extends over a generous 1307 m² plot, offering a private oasis with a walled garden and mature trees. The mosaic-tiled pool, complete with an integrated submerged beach and wellness area, is a highlight, providing a perfect spot for relaxation and leisure. A ... click here to read more

Welcome to Saint-Porchaire, a charming little jewel nestled in the heart of the Poitou-Charentes region, Charente-Maritime, France. This delightful village offers a unique fusion of rustic charm and modern living convenience. Picture yourself strolling through the quaint streets, lined with lush greenery and vibrant flowers, where local artisans proudly display their works. It's a place where neighbors still greet each other with a smile and everyone knows your name. Now, let's take a moment to step back and delve into the beauty of this stunning 4-bedroom house, designed with love and thoughtful precision that speaks to your heart and soul. This beautiful, architecturally-designed wooden frame home was meticulously constructed in 2018, making it an ideal blend of both modern functionality and timeless appeal. From the moment your feet grace the entrance, the airy, bright space of the living room embraces you—a grand 48m², meticulously crafted with an open kitchen concept that is perfect for entertaining family and friends. Imagine hosting family dinners, with love permeating the air, as the laughter echoes through the high ceilings. Plus, you have a quaint little TV lounge with an adjoining office space, where creativity is just waiting to be unleashed. Speaking of spaces to relax, downstairs you'll find a serene master suite of nearly 20m², offering the peace and tranquility you deserve after a long day traversing the beautiful landscape of Saint-Porchaire. For those who cherish their private moments, the upper floor holds additional treasures including three bedrooms, each elegantly appointed with its own bathroom. One of these bathrooms is en suite, seamlessly opening onto a 15m² roof terrace, gifting you a canvas ... click here to read more

A Tranquil Escape in the Heart of Charente-Maritime Imagine waking up to the gentle rustle of leaves and the sweet scent of blooming fruit trees, as sunlight filters through your bedroom window. Nestled in the picturesque village of Saint-Porchaire, this eco-friendly retreat offers a harmonious blend of modern comfort and natural beauty, making it the perfect vacation home or second residence for those seeking a serene escape in the heart of France. A Home Designed for Comfort and Sustainability Built in 2018, this architect-designed wooden frame house spans 165 square meters, offering ample space for relaxation and entertainment. The open-plan living area, bathed in natural light, features a spacious 48m² living room with an integrated kitchen, perfect for hosting family gatherings or intimate dinners. A cozy TV lounge and adjoining office provide additional spaces for leisure and productivity. The master suite, a sanctuary of tranquility, boasts nearly 20m² of space, offering a private retreat within the home. Upstairs, three additional bedrooms each come with their own bathroom, one of which opens onto a 15m² roof terrace, providing breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Embrace the Outdoors Step outside to discover a beautifully landscaped garden, spanning over 1,400 m². Enclosed for privacy, the garden is a verdant oasis, featuring a variety of fruit trees, including cherry, apple, plum, and walnut. A large wooden terrace invites you to enjoy al fresco dining or simply unwind with a book, while the potential for a swimming pool adds an exciting opportunity for future enhancements. Practical and Eco-Conscious Features This home is not only aesthetically pleasing but also environmentally ... click here to read more

This picturesque 5-bedroom house, ideally located in the charming city of Saint-Jean-D'Angély in the region of Charente-Maritime, presents an enticing opportunity for overseas buyers seeking to establish themselves in the heart of France's magnificent countryside. Set on a fenced and wooded plot of 1,204 m2, this detached bungalow offers an impressive space of 166sqm, with the potential to become a stunning family abode. On the ground floor, the house boasts a convenient linen room, a bedroom complemented with a shower room, a spacious games room perfect for family recreation complete with a cozy corner fireplace, a study that could be turned into a home office or library, and a two-car garage. The first floor reveals an unheated conservatory, a grand dining room, a formal living room, an inviting lounge, three comfortable bedrooms, a bathroom, and a separate WC. The house benefits from central heating powered by gas and a double glazed windows ensuring optimal thermal insulation. Property features: - Linen room - Games room with corner fireplace - Study - Conservatory - Dining room - Lounge - Three additional bedrooms - Separate WC - Gas-fired central heating - Double glazing Extra amenities included are a charming wooden chalet that could be used as a garden shed or a crafts studio, a relaxing outdoor barbecue area, and convenient mains drainage. Amenities: - Wooden chalet - Barbecue area - Mains drainage Despite its tranquil, countryside setting, the house is situated within Saint-Jean-d'Angely, a city offering an attractive balance of history and modernity. Amenities such as shops, schools and health services are within easy reach, whilst recreation options exist aplenty including numerous parks, restaurants, a ... click here to read more

Nestled in the charming city of Saint-Jean-d'Angély, this delightful 6-bedroom house offers a prime opportunity for families or investors looking to immerse themselves in the peaceful ambiance of the French countryside. Constructed in 2000, the property combines modernity with robust functionality spread across a sizeable 330 sqm of living space, all situated on a generous 3,106 sqm plot with mature, enclosed gardens. Property Features: - Six spacious bedrooms - Three well-appointed bathrooms - Impressive living and dining areas equipped with an open fireplace for cozy family gatherings - An efficient fitted kitchen with modern appliances, perfect for culinary enthusiasts - A separate scullery adds convenience to everyday living - Ground floor equipped with a cellar, sauna, and additional storeroom for ample storage - Outbuildings include three workshops and additional storage facilities, enhancing practicality - A covered, salt-filtered swimming pool to relax during sunny days - A private driveway and terrace to enjoy outdoor living The property is detached, ensuring privacy and tranquility, crowned with a tile roofing and double-glazed windows throughout. It offers double heating systems through a heat pump and the allure of a fireplace, making it energy-efficient and snug during the cooler seasons. The garden views from this residence are clear and serene, providing a picturesque look at your own swimming pool area, a perfect backdrop for relaxation and entertainment. Basic renovation such as wall coverings and decorations may be considered to personalize and enhance the aesthetic appeal according to new owners' tastes. Local Area and Climate: Saint-Jean-d'Angély, located in the Poitou-Charentes region (Charente-M ... click here to read more

Welcome to the picturesque village near Saint-Jean-d'Angély, where enchanting countryside charm meets modern comforts in this lovely 3-bedroom house nestled in Poitou-Charentes, Charente-Maritime. With an asking price of €182,000, this inviting home provides a delightful retreat in one of the region’s most adored riverside spots. I've been in the real estate game for quite some time, and a gem like this doesn't come up every day. Let's first talk about the home's remarkable history. Renovated in 2006, this charming cottage stands proudly a short stroll from the tranquil banks of the Boutonne River. The abode greets you with its sun-kissed terrace leading into a large, fully-fitted kitchen diner. This heart of the home, with its magnificent fireplace, is where memories are cooked and shared. Moving through, the large sitting room beckons with its warmth, providing an ideal space for entertainment or unwinding. Up the elegant staircase, you'll find three spacious bedrooms and a chic family bathroom – each room having its own tale to tell. And if you need more space, a snug on the ground floor doubles as a convenient fourth bedroom complete with an ensuite shower, perfect for guests or as a cozy retreat. Adding to its allure, this property comes with a handful of modern amenities, including: - Three spacious bedrooms - Two bathrooms, including one ensuite - Large kitchen diner with fireplace - Generous sitting room - Additional snug room - Private sunny terrace - Stunning location near the Boutonne River - Off-street parking - Handy decked area - Small garden - Outbuildings nearby for extra storage or utility Living in Saint-Jean-d'Angély offers more than just a home. The town is steeped in rich history and culture, a f ... click here to read more

Nestled in the heart of the charming region of Poitou-Charentes, in the vibrant hub of Charente-Maritime, lies the delightful town of Saint-Jean-d'Angély. This is where your possible new abode awaits—a quaint 3-bedroom house that speaks volumes about tradition while promising a comfortable French lifestyle. Let's take a leisurely stroll through this well-maintained property and the wonderful opportunity it presents, particularly for expatriates or international buyers exploring life in this picturesque corner of France. Imagine yourself stepping into a classic stone house, the kind that echoes history with every brick yet offers modern comfort having been recently updated. Your journey begins as you open the door to be greeted by an entrance hall, complete with an original wooden staircase that serves as a proud testament to the craftsmanship of yesteryears. It's easy to envision mornings that begin with the soft patter of socked feet on hardwood floors and the delicious aroma of breakfast wafting in from the kitchen. Speaking of the kitchen, it’s not just any kitchen! This kitchen comes with an old fireplace center stage; a potential heart of your home that transforms a simple meal prep into an experience. Whether it's the sizzling sound of a fresh baguette being cut, or a cozy winter evening basking in the glow of a fire, this space has so much to offer. Throughout the ground floor, there’s a cellar—ready to become either a wine lover’s sanctuary or simply extra storage space. Wander upstairs to find two spacious bedrooms and a shower room on the first floor, each telling its own story of slumber and sanity. Ascend one floor higher and you’ll discover another bedroom, complete with another shower room, arguably mak ... click here to read more

Nestled within the historic heart of Saint-Jean-d'Angély, this exquisite town house offers a unique opportunity to own a piece of French heritage combined with the comforts of contemporary living. As busy as I am, given my worldwide clientele, I an assure you this is one of those opportunities worth pausing for. Just imagine yourself living in the picturesque region of Poitou-Charentes, right in the charming town of Saint-Jean-d'Angély, perfectly situated for both peace and convenience. As you arrive at the address in the quaint part of Charente-Maritime, you'll find yourself enveloped in a mix of history and practicality. It serves not only as a dwelling but an experience of life in France enriched by culture and local warmth. France, a country synonymous with style, offers this ideal family residence that's practical without overpromising. Now, the house itself is in prime condition, believe me – I've been a busy agent for years, and I know when a property is more than it appears online. Enter through an inviting entrance hall, and you'll immediately feel that sense right at home. The journey begins downstairs, where there's a space that could be a spacious office or a multipurpose room – honestly, your arrangements will find this space more than adaptable. There's a decorative fireplace here too, setting a cozy ambiance even if it's more decorative than functional nowadays. Make your way into the grand living room, where family life flourishes, with another fireplace adding that extra touch of warmth. This room naturally flows into a gorgeous fitted kitchen, fully-equipped for whipping up meals while you swap stories about your global adventures. There’s also a convenient WC on this floor, making life just a litt ... click here to read more

Introduction to a Charming Country Home in St-Jean-d'Angély, France Nestled in the serene countryside of Poitou-Charentes, Charente-Maritime, this captivating 8-bedroom country home holds the promise of a peaceful rural retreat combined with the comfort of spacious modern living and proximity to local attractions and amenities. Located near the quaint market town of St-Jean-d'Angély, and a drive away from the scenic Atlantic beaches, this property blends cultural richness with natural beauty. Property Overview The façade of this south-facing château, bathed in historical allure, sets the stage for a home that offers extensive living space spanning over 300 square meters. Comprising generously sized bedrooms and multiple reception rooms, this residence is perfect for both large family gatherings and serene moments of solitude. - Bedrooms: 8, including three with ensuite facilities and sublime countryside views. - Bathrooms: 5, combining modern finishes with classic charm. - Reception Rooms: Two grand reception areas featuring cozy fireplaces, with the potential for a third. - Special Features: - Impressive entrance hall - Study - Generous kitchen/breakfast room with fireplace - Nursery room - Two expansive attic rooms, ideal for conversion to additional living spaces - Comprehensive utility spaces including a pantry, laundry room, and a games/boiler room - Outdoor Areas: - Enclosed walled gardens, including a BBQ area and children's play zone - Private swimming pool surrounded by manicured lawns - Expansive outbuildings offering vast storage or conversion possibilities Local Amenities and Atmosphere For those considering a move from overseas, St-Jean-d'Angély resonates with a vibrant yet peaceful ... click here to read more

Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Charente-Maritime region, this exquisite five-bedroom house in Bussac-sur-Charente offers a unique opportunity for those seeking a second home in France. With its rich history dating back to 1898, this property seamlessly blends old-world charm with modern comforts, making it an ideal retreat for overseas buyers and expats. A Glimpse into the Lifestyle Imagine waking up to the gentle rustle of leaves and the soft chirping of birds in your private park spanning over a hectare. This serene environment is perfect for leisurely strolls, morning yoga sessions, or simply unwinding with a book under the shade of a centuries-old tree. The property's various nooks and crannies offer diverse atmospheres, ensuring every family member finds their personal haven. Local Charm and Accessibility Bussac-sur-Charente is a charming village that offers a quintessential French lifestyle. Just a short 10-minute drive from the bustling town of Saintes, you'll have access to a vibrant community, local markets, and cultural events. The region is renowned for its mild climate, making it a year-round destination for holidaymakers. With excellent transport links, including nearby airports and train stations, traveling to and from your second home is a breeze. Property Highlights - Spacious Living: The house boasts a generous 240 square meters of living space, providing ample room for family gatherings and entertaining guests. - Bedrooms and Bathrooms: With five bedrooms and four bathrooms, including two master suites, the property comfortably accommodates large families or visiting friends. - Modern Amenities: A recent kitchen renovation ensures you have all the modern conveniences needed to prepare deligh ... click here to read more

Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Charente-Maritime region, this exquisite 4-bedroom Charentaise stone house in Saint-Sulpice-d'Arnoult offers a unique blend of traditional charm and modern comfort. Perfectly positioned within the golden triangle of Royan, Saintes, and Rochefort, this property is an ideal retreat for those seeking a second home in France. Imagine waking up to the gentle rustle of leaves and the distant chirping of birds, as the morning sun filters through the lush greenery surrounding your home. This is the serene lifestyle that awaits you in Saint-Sulpice-d'Arnoult, a quaint village that embodies the essence of French countryside living. A Gateway to French Culture and Leisure Located just 30 minutes from the pristine beaches of the Atlantic coast, this property offers the perfect balance between tranquility and accessibility. Whether you're looking to explore the historic towns of Saintes and Rochefort or indulge in the vibrant seaside atmosphere of Royan, your options for leisure and adventure are endless. A Home Designed for Comfort and Elegance This 196m² house has been meticulously renovated to ensure a seamless blend of old-world charm and contemporary amenities. The new roof and complete insulation mean you can move in without any additional work, allowing you to focus on creating unforgettable memories with family and friends. - Spacious Living Room: A bright and airy space perfect for relaxation and entertaining. - Large Functional Kitchen: Equipped with modern appliances, ideal for culinary enthusiasts. - Master Bedroom on Ground Floor: Offers convenience and privacy. - Three Additional Bedrooms Upstairs: Perfect for accommodating guests or family. - Extra Room: Versatile space for ... click here to read more

Stand at the tall windows of the first-floor salon on a Tuesday morning and you'll understand immediately why people have been coveting this address for centuries. The Charente River slides past below, catching the light in that particular way it does in late spring—silver and slow—while the bell tower of the Abbaye aux Dames marks the half-hour with a sound that drifts through the open glass and settles into the room like it belongs there. This is the Saint-Pierre quarter of Saintes, one of the most quietly distinguished addresses in southwest France, and this five-bedroom Hôtel Particulier has occupied its corner of it with serious, unhurried confidence for generations. The property spans 471 square metres across a generous footprint that reveals itself gradually—you push through the courtyard gate, cross the stone-flagged entrance, and only then begin to understand the scale of what you're dealing with. Rooms that are genuinely large, not estate-agent large. Ceiling heights that make you stand up straighter. The kind of proportions that were built when space wasn't a luxury but an expectation. The original features are extraordinary in their survival. Wood panelling—the real thing, full height, painted in the muted tones of old French interiors—lines the principal reception rooms. Ceiling roses of elaborate plasterwork crown each main space. The spiral staircase at the heart of the house is the sort of architectural gesture that stops people mid-sentence when they first see it; tight, precise, built from stone that has worn smooth in exactly the right places. Herringbone parquet runs through the upper floors; period encaustic tiles handle the ground level. None of this is reproduction. None of it has been ripped out ... click here to read more