The green vistas and pretty enclosed gardens of this traditional villa perched on the hillsides of Javea are charming. Well-geared for family holidays close to the sea, kids will love you for that outdoor playground and trampoline, and you'll all appreciate those shady terraces and private pool when it's time to beat the heat. Location-wise, you're just a five-kilometre drive to the horseshoe-shaped El Arenal Beach. With shallow waters and gently shelving sands, it's perfect for little ones.

Home truths:
*There is ample private parking for at least three cars outside the villa.
*Though the villa is set out on one level, there are external stairs to reach the poolside area, which may be unsuitable for guests with restricted mobility.
*The swimming pool is unfenced. If you're bringing little ones, they'll need to be supervised at all times.
*This home has ceiling fans instead of air conditioning. The wooden shutters keep things cool in the bedrooms, too, if closed during the daytime.