Nestled among the orange, olive and medlar trees, this achingly beautiful villa in rural Málaga is the perfect place for a family or small group of friends to get away from it all and unwind in style. Carefully designed in a modern style, from the whitewashed exteriors to the bright open-plan living areas inside, the home is instantly inviting.

Days begin with an alfresco breakfast in the dappled shade of the veranda terrace. Sit back on the outdoor furniture, dreaming of an afternoon spent sunbathing on the loungers and swimming in your private pool. The shade of the trees offer a relief from the midday heat, while views of the north face of the Sierra de Mijas make for a picturesque backdrop.

If you can pull yourself away from the garden and patio area, there's a local hub of activity within easy reach of the villa. Less than a kilometre from Alhaurin el Grande, you'll find charming restaurants, bars and cafes, so you can spend as much time soaking up the last of the afternoon sun as possible, before getting ready for dinner out.

Home truths:
*Entrance to this villa is private
*At capacity, two people will be sleeping on a sofa bed in the living room
*We recommend hiring a car for ease of exploring the area
*There's free parking on the premises
*If needed, the dining table doubles up as a laptop-friendly workspace
*Your host kindly provides a baby cot and high chair for free upon request
*There's air-conditioning throughout the villa
*The nearest supermarkets are a short walk from your door