Venture out to the furthest tip of Long Island, and you’ll discover a home so peaceful you’ll hardly believe it’s less than three hours from NYC. This four-bedroom house feels like a true sanctuary, hidden away from the tourist bustle of the Hamptons in a thicket of white-blossomed trees and lush lawns. We challenge you not to find some calm here; sink into the pristine pool, curl up with a book in the basket chair on the sunny balcony or simply lounge in front of the fireplace in the double-storey living room. Surrounded by forest on all sides, this home may feel secluded, but a ten-minute drive will have you lounging on golden sands at Indian Wells Beach, the East Hamptons’ Main Beach – or conversely, avoid the sand bunkers at the East Hamptons golf course.

Home truths:
* The pool isn’t fenced, so keep an eye on kids
* The pool is only in use during certain months – check with your host whether it’ll be available during your stay
* Despite the bed spaces, the maximum occupancy of this home is 8