Europe’s best holiday home destinations for retirees
Retirement marks a new chapter in life where the hustle and bustle of daily responsibilities give way to the promise of leisure and exploration. As retirees bid farewell to their professional lives, many find themselves in empty nests, ready to spread their wings and embark on regular, long and laid-back holidays. Europe, a continent rich in history, culture, and diverse landscapes, offers retirees a plethora of destinations to choose from.
Ideal holiday destinations for retirees
Mallorca, Spain:
The largest of Spain’s Balearic Islands, Mallorca is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and charming villages. Retirees can relax in the sun, explore picturesque seaside towns, or indulge in local markets and Mediterranean cuisine. With its mix of culture, nature, and tranquillity, Mallorca offers a perfect balance for laid-back holidays.
Ibiza, Spain:
While Ibiza is known for its nightlife, the island also boasts a more peaceful side that retirees love. With its serene beaches, quiet rural areas, and scenic hiking trails, Ibiza offers a blend of relaxation and natural beauty. Retirees can enjoy the slower pace of life in less crowded villages and take in stunning Mediterranean sunsets.
Formentera, Spain:
The tranquil island of Formentera is the perfect retreat for those seeking solitude and untouched natural beauty. Located just south of Ibiza, this small island is famed for its white sandy beaches and turquoise waters. Retirees can spend their days cycling through pine forests, enjoying peaceful beach walks, or simply soaking up the Mediterranean sun.
Provence, France:
Provence is an ideal retreat for retirees looking for a blend of art, culture, and nature. Famous for its lavender fields, rolling vineyards, and charming mediaeval towns, this region in southern France offers a relaxed lifestyle where you can savour wine tastings, explore quaint markets, or take leisurely walks through the countryside.
Côte d’Azur, France:
The glamorous French Riviera, or Côte d’Azur, is the perfect coastal escape for retirees who enjoy a vibrant yet laid-back atmosphere. Known for its luxurious beaches, historic towns, and stunning views of the Mediterranean, this region offers everything from relaxing seaside cafes to cultural experiences in cities like Nice and Cannes.
French Alps, France:
For retirees who enjoy the mountains, the French Alps provide a refreshing escape. Whether you’re skiing in the winter or hiking in the summer, the alpine region offers breathtaking landscapes and fresh air. Towns like Chamonix and Annecy provide a perfect mix of adventure and serenity, along with picturesque lakes and cosy chalets.
Lisbon, Portugal:
Lisbon offers retirees the charm of a historic European capital with the warmth and hospitality of a coastal city. Known for its pastel-coloured buildings, cobbled streets, and rich culture, Lisbon is a walker’s paradise. Retirees can enjoy cultural festivals, day trips to nearby beaches, and delicious Portuguese cuisine, all while experiencing the region’s laid-back pace.
Tuscany, Italy:
Tuscany is one of Italy’s most iconic regions, known for its rolling hills, historic cities, and world-famous vineyards. Retirees can bask in the slower pace of life, explore mediaeval towns like Siena and San Gimignano, or indulge in the region’s exceptional wine and cuisine. With its idyllic countryside and rich cultural heritage, Tuscany provides a perfect blend of relaxation and history, making it a favourite for retirees looking to spend extended time in Italy.
A (second) home away from home
As retirees embark on their adventures through these picturesque European destinations, the need for a comfortable and flexible home base becomes essential. This is where co-owned vacation homes come into play. Fractionally owned holiday homes have become increasingly popular among retirees as they offer a hassle-free and cost-effective way to have a home away from home in their favourite destinations. Here’s how fractional ownership can enhance a pensioner’s travel experience:
Cost sharing:
– Co-owning a vacation home allows retirees to share the running costs, as well as the costs of maintenance, property taxes, and other expenses. This cost-sharing model makes owning a vacation property more affordable, freeing up funds for other travel experiences.
– Knowing the annual costs ahead of time allows for better financial planning, which is crucial for pensioners on a fixed income.
Convenience and comfort:
– A co-owned holiday home provides retirees with a familiar and comfortable base during their travels and reduces the hassle of having to search for and book different accommodations every time.
– Having a home away from home means they can leave personal belongings, making each visit feel like returning to their own retreat.
Peace of mind:
– Co-owned properties often come with end-to-end management services that handle the turnaround of the home between the owners’ stays, as well as the upkeep and maintenance of the property, providing peace of mind for its owners.
– The property might appreciate over time, potentially providing a financial return on investment. During unused periods, it may be possible to rent out the property and generate additional income.
Retirement is a time for exploration, relaxation, and embracing the beauty of life. Europe’s diverse destinations provide the perfect backdrop for retirees to embark on regular, long and laid-back holidays. Fractionally owned holiday homes further enhance this experience by offering a comfortable and cost-effective base, allowing pensioners to immerse themselves in the charm of each destination. If you know a retired couple looking for the next step to realise their European dreams, refer them to Lazazu, it might just be their doorway to a spectacular second home.
Discover more about Lazazu:
How Lazazu co-ownership works | Frequently asked questions about shared holiday homes | The benefits of fractional ownership | Browse Lazazu’s selection of second homes | The difference between timeshare and co-ownership