We’ve had rain, storms, and general all-round miserable weather.

But when you want to get into the holiday mood do you head for Gatwick, the Channel ferries, or Waterlooville?

The inclusion of the latter may be puzzling but in Stakes Road a house called Fortona turns out to be more of a hacienda.

True, from the front it looks like many another 1930s semi with its square bay window gracing the ground floor.

But step through the dining room that hides behind that window and you are walking towards a paradise that can be yours every day, not just on high days and holidays. You will progress through the living room, family area / kitchen, and emerge via a sun lounge onto a raised patio with a balustrade and gate that opens to many people’s idea of heaven on earth.

There before you are steps to a swimming pool surrounded by artificial grass (no time for mowing, you see) and a canopy covering a hot tub for six. Beyond, through another gate, is a further raised decking area with a thatched hut bar and plenty of space for seats, sun loungers and, naturally, people.

To cope with the guests you are likely to get in a constant stream, the front garden has become a large gravelled parking area with plenty of space for several cars. There is a garage at the rear of the property with workshop space and an electric roller shutter door.

Of course, the house has its practical side, so there is a ground floor cloakroom plus a utility / shower room. On the first floor there are three bedrooms (two with built-in wardrobes) and the family bathroom while a staircase from the landing rises to a bonus loft room with access to eaves storage.

Located within easy access of local shopping amenities, bus routes, recreation grounds, and commutable road links, the house is also the within the catchment for popular schools.

Guide price is £375,000 (EPC Band D). For more information, contact Town and Country Southern on 023 93 277 288 or email sales@townandcountrysouthern.co.uk