Two of Diamonds

Two of Diamonds: Corfu

This address close to the east coast of Corfu is all about pairs. For instance, there's not just one villa on this four-acre estate full of Mediterranean trees and flowers, but two neighbouring homes.

They both contrast in style slightly — one is dominated by exposed brickwork and wooden ceiling beams, the other relies on cooling white walls and contemporary furnishings —but both share the same generosity when it comes to living space and attention to detail when it comes to design.

Similarly, there are two swimming pools that, again, differ. Both are heated, but one is L-shaped and the other an infinity pool that looks out over the dazzling sea and Greek mainland beyond. You don't need us to tell you that either is the perfect place in which to relax on a hot summer day. All around these pools, you'll find no shortage of lounges and terraces where you can take a breather in the shade.

The local area has plenty of watersports clubs from which you can borrow equipment for water-skiing, wakeboarding or parasailing, while the golden sands of Glyfada Beach take just over twenty minutes to reach in the car if you want to do nothing more demanding than sunbathing. Corfu Old Town is a quarter of an hour's drive away, too.

Home truths:
*The estate is serviced every day by two housekeepers and a gardener — daily cleaning, towel change, turndown service and pool cleaning is included, as well as linen changes every other day
*Cribs and high chairs can be provided if required
*The majority of the bedrooms and bathrooms are on the ground floor
*The pools are partially fenced by glass
*Five of the bedrooms can be arranged either as king-size beds or twin singles
*There's room to park on the premises
*There's a stock of wine and drinks in the home, but these are for purchase