If a slower pace is what you're after, this villa is for you. Designed by a well-known architect and built in a small Istrian village, its proximity to a bakery, lavender farm, and quaint shops make it a more laid-back, romantic exploration of Croatia. And if you want sea, sun and sand, you'll find the historic Poreč only minutes away by car. With space aplenty, a mix of industrial and modern elements – we especially like the mounted bicycle in the bedroom – and an outdoor space where lazy alfresco breakfasts can morph into lazy mornings poolside, it doesn't get much better than this.

Home truths:
*The swimming pool isn't fenced, so children will need to be supervised at all times
*This home is spread over four floors, with no internal lift, but there’s a ground-floor bedroom and bathroom here for those with reduced mobility
*Though a car isn't essential, you'll find parking here should you choose to hire one
*Your host can provide a complimentary cot and high chair – this must be requested at the time of booking, and you’ll need to bring your own cot linen
*Though there isn't a dedicated desk here, the dining table doubles up as a laptop-friendly workspace