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The Best European Destinations to Own a Holiday Home

The Best European Destinations to Own a Holiday Home

By James Drakeford

While the euro is tearing its way through Europe causing panic and economic uncertainty it may surprise you to learn that Britons buying abroad has actually increased during the downturn. With the current climate creating a sellers-market, now would be a great time to pick up a bargain so we have gone through the trouble of sharing five of the best destinations to choose from so that you can reap the benefits too.

Champagne, France

Whether you get there by boat, jump on the Eurostar, hop on a flight, or reach your second home by car – the great thing about France is that it will always be easily accessible.  With a diverse selection of holiday home goodness on offer many go for small houses in Brittany and Normandy or apartments in Nice, but why not go for a holiday villa in Champagne and enjoy the hiking in the woods, trout fishing, the prestigious restaurants, and let’s not forget – the famous drink that was named after the region it was founded.  Prices start from around £100,000.

Vilamoura, Portugal

The southern Algarve coast remains the popular choice with buyers thanks to its mass of vineyards, sandy beaches, and stylish marinas.  We would be inclined to agree with the majority here, and if golf clubs are the first thing that goes into your luggage then we suggest Vilamoura.  With six different golf courses on offer every type of challenge to every standard of player is met.  International tournaments are also hosted on the glorious 18-hole championship course. 

An apartment in a golf complex would set you back at least £340,000 but most properties have been on the market for a year or more and owners are now keen to do deals in case the economy worsens so be ruthless in order to achieve the ultimate bargain.

Rila Mountains, Bulgaria

For those of you that wish to avoid the banana skin that is the Euro, this is the perfect place for you.  As far as developing Eastern European countries go both Bulgaria and Croatia are leading from the front.  With the long-term investment looking promising the country already has so much to offer.  The Mediterranean climate makes the stunning sandy beaches on the Black Sea Coast a summer hotspot, while a holiday villa in the Rila Mountains provides the ideal base with its abundance of natural habitats, breathtaking landscapes and fantastic skiing facilities.  Property can be picked up for as little as £52,000.

Fethiye, Turkey

If development projects or budget property is your thing, then you couldn’t go wrong in picking Fethiye.  Located on the site of the ancient city of Telmessos, Fethiye is one of Turkey’s well-known tourist centre’s that is especially popular during the summer.

With homes already as cheap as £40,000 property-advisors also suggest that some developers may offer 40 per cent reductions on completed, but unsold apartments and villas.  With its inexpensive lifestyle, stunning climate and natural beauty it is little wonder that this hotspot has become a magnet for British citizens with over 7,000 Britons already living there permanently.

Geneva, Switzerland

In difficult times it can be a wise move to safeguard your investment by choosing a prime destination in one of Europe’s more stable economies. Enter Switzerland.  With its diverse market you could pick up a skiing chalet from £200,000, or go for a three-bedroom ‘banker apartment’ in central Geneva for a minimum of £1.5 million.  While this glorious city has a great cultural significance with over 80 heritage sites – do not expect a cheap ride.  Geneva is frequently ranked at number one in ‘most expensive cities in the world’ surveys. 

 

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