Not just a pretty face, this Portuguese villa is within walking distance of quaint shops and authentic restaurants, ideal for sun-drenched days of exploration – as is the beach a short drive away. Though the classic tiles and decor might not be to everyone's taste, the outdoors is where this home truly shines and the reason for its appearance in our collection. With a generous stretch of land surrounding a private pool with plenty of seating, the kids can keep them busy whilst the grown-ups bask in the sunshine – and the stone-built barbecue is a nice bonus for alfresco dining.

Home truths:
*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
*This home is spread over two floors, with no internal lift, but there’s a ground-floor bedroom and bathroom here for those with reduced mobility
*The swimming pool isn't fenced, so children will need to be supervised at all times
*Pool towels are included in your stay
*Though there isn't a dedicated desk here, the dining table doubles up as a laptop-friendly workspace
*There's an outdoor shower here