Tempted to invest in your own place in the sun?
We take a look at some of the best properties for sale across the world.
Saint James, Barbados
In a safe, quiet neighbourhood moments from the amenities of the buzzy Warrens area and a five minute drive from the pristine west coast beaches is this immaculate five-bedroom family home designed by leading local architect Michael Gomes. A fully-fenced lawn and outdoor area – including garden, swimming pool, gazebo and terrace to the back of the property – offers privacy and space.
Inside, as well as the kitchen, family room and large recreation rooms, there is an open plan living/dining area which opens onto the lower pool deck, and a gym. You’ll be wanting for nothing.
£1,584,000, Hamptons (020 7265 6571)
Comporta, Portugal
NUMA Comporta is an exciting development of 21 gorgeous villas set within a new luxury boutique hotel on Portugal’s Alentejo coast. In a peaceful setting, surrounded by umbrella pines, sand dunes, vineyards and over 60 kilometres of pristine sand beaches, NUMA represents the ultimate escape. Each four-bedroom villa offers the perfect balance between design, comfort and respect for its natural surroundings, and boasts a beautiful swimming pool. Owners also have access to professional management and villa services, and can make full use of all resort services, facilities and amenities. Simply irresistible.
€2.75 million, Knight Frank (020 7861 1109; knightfrank.co.uk)
Cannes, France
Offering breathtaking views of the Riviera coastline, this dreamy property has undergone a huge renovation project over the past two years. The light-filled accommodation is vast, spreading over approximately 450 sq m and offering five exquisite bedroom suites. The principal, on the top floor, includes a large dressing room and expansive covered terrace. It is the grounds that really sell this property, though – the pool terrace sits within manicured gardens, taking full advantage of the views. With its impressive pool house, it is perfect for parties.
€10.9 million, Home Hunts (020 8144 5501; home-hunts.com)
Avlaki, Corfu
Villa Levanta is a superb six-bedroomed property situated in a secluded position in the north east of Corfu, close to both Kassiopi and San Stefano. The attractive villa enjoys beach access and a private jetty, and is surrounded by olive-shaded terraces and lavender-lined pathways, giving it an authentic Corfiot feel. A spacious dining terrace and stunning infinity pool enjoy views of the sparkling waters of the Ionian Sea. Elegant interiors are decorated to an extremely high standard, and offer light, bright accommodation for up to 12, with each of the six bedrooms – one in a self-contained guest annex – offering en suite facilities. The exceptional property also boasts a gym and home cinema room. With no shortage of dreamy properties on Corfu, this is certainly among the best on offer.
€7.8 million, Oliver Bernard Escapes (07949 816458; obprivate.co.uk)
Andermatt, Switzerland
Set within this picturesque mountain village between the towering peaks and dramatic gorges of the Swiss Alps, Vera is an exclusive development that pays homage to the majesty of its surroundings with a shimmering wood façade and interiors that embrace the magic glow of the Alpine sun. Available in two- and three-bedroom configurations, the apartments have access to a rooftop spa, pool and garden. Of course, no alpine resort is complete without easy access to the slopes, and this striking location is blessed with 18km of groomed pistes and some exceptional off-piste skiing, making it a suitable winter destination for skiers of all abilities and ages. And the Alpine surroundings are equally stunning in the summertime, too.
New phases launching soon from 1.25 million Swiss Francs, Benham & Reeves (020 7435 9681; benhams.com)
Lake Maggiore, Italy
Villa Constanza is a magnificent 1930s property set in a commanding position on the banks of Lake Maggiore. Set in a south facing position within two acres of private parkland planted with azaleas, rhododendrons, olea fragrans and ancient camellias, and with luscious ficus repens covering its façade, the house sits perfectly within its botanical context, and offers a unique prospect for lovers of privacy and greenery. At the foot of the park, in a secluded area, is a large swimming pool with a panoramic terrace overlooking the lake. Featuring seven bedrooms, and six bathrooms, along with three interconnected, lake-facing receptions rooms and a formal dining room, and with a separate guesthouse and gatehouse, this house is suited to those who love entertaining on the grandest of scales.
Guide price €6.9 million, Savills (020 7016 3744; savills.com)