Creative Design
The draw of waterfront homes on the French Riviera
A home on the water is often considered to be the ultimate property purchase. Whether it is a lifestyle choice, holiday home or retirement dream, waterfront property has an eternal appeal. The Victorians introduced sea bathing, widely encouraged for its health benefits.
The French Riviera, or the Côte d’Azur as it is also known, often tops the bucket list of “must-sees”. Nice, Cannes, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat and Saint Tropez are all synonymous with glamour, sunshine and celebrities.
As a globally connected location with unbeatable amenities, prime property in the region has had a long-standing appeal.
Moreover, the Côte d’Azur offers opportunities for all, combined with authentic charm and a special atmosphere. Ranging from beachfront villas with private moorings and beach access, to dramatic waterfront retreats with panoramic views.
The French Riviera, or the Côte d’Azur as it is also known, often tops the bucket list of “must-sees”. Nice, Cannes, Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat and Saint Tropez are all synonymous with glamour, sunshine and celebrities, plus the dramatic landscapes beloved by artists and writers, in addition to sporting opportunities aplenty ensure the French Riviera really does have it all.
2016 Trend
Prime Algarve property sees rise in demand
While Portugal’s national housing market has seen only tentative improvement in recent years, prime Algarve property has shown a marked upturn. In Quinta do Lago, for example, the very best properties have exceeded their pre-crisis peak.
The rise comes as many wealthy individuals find themselves fully invested in first-tier cities, where prices are at a high plateau, and are now looking at second-tier cities and leisure retreats like Quinta do Lago.
Consequently stock levels remained low, which has been a major driver of price growth as demand has returned.
Central to the appeal of the Algarve is its excellent connectivity to the rest of Europe. Annual passengers numbers at Faro airport exceeded six million for the first time in 2014, an increase of 34 per cent of the previous decade.
The airport provides direct links to 80 destinations across Europe, of which 23 are to UK airports. Faro airport is undergoing a €32million expansion and remodelling programme that will result in a 25 per cent increase in peak passenger flow capacity. Therefore, with its low levels of supply and a product tailored to the luxury second home market, we believe prime Algarve is in the perfect position to benefit from strengthening demand in the years to come.