Spacious 8-Bedroom Stone House in Saint-Laurent-des-Combes: Ideal Second Home in Aquitaine

On a quiet morning in the Gironde, before the tourist coaches arrive in the village and the church bells of Saint-Émilion's monolithic abbey start marking the hour, you can stand at the kitchen door of this 1860s chateau and look out across a landscape that has been producing some of the world's most celebrated wine for over a thousand years. The vineyards run almost to your garden wall. The air smells faintly of warm earth and cut grass. This is not a postcard. This is Tuesday. Built in 1860 and extended in the decades that followed, this nine-bedroom chateau and manor house sits in more than an acre of grounds just a short drive from the celebrated village of Saint-Émilion, in the heart of one of France's most revered wine-growing appellations. At 280 square metres of interior space across the main residence and a separate guest house, there is real breathing room here — room for a large family, room for friends who stay too long and don't apologise for it, room to think about what you actually want this place to become. The building's history shows itself in the right ways. Walk through the entrance hall and the proportions feel considered, unhurried — the way older houses do when they were built for people who planned to stay. A classic reception salon sits off the hall, the kind of room that works for a winter dinner party with candles on the table just as well as it does for lazy Sunday lunches spilling out into the garden. A separate dining room, a study, and a family kitchen that opens directly onto the grounds complete the ground floor picture. Wooden double-glazed windows throughout manage the neat trick of preserving the original character while keeping things genuinely comfortable across all four seasons. ... click here to read more

On a warm Tuesday morning in Jonzac, you open the terrace doors off the sitting room and the air smells faintly of mineral water and cut grass. Below you, the garden runs downhill in long, generous sweeps — through a canopy of trees, past a woodland patch that filters the light into something almost theatrical — until it reaches the quiet banks of the River Seugne. A heron stands perfectly still at the water's edge. You can hear the church bells from the old town center, just five minutes away on foot. That's the daily reality of owning this five-bedroom geothermically heated house in the heart of one of Charente-Maritime's most quietly compelling spa towns. The property sits less than 500 meters from Jonzac's center, which puts you close to everything without sacrificing the sense of space that defines life here. The upper floor holds three well-proportioned bedrooms, a bathroom with a separate WC, and a triple-aspect living and dining room that catches light from three directions. That room connects directly to the south-facing terrace — the kind of terrace you end up living on from April through October, drinking Pineau des Charentes in the early evenings while the swallows dart over the garden. The kitchen is bright and practical, also opening onto the terrace, so cooking here in summer means constant movement between inside and out. What makes this house genuinely unusual is the lower floor. Two independent guest accommodations sit completely self-contained on that level, each with private access. For a family wanting multi-generational space — grandparents, adult children, close friends who visit for weeks at a time — this layout is hard to find at this price point in France. For a buyer thinking about income gen ... click here to read more

On a Sunday morning in Saint-Séverin, the only thing that stirs you is the smell of bread drifting up from the boulangerie two streets over and the faint clinking of bottles as the weekly market sets up on the square. You pad out through the conservatory doors in bare feet, coffee in hand, and stand at the edge of 7,000 square metres of your own French countryside. That's not a fantasy — that's Tuesday here, too. This is a proper Charente stone house. Not a ruin dressed up for photos. Not a weekend project. Solidly renovated, genuinely liveable, and built the way they built things in this part of southwest France — thick walls that stay cool through August, exposed beams that have held up for generations, and a fireplace in the sitting room that earns its keep from October through March. The stone has colour in certain light, going from pale grey to warm amber depending on the hour. You'll notice that. You'll stop noticing other things you used to care about. The main house runs to three bedrooms and flows the way a French farmhouse should — not rigidly, not in a straight line, but through rooms that connect to each other and back out to the garden at multiple points. The ground floor living and dining space anchors everything, anchored itself by that stone fireplace with its inset wood burner. From there you move into the kitchen, which is properly fitted rather than decorative, or into the conservatory, which catches afternoon light and works equally well as a reading room or an extra dining space when the table inside fills up. The main sitting room has its own wood burner too — this house takes winter seriously — and connects through to a study or music room depending on what you need it to be. The master suite oc ... click here to read more

On a clear morning in the Périgord Noir, you open the shutters and the Vézère valley just sits there below you — mist still clinging to the tree line, the stone walls of the house still cool under your fingertips. There's a smell of woodsmoke somewhere down the hillside. This is Le Bugue on a Tuesday in October, and it's enough to make you wonder why you ever left. This five-bedroom stone house sits elevated above the valley floor, its 3,400 square metres of grounds giving it a quiet authority over the surrounding landscape. From the terrace beside the swimming pool, you look out over one of the most quietly celebrated river valleys in France — the Vézère, which threads its way through prehistoric caves, market towns, and walnut orchards before joining the Dordogne near Limeuil, a village so absurdly picturesque it barely seems real. And yet here you are, looking at it. The house itself is solidly Périgordine in character. The exposed stonework isn't decorative — it's structural, original, the same golden limestone that built the churches and manor houses of this region over several centuries. The stone spiral staircase connecting the two floors is the kind of thing you'd find photographed in a heritage architecture journal. The fireplace in the 39-square-metre living room anchors everything: in January, when the Dordogne countryside pulls on a coat of frost, you'll be grateful for it. Electric underfloor heating runs throughout, so comfort is never a negotiation between atmosphere and practicality. The layout works well for a family or a group of friends. Two bedrooms sit on the ground floor — useful for anyone who prefers not to deal with stairs, or for hosting guests who value a little separation. Upstairs, three m ... click here to read more

On Sunday mornings, the bells from the village church carry clean and clear through the upstairs windows — and from the second floor of this 215-square-metre manor house, you can actually see the steeple they ring from. That's not a detail you find in every property. It's the kind of thing that makes you stop mid-coffee and remember why you came to Normandy in the first place. Saint-Aubin-lès-Elbeuf sits on the south bank of the Seine, a few kilometres from Elbeuf and just 20 minutes by train from Rouen's cathedral city centre. It's a proper Norman town — bakeries that still close on Mondays, a weekly market where the cheese vendor knows regulars by name, and streets lined with the kind of stone-and-brick architecture that takes a century or two to earn its look. This manor house sits on one of those streets, on a one-way road that keeps through-traffic away, behind a large gate that shuts the outside world out entirely. The plot runs to 1,150 square metres, fully enclosed by walls — not a hedge, not a fence, actual walls — and the south-facing orientation means the terrace catches the sun from mid-morning until the light goes golden in the early evening. There's a carport, two outbuildings (one fitted with a rainwater tank for garden irrigation, which in Normandy is less of a luxury than you'd think), and mature trees that give the garden a settled, unhurried feeling. The terrace already has a sun lounger and outdoor table set up. On a warm July afternoon, with a glass of Calvados or a cold Leffe from the fridge, this corner of the garden could easily become your most-used room in the house. Inside, the ground floor is well-configured for daily life. The fitted kitchen connects to a dining room — a layout that actual ... click here to read more

On a still Sunday morning in Saint-Grégoire-d'Ardennes, the only sound you'll hear is birdsong cutting through the cool air and the faint creak of a shutter as light rolls across the garden. That's not poetry — that's what the mornings actually feel like here, in this former farmhouse on the edge of the Haute-Saintonge, where the rhythm of life runs about three speeds slower than anywhere you've lived before. This is a 230 m² stone house with five bedrooms, sitting on more than 4,700 m² of fenced, wooded grounds between the market towns of Pons and Jonzac. It's priced at €422,000. And while those numbers are useful, they don't begin to explain what makes this place worth serious attention. Step inside and the floor plan immediately makes sense. The ground floor is laid out for living — not for showing off. A wide living room flows into a dining room with a working fireplace, the kind that you'll actually use from October through to March when Charente evenings cool fast and the region's oak forests start smelling like autumn in a way no candle has ever managed to replicate. The kitchen has its own dining area, so morning coffee happens here, not in some separate formal room nobody uses. A utility room keeps the practical mess out of sight, and also on the ground floor: a bedroom, a shower room, and a full bathroom — meaning this house works completely on a single level if that's ever needed. Upstairs, three more bedrooms with original hardwood floors that have the satisfying solidity only old timber gets with age. A quiet study that faces the garden. Two large attic spaces that are currently unconverted — and this is where the real opportunity sits for international buyers. The bones are already there to add guest roo ... click here to read more

On a clear morning in Aramits, you wake to the sound of nothing except birdsong and, if the wind is right, the faint clang of sheep bells drifting down from the high pastures above the village. That's not a cliché — it's Tuesday. This is the Pyrenees-Atlantiques, one of the least spoiled corners of southwest France, and this former mountain sheepfold is the kind of place that reminds you why you started looking for a second home in Europe in the first place. What started life as a traditional bergerie — a working stone sheepfold used by Basque shepherds for centuries — was fully reconstructed between 2007 and 2010 into a three-bedroom, three-bathroom home of 160 square metres. The result is a property that has real bones: exposed ceiling beams, thick walls that keep summer heat at bay, and a large picture window in the sitting room that frames the Pyrenean ridgeline like a painting you never get tired of. Underfloor heating on the ground floor runs off an air source heat pump, the whole building is double-glazed and insulated throughout, and the DPE rating sits at C — solidly efficient for a property of this age and character. You're not buying a renovation project. You're buying a house that's already been done well. The 160m2 of habitable space is arranged across three levels. On the ground floor, an open-plan kitchen and dining area flows into the sitting room — proper, lived-in space with room for a long table when family arrives in August. Two of the three bedrooms are on this level, each with its own en-suite shower room, which makes the layout genuinely practical for hosting guests or renting short-term. The first floor landing doubles as a home office, a detail that matters more than it used to, and the third b ... click here to read more

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

Step onto the south-facing terrace on a clear October morning and there it is—Najac Castle, perched on its narrow rocky spur, the Gorges de l'Aveyron rolling away beneath it in every direction. The mist hasn't fully lifted yet. The wood-burning stove inside is still warm from last night. This is the kind of morning people drive across France to find, and here it comes with your breakfast. Najac sits on the edge of the Aveyron valley like something a medieval cartographer drew on a good day. Frequently counted among the most striking villages in the whole of southern France—it made the official "Plus Beaux Villages de France" list and earns that distinction honestly—it draws visitors from across Europe every summer, yet somehow manages to stay genuinely local. The weekly market runs on Sundays along the main strip, where farmers from the surrounding causse sell raw-milk tomme, walnut oil pressed just up the road, and slabs of aligot mix you'll argue about all the way home. There's a butcher who still knows the name of every farm his beef comes from. That's Najac. This house sits on five hectares of land on the edge of that village, close enough to walk to the boulangerie for a croissant, far enough that you won't hear your neighbours through the wall. You don't have any immediate neighbours. The land wraps around you—nearly four hectares of it contiguous—and the countryside absorbs whatever noise the world is making. In July the evenings smell of dry grass and lavender drifting up from the lower meadows. In November it's woodsmoke and wet earth. Both are worth coming for. The house itself was rebuilt stone by stone from the original structure. That matters here. The builders didn't pretend to add old-world character wi ... 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

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

On a quiet morning in the Dordogne, you open the shutters of a stone farmhouse and the garden hits you all at once — the scent of cut grass still damp from overnight rain, the faint sound of a church bell drifting in from Eymet's medieval bastide, a swallow darting low over the saltwater pool. This is what owning this three-gite complex outside Eymet actually feels like. Not a hotel. Not a rental investment spreadsheet. A real place, with thick stone walls and oak beams worn smooth over centuries, that happens to pay for itself when you're back home. The property comprises three fully renovated and individually furnished dwellings — a one-bedroom, a two-bedroom, and a three-to-four-bedroom cottage — set across half an acre of mature walled gardens. Each one has its own kitchen, living and dining space, and bathroom, so you can host a multigenerational family gathering without anyone tripping over each other, or rent out two units while you stay in the third. That flexibility is genuinely rare, and in this corner of southwest France, it's worth a lot. The renovation work is thorough and thoughtful. Stone walls have been kept where they belong — on full display, not plastered over. Exposed beams run the length of the ceilings. But there's nothing rustic-to-a-fault about the practicality: electric radiators and wood-burning stoves mean the season stretches well beyond July and August, double glazing keeps heating bills honest, and a newly installed fosse septique (October 2023) means one major infrastructure cost is already behind you. The pool liner was replaced in June 2025. This is a property someone has been maintaining properly, not parking and hoping for the best. That 10m x 5m saltwater pool is the centre of summe ... click here to read more

Push open the old iron gate in the high stone wall and the world outside disappears completely. That's the first thing you notice—the silence, punctuated only by birdsong and the faint rustle of the linden trees lining the garden path. You're standing in front of a house that has been here since the 1400s, its medieval stone-framed windows still intact, its bread oven still capable of baking a full loaf. This isn't a renovation project dressed up in period details. It's the real thing, sitting on nearly three hectares of private grounds just outside Ansac-sur-Vienne in the heart of the Charente, offered to the market at a price that would barely buy a two-bedroom flat in Paris. The scale of what's here takes a moment to register. A seven-bedroom main residence with double-height ceilings and exposed oak beams. Two self-contained gîtes, both renovated and generating rental income. A 150-square-metre barn. A cottage that still needs work. A 15th-century pigeonry that stops every visitor in their tracks. And over 7.5 acres of walled land, watered by the estate's own spring. For buyers searching for a genuinely viable income-producing holiday property in southwest France, or a private family compound with space for multiple generations, estates with this combination of features simply don't come to market often. Step inside the main house through the arched entrance and you walk into a wide hallway anchored by an oak staircase that climbs to a mezzanine gallery above. The main room below is cathedral-like—double height, flooded with light from three large glass doorways that open directly onto the terrace and walled garden. A log burner sits at one end. On a January morning with frost on the garden and a fire going, this r ... click here to read more

Nestled amidst the rolling vineyards of Aquitaine, Gironde, the quaint town of Saint-Émilion presents an enticing six-bedroom house, perfect for those who appreciate a touch of historical charm mixed with modern convenience. This impressive property lies conveniently close to the celebrated towns of Libourne and Bordeaux, offering a fabulous lifestyle choice or an entrepreneurial opportunity in one of France’s most picturesque winemaking regions. This stone-built residence exudes a rustic yet refined aura. It includes a refreshing pool and is ideally situated at the village’s edge, allowing residents to enjoy both privacy and accessibility. The home's interior reveals a comfortable layout primarily on the ground floor that includes a kitchen, dining room, and lounge, perfect for family living or entertaining guests. A unique feature of this house is an old bread oven, preserved as a nod to the property's storied past as the village bakery. Now, it offers a distinctive and functional wine cellar space, setting a tone of historical preservation blended with practical modern use. The dining room also integrates another bread oven which has now become a central decorative element, enhancing the room's character. Accommodation within the house is ample. The six double bedrooms, all ensuite, are furnished with hotel-quality beds and bedding, ensuring comfort at a premium level. Whether for family members or guests, each room provides a sanctuary for rest and rejuvenation. Additionally, the first floor features a 50-square-meter panoramic room, boasting stunning views of the lush garden and vine-laden landscapes. This space is highly versatile, currently serving as a well-equipped meeting venue but easily convertible into a ... click here to read more

On a quiet morning in the Gironde, before the tourist coaches arrive in the village and the church bells of Saint-Émilion's monolithic abbey start marking the hour, you can stand at the kitchen door of this 1860s chateau and look out across a landscape that has been producing some of the world's most celebrated wine for over a thousand years. The vineyards run almost to your garden wall. The air smells faintly of warm earth and cut grass. This is not a postcard. This is Tuesday. Built in 1860 and extended in the decades that followed, this nine-bedroom chateau and manor house sits in more than an acre of grounds just a short drive from the celebrated village of Saint-Émilion, in the heart of one of France's most revered wine-growing appellations. At 280 square metres of interior space across the main residence and a separate guest house, there is real breathing room here — room for a large family, room for friends who stay too long and don't apologise for it, room to think about what you actually want this place to become. The building's history shows itself in the right ways. Walk through the entrance hall and the proportions feel considered, unhurried — the way older houses do when they were built for people who planned to stay. A classic reception salon sits off the hall, the kind of room that works for a winter dinner party with candles on the table just as well as it does for lazy Sunday lunches spilling out into the garden. A separate dining room, a study, and a family kitchen that opens directly onto the grounds complete the ground floor picture. Wooden double-glazed windows throughout manage the neat trick of preserving the original character while keeping things genuinely comfortable across all four seasons. ... click here to read more

Welcome to a breathtaking manor house nestled amidst the verdant greenery of the wine country, in the quaint town of Saint-Émilion, France. This magnificent property, positioned in a dominant locale amidst lush vineyards, boasts an exquisite 19th-century structure brimming with charisma in its every element. Situated merely 30 minutes away from the town center of Saint-Émilion and slightly under an hour from Bergerac, this grand manor provides convenience and tranquility all at once. A thriving hub of diverse cultures, Saint-Émilion offers an immersive experience of art, history, and gastronomy, given its rich tradition of wine-making. An hour away lies the city of Bergerac, having its roots deeply ingrained in vineyard history too, thus, making it a worthy weekend retreat. A strikingly ornate hallway welcomes you as you step foot into this 320 sq meter property. Illuminated by natural light flowing through archaic windows, it leads down to a well-fitted kitchen, equipped with modern appliances nestled against a charming firehouse. A spacious terrace connected to the kitchen introduces you to the picturesque view of neatly manicured gardens and endless vineyards caressed by the soft, French breeze. Adjoining the kitchen, you'll find a living space that expands over 30 sq meters providing sweeping views of lush parklands. The living room, consistent with the spacious design, also sprawls across 30 sq meters and captivates the calming sight of the evergreen landscape. This level concludes with practical spaces including a toilet, a dedicated laundry room, and a boiler room. Property Features: - 4 spacious bedrooms - A dressing room - Two bathrooms - A laundry room - A boiler room On ascending the grand stone sta ... click here to read more

Nestled amidst the world-renowned vineyards of Saint-Émilion, this exquisite 4-bedroom house offers a unique opportunity to own a slice of French paradise. Perfectly suited for those seeking a second home or a vacation retreat, this property combines the charm of rural France with modern comforts, all set against the backdrop of a UNESCO World Heritage site. Imagine waking up to the gentle rustle of leaves and the distant hum of vineyard workers tending to their vines. This is the daily reality in Saint-Émilion, a place where time seems to slow down, allowing you to savor every moment. The house itself is a testament to thoughtful renovation, blending traditional French architecture with contemporary living spaces. A Home Designed for Relaxation and Entertainment The open-plan living area is the heart of the home, where natural light floods through large windows, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The kitchen, equipped with modern appliances, is perfect for preparing meals with fresh local produce, perhaps after a visit to the bustling market in the town square. Step outside, and you'll find a meticulously maintained garden, a haven for outdoor dining and relaxation. The garden's fruit trees and rose bushes add a touch of color and fragrance, while the covered terrace provides a shaded retreat during the warm summer months. A Gateway to Adventure and Culture Saint-Émilion is not just about wine; it's a vibrant community with a rich history and a plethora of activities to enjoy. From hiking trails that start right at your doorstep to nearby golf courses and equestrian facilities, there's something for everyone. The town itself is a treasure trove of medieval architecture, with cobbled streets leading to charm ... click here to read more

Have you ever dreamed of owning a picturesque property in Aquitaine, Gironde, St-Émilion, France? Now, that dream can be a reality. This gorgeous blend of charm and potential caught our attention, nestled in the heart of a UNESCO heritage site, Saint-Émilion— a prime location that harbors a 3.3 hectares land with a dominant position. It overlooks the beautiful countryside that paints a scene of tranquility and peace. This charming house awaits its new owners to realize its potential and transform it into their dream abode. The property consists of main residence and outbuildings, all set in a beautifully landscaped park teeming with mature trees. It boasts three bedrooms all positioned to take in breathtaking views of the countryside and beyond. Two bathrooms are included, which have been well kept and maintained. The property, measuring 143 square meters, offers ample room for a family to live comfortably. One of the main highlights of this property is the 2.5 hectares of the total land that is approved for plantation under the AOC Castillon Côtes de Bordeaux. This allotted plantation area bestows a fantastic opportunity for those with a green thumb to cultivate their gardens and grow their favorite crops. The house, although in need of some renovations, holds a lot of potential. It could be transformed into your perfect vacation spot or a main residence with just a little bit of care, delivering a sense of accomplishment guaranteed along the way. Furthermore, after securing the necessary authorizations, one can extend the house into the existing barn, offering an even larger space that can be used to reflect one's tastes and preferences. Amenities included in the property are as follows: 3 spacious bedrooms 2 w ... click here to read more

Delve into the heart of the authentic French countryside by calling this charming, mid-slope property your refuge. Located in the tranquil, verdant expanses of Aquitaine, Gironde, Montagne, a place that whispers tales of the past while offering all the delights of contemporary living. The quaint, 163 square meters Girondine house, originally built in the traditional style, is tucked on a generous 1500 sq. m., enveloped in an alluring landscape of verdant trees. This idyllic property also offers an additional 100 sq. m. wine storehouse tucked in its serene landscapes - a compelling nod to this region's cherished winemaking heritage. Renovated in 2016 to imbue a harmonious blend of the old world allure with modern comforts, the house holds many delightful spaces. The ground floor invites with a generously sized living room, a spacious 41 sq. m. kitchen complete with a stone fireplace – perfect for cozy family meals. The sweeping windows usher in an abundance of natural light, adding a vibrant burst of energy to your daily living. A living room, bedroom with an ensuite bathroom, and a laundry room supplement to the living spaces on this floor. The second level houses a mezzanine, a study perfect for the work-at-home lifestyle, a bedroom with an ensuite shower room and a dressing room. Here, private spaces have been thoughtfully crafted to provide a luxurious retreat from the world. In addition to all this, a treat awaits nature lovers. An expansive wooden terrace graces the front yard, complete with classic French dovecote. What awaits your sight from this vantage point is a breath-taking, panoramic view of the untouched French countryside. Outdoor enthusiasts will also appreciate the chai, an adaptable structure that ... click here to read more

On a still Tuesday morning, you can stand at the kitchen window with a coffee and watch the mist lift off the vines across the valley. No traffic. No noise except a wood pigeon somewhere in the oaks. By ten o'clock, you're pulling a baguette out of the back seat after a drive to the boulangerie in Saint Jean de Blaignac, and the rest of the day is entirely yours. This is the rhythm of life at this 19th-century stone farmhouse in a quiet hamlet near Saint-Sulpice-de-Faleyrens in Gironde — and it's a rhythm that gets under your skin fast. The house itself is substantial. Five bedrooms across two floors, 275 square metres of habitable space, plus additional utility areas that bring the total footprint to 380m². The walls are thick local stone, the kind that keeps rooms cool in August without air conditioning and holds heat from the wood-burning fireplaces deep into winter evenings. It was built in the 1800s and it has that unhurried solidity you simply can't manufacture. The proportions are generous in a way that modern builds rarely achieve — a 36m² dining room that actually fits a proper dinner party, a 32m² sitting room with enough space to have two separate conversations, a kitchen at 24m² where three people can cook without crowding each other. Two of the bedrooms are on the ground floor, each with its own en-suite shower room, which makes this an unusually practical layout for multi-generational families or guests who prefer not to navigate stairs. Upstairs, three further bedrooms share a bathroom and shower room. A dressing room off the main upper bedroom adds a level of everyday comfort that you notice immediately when you're actually living there rather than just visiting. The mezzanine — a tucked-away 9m² space ... click here to read more

Nestled in the quaint and historic village of Castillon-la-Bataille in the Gironde region of Aquitaine, there's a house waiting for your imagination and a touch of your personal style. Its timeless stone facade tells tales of years gone by and invites its new owners to write the next chapter in its storied history. This property presents an exciting opportunity for overseas buyers or expats looking for a slice of the picturesque French countryside, all at an accessible price point. Whether you're searching for a vacation home, an investment, or a full-time residence, this home has the potential to become something special. Speaking of 'potential,' this is a property that warmly beckons those with a bit of vision. Living in Castillon-la-Bataille offers you the unique opportunity to immerse yourself in a typical French village setting. It's a place where morning walks to the local boulangerie—a mere stone's throw away—are not just a luxury but a delightful daily ritual. Here, you'll experience genuine community traditions amid the scenic beauty that defines the storied Aquitaine region. The village is well-positioned and boasts a selection of shops and restaurants for your convenience. You're just an hour's drive from the bustling and cosmopolitan city of Bordeaux, perfect for those seeking both tranquility and proximity to urban vibrancy. This house is a canvas that stands ready for your brushstrokes. With approximately 103 square meters of space to play with, there's certainly room to dream big. The ground floor offers a functioning kitchen and cozy living room, supplemented by a utility room, bathroom, and toilet—everything you need to start off. Upstairs, two bedrooms accompany a dressing room, ensuring you will have ... click here to read more

Nestled within the picturesque landscapes of Aquitaine, Gironde, in the quaint town of Castillon-la-Bataille, this five-bedroom house presents a decidedly unique opportunity for those seeking a slice of French countryside life with accessibility to urban amenities. With over eight acres of land enveloping this residence, occupants can enjoy the peace that comes with rural living, all while being a stone's throw from the lively hub of Castillon-la-Bataille. Just under an hour's drive lands you in Bordeaux, a city renowned worldwide for its rich tapestry of culture, its delectable gastronomy, and lively entertainment scenes. The property's allure lies in its seamless blend of rustic and industrial elements, offering a home that is as intriguing as it is inviting. Perhaps you're a family looking to settle in a spacious environment, or an expat dreaming of opening a bed and breakfast; either way, this property demands a closer look. Walking into this home, the ground floor greets you with its open-plan living and dining area—a perfect space for Friday night dinners and entertaining friends. Add a dash of creativity, and the vaulted playroom extends the entertainment possibilities right below. This separate area from the main accommodation zone ensures adults get their space while children indulge in their imaginative games. With two bedrooms and a spacious shower room on this level, it has the potential for a single-level luxury—a boon for those who find stairs cumbersome. As you make your way to the upper floor, here lies three independent sleeping quarters. Each room is designed with privacy in mind, featuring en suite shower rooms and toilets. This level has its eyes set on versatility—whether you're suggesting a bustl ... click here to read more

On a still Tuesday morning in late September, you open the tall wooden shutters of the main bedroom and catch the smell of damp stone and cut grass drifting up from the courtyard below. The vineyards start just beyond the garden wall. A church bell counts eight strikes somewhere in the direction of Rauzan. The coffee is already on, and you have nowhere to be. This is the rhythm of life at this remarkable 17th-century Girondine farmhouse in the heart of Entre-Deux-Mers — and once you've experienced it, a week's holiday simply won't feel like enough. The property sits in a peaceful hamlet less than five minutes from the village of Rauzan, where Saturday morning means the street market on the main square, two boulangeries competing for the title of best pain au levain, and an espresso at the café before the day properly starts. It's not a tourist village — it's a real working French community where you'll recognise faces within weeks of arriving. That's a rarer find than you'd think in Gironde. The farmhouse itself dates to the 1600s and carries all the architectural honesty of that era: stone walls thick enough to keep August heat at bay, original exposed beams, and proportions that modern builds simply can't replicate. But it's been lived in and cared for over the decades rather than left to crumble romantically. The result is a home that's genuinely comfortable and move-in ready, without the clinical overhaul that strips character out of old houses. The main house spreads across a very generous footprint. Downstairs, a 42m² sitting room opens through to a formal dining room of 53m² — big enough for the kind of long lunches this part of France was basically invented for. The kitchen at 26m² is well-equipped and practic ... click here to read more

Welcome to an exquisite, seven-bedroom expansive house, located in the heart of Aquitaine, Gironde, Libourne, France. Nestled amidst splendid surroundings, the unique character of this roomy home holds a promise of privacy and tranquillity. It occupies an extensive territory and blends seamlessly with its scenic milieu, offering an ideal escape from everyday fuss and noise while being just a 10-minute drive away from necessary amenities. Built with extreme care and attention to detail, the house uses double glazing for thermal and acoustic insulation. As you step inside, you would be awe-struck by an intriguing feature of central heating that utilizes a heat pump system, rendering the house efficiently warm even in France's winters. Complementing this captivating property is an impressive 11x4.5 metre swimming pool, solar heated for impeccable temperature control and outdoor enjoyment. Wander into the main house and an entrance hall welcomes you onwards to an open plan living and entertaining room. The captivating central fireplace not only adds a touch of rustic charm but also directs heat to the upstairs bedrooms and bathroom through a vent system for maximum comfort. Explore the layout further and you'd discover a modern, fully-equipped kitchen, a breakfast room and a laundry utility. An adjacent wine cellar stands ready to house your prized collection. An inner hall not only serves as a connecting route but leads to a separate guest annex. Upstairs lies a master suite; a spacious bedroom paired with an en-suite bathroom, walk-in wardrobe and private gym. Accompanied by three additional bedrooms and a shower room, the layout ensures every member of the family or guest has their privacy. The guest annex is an inde ... click here to read more

Nestled in the serene and picturesque landscapes of Blasimon, within the renowned wine region of Entre-deux-Mers, is a charming 7-bedroom farmhouse. Positioned to maximize the tranquil pleasures of rural life, this property presents an inviting prospect for those seeking to embrace a pace of living that harmonizes effortlessly with the natural surroundings. The farmhouse, which underwent renovations in 2020, tastefully preserves the rustic charm inherent to its original architectural style. Classical features such as terracotta floors, oak beams, and three impressive stone fireplaces evoke a warm, historical ambiance, making the home not just a place to live but a space to enrich one’s life with the heritage of French country living. Aquitaine, and Gironde in particular, offers a climate that is predominantly oceanic. The mild winters and warm summers make it an ideal location for those accustomed to diverse weather patterns and appreciate the opportunity to experience the full range of seasons. The property covers an area of 284 square meters and is adeptly priced at 519,400. It includes not only the main living quarters but also boasts an old stone barn attached to the house, along with a sizeable cellar that stretches over 60 square meters. These additional structures provide ample opportunities for development into further living spaces, workshops, or areas for creative endeavors, subject to the appropriate planning permissions. Property Features: - 7 bedrooms - 3 bathrooms - Renovated in 2020 - Attached stone barn and large cellar for potential development - Terracotta floors and exposed oak beams - Three stone fireplaces Living in Blasimon is an enriching experience blending the authenticity of a close-knit co ... click here to read more

Charming 7-Bedroom Country Home in Blasimon, Aquitaine Discover the essence of rural French living in this delightful 7-bedroom house nestled in the serene area of Blasimon, Aquitaine, right in the heart of the prestigious Entre-deux-Mers wine region. This region is not only famous for its vineyards but also for being a stone's throw away from the vibrant city of Bordeaux, combining the tranquility of the countryside with the convenience of city life. Local Area and Climate Blasimon, set within the picturesque Gironde department, promises a gentle pace of life amidst rolling hills and expansive vineyards. The local climate is predominantly oceanic, marked by mild winters and warm summers, making it ideal for outdoor activities and vine cultivation. The area is dotted with historic bastide towns offering weekly markets, where locals and visitors alike can enjoy a wide range of fresh farm produce and typical French culinary delights. Living in Blasimon Residing in Blasimon offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the authentic French countryside lifestyle, marked by peaceful surroundings, community-oriented living, and an overall slower pace of life conducive to relaxation and well-being. For the active and the curious, the proximity to Bordeaux, an hour away, provides ample cultural, gastronomic, and shopping experiences. This balance makes Blasimon an attractive locale for those looking to enjoy the best of both rural and urban environments. Property Overview This property, a tastefully renovated farmhouse in 2020, beautifully blends traditional charm with modern comforts. It maintains original elements such as stone fireplaces, terracotta floors, and oak beams, which enrich the home with an authentic rus ... click here to read more

Welcome to a delightful slice of the French countryside nestled in the picturesque village of Blasimon, in the renowned region of Gironde, Aquitaine. This enchanting farmhouse ushers you into a life of tranquility and rural charm, all the while keeping you wonderfully tethered to the bustling cultural heartland of Bordeaux, a mere one-hour drive away. Imagine stepping into a world where time seems to gracefull slow down, where the days are inked with the rhythm of nature, yet the cosmopolitan allure of Bordeaux remains within easy reach. The region, famously celebrated for its illustrious wine chateaux, paints a beautiful backdrop for this beautiful seven-bedroom haven. Whether you're savoring a glass of local wine or exploring the numerous lively bastide towns dotting the landscape, life here is a blend of tranquility and vibrance. This farmhouse, lovingly renovated in 2020, stands proudly as a testament to the elegant simplicity of its origins. Here you will find: - 7 spacious bedrooms, ideal for family or guests - 3 charming bathrooms that blend convenience with style - Preserved oak beams that carry the whispers of history - Three stone fireplaces perfect for cozy winter nights - Rustic terracotta floors that add warmth and character - Expansive living areas filled with natural light - An attached old stone barn with development potential - Large cellar of 60m² ripe for conversion - Classic country-style kitchen with modern touches - A versatile dining area for joyous gatherings - Airy, open spaces connecting indoor and outdoor living Though the home is presently in good condition, the stone barn and cellar offer an intriguing canvas for the imaginative. With the right vision, these areas could be transformed in ... click here to read more

Charming French Farmhouse in Aquitaine, Gironde, Blasimon For those looking to embrace the tranquil pace of country living in one of France's wine-rich regions, this 7-bedroom farmhouse situated in the verdant landscapes of Entre-deux-Mers invites you to consider it as your new home or a promising investment opportunity. Set within a 284 square meter land area amid the rolling countryside and within an hour's travel distance from the bustling city of Bordeaux, this property offers a harmonious blend of rural charm and access to city conveniences. Property Features: - Spacious living area with 7 comfortable bedrooms and 3 bathrooms - Authentic terracotta tile flooring throughout - Picturesque oak beams and 3 historic stone fireplaces reminiscent of its original farmhouse design - An ample 60m² cellar, offering possibilities such as wine storage or other uses - Large attached stone barn potential for further development or a creative project space - Interior spaces recently updated in 2020 to maintain and enhance the structure’s rustic beauty and functionality Amenities and Local Features: - Historic bastide towns nearby offering weekly markets, fresh produce and artisanal goods - Close proximity to world-renowned wineries and vineyards of the Entre-deux-Mers appellation - Short drive to Bordeaux, a city famous for its architecture, culture, and gastronomy - Local schools, healthcare facilities, and shopping options within driving distance Living in Blasimon: Blasimon offers a serene living environment, rich in natural beauty and steeped in French cultural heritage. Living here means becoming part of a community where life slows down, allowing residents to enjoy each day fully. The local area is perfect for outdoor lo ... click here to read more

Imagine waking up to the gentle rustle of leaves and the distant hum of a vineyard in full bloom. This is life in Ruch, a quaint village nestled in the heart of the Gironde region, where the pace is slow, the air is fresh, and the wine flows freely. Welcome to your new second home, a beautifully preserved stone house that offers a perfect blend of rustic charm and modern comfort. A Slice of French Countryside Located in the picturesque region of Aquitaine, this two-bedroom house is a testament to the timeless allure of French country living. The property is set amidst nearly one hectare of lush land, offering ample space for relaxation and recreation. Whether you're lounging by the in-ground swimming pool or exploring the adjoining woodland, every day here feels like a retreat. A Home with Character The house itself is a masterpiece of thoughtful renovation. Original stone walls and a traditional fireplace speak to its storied past, while modern amenities ensure a comfortable stay. With two spacious bedrooms and two well-appointed bathrooms, this home is perfect for hosting family and friends or simply enjoying a quiet weekend getaway. Endless Possibilities Adjoining the main house is a magnificent stone barn, boasting over 200m² of space and a ceiling height of 9 meters. This impressive structure offers endless possibilities for conversion, whether you envision a guest suite, an artist's studio, or a rental opportunity. With the appropriate planning permissions, the barn could become a significant asset to your property. The Allure of Ruch Ruch is more than just a location; it's a lifestyle. Situated in the celebrated wine region of Entre-deux-Mers, the area is renowned for its prestigious vineyards and charming ... click here to read more

Nestled in the heart of Coutras, this traditional French residence embodies the very spirit of Aquitaine. With its classic architecture and idyllic location, this four-bedroom, four-bathroom home offers 164 square meters of living space—perfectly suited for families and individuals alike. For those looking to experience life in the enchanting southwest of France, this property provides an inviting gateway. Situated at the edge of a friendly village, the house stands gracefully amid expansive, scenic grounds that stretch over a generous 4,000 square meters. Here, amidst the serenity of the Gironde, one can truly embrace the slow and fulfilling lifestyle that such a location promises. Known for its wine-producing regions and breathtaking landscapes, the area around Coutras offers endless opportunities for exploration and leisure. With vineyards a short drive away and the bustling city of Bordeaux just an hour's journey, you're ideally placed for both rural tranquility and urban adventure. Start your journey through this home at the ground level, where simplicity meets elegance. The expansive kitchen invites culinary experimentation or simple family meals. The living room, with its cathedral ceiling and grand fireplace, serves as the heart of the home: a gathering place that echoes with laughter and warmth. This level also features two en suite bedrooms, providing convenience and comfort, with one offering a spacious dressing room—a touch of luxury in your daily routine. A superb conservatory bridges the transition from the home to the beautifully landscaped garden, inviting ample natural light and providing panoramic views of your private sanctuary. Ascending to the first floor, a mezzanine unfolds into a versatile spac ... click here to read more

Nestled in the heart of the picturesque Dordogne region, this enchanting 6-bedroom house in Saint-Michel-de-Montaigne offers a unique opportunity to own a slice of French paradise. With its rich history and idyllic setting, this property is perfect for those seeking a second home or a vacation retreat in one of France's most charming locales. Imagine waking up to the gentle rustle of leaves and the sweet scent of blooming flowers. This property, with its expansive 444 m² of living space, is a haven of tranquility and elegance. The house, a harmonious blend of an old sheepfold and a stone tower, exudes character and charm, making it an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. ### A Lifestyle of Leisure and Luxury Saint-Michel-de-Montaigne is a quaint village that offers a serene lifestyle, perfect for those looking to unwind and rejuvenate. The region is renowned for its lush vineyards, historic châteaux, and vibrant cultural scene. Whether you're a wine enthusiast, a history buff, or simply someone who appreciates the finer things in life, this location has something for everyone. - Spacious Living: The property boasts a vast cathedral-style living room with a majestic fireplace, perfect for cozy evenings with family and friends. - Gourmet Kitchen: A well-appointed kitchen awaits your culinary adventures, ideal for preparing local delicacies. - Master Suite: The master suite offers a private sanctuary, complete with a luxurious bathroom and ample closet space. - Versatile Spaces: With several additional bedrooms and shower rooms, there's plenty of space for guests or family. - Outdoor Oasis: The property is set within nearly 5 hectares of unspoilt wooded grounds, offering endless opportunities for ou ... click here to read more