Country/Mountain/Lake-Side Homes in Europe? Best Places?

Hey guys.

It looks like I'll be moving to Europe real soon. Now it's a matter of finding where to go.. I'm looking to find a place out in more rural areas, having a nice country/mountain/lake-side view. I've been doing some research, and it seems that whenever I find something I think is great, I find some news that makes me shiver.

Okay, now it's a matter of finding what you guys feel is the best place for the best pricing, and best scenery around! .. Though I'm social, I at least like to have a private home, not one stacked on top of twenty other houses.

Any and all serious answers are well appreciated!

Thanks!