Just ten minutes from Lagos' lively centre, this traditional villa offers peace and privacy amidst the Algarve's verdant hills. A classic example of Portuguese architecture, the whitewashed home features terracotta tiles, shuttered windows and bright interiors. Outside, a vast private pool invites you to spend your days dipping in and out – and with a heated setting, you can keep swimming even when the sun goes down.

As far as the eye can see, luscious greenery and gently undulating landscape surround you. From the upstairs terrace, you can even glimpse a strip of sea in the distance. Hop in the car and arrive at the sparkling coastline in just twelve minutes, where impossibly turquoise waters and jagged cliffs await. Come evening, head into Lagos for a traditional seafood meal and a sampling of the local wine.

Home truths:
*Due to this home's semi-rural location, you'll need a car to easily access it and explore the surrounding area
*You can drop off your luggage for safekeeping if you're arriving early or leaving late
*A gardener comes to the home once per week, and the pool is cleaned weekly
*The swimming pool isn't fenced, so children will need to be supervised at all times