Looking for a coastal home for less than €200,000? Head to the Jonian resort and you'll find a competitively priced two bedroom apartment.

Blazing sun, azure waters, a long stretch of beach caught between two rivers. And affordable property prices. Counter-intuitive though this may sound, it is still possible to buy a seaside home in Italy for less than €200,000. Just head to Lido di Metaponto, one of Basilicata's premier resorts.

Built in the 1960s, Lido di Metaponto lies on the Jonian coast, at the foot of the ancient Greek town of Metapontum, which legend wants founded by the Greek hero Nestor on his way back from the Trojan war.

Today, it is a place of majestic temple ruins, thriving lidos and pine groves. It is also one of the most affordable seaside locations in Italy, with prices ranging from €1230 to €1850 per square metre, according to the Agenzia del Territorio. Which is why it is still possible to find reasonably priced second homes here.
Linda Travella of Casa Travella is selling one such property in a complex just a kilometre away from the sea. It is a spacious apartment with living room, kitchen, two bedrooms and a large covered terrace, which would be perfect for dining and relaxing alfresco. There is a dedicated parking space, and owners can take advantage of the complex's many restaurants, shops and bars, as well as enjoying use of the communal swimming pool.

And since the property is sold furnished, it would be suitable as a rental investment. Indeed, that's the main use current owner Gary Pennington made of it and it proved a "sound investment," he says. He bought the place four and a half years ago and is now "selling it back at a profit."

His asking price is a reasonable €165,000. For more information, contact Casa Travella on +44 (0)1322 660988 or www.casatravella.co.uk.