The most recent Mercer quality of life survey, released at the end of 2011, contained few surprises, with European cities leading the way in the top ten. Auckland and Vancouver apart, the rest are European: Munich, Düsseldorf and Frankfurt from Germany, Copenhagen from Denmark, and – unsurprisingly – Zurich, Geneva and Bern, all from Switzerland.

Of course, such surveys can be contested, and the ongoing financial difficulties in Europe are worrying, but there is an ongoing lifestyle attraction to living in the most prosperous regions of Europe. If one considers Switzerland, for example, many inhabitants are attracted by the compact mix of superb Alpine landscape and affluent, relatively safe cities.

Located in the far west of Switzerland, not far from the French border, the small municipality of Mex, in the canton of Vaud, is listed on the Swiss heritage sights of national importance. Indeed, Vaud is home to Lake Geneva, one of Europe’s most impressive natural waters and somewhere that has attracted literary figures and politicians for centuries – not forgetting a fair share of wealthy individuals looking for tax advantages.

Just a few kilometres away the lake in Mex, a fascinating château that dates back to the seventeenth century is up for sale (price on application) that may appeal to the romantic investor.

With the Alps and Lake Geneva on one’s doorstep, and some of Europe’s best cities within easy reach, quality of life would not be something to hope for – at this château, it would be expected.

More information at the Knight Frank Real Estate webpage