When it comes to choosing a holiday home in the sun, buyers have a huge amount of choice across Europe and further afield.

But where ever they are planning to buy, their wish list remains very similar. An easy-to-maintain house or apartment with garden, swimming pool, sea or mountain views that is within easy reach of the airport, the beach and a well-equipped village are all attributes that make the perfect holiday home. If the property has a rental potential or a strong rental history, even better – along with a modern kitchen, parking and wifi.

What has changed is that while historically the dream was a remote farmhouse that needed work – think Under the Tuscan Sun or A Year in Provence – now buyers want a modern home that’s easy to get to (no more than a two-hour drive from the airport) and ideally within strolling distance of a village for groceries and a meal out.

The following properties all fit the bill.