HPB ticks all our boxes

However, the Coates had enjoyed Bond holidays before, at Viehhofen in Austria and Constant in the Dordogne, as guests of Bondholder friends. “We knew what was on offer, and didn’t take much convincing!” says Raymond. “So when I retired (he was a long-haul airline pilot for a major British carrier) and life became financially comfortable, it made sense to invest ourselves.”

To say that Elizabeth and Raymond are impressed with Stigliano would be understatement indeed. “It ticks all our boxes,” says Elizabeth. “I like art, history, flora and fauna… and we’re surrounded by an abundance of each here.

“Raymond likes long-distance walking, and photography; the walks here are fabulous, and the photo opportunities legion.”

“I like vintage cars, too,” adds Raymond. “In fact a friend of mine and I each own a Jaguar XKR, and we’re already planning a motor trip down here next summer. Should be glorious.”

For the future, there are several sites on the Coates wishlist. “I’d like to go to Puglia,” says Elizabeth. “I’m learning Italian – in fact that’s one of the reasons we came here (not that we needed an excuse!). Le Manoir du Hilguy in Brittany looks gorgeous too…” “And I quite fancy some of the UK sites,” says Raymond. “St Brides Castle in Pembrokeshire, Tigh Mor Trossachs in Perthshire, Langton House in Dorset – all look very tempting.”

But one thing they both agree on. “With a portfolio like this, so many beautiful properties in so many lovely locations, there really is something for everyone.”