The message from the international sales team at Knight Frank this week is that perennially popular or ‘core' locations are the most sensible places to go second home hunting in 2010.
Italy
Chianti in Tuscany: has seen increased interest as buyers revert to the trusted markets in times of trouble
Venice: one of the only places in Italy which has a good year-round rental market
Florence: Italians are increasingly interested in buying city apartments
Bargains: Northern Tuscany - the area known as the Garfagnana - is still offering good value for money, has excellent access to the coast and Pisa airport
Mallorca
South West of the island: Bendinat is close to Palma, has good golf courses, the new marina at Port Adriano, and international schools
Deia: the favourite with Bohemian expats and arty types and restricted building will keep supply short
Bargains: Prices for property in inland villages such as Alaró, Bunyola and Santa Maria have come down by about 15%
France
St Tropez: recent planning law banning building within 300m of the coast has restricted supply
Dordogne and Gascony: investment in Bergerac's airport is dispelling rumours that budget airlines might be pulling out
Alps: Chamonix where prices are now more affordable
Portugal
Western Algarve: where prices have come down by about 30%
-
Merlins: Britain's smallest bird of prey is a 'swerving, zigzagging, 240mph weighted missile' that's gutsy enough to chase off a golden eagleSize doesn’t matter when it comes to the fighting spirit of the tiny merlin, a fierce parent and favoured hunting accessory of Mary, Queen of Scots.
-
The greatest moment in the life of Jessie Owens: Country Life Quiz of the Day, June 13, 2025Breathtaking athleticism and Shakespeare's birthday are among the questions in the final quiz of the week.
