Sitting on the southern tip of Sicily, this villa is as close to the beach as it's possible to be without actually it actually being built on the sand. The garden leads directly out to the seaside, which means you can go from the back door to the warm waters of the Med in the space of seconds.

As well as cutting down travel time, this proximity also has the benefit of making for a rather scenic backdrop that you can enjoy in the outdoor space. The loungers on the lawn offer a front-row seat, but the hot tub surrounded by palm trees is similarly picturesque. Around the side of the home, there's also an alfresco table on which to enjoy feasts cooked on the barbecue.

Rather wisely, the interior doesn't attempt to compete with the remarkable outdoor space and keeps it relatively simple – whitewashed walls make the space feel bright and welcoming, while the sleek kitchen and bathrooms meet the standard demanded by twenty-first-century travellers.

Aside from the neighbouring stretch of coastline, there are some larger beaches nearby, as well as some quaint towns well worth a visit in the locale, including Pozzallo a short drive down the coastline.

Home truths:
*There's covered parking available for guests
*Two anti-mosquito devices are provided, along with nets in the bedroom
*Your host can provide a high chair for free upon request