Spacious 8-Bedroom Holiday Home in Naucelles, Auvergne - Perfect for Family Retreats

Stand in the east-facing garden on a clear morning and you'll understand why Monet kept coming back to this stretch of the Seine valley. The medieval keep of La Roche-Guyon rises above the treeline, close enough that you can watch the light shift across its old stones from your own lawn. That view — that specific, unhurried view — is part of what you're buying here. The rest is a 135-square-metre stone house in Vétheuil, a village small enough that the baker knows your order by your third visit. This is not a weekend retreat you'll spend fixing. The house is in good condition, well maintained, and ready to move into or rent out from day one. The bones are serious: thick stone walls that keep rooms cool through July and August without air conditioning, original woodwork that no renovation has managed to sand away, and a gas condensing boiler installed to handle proper French winters. The character is already here. You won't need to manufacture it. On the ground floor, the layout does something increasingly rare in houses of this age — it actually works. A generous double living space runs the width of the house, with the dining room opening onto a west-facing terrace through full-height doors, and the sitting room on the east side giving onto the garden and that castle silhouette beyond. There's a fireplace in the sitting room, the kind you actually light in October, not the kind that's been sealed over and turned into a shelf. The kitchen is fully equipped and positioned so that whoever's cooking isn't exiled from the conversation happening ten feet away. Upstairs, three proper bedrooms — not two bedrooms and a room the listing optimistically calls a bedroom. There's also a study with its own terrace, a second smaller ... click here to read more

Step outside on a Saturday morning and the Seine is right there — glinting through the tree line, unhurried, wide, reflecting the kind of sky that makes you put your phone away. This is the Yvelines you don't see on postcards: quieter than the Loire, less trafficked than the Dordogne, and just over an hour from Paris by car or train. Bonnières-sur-Seine sits in one of the river's great looping bends, and once you've spent a weekend here, the city starts to feel like the place you go to work rather than the place you live. The house itself was built in 2007, which means it comes without the charming headaches of older French rural properties — no crumbling lime plaster, no antiquated wiring, no surprises behind the walls. What you get instead is solid modern construction on a 1,500-square-metre plot, 136 square metres of living space, and a layout that actually makes sense for how families use a home. Ground floor first. The entrance hall opens into a double living room — proper sized, not the cramped salon you find in so many French holiday homes — with an open-plan kitchen that connects the cooking and the conversation. There's a master bedroom on this level with its own shower room, which is genuinely useful if you've got older relatives or guests who'd rather not tackle a staircase. A laundry room and direct garage access round out the practical side of things. Head upstairs and the first floor opens into something more unexpected. The partial attic conversion gives the space real character — sloping ceilings in the right places, three additional bedrooms, a full bathroom, a dressing room, and a generous open area that previous owners have used as a TV lounge and a large home office. If you need a fifth bedroom, it ... click here to read more

Stand at the kitchen window on a still October morning and the Seine is right there — silver-grey and unhurried, sliding past your private riverbank without a sound. No road between you and the water. Just your garden, the soft thud of a fallen apple from the old tree, and a heron working the shallows. This is Chantemesle, a hamlet so quiet that even locals in nearby Vétheuil will raise an eyebrow when you mention you live there. And that is precisely the point. Set on the Haute-Île between Vétheuil and La Roche-Guyon, this four-bedroom house with an independent studio and private Seine frontage sits in one of the most quietly remarkable stretches of the Vexin Normand — a region that somehow manages to be both genuinely rural and less than 70 kilometres from central Paris. Monet painted the cliffs at Vétheuil obsessively between 1878 and 1881, and once you see the light here in late afternoon, bouncing off the river and catching the limestone bluffs, you stop wondering why. The house itself reads like a proper family home that has been lived in and loved. Ground floor: a sitting room anchored by a working fireplace — the kind you actually use from November through March — a separate dining room, a fitted kitchen, and a WC. On the first floor, three bedrooms and a master suite with its own dressing room and bathroom, plus a second shower room. Four bedrooms and a bathroom configuration that works equally well for a couple wanting room to spread out as it does for a multi-generational family pulling in from Paris for the long weekend. 158 square metres in total. Not oversized. Just right. The independent studio is the feature that makes this property genuinely interesting for buyers thinking beyond personal use. Fully s ... click here to read more

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

Sunday morning in Saint-Romain starts with birdsong and the faint smell of bread drifting over from Aubeterre-sur-Dronne, just a few minutes down the road. You slide open the glass doors onto the veranda, coffee in hand, and the pool catches the early light. The kids are still asleep. This is yours. That's the kind of morning this property delivers — not just once, but every time you pull up the drive. Tucked into a small hamlet in the Charente department of southwest France, this modern five-bedroom villa sits in one of the country's most quietly rewarding corners. Aubeterre-sur-Dronne is one of Les Plus Beaux Villages de France — that official designation handed to fewer than 160 communes in the entire country — and it earns it. The medieval church of Saint-Jean, carved directly into a cliff face, is the sort of thing that stops first-time visitors in their tracks. The weekly Saturday market along the main square fills with local cheeses, walnuts, honey from Périgord, and wine from the surrounding Charente vineyards. It's a ten-minute drive, and after a few visits you'll know half the stall holders by name. The house itself spans 234 square metres across three levels, and the layout is genuinely clever. The heart of the ground floor is a 57-square-metre open-plan living and dining area — properly open, the kind where a group of eight around the table doesn't feel cramped — with a sleek fitted kitchen that runs along one wall. No fussy cabinetry or dated tile splashbacks here. Clean lines, good light, and a design that invites cooking rather than just tolerating it. From this space, wide glazed sliding doors open onto a covered veranda that rivals the living room for sheer size, and from there the eye travels straigh ... click here to read more

Sunday morning in Saint-Romain and the only sound is the wind moving through a field of sunflowers. Not a neighbour in sight. Just the soft creak of the farmhouse shutters and, from the kitchen, the smell of coffee brewing in a room that somehow manages to feel both brand new and a hundred years old at the same time. This is the kind of quiet that city people spend years chasing. This four-bedroom, three-bathroom detached farmhouse sits on a full acre of private grounds along a no-through lane in Charente, one of those quietly beautiful corners of southwest France that hasn't yet been discovered by the Instagram crowds. Recently refurbished to a genuinely high standard, it hits a rare balance — the bones of a proper French country house, the comfort of a home that's been thoughtfully brought into the 21st century. You're not buying a renovation project. You're buying the result of one. Step inside and the entrance hall is wide and airy, the kind of space that sets the tone for everything that follows. The sitting room keeps its period features — there's real character here, the sort that can't be installed, only preserved. The kitchen and breakfast room is newly fitted with high-end appliances and opens naturally toward the gardens, so summer mornings flow from coffee to croissants to a chair outside without any real effort at all. A ground-floor bedroom, shower room, and utility room with the central heating boiler round out the practical side of things, meaning guests or family can stay downstairs entirely if needed. Upstairs, three double bedrooms share the first floor. The master has a dedicated dressing area and an en-suite in its final stages of completion — arriving essentially finished. A family bathroom serve ... click here to read more

Sunday morning. You pull open the kitchen window and the smell of the Seine drifts in — that particular mix of cool river air and freshly cut grass from the garden — while your coffee brews. The kids are still asleep upstairs. The village isn't awake yet either. This is exactly what you came for. Set in Mousseaux-sur-Seine, a quiet hamlet tucked inside one of the Seine's great looping bends, this four-bedroom family home sits on a generous 1,500 square metre plot within the Vexin Regional Natural Park. Built in 2007 and maintained with obvious care, the house is move-in ready — no renovation headaches, no compromise on comfort. It's the kind of property where you arrive on a Friday evening, open the windows, and the weekend just starts. The ground floor is laid out for real life. A proper entrance hall — not a cramped corridor — opens into a double living room that handles both a formal dining arrangement and a comfortable lounge without feeling squeezed. The open-plan kitchen connects naturally to this space, so whoever's cooking doesn't get exiled from the conversation. There's a master bedroom with its own shower room on this level too, which works brilliantly whether you have elderly parents visiting or simply want the option of single-storey living as the years go on. A laundry room and integrated garage complete the ground floor — practical details that matter enormously when this is your secondary residence and you arrive with bikes, muddy boots, and river gear. Head upstairs and the partially converted attic space is one of the home's real surprises. Three proper bedrooms sit alongside a bathroom and a dressing room, but the standout is the large open-plan room at the heart of the floor — currently used as a T ... click here to read more

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

On a still July morning in the Lot valley, you wake up to the faint sound of a tractor working somewhere across the fields, sunlight cutting through the wooden shutters and warming the oak-beamed ceiling above you. By the time coffee is brewing in the kitchen, the view from the terrace has already done its job — rolling countryside in every direction, no neighbors interrupting the horizon, just the slow green rhythms of one of France's most quietly extraordinary regions. This is the kind of house that makes you stop checking your phone. Built in 2009, this three-bedroom country home in Souillac sits in the heart of the Lot département, a place where the limestone plateaus of the Quercy Blanc give way to the wooded river valleys that run down toward the Dordogne. The house doesn't pretend to be a centuries-old farmhouse — it was built with contemporary family life in mind — but the architect clearly understood the vernacular. Exposed timber beams run across the ceilings. Underfoot, you get Italian ceramic tiles on the ground floor and warm wooden flooring upstairs, surfaces that stay cool in August and hold the heat from the log-burning insert on November evenings when the first real chill arrives. That living and dining space deserves its own moment. The fireplace with its log burner is the actual center of gravity in winter — the kind of fixture you arrange sofas around and argue about who gets the warmest spot. A second, separate sitting room gives the house a flexibility that matters for real use: kids doing homework while adults entertain, a quiet space for reading when the main room fills up with guests, or simply somewhere to retreat when a week-long holiday rental is running at full capacity. The ground floor a ... click here to read more

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

On a still Sunday morning in Saint-Maurin, the church bell in the 11th-century priory rings out across the valley and drifts through the French doors of this single-story stone country house while the coffee percolates. The kitchen smells of woodsmoke and walnut. Outside, the fishpond catches the early light. This is what you came to France for. Saint-Maurin is one of those villages that hasn't been discovered yet, not really, and locals are quietly grateful for that. Classified among the Plus Beaux Villages de France, it sits in the rolling hills of Lot-et-Garonne, a département that routinely tops French quality-of-life surveys but somehow still flies under the radar compared to its flashier Dordogne neighbor to the north. The village square, shaded by plane trees, holds a small café where the patron knows your order by your second visit. There's a boutique, a boulangerie within walking distance, and in summer the whole village transforms for the Wednesday night markets, where producers from across the Agenais set up under fairy lights and sell duck confit, Agen prunes dipped in Armagnac chocolate, and bottles of Buzet red that cost less than a London sandwich. The open-air cinema runs through July and August. You bring a blanket, somebody always brings too much rosé, and the film starts at dusk against the backdrop of the medieval priory. These aren't tourist attractions in the manufactured sense. They're just what life is here. This three-bedroom vacation home sits on the edge of the village, close enough to walk in for a pastis at 6pm, private enough that you can swim in the 10x5 metre pool without a neighbor in sight. The grounds extend to 6,875 square metres — nearly 1.7 acres — planted with mature specimen tre ... click here to read more

You wake up on a Saturday morning to birdsong and the faint smell of woodsmoke drifting in from somewhere across the valley. The veranda doors are already open — they were open last night too — and from where you're standing in the kitchen with a coffee, you can see the full stretch of the garden, the orchard at the far end heavy with fruit in September, and beyond that, the soft green hills of the Dordogne countryside rolling away in the early light. This is Lalinde. And this stone house is the kind of place that makes people stop looking. Set on 1.1 hectares just outside the riverside market town of Lalinde in the heart of the Périgord, this four-bedroom stone property comes with a separate two-bedroom guest house, a 5x10 metre swimming pool, a 160m² greenhouse, a workshop, multiple garages, and a basement. That list sounds almost absurd for the price point — under €330,000 for the whole lot — but this is the Dordogne, where stone farmhouses with room to breathe are still genuinely affordable by European standards, and where foreign buyers have been quietly building lives for decades. The main house runs to around 124m² of living space across two floors, with a ground-floor layout that just works. You walk in through a proper entrance hall, past a bedroom wing on the left — two bedrooms sharing a bathroom on the ground floor — and then into the kitchen, which opens directly onto the veranda. That veranda deserves its own sentence: 30.5 square metres of covered outdoor space facing the garden, east-west exposed, catching both the morning and the late afternoon sun. In July and August, dinner happens out there every night. In October, it's where you sit with a glass of Bergerac red and watch the light go gold over the ... click here to read more

Stand at the back of this house on any given morning and the entire Dordogne Valley opens up below you — river mist dissolving slowly in the early light, walnut trees on the hillside catching the first warmth of the sun, and the kind of silence that reminds you what silence actually is. This is Mouleydier, a proper village with a boulangerie, a butcher, a pharmacy, and neighbors who say hello. Not a tourist postcard. Real rural France, just fifteen minutes east of Bergerac. The house sits on about 7,000 square metres in total — roughly 4,000 of enclosed garden and another 3,000 of private woodland at the back. That combination of open, cultivated space and wild tree cover gives the property two completely different characters depending on where you wander. The south-facing pool terrace catches sun from mid-morning until the last light of the evening. In July and August, when the Dordogne bakes, that matters enormously. At 210 square metres, the interior is genuinely generous. The ground floor lives large — reception rooms totalling close to 80 square metres, with original terracotta floor tiles that have survived decades and still carry that warm, earthy tone you can't replicate with new materials. Two rooms connected to the main living space but with their own separate entrance are among the most interesting features in the house. Use them as a fourth bedroom and a home office, or as an art studio, or — with appropriate permissions — as a professional practice space. The flexibility is real and rare. Upstairs there are three further bedrooms, one of which stretches to 25 square metres — that's a proper primary bedroom, not a box with a window. A shower room with WC completes the upper floor. The double garage deserve ... click here to read more

Sunday morning in Monflanquin. The market on the Place des Arcades is already buzzing by nine — the smell of rotisserie chicken and fresh-cut lavender drifting up through the old town's medieval streets. From the roof terrace of this late-19th-century townhouse, you're looking out over rolling Lot-et-Garonne countryside, coffee in hand, the fish-scale slate roof tiles catching the early light below you. This is not a fantasy. This is a Tuesday. Monflanquin is one of the finest bastide towns in southwest France — a perfectly preserved 13th-century hilltop grid of honey-stone arcades, half-timbered facades, and a central square that has seen more lively Saturday markets than most European capitals have had political scandals. It sits between Bergerac and Agen in the Lot Valley, quietly going about its business while somehow managing to be one of the most visually arresting towns in the entire Périgord region. This is the kind of place where the boulangerie knows your order by your second visit, and the local cave à vins on Rue Sainte-Marie can talk you through a Cahors Malbec for forty-five minutes without once repeating themselves. And right here, a short stroll from those arcades, stands a house that was clearly built by someone with serious ambitions. Constructed in the 1880s to the sort of standards that would make a modern developer quietly weep, this 180-square-metre townhouse was designed with intent. The slate fish-scale roof alone — a genuine architectural flourish you'll see on grand hôtels particuliers in Paris but almost never on a provincial townhouse — signals that whoever commissioned this building wasn't cutting corners. The bones of the place are extraordinary: panelled ceilings, a marble fireplace, cas ... click here to read more

On a still morning in Estadens, you wake to the sound of nothing in particular — maybe a wood pigeon somewhere in the oak trees, maybe the distant clang of a cowbell drifting up from a lower pasture. You push open the bedroom shutters and the Pyrenees are just there, the peaks catching the first cold light of day while your kitchen fills with the smell of coffee and whatever the log stove is doing to the air. This is what 415,000 euros buys you here. Not just a house. A completely different pace of life. The farmhouse sits behind a gated entrance on the edge of this small commune in the Haute-Garonne, surrounded by mature gardens that have been given proper attention — not just mowed and left. Stone walls, sun-warmed terraces, the kind of deep shade in summer that makes you rearrange your afternoon plans entirely. The property was fully renovated, and the work was done with care: double glazing throughout, a heat pump system with underfloor heating on the ground floor, modern electrics, and a kitchen that can actually cope with serious cooking. A gas range cooker. Integral appliances. Real counter space. You could make a proper cassoulet in here, not a apologetic Tuesday-night version. The ground floor living area has that particular quality of light that old stone houses in south-west France sometimes get — something to do with the depth of the walls and the angle of the windows. The sitting room keeps its original exposed beams and stonework, and the log-burning stove makes the whole space pull together in winter. It doesn't feel like a renovation project where someone stripped out the character to fit a modern kitchen. The two things genuinely coexist. Upstairs, three generous bedrooms are fully decorated and ready ... click here to read more

Picture yourself sipping a glass of Côtes du Rhône on your private terrace as the late afternoon sun bathes the Provençal countryside in golden light. The air carries the scent of lavender and wild thyme from nearby fields, while the sound of cicadas provides the authentic soundtrack to your summer evenings in this 163-square-meter stone house. Located in Sainte-Cécile-les-Vignes, a quintessential wine village in the heart of Vaucluse, this property offers the perfect balance between peaceful countryside living and village convenience, just steps from local shops, restaurants, and weekly markets that define the rhythm of Provençal life. This substantial stone residence spans three floors, offering versatile living spaces that adapt to your vacation needs throughout the seasons. The ground floor welcomes you with a bright, spacious living room where exposed stone walls and period features tell the story of generations past. The kitchen opens directly onto the terrace, creating that seamless indoor-outdoor flow essential to Mediterranean living. Imagine preparing breakfast with fresh croissants from the village boulangerie, then carrying your coffee outside to plan the day ahead while overlooking your private garden and 6-meter by 3.5-meter swimming pool. The first floor houses two generous bedrooms, a modern shower room, and separate toilet, providing comfortable accommodation for family or guests. Ascend to the second floor and discover three additional bedrooms tucked beneath the eaves, each with the character that only authentic stone construction can provide. A second shower room on this level ensures everyone has space and privacy. With five bedrooms and four bathrooms total, this house comfortably accommodates ext ... click here to read more

Picture yourself sipping morning coffee on a sun-drenched terrace, surrounded by fragrant lavender and rosemary, gazing across rolling vineyards toward distant Mediterranean horizons. This is the daily reality awaiting at this authentic stone farmhouse in Autignac, where centuries-old Languedoc charm meets the rhythm of southern French village life. Just ten minutes from the vibrant city of Béziers and twenty-five minutes from golden beaches, this property offers the perfect balance between tranquil countryside retreat and convenient access to everything that makes this corner of France so irresistible to vacation home owners. Originally a working barn that served local vintners, this 165-square-meter stone house underwent thoughtful renovation while preserving its rustic character and traditional architecture. The thick stone walls keep interiors naturally cool during summer months, while the south-facing orientation floods rooms with natural light throughout the year. Set on the peaceful edge of Autignac, a working village where locals still gather at the weekly market and neighborhood boulangerie, the property enjoys complete privacy on nearly 1,000 square meters of landscaped grounds. Unobstructed views sweep across neighboring vineyards to distant hills, creating a sense of space and connection to the landscape that defines this renowned wine-producing region. Autignac sits at the heart of the Languedoc-Roussillon wine country, surrounded by prestigious appellations including Faugères and Saint-Chinian. This is authentic France, where village life continues as it has for generations, yet modern amenities and international connections remain easily accessible. The village itself provides essential services includin ... click here to read more

Picture yourself waking to the sound of birds in ancient oak trees, morning light filtering through traditional wooden shutters onto exposed stone walls that have stood for generations. This is life in your renovated Brittany longère, a meticulously restored 144-square-meter stone house nestled in the peaceful Morbihan countryside near the historic Blavet River. Here, just minutes from the market town of Baud, you've discovered the authentic France that international buyers dream about—a place where medieval villages coexist with vibrant weekly markets, where Celtic traditions run deep, and where your vacation home becomes a gateway to exploring one of Europe's most culturally rich regions. This isn't just a second home in France; it's your private retreat in Brittany, complete with a separate guest apartment, set on 3,400 square meters of landscaped grounds with complete privacy and no overlooking neighbors. The property combines the romance of traditional Breton architecture with modern comfort, creating the ideal holiday home for families seeking authentic French countryside living with excellent rental income potential. The main house welcomes you with a light-filled ground floor where contemporary living meets rustic charm. The spacious open-plan living area centers around a working fireplace with closed insert—perfect for cozy evenings after exploring Brittany's dramatic coastline or wandering through nearby medieval towns. The modern fitted kitchen flows seamlessly into the living space, making it ideal for preparing feasts using local ingredients from Baud's weekly market: fresh oysters from the Gulf of Morbihan, artisanal ciders, salt-butter caramels, and organic vegetables from neighboring farms. French doors ... click here to read more

In the beautiful French region of Auvergne lies a hidden gem that awaits your vision and creativity. Located in the serene town of Naucelles, just a short 10-minute drive from the bustling city of Aurillac, this unique barn conversion presents an exciting opportunity for those looking to turn a space filled with history and potential into a personalized haven. Nestled in the captivating countryside of the Cantal department, this property is more than just a barn; it's a blank canvas waiting for your artistic touch. The barn, boasting two expansive levels of 300 square meters each, stands proudly amidst its verdant surroundings. The architecture highlights a robust framework that's well preserved, inviting those with a keen eye for design and renovation to transform this spacious structure into their dream home. Moving into a barn conversion in Naucelles is like embracing a lifestyle that's both tranquil and fulfilling. Life here offers you a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the urban sprawl while still being conveniently close to essential amenities. The adjoining land is perfect for creating a garden, setting up a barbecue space, or simply soaking in the lush, green landscapes that are typical of this charming region. For international buyers and expats, living in Auvergne offers an authentic taste of French rural life. Known for its volcanic landscapes and rich culinary heritage, Auvergne combines natural beauty with cultural richness. Naucelles itself is a small, quaint village where community spirit is strong and neighbors often become friends. Here, you can enjoy the simple life, savor local cheeses and wines, and soak up the peaceful surroundings that are a far cry from the frenetic pace of city liv ... click here to read more

Nestled in the scenic landscape of Auvergne, in the heart of Cantal, you'll find Aurillac. Tucked away in this charming city is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered—a house with immense potential, located in the peaceful neighborhood of Belbex. This home is perfect for those who are searching for a project that invites creativity and transformation. It's an exciting opportunity for overseas buyers and expats looking to invest in or settle into a quaint French lifestyle. As a bustling agent, I can tell you firsthand that properties like this one don't linger long because they hold so much promise for the future. Let me paint a picture for you: Aurillac is a city that whispers history through its cobbled streets and centuries-old architecture. It's a place where nature and tradition seamlessly blend, offering breathtaking landscapes and a rich cultural tapestry. Living here means immersing yourself in the heart of France, where you can balance tranquil rural life with the vibrancy of a welcoming community. The home itself is a two-bedroom abode that might look a bit rough around the edges at first glance, but its bones are strong and full of promise. With 90 square meters of space, it's a canvas ready for the next owner to weave their personal story into its walls. Property Features: - 2 versatile bedrooms - 1 bathroom - Spacious living room area - Kitchen space with potential - 1211m2 buildable plot - Room for a garden or yard - Quiet residential neighborhood - Close to local amenities - Opportunity for expansion - Space for potential swimming pool - Construct additional home on plot - Existing utilities connections - Sun-drenched facade - Easy access to local shops This house is a fixer-upper, no doubt about it, bu ... click here to read more

A Tranquil Retreat in the Heart of Cantal Imagine waking up to the gentle rustle of leaves and the distant call of a cuckoo, as the morning sun casts a golden hue over the rolling hills of Cantal. This is not just a dream but a daily reality at Bellevue du Cantal, a unique property that offers both a serene private residence and a thriving hospitality business. Nestled in the picturesque village of Saint-Cernin, this estate is a sanctuary for those seeking a harmonious blend of nature, culture, and opportunity. A Home That Embraces You The main house, a spacious country home, is designed to welcome you with warmth and comfort. With four generously sized bedrooms, it offers ample space for family and guests. The open-plan living area, bathed in natural light, is the heart of the home. Here, a wood-burning stove and a pellet stove create a cozy ambiance, perfect for gathering around with loved ones on chilly evenings. The kitchen, a culinary enthusiast's delight, is equipped with modern appliances, ready to inspire your next gourmet creation. A Lifestyle of Leisure and Adventure Living in Cantal means embracing a lifestyle rich in outdoor activities and cultural experiences. The region is a haven for hikers and nature lovers, with trails that lead to breathtaking vistas, including the majestic Puy Mary. In the winter, the nearby slopes offer skiing adventures, while summer invites you to explore the lush landscapes on foot or by bike. Cantal's culinary scene is a journey in itself. Savor the local cheeses, indulge in hearty stews, and discover the flavors of the region's renowned charcuterie. The property's own restaurant, with its professional kitchen and inviting terraces, is a canvas for your culinary dreams, whet ... click here to read more

Discover the charm of rural France with this delightful 4-bedroom house located in the quaint village of Saint-Mamet-la-Salvetat. Nestled in the scenic Cantal department of the Auvergne region, this property presents an enticing blend of comfort, convenience, and a touch of authenticity perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in a peaceful French lifestyle. As you step inside this 133 sqm house, a cozy living room greets you, adorned with a beautiful stone wall and an inviting fireplace, perfect for those cooler evenings. The ground floor also boasts a fully equipped kitchen that spans 22 sqm, offering ample space for culinary exploration. Adjacent to the kitchen, you'll find a spacious 26 sqm dining room that opens onto a charming, tree-lined interior courtyard. This serene oasis of 76 sqm is an ideal spot for alfresco dining and summer gatherings, complete with a summer kitchen that enhances outdoor entertainment possibilities. Moving upstairs, a corridor leads to three generously sized bedrooms, providing substantial family or guest accommodation. Each room captures the essence of rural charm, offering views of the village surroundings. A well-appointed bathroom with modern fixtures serves these rooms. The journey continues to the second floor where a captivating fourth bedroom awaits, featuring 17 sqm of living space and an enchantful mezzanine, offering a unique retreat within the home. This house is well-equipped with modern comforts including double-glazed windows with electric roller shutters, oil heating, and a cellar of 11.25 sqm for additional storage. Safety and convenience have not been overlooked, with an electric stair lift installed and a roof in perfect condition. Within the locale of Saint-M ... click here to read more

Nestled in the quaint village of Saint-Mamet-la-Salvetat, in the scenic region of Auvergne, Cantal, France, this characterful stone mansion is an intriguing option for those considering an international move or seeking a unique vacation home. With a generous floor space of 321 square meters, this property offers 9 bedrooms, providing ample room for family and guests alike. Constructed in a traditional style, this substantial residence stands on a 1,500 square meters plot, including a charming 29 square meters cottage with its own living space, bedroom, and bathroom—perfect for visitors or potential rental opportunities. The main house resonates with an aura of historic charm evident from its majestic wooden staircase and the elegant spa area, which includes a 10-person facility complete with counter-current swimming and an integrated music system. Though the mansion is in good condition, certain aspects like window replacements and insulation enhancements offer potential buyers an opportunity for customization and modernization. These necessary upgrades are ideal for those who appreciate a project which they can tailor to their personal tastes and needs, effectively making this historic gem their own. Stepping outside, the property includes a sizeable private garden, not overlooked, providing a serene environment to relax or entertain. Additionally, the expanse includes a buildable large hangar, highlighting the potential for further development whether for personal use or additional housing. Despite its tranquil village setting, the residence is conveniently located close to all essential services including shops, schools, and colleges, making everyday living comfortable and practical. Aurillac, only 18 kilometers a ... click here to read more

Nestled in the picturesque heart of the Cère Valley, this expansive 5-bedroom house in Polminhac, Auvergne, offers a unique opportunity for those seeking a second home in the serene French countryside. With its generous living spaces and proximity to nature, this property is perfect for families or individuals looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Imagine waking up to the gentle sounds of nature, with the sun streaming through your windows, casting a warm glow over the lush landscape that surrounds your new home. This is the daily reality for those who choose to make this charming house their second home. A Home with Character and Comfort Built by skilled local craftsmen, this house exudes a sense of timeless elegance. The ground floor welcomes you with a spacious living room, where a magnificent freestone fireplace serves as the focal point, perfect for cozy evenings with family and friends. The adjoining kitchen, designed for both functionality and style, opens onto a sun-drenched terrace, ideal for al fresco dining or simply enjoying a morning coffee. The property boasts two well-appointed bedrooms on the ground floor, complemented by a modern bathroom featuring both a shower and a bathtub. A separate toilet adds to the convenience. Upstairs, Discover More The upper level of the house offers three additional bedrooms, each with its own unique charm. A second bathroom ensures that guests and family members have ample space and privacy. Two storage areas can be easily transformed into dressing rooms, while a cozy landing area provides a perfect spot for relaxation or a home office. Outdoor Living at Its Best The allure of this property extends beyond its walls. The south-facing terrace overlooks ... click here to read more

Nestled in the scenic heart of the Auvergne region, specifically in the charming village of Vic-sur-Cère, this barn awaits a vision of transformation. Offering an intriguing opportunity to those seeking a project, this stone building, with a generous expanse of approximately 250 m2, is ready to be rewritten into a unique dwelling. It's tucked away in a quaint hamlet, offering both tranquility and potential. Vic-sur-Cère is a delightful locale known for its serene surroundings and friendly community. As you embark on your journey to transform this barn into a home, you'll be embraced by the simple yet rich pleasures that life in this part of France offers. The barn comes with a land area of 1960 m2, offering ample room for creativity in landscaping or perhaps even a vegetable patch. As busy as I am dealing with properties all over the globe, I must say, this one captures a certain something. While it's true that this barn demands a fair bit of work — it's a fixer-upper, after all — it offers a substantial canvas for your imagination. Convert its rustic stone walls into a stunning living space, or create a charming guesthouse that perfectly embodies the spirit of the French countryside. Living in Vic-sur-Cère brings you the comfort of a small village yet connects you easily to broader adventures. The village itself is a lovely spot to uncover. You can stroll through its narrow streets and stop by the local boulangerie for a fresh baguette. Spend weekends exploring the surrounding hills or enjoying a picnic by the river. The area, rich in history and nature, offers an ideal backdrop for expatriates seeking a peaceful retreat away from bustling city life. In terms of climate, Vic-sur-Cère has a moderate climate, with war ... click here to read more

Nestled in the picturesque village within the serene embrace of the Lot valley, this charming stone farmhouse offers a unique glimpse into rural French life, dating back to the year 1809. With a modest living space of 76 square meters coupled with an additional 32 square meters of convertible attic space, this property presents an enticing canvas for those with a vision to create their ideal countryside retreat. Gazing out towards the gentle flow of the river, this farmhouse exudes a sense of tranquility and timeless appeal. As you step into the garden level, the warmth of the fitted kitchen welcomes you, seamlessly flowing into the bright, south-facing living room adorned with a stone inglenook fireplace—a nod to the property's rich history and character. This level also houses two bedrooms and a bathroom equipped with a toilet, providing a comfortable living space. Ascending to the upper floor, the third bedroom awaits, promising a peaceful sanctuary. The attic space, with its potential for conversion, stands as a testament to the possibilities that this farmhouse holds. Whether seeking to expand the living area or to add a personal touch through renovation, the opportunities are as vast as your imagination. The property is further complemented by a generous 40 square meter cellar, a traditional stone secadou, and approximately 300 square meters of surrounding land, offering a canvas for gardening or relaxation. An additional 1200 square meters of land, located a mere 15 meters away, ensures ample space for outdoor endeavors. Amenities include: - Fitted kitchen - South-facing living room with stone inglenook fireplace - Main drainage system - 40 m² cellar - Stone secadou - Approximately 1500 m² of land Property F ... click here to read more

Nestled in the enchanting and picturesque region of Limousin, Corrèze, in the quaint community of St-Julien-le-Pélerin, France, this stone house from the early 19th century invites you to a life enriched by the tranquility and beauty of the countryside's uninterrupted vistas. With a price tag of €97,000, this 60 square meter home offers a genuine slice of French rural living, ideal for those seeking a retreat away from the hustle and bustle of city life. As you enter the property, the scenic beauty is undeniable. The house is perfectly poised to offer breathtaking views of distant mountains, paired with the serene lull of a nearby stream. It’s a place where life can slow down, allowing you to truly savor the daily experiences that countryside living promises. The house itself begins with an inviting, open-plan living area encompassing the kitchen and dining spaces, measuring a cozy 27.9 square meters. The heart of this space is the grand fireplace attracting attention with its finely crafted wood-burner, promising warmth and a comforting ambiance in the colder months. This comforting retreat continues on the main level with a newly refreshed bathroom, complete with wc, and a peaceful ground-floor bedroom measuring 11.1 square meters. Venturing upstairs, a door beside the fireplace opens to a staircase made from a blend of concrete and wood, leading you to a partly renovated first floor of 29.5 square meters. Here, you can envision the potential for an additional bedroom and bathroom, lovingly illuminated by charming dormer windows set in a recently renewed roof. From an external entrance, a spacious sous-sol of 26.9 square meters is discovered, showcasing a delightful bread oven and additional room to store your fine ... click here to read more

Imagine waking up each day in the picturesque village of Goulles, nestled in the heart of France's Corrèze region. Here, life meanders along at a gentle pace, where the towering stone church offers a timeless point of reference against an endless sky. It's in this idyllic setting that you'll find a spacious 104 square meter home, a rare gem amidst the rolling landscapes of Limousin. While I'm constantly on the move assisting delightful clients such as yourself, I can assure you this property is one of those special finds that don't come around often. As you approach the house, the stone facade greets you warmly, and it’s impossible not to notice the inviting sense of history that this home carries. Enter through the garden, and the first thing that welcomes you is a charming kitchen, inviting in its simplicity. Spanning 19.2 square meters, this kitchen offers plenty of room for culinary experimentation while maintaining that cosy, stay-a-while appeal. Adjacent is a delightful ground floor bedroom with its own private entrance, perfect for morning coffees taken on the terrace. Just imagine stepping out into the morning sun with a fresh croissant and a view that never disappoints. Moving onward, a vintage oak staircase guides you to the first floor, which possesses a generous 35 square meter living room. Here, a wood-burner serves as the heart of the home, promising warm winter evenings with a good book or glass of wine. Tall French doors open out to a balcony offering panoramic views of the landscape. Imagine sipping an evening drink as the sunset paints the sky. Off the hallway, you'll find another welcoming bedroom complete with a wash basin, all while maintaining that understated aesthetic that speaks to the home's h ... click here to read more

Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Conques-en-Rouergue, this enchanting 17th-century former miller's house offers a unique opportunity to own a piece of French history. With its schist stone façade and traditional slate roof, this property exudes timeless charm and character, making it an ideal second home for those seeking a tranquil retreat in the beautiful Midi-Pyrénées region. A Glimpse into the Past Imagine stepping back in time as you enter this historic residence, where every corner tells a story. The house, spanning approximately 157 square meters, is set on a generous plot of 3,860 square meters, providing ample space for relaxation and outdoor activities. The meticulously maintained garden, adorned with fruit trees, invites you to indulge in the simple pleasures of life, from savoring table grapes to gathering walnuts. Modern Comforts Meet Historic Charm While the house retains its historic allure, it has been thoughtfully updated to meet modern standards of comfort. A new, high-end heat pump ensures efficient and economical heating, complemented by cast iron radiators that provide optimal warmth. The property is equipped with double glazing on the ground floor and single glazing upstairs, ensuring a cozy atmosphere throughout the year. Spacious and Inviting Interiors The ground floor welcomes you with a spacious 48-square-meter living-dining room, where a charming fireplace serves as the focal point, perfect for cozy evenings with family and friends. The adjoining kitchen and utility room offer practicality and convenience, while two beautifully appointed bedrooms provide restful retreats. Upstairs, a solid wood staircase leads to a charming office area, ideal for remote work or creative pursuits. Two ... click here to read more

Picture yourself stepping onto sun-warmed stone as morning mist rises from your private pond, woodlands stretching across 3.5 hectares of Haut-Quercy countryside where medieval villages dot rolling hills and ancient oak trees frame your converted farmhouse. This is life in the Lot department, where time moves to the rhythm of market days and truffle seasons, where your morning coffee tastes better on a terrace overlooking meadows that turn golden each September, and where owning a vacation home means becoming part of France's most authentic rural landscape. This exceptional property offers not just a second home, but a complete lifestyle retreat with proven income potential from its thriving guest accommodation business. The Lot region represents one of France's best-kept secrets for vacation home ownership. While coastal properties command premium prices, this corner of Midi-Pyrénées delivers authentic French countryside living with remarkable value. The department sits at the crossroads of Dordogne, Aveyron, and Cantal, combining the gastronomic heritage of southwest France with the dramatic limestone plateaus of the Causses. Your property near Sousceyrac-en-Quercy positions you eighteen kilometres from Saint-Céré, a vibrant medieval town where weekly markets overflow with local cheeses, walnuts, and duck confit, and just thirty-five minutes from Aurillac's regional airport, making international travel remarkably accessible for a property this secluded. The estate divides beautifully between private family living and guest accommodation, a configuration that allows you to offset ownership costs while maintaining your personal sanctuary. The main residential house welcomes you with generous entertaining spaces: a formal ... click here to read more

Nestled in the picturesque Midi-Pyrenees region of France, lies a charming abode brimming with character and potential. The little gem that is this semi-detached stone house could be your idyllic retreat in the heart of Aveyron, situated in the quaint village of Saint-Cyprien-sur-Dourdou. Spanning approximately 113 square meters, it offers not only a shelter but a homely embrace, with the promise of serenity and the charm of rustic French living. As a busy real estate agent zipped from one bustling city to another, I can tell you property gems like this don’t show up often, but before we explore further, let’s set the scene. Conques-en-Rouergue is a region known for its quaint villages steeped in tradition with cobbled streets lined with medieval architecture. The area is alive with cultural vibrancy, steeped in history, and surrounded by idyllic landscapes that are simply a breath of fresh air. If you enjoy a mild climate, you’ll love it here. The region experiences warm summers and cool winters, perfect for those who appreciate diversity in the seasons. Now, picture this: A typical day in this locale might start with a stroll through the village to your favorite boulangerie, where you can enjoy a freshly-baked croissant. Imagine living among the kind-hearted folks of Saint-Cyprien-sur-Dourdou, where everyone greets you with a warm “Bonjour!” Leisurely afternoons could be spent hiking in the lush countryside, perhaps even exploring the adjacent historic towns and their weekly markets where local vendors offer cheese, wine, and artisan goods. Turning our focus back to this character-filled abode, it boasts three bedrooms—ample enough to house your family or several guests. The ground floor ushers you into a quaint kit ... click here to read more

Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Midi-Pyrénées region, this expansive 7-bedroom property offers a unique opportunity to embrace the tranquil French countryside lifestyle. Located in the serene hamlet of Firmi, just a short drive from the bustling town of Aubin, this property is perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat with the convenience of nearby amenities. Imagine waking up to the gentle sounds of nature, with the sun streaming through your windows, casting a warm glow over the lush green landscape that stretches as far as the eye can see. This is the daily reality for residents of this charming property, where the pace of life is slower, and the air is fresher. A Tale of Two Homes This property is not just a house; it's a story of two distinct homes, each with its own character and charm. The first house, with its rustic Rougier stone façade, offers a cozy living space of approximately 126 m². The heart of this home is the inviting living room, complete with a traditional fireplace, perfect for those chilly winter evenings. The south-facing terrace is an ideal spot for morning coffee or evening wine, offering uninterrupted views of the verdant countryside. The second house, slightly larger at 130 m², boasts a spacious living room adorned with an inglenook fireplace, adding a touch of old-world charm. The kitchen and dining area are perfect for hosting family gatherings or intimate dinners with friends. A Canvas for Your Vision While both homes are in good structural condition, they offer a blank canvas for you to infuse your personal style. With some renovation and refurbishment, these houses can be transformed into a stunning family estate or a lucrative rental property, capitalizing on the area's s ... click here to read more

Discover an investment opportunity nestled in the charming village of Villecomtal, situated in the scenic Midi-Pyrenees region of Aveyron, France. This multi-unit house, originally a characterful village building, offers potential for up to seven housing units, making it an ideal purchase for those looking to immerse themselves in the local community or seek a project with promising rental possibilities. The property is currently in a state that requires renovation, presenting a unique opportunity for buyers looking to tailor a home to their preferences or to create a lucrative rental business. With a total size of 280 square meters, the space is distributed over several levels, each offering distinct potential. Key Property Features: - Total bedrooms: 7 - Total bathrooms: 4 - Attached garages providing ample storage or parking space: 60m² and 48.3m² - Ground floor apartments: Two potential studios, perfect for seasonal rentals, in need of complete renovation - A larger apartment on the ground floor includes a balcony with stunning river views, offering a peaceful retreat - First floor and second-floor apartments offer additional living spaces that could be upgraded to charming residential units - Loft space on the third floor provides expansive area perfect for conversion - Property is connected to the town's mains drainage system The necessity for renovations includes updating the windows to double glazing, enhancing insulation, modernizing heating systems, and refurbishing interiors such as kitchens and bathrooms. The extent of renovations ranges from minor updates to more comprehensive overhauls depending on the unit. Living in Villecomtal is a true escapade into the serene life of French country living. The vill ... click here to read more

Discover a promising renovation project nestled in the picturesque surroundings of Villecomtal, in the revered Midi-Pyrenees region of Aveyron, France. This spacious five-bedroom house, awaiting a transformative touch, extends across approximately 170 square meters and offers a treasure of potential for those willing to embark on a restoration journey. Resting on a substantial plot of around 6000 square meters, this property includes a variety of outbuildings and a sizable hangar of approximately 300 square meters. The residence features a traditional layout, with a living room and kitchen each spanning roughly 19 square meters, along with a modestly-sized bathroom. The ground floor hosts one bedroom equipped with a toilet. The upper floor presents itself as a blank canvas with room to repurpose into additional bedrooms or living spaces, aspired by your renovation dreams. The property also comes with a range of additional land parcels – an adjoining plot of 2830 square meters, a detached garden of 600 square meters, and another separate plot of 2500 square meters situated merely 30 meters from the main house. Essential amenities such as a maintained oil boiler and a recent septic tank are already in place, simplifying some logistical aspects of the remodeling process. For those keen on making this house their own, the immense hangar and various outbuildings offer plentiful storage or could be converted to serve numerous purposes whether for personal projects or additional living quarters. Amenities: - Expansive outdoor space - Significant storage options including multiple cellars and a garage - Large hangar and several outbuildings - Oil heating system - Recently upgraded septic tank Property Features: - 5 bedrooms ... click here to read more

Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Midi-Pyrénées region, this delightful stone house in Villecomtal offers a unique opportunity for those seeking a second home in the serene landscapes of Aveyron, France. With its rustic charm and modern comforts, this property is perfect for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in the tranquil beauty of the French countryside. A Slice of French Countryside Life Imagine waking up to the gentle sounds of nature, with the sun casting a warm glow over the rolling hills and lush greenery that surround your new home. This two-bedroom house, set on a generous 410 m² plot, provides the perfect backdrop for a peaceful retreat or a vibrant holiday home. A Home with Character and Comfort The house itself is a testament to traditional French architecture, with its stone façade and charming interior spaces. The ground floor features a cozy living room, complete with a wood insert fireplace, perfect for those chilly winter evenings. The adjoining dining room offers ample space for entertaining guests or enjoying family meals. The compact yet functional kitchen is ideal for preparing delicious local dishes, while the shower room with WC ensures convenience for residents and visitors alike. Upstairs, two comfortable bedrooms provide a restful sanctuary after a day of exploring the local area. Outdoor Living at Its Best Step outside and you'll find a beautifully maintained garden, offering a peaceful oasis for relaxation or outdoor dining. The flat, wooded plot is perfect for gardening enthusiasts or those simply looking to enjoy the great outdoors. A Gateway to Adventure Villecomtal is a charming hamlet, just a short 7-minute drive from the main t ... click here to read more

If you're on a quest to find a little slice of French rustic charm, nestled in the picturesque embrace of the Midi-Pyrenees region, then look no further. This character-filled stone house located just a brief 7-minute journey from the delightful town of Villecomtal is awaiting someone with the vision to call it their own. Let's paint a picture: You're driving through winding country roads, surrounded by lush fields and sun-bathed stone cottages, as you enter the serene hamlet where this house quietly stands. With its quaint architecture and laid-back ambiance, the property perfectly resonates with the whispers of old-world French charm. You can almost hear the clink of a wine glass or smell a fresh baguette baking from the local boulangerie. Perched on a generous plot of about 410 square meters, this modest yet inviting house extends over 70 square meters of cozy living space. The moment you step inside, you'll find yourself drawn to the inviting warmth of the living room, a snug 20 square meters filled with natural light streaming through double-glazed windows. The dining area, slightly larger at 21 square meters, provides the perfect backdrop for family meals or gatherings with friends. And though the kitchen may be petite, measuring about 5.5 square meters, it's brimming with potential for someone willing to infuse it with love and creativity. Onward and upward to the sleeping quarters! The two bedrooms—one at about 10 square meters and the other a cozy 9—are ready to offer sweet dreams after long days of enjoying what the beautiful Aveyron department has to offer. Not to forget, the nearly 33-square-meter cellar in the basement presents an exciting opportunity for storage or even more imaginative use. Outside, th ... click here to read more