Up above the town of Ponta do Sol on Madeira’s south coast, this sugar-cube style apartment embraces traditional architecture on the outside and minimalist modernity inside. The view of Ponta do Sol – a series of orange-roofed buildings tumbling down the hillside to the deep blue sea – is framed by tropical plants, and settling into the beanbag-like chairs on the private terrace is the perfect spot to take it all in. A sparkling rectangle of infinity pool is shared with one other apartment, along with the hillside hot tub. Inside, the walls are kept pristine white without a hint of clutter, and the light-wood kitchen is brightened by sunlight streaming in through a wall of glass. It’s a six-minute walk into the centre of Ponta do Sol where there’s a handful of cafés, bars and restaurants and a local grocery shop. The larger town of Ribeira Brava is a 10-minute drive away.

Home truths:
* The swimming pool and hot tub are shared with one other apartment
* Highchairs, cots etc can be provided for an additional fee, just ask your host
* There is no art on the walls and the decor is very minimalist so some may feel it lacks homely touches