Best for sports: Annecy

Annecy is an ideal second home for people who love winter and summer sports, says Joanna Leverett of Cluttons. ‘In the summer, there is cycling in beautiful scenery and at different levels of difficulty in the mountains or in the valley.’ The lake is a big draw, too; not only does it provide one of the most famous cycling routes in Europe, but it’s an ideal spot for boating, swimming and paddle boarding.

In the winter, world-class ski resorts La Clusaz and Le Grand Bornand are only a 20-minute drive away.

Set on the banks of Lake Annecy, in Véyrier du Lac, this six-bedroom villa boasts panoramic views from the main living rooms and bedrooms. It comes with a swimming pool and cinema. €1.7 million. Cluttons (020–3813 9175)