Key-words : pool bordeaux

EXCLUSIVE LISTING – Pessac – Contemporary single-storey house wi

Engel & Völkers Bordeaux is delighted to present this elegant contemporary single-storey house, exclusively located in Pessac. Particularly energy-efficient, the property benefits from an excellent A-rated energy performance certificate. It offers approximately 123 sqm of living space set on a beautifully landscaped plot of around 1,000 sqm. Bright and functional, the house features a fully air-conditioned living and dining room opening generously onto the terrace, swimming pool and garden. The sleeping area comprises 3 bedrooms: a light-filled primary bedroom of approximately 24 sqm with a dressing room, as well as two further bedrooms of approximately 13.5 sqm each. The bathroom features a double vanity unit, a freestanding bathtub and a walk-in shower. Outside, the heated swimming pool, teak terrace and bioclimatic pergola create a pleasant and inviting relaxation area. The property offers a rare parking capacity, with space for up to seven vehicles. It also provides excellent potential for further development, with the possibility of creating a garage or carport, or even extending the house to suit the future owners' plans. Underfloor heating powered by a heat pump, together with 14 recently installed photovoltaic panels, further enhances the property's excellent energy performance. A utility room, laundry room and cellar complete the property. A turnkey home combining comfort, energy efficiency and quality of life in a sought-after setting in Pessac. Energy performance rating: A/39 Greenhouse gas emissions: A/1 Estimated annual energy costs for the property: €510–€750. Transaction fees, including VAT, are payable by the seller. Information regarding the risks to which this property is exposed is available on the Géorisques website: www.georisques.gouv.fr. A privileged lifestyle between city and nature Set in a peaceful, leafy residential area of Pessac, the property enjoys a particularly pleasant setting for everyday life. Shops, nurseries, schools, local services and sports facilities are all within easy reach, providing a practical and comfortable living environment. Just a few minutes away, the Forêt du Bourgailh and the Peugue green corridor offer exceptional natural surroundings for walking, outdoor activities, exercise and cycling, supported by the area's dedicated cycle paths. A sought-after location offering the ideal balance between a peaceful, green environment and convenient access to everyday amenities and the main routes serving the Bordeaux metropolitan area.

Architect-designed villa overlooking the Garonne – 30 minutes fr

Engel & Völkers presents this modernist villa from the 1970s, completely redesigned in 2024 by Vaissié Studio. Facing due south on the Entre-deux-Mers hillsides, it offers breathtaking views over the Garonne Valley. Approximately 390 m² of living space, 5 bedrooms, an infinity pool and 1.67 hectares of grounds, just 30 minutes from Bordeaux. Designed by a Bordeaux architect, a leading figure in regional modernism, the house has retained the striking graphic character of its original volumes. It is now enhanced by warm materials: sand-pink lime plaster, walnut, polished concrete and natural stone. From morning until sunset, the light transforms every room. Ground floor: a double-height living room (approx. 45 m²), beneath golden pendant lights, opening through large sliding glass doors onto the terrace. A few steps lower, a fireside area surrounds the fireplace. Dining room, fully equipped Gaggenau and Liebherr kitchen with a large island, utility kitchen, laundry room, office (approx. 22 m²) and gym opening onto the pine trees. First floor: a principal suite of approximately 45 m² with dressing room and bathroom (freestanding bathtub facing the umbrella pines), a mezzanine lounge, two bedrooms and a bathroom. Lower level: two independent bedrooms with shower rooms, ideal for guests. Outside: heated infinity pool (10.5 x 5 m) surrounded by 186 m² of terrace, pool house, barbecue terrace, pétanque court, natural spring and double carport, set within 1.67 hectares of landscaped grounds planted with umbrella pines. Features: underfloor heating, air conditioning, fireplace, fibre-optic internet, alarm system and video intercom. The villa may be sold furnished: bespoke furniture and designer pieces (terms available on request). Contact us to receive the complete information pack and arrange a private viewing. Price: €2,295,000 – agency fees payable by the seller. Energy performance rating: C (110 kWhEP/m²/year) – greenhouse gas emissions: C (21 kg CO?/m²/year). Estimated annual energy costs for standard use: between €4,510 and €6,190 per year (average energy prices indexed to 2021, 2022 and 2023, including subscriptions). Information on the risks to which this property is exposed is available on the Géorisques website: www.georisques.gouv.fr. In the heart of an unspoilt setting of vineyards and rolling hills, the property combines complete tranquillity with easy access. Bordeaux is 30 minutes away, a TER train station 8 minutes away (Paris in 2 hours by TGV), Bordeaux–Mérignac Airport 30 minutes away, Saint-Émilion 35 minutes away, and Arcachon Bay 1 hour 10 minutes away. The primary school is within walking distance, and a bilingual Montessori school is 15 minutes away.

Contemporary architect-designed villa in Bouliac ¦ Exceptional 2

An exceptional lifestyle on the heights of Bouliac Let yourself be charmed by this superb contemporary property of 287 m² (built in 2010), nestled in one of the most privileged and sought-after areas of Bouliac. Designed as a true high-end family haven, this home embodies the perfect balance between spectacular volumes, ever-present light, and total privacy. From the entrance, the tone is set: the living areas, furnished with infinite care, are bathed in light and open wide onto a magnificent landscaped garden of 2,000 m². Outside, a 50 m² terrace and a swimming pool on the edge of greenery promise gentle summer days sheltered from prying eyes. The villa offers 6 rooms with a fluid layout, including 4 independent primary suites, each with its own private bathroom. A full basement completes this property, offering multiple layout possibilities (home cinema, gym, wine cellar...). Absolute comfort and top-of-the-range features: - Technology & Security: Fully connected home (home automation, centralized shutters), integrated audio system (indoor/outdoor) for your moments of relaxation, and total peace of mind thanks to a high-security alarm with cameras, video intercom and automatic gate. - Technical features: Ultra-comfortable underfloor heating, reversible air conditioning in all bedrooms for cool summer nights, designer ethanol fireplace, double-glazed aluminum joinery, central vacuum system, electric awning and fiber-optic connection. - Structure: Durable construction over a crawl space, connected to the main sewer system. A rare address, delivered “move-in ready,” for discerning buyers seeking prestige and serenity. Diagnostics & Legal Information: - EPC: C (170) / GHG: A (5) - Estimated annual energy costs for the home: between €870 and €1,250 - Property not subject to condominium status. - Transaction fees incl. VAT payable exclusively by the seller. - Information on the risks to which this property is exposed is available on the Géorisques website: www.georisques.gouv.fr Bouliac: The privilege of a secret panorama on Bordeaux's doorstep Welcome to the highly sought-after heights of Bordeaux's right bank. Nicknamed the “balcony of Bordeaux,” Bouliac appeals to a discreet clientele seeking privacy, nature and an exclusive residential setting, without ever giving up proximity to the metropolis. Ideal infrastructure for an active, seamless lifestyle: - Bordeaux city center just 15–20 minutes away. - Saint-Jean Station (TGV) in 20–25 minutes. - Bordeaux–Mérignac Airport in 30–40 minutes. - Quick ring-road access, local shops, services and quality schools close by. Everyday quality of life Here, leisure goes hand in hand with the art of living: walk to the village's renowned fine-dining restaurants, stroll through the covered market on weekends, or escape on walks through the surrounding hillsides and vineyards. All of Bordeaux's cultural offerings (museums, opera, luxury shopping) remain within easy reach. This unique area stands out for its absolute calm, its lush surroundings and its breathtaking panoramic view over the metropolis. An exceptional location that perfectly combines prestige, disconnection and connectivity.

Renovated architect-designed house in Mérignac, pool-ready garde

In Mérignac, just 300 metres from the railway station, this 1967 house was completely redesigned by an architect in 2012. It offers approximately 170 m² of living space on a plot of around 650 m² suitable for a swimming pool, with an easterly orientation that bathes the terrace in sunlight morning and evening. From the entrance, the quality of the finishes is immediately apparent: high-end parquet flooring, built-in storage in every room and spaces designed for family living. The reception area comprises two complementary lounges: the first centred around a large fireplace with a closed hearth, and the second open-plan and adaptable, ideal as an office or TV lounge. A dedicated dining room naturally extends these spaces. The fitted kitchen (induction hob, oven and built-in coffee machine) is complemented by a particularly functional utility room, a genuine everyday asset. The sleeping quarters include a master suite offering exceptional comfort: air conditioning, two dressing rooms, a shower room with a rainfall shower and direct access to a private terrace. A second bedroom with a cupboard overlooks the garden, while an additional space, served by its own shower room equipped with a shower-bath with a seated area designed for children, can be used as a third bedroom or office. Two separate WCs complete the property. An additional advantage: approximately 25 m² of insulated space in the garage offers potential for a fourth bedroom, guest suite, office or gym. Outside, the terrace, completely renovated in September 2026, features a plancha and is perfect for lunches and summer evenings, enhanced by carefully designed outdoor lighting. The landscaped garden, with automatic irrigation and a putting green (to be refurbished), is suitable for installing a swimming pool. An energy-efficient and peaceful home: - Energy performance certificate (DPE): Class B - Enhanced insulation: 45 cm of rock wool - Recent air-to-water heat pump (2022/2023) and reversible air conditioning - Mechanical ventilation system (VMC) - 3 kWp photovoltaic system with total electricity resale under a transferable EDF OA contract (recent inverter) - Façades repainted approximately 4 years ago - Remote monitoring Garage and two outdoor parking spaces under a covered porch. A rare address combining architectural quality, flexibility and immediate proximity to the railway station, providing easy access to Bordeaux or Paris. Property tax: €2,649. Located in Mérignac, the Gironde's second-largest city and a highly sought-after residential area on the outskirts of Bordeaux, the house enjoys a peaceful setting while remaining close to everything. Around 300 metres away on foot, the railway station provides access to Bordeaux city centre without a car and, with a connection at Bordeaux Saint-Jean, to Paris in just over two hours. The tram, ring road and Bordeaux-Mérignac International Airport are all reachable within minutes—an asset for commuters and frequent travellers alike. Schools, local shops, sports facilities and green spaces complete an ideal setting for a family seeking space, tranquillity and convenience without giving up proximity to Bordeaux.

CONFIDENTIAL SALE — EXCEPTIONAL PRIVATE MANSION — BORDEAUX

Behind a facade that reveals none of its secrets lies a rare residence, where two years of meticulous restoration have created an exceptional place. Nearly 500 m² of living space, fully air-conditioned and designed down to the smallest detail, for family life or entertaining on a scale few can imagine. Three reception lounges follow one another on the ground floor, filled with light. A private lift serves every level, where spacious bedrooms - each conceived as a suite - lead up to a secluded master suite occupying the entire top floor. The basement houses a private cinema, an outstanding wine cellar, a sauna: spaces that turn everyday life into an art of living. And then there is this absolute rarity: a fully independent guest house of nearly 130 m² of living space, with its own access, a three-car garage, a gym, and three bedrooms with private terraces and no overlooking neighbors; currently operated successfully, opening up a multitude of possibilities. A garden, a heated swimming pool, and unexpected peace in the heart of the city. A rare property, matching its discretion. Full file and viewing video available upon request, after qualification. Energy Performance Certificate (EPC): B / 55 Greenhouse Gas Emissions (GHG): B / 7 Estimated annual energy costs: €1,873 – €2,535 Agency fees (VAT included) payable by the seller. Information regarding potential risks to which this property is exposed is available on the Géorisques website : www.georisques.gouv.fr. Situated in the highly sought-after Saint-Genès district, this property enjoys a prime location, valued for its residential elegance, its immediate proximity to Bordeaux's historic city center, and the quality of its schools. The area offers a living environment particularly sought after by French and international families, with several renowned schools reachable in just a few minutes, including Institution Saint-Genès, Assomption Sainte-Clotilde, Saint-Gabriel, and Lycée François Magendie (international section). Local shops, restaurants, the tram, and all everyday services are easily accessible on foot. Bordeaux Saint-Jean train station can be reached in under 10 minutes, making it possible to get to Paris in just over 2 hours, while Bordeaux–Mérignac International Airport is accessible in around 20 minutes. A discreet, heritage address, among the most coveted in Bordeaux.

PEY BERLAND - PRIVATE MANSION - POOL - GARAGE

PEY BERLAND - PRIVATE MANSION - POOL - GARAGE Hidden in a discreet pedestrian street, a sumptuous private mansion over three levels with a mobile-bottom pool, a 150 m² garden with abundant trees, a 95 m² basement, and a double garage. From the entrance, a magnificent light-filled hall with bay windows leads to a very elegant living room with a noble library, a large office overlooking the pool, a charming kitchen opening to the outside, and a large dining room. On the upper floors, five bright bedrooms including a magnificent master suite, four bathrooms, a laundry room, and a large 20 m² sunny terrace. Preserved old features: stone facade, fireplaces, parquet flooring, cement tiles, moldings, wall cornices, and stained glass. Absolute peace and room layout ideal for family life. A peaceful haven, a rare address just steps from shops, transport, and local hotspots. 10 minutes walk from the Golden Triangle and Place des Grands Hommes, and 20 minutes by tram from the TGV station. John Taylor Bordeaux Agency

La Teste-de-Buch – Single-Storey Villa

Michael Zingraf Real Estate – Bassin d'Arcachon exclusively presents this pleasant single-storey house ideally located at the entrance of La Teste-de-Buch town centre, in immediate proximity to shops, schools, and the main roads providing quick access to Arcachon, Bordeaux, and the Atlantic beaches. Set within a convenient and residential environment, this property stands out for its particularly functional design and layout, carefully conceived for comfortable everyday living. The house offers well-designed living spaces with fluid circulation and a welcoming atmosphere. Entirely on one level, it perfectly meets the expectations of both a primary and secondary residence, with a strong emphasis on ease of living and quality of life. The outdoor areas, easy to maintain and particularly pleasant to enjoy, feature a swimming pool perfectly integrated into the property, allowing residents to fully appreciate sunny days in an intimate and preserved setting. Its strategic location, close to all amenities while remaining perfectly connected to the various key destinations of the Bassin d'Arcachon, represents a major asset.

TRADITIONAL HOUSE - 9 ROOMS - SUBLIME GARDEN - PARKING - SAINT SEURIN

EXCLUSIVE JOHN TAYLOR In the heart of the highly sought-after Saint Seurin district, magnificent traditional house in excellent condition with a 150 m² well-oriented garden and secure parking nearby. Behind a sublime stone facade, the entrance hall, with space for a bicycle, leads to a very elegant 30 m² living room, large modern kitchen with dining room opening onto the garden, two beautiful offices that can easily be converted into bedrooms and a bathroom. A wide, sumptuous period staircase, illuminated by a beautiful skylight under a glass roof, leads to the two upper floors: luminous master suite with private bathroom, four bedrooms, two additional bathrooms and an independent apartment with open kitchen, ideal for a student or teenager. A spacious laundry room and an attractive 30 m² cellar complete the ensemble. The old features have been remarkably preserved: generous volumes, stone walls, moldings, functional fireplaces, cement tiles, wall cornices, old parquet flooring, exposed beams, floor tiles and wooden shutters. The house is very well maintained and equipped: impeccable roof, double-glazed windows, electricity up to standard, boiler in very good condition, excellent diagnostics with a C-rated DPE, plenty of storage space, air conditioning on the top floor and alarm system with video. The magnificent garden is ideally suited to the installation of a swimming pool, and boasts a large terrace for enjoying fine weather with friends or family. A parking space in a secure parking lot 100 meters away can be taken over for rental, offering real living comfort. Exceptional location: close to renowned schools (Albert Barraud, Saint Gabriel, Saint Seurin, Cassignol La Benatte, Assomption, Camille Jullian), public transport and Place des Martyrs de la Résistance just 500 meters away. Wide choice of quality retailers and several local markets. A unique and complete family home. A beautiful Bordeaux heritage combining old-world charm, spaciousness, calm and quality of life in the heart of the city. Agence John Taylor Bordeaux

Le Canon – Between Forest and Ocean, the Original Spirit of Cap Ferret

Tucked away along the forest firebreaks of Le Canon, this rare property lies in the heart of unspoiled nature, surrounded by majestic pines and strawberry trees. Here, time slows down — sunlight filters through the branches, the scent of pine fills the air, and the whisper of the ocean is never far. Set on a 1,600 sqm plot, divided into two parcels of 800 sqm each, the main residence offers around 280 sqm of living space and stands as a true architectural icon of Cap Ferret. Originally a traditional Landes barn with timber framework and brick foundations, it was dismantled in the 1980s, transported and rebuilt identically on this unique site. Fully renovated three years ago, it now blends heritage craftsmanship with contemporary comfort, remaining a source of inspiration for many of today's emblematic Cap Ferret villas. The cathedral-style living room, with its soaring 6. 5-metre ceiling, bathes in natural light and warmth. The master suite features a sculptural bathroom with a sunken bathtub, walk-in shower, and maritime washbasins salvaged from an ocean liner, all enhanced by a magnificent chandelier from the Casino d'Arcachon. Upstairs, a private cinema room and three bedrooms — including a second suite — share two bathrooms. A hidden, climate-controlled underground wine cellar with a 1,500-bottle capacity, as well as an underground garage, complete this exceptional home. The adjacent 800 sqm parcel, also constructible, offers the opportunity to build an additional 160 sqm villa, or to preserve it as a lush landscaped garden, extending the wooded atmosphere and the tranquility of the estate. The terrain is fully suitable for a swimming pool, inviting the creation of a bespoke retreat where nature, elegance, and serenity converge between forest and ocean. A truly unique property, rich in history and a timeless expression of Cap Ferret's authentic luxury — where space, light, and simplicity define refinement.

LÉOGNAN - ARCHITECT-DESIGNED HOUSE - JOHN TAYLOR

Nestled at the end of a private driveway, out of sight and out of mind, this singular property embodies the perfect balance between contemporary architecture and art of living. Designed in 2011 by a renowned architect, the house's masterful aesthetics and light-filled volumes are immediately appealing. As soon as you drive through the gate, a vast landscaped reception garden offers parking for several vehicles, in addition to a large 30 m² garage. The first floor opens onto an open-plan living room with cathedral ceiling, enhanced by large bay windows that open onto a south-facing garden with a Bali stone-style tiled pool. A functional family kitchen is accompanied by an adjoining laundry room. A first bedroom completes this level. Upstairs, the master suite offers a veritable cocoon with shower room, dressing room and private balcony. Two additional bedrooms, a bathroom and a large open-plan mezzanine complete this level, offering great layout flexibility. A rare, confidential property with quality features, ideal for lovers of clean lines and tranquility in the immediate vicinity of Bordeaux. Contact us now for a private viewing

GAURIAC – CHARMING 19TH-CENTURY PROPERTY – APPROX. 270 SQM – 1.2

Just a few minutes from Bourg and Blaye, in the heart of a preserved setting surrounded by vineyards and nature, this elegant 19th-century property offers a rare lifestyle combining generous proportions, open views and the peaceful atmosphere of the Gironde countryside. Offering approximately 270 sqm of living space, the house stands within beautifully landscaped grounds of around 1.27 hectares, comprising gardens, meadowland and woodland, with lovely views over the surrounding vineyards and the Gironde estuary. A CHARACTER PROPERTY WITH REMARKABLE PROPORTIONS From the moment you enter, the original cement floor tiles immediately reveal the character and authenticity of the property. The ground floor features generous reception rooms, including a living room of approximately 36 sqm, a dining room and a separate, fully equipped bespoke kitchen. A utility room and separate WC complete this level. A spacious room of approximately 36 sqm, currently used as an office, could easily be converted back into a ground-floor bedroom, provide an exceptionally comfortable home office or be adapted to suit a variety of lifestyles. The first floor continues this sense of space with three generously proportioned bedrooms. Two bedrooms each benefit from a nearby shower room, while the large principal bedroom has its own private shower room. The numerous windows allow full enjoyment of the surrounding landscape, with views over the countryside, vineyards and estuary. On the second floor, the attic space provides additional potential and could be further converted. Its configuration also makes it possible to consider the installation of a concealed ducted air-conditioning system, enhancing the thermal comfort of the house while preserving the aesthetics of the living areas. AN ESTATE DESIGNED FOR OUTDOOR LIVING Outside, the house opens onto a large landscaped garden extending into a wooded area, creating an especially peaceful and private atmosphere. The property also features an impressive swimming pool measuring approximately 18 x 4.5 metres, beautifully integrated into its surroundings and complemented by generous terraced areas. OUTBUILDINGS OFFERING A WIDE RANGE OF POSSIBILITIES Two outbuildings complete the property and represent one of the estate's major assets. Subject to the necessary planning permissions, they could be reimagined as an artist's studio, leisure space, gym, storage area, car collection space or premises for a professional activity. They provide numerous possibilities while maintaining complete independence from the main residence. A PROPERTY FOR A DIFFERENT PACE OF LIFE More than simply a house, this property offers a genuine lifestyle: space, tranquillity, open views over the vineyards, an exceptionally large swimming pool and the opportunity to develop a variety of projects within one estate. Energy Performance Certificate (DPE): D / 170 Greenhouse Gas Emissions (GES): D / 30 Estimated annual energy costs for the property: €3,860–€5,270 Transaction fees including VAT payable by the seller. Information on the risks to which this property is exposed is available on the Géorisques website: www.georisques.gouv.fr. Located in Gauriac, on the right bank of the Gironde estuary, the property enjoys a particularly well-preserved environment surrounded by vineyards, countryside and rolling hills, between Bourg-sur-Gironde and Blaye. From the house, views extend over the surrounding vineyards and, from the upper floor, towards the Gironde estuary. Gauriac offers a peaceful and authentic lifestyle, appreciated for its rural setting while remaining well connected to the region's main centres. Bourg, with its shops and everyday services, can be reached in around ten minutes, while Blayeoffers a wider range of shops, schools, medical services and its traditional market. The property is approximately 40 to 45 minutes from Bordeaux and around 45 minutes from Bordeaux-Mérignac Airport, ma

Le Bouscat (33200) - 250 m² house to renovate, approved planning permission including a swimming poo

In Le Bouscat (33200), Abriculteurs presents this 250 m² house to be completely renovated, just a stone's throw from Parc Bordelais. On the border between Bordeaux and Le Bouscat, very close to the highly sought-after Parc Bordelais, this property offers significant potential. Set back from the street in a peaceful, high-quality residential setting, it enjoys complete privacy, with no overlooking properties. A private driveway provides easy, secure parking for two vehicles on the property. The building offers generous volumes and unfinished floor spaces just waiting for your vision to bring them to life. To help you move forward with your project with peace of mind, planning permission has already been granted and approved by the town hall, including the construction of a 19 m² swimming pool within a 360 m² garden. The architectural plans and contemporary renderings are fully available, allowing you to immediately envision an elegant, modern, high-end renovation. One of this property's major advantages is its remarkable layout flexibility. Whether you wish to create a prestigious bespoke family home, divide the property into two separate apartments for a long-term rental investment, or set up offices or a professional practice, the layout is ideally suited to all professional or family ambitions. This exceptional living environment also benefits from a strategic location, just a stone's throw from well-regarded schools, local shops, the amenities of central Le Bouscat and public transport. Tram line D and bus routes provide easy, direct access to Bordeaux city centre. This rare property in the area is not subject to co-ownership regulations and is connected to the mains sewer. It requires complete renovation, offering a unique opportunity to control all finishes and future energy consumption (energy performance assessments will need to be carried out after the work is completed). Sale price: €990,000 including VAT (Abriculteurs' fees payable by the seller) Listing prepared under the editorial responsibility of Mr Hadrien Deramecourt, commercial agent (EI), registered with the Bordeaux RSAC under no. 913 910 022, not holding client funds, acting on behalf of SARL Abriculteurs immobilier, with share capital of €5,000, registered under SIREN no. 837 704 584, holder of professional licence no. CPI 7501 2018 000 025 842 issued by the Paris Île-de-France Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI), whose legal representative is Mr Adrien Piot and whose registered office is at 12 rue des Halles, 75001 Paris. Information about the risks to which this property is exposed is available at www.georisques.gouv.fr.

Maison de Maître, 10 rooms, 8 bedrooms with garden and swimming pool

It's located 12 minutes from the center of Bordeaux, in the dynamic commune of Le Bouscat, close to shops, schools, the Parc Bordelais and a streetcar stop at your doorstep. John Taylor invites you to discover this sublime old building, once a Maison de Maître, completely renovated and redesigned in 2020 by its owners, with the help of an architect. Their wish was to create a reception area for their restaurant and bed & breakfast business, and the property now offers 8 5-star rooms, all with luxury en-suite bathrooms. A very large reception and dining room and a professional kitchen complete the chic, carefully decorated setting, where every detail has been carefully thought out for guests. A bar and cellar area, as well as a huge terrace, make a real contribution to events. The magnificent garden and swimming pool, or the Spa, add to the comfort and pleasure of staying in such a setting, immersed in an intimate, hushed atmosphere. A turnkey affair whose success was not long in coming.