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We all know bees are responsible for pollinating many of the world's food crops, yet they continue to face numerous threats including habitat loss, disease, pesticide use that overall nightmare for all of us, climate change.

According to a United Nations report, over 40 per cent of insect pollinators, including bees, are at risk of extinction in the next two decades.

This house is called Ca l'Andreu and it had fallen into a poor state after an eco tourism venture failed to work. But the family who took it on were very aware of its cultural importance in the context of Catalan architectural history and wanted it restored as a solid dwelling where they could live comfortably but without the trappings of modern luxury living - they didn't want it turned into a marble-clad villa. Quite the reverse in fact, they wanted it to be simple, clean and minimal.

Treehouses have been having more than a moment... they seen to on everyone's wishlist -  no doubt because they offer a sense of magic and adventure while being in and at one with la belle nature.

For francophiles who want an eco holiday with comfort and elegance, Orion Tree Houses could be the answer. It's a B&B guest-house resort in the delightful valley of the medieval village of Saint-Paul de Vence. Enjoy cosy cabin living, while the gardens are very beautiful, with a natural pool for swimming.