Blue Dawn

This modern apartment has the kind of sea views that are hard to tear your eyes away from. In a prime location on the coast near Funchal, it's close to the seafront promenade, beaches and local supermarkets and only a twenty-minute walk from the city itself. Inside, it's a bright space with plenty of room for a family or a group. Contemporary design features heavily so look out for details like inset shelving, a high-end mint green kitchen, wall murals and statement lighting. And its outside space really sets this place apart. There's a small balcony with a glass safety barrier just off the lounge and from there you can gaze down straight into the crystal clear waters. Most unusually, to the side of the apartment there's a covered barbecue and dining spot, with big glass doors at either end allowing you to open both, just one or keep them closed in the cooler months. Views from its rear look out across the neighbourhood, while to the front there's only the blue sky and the sea. An added bonus is the uncovered part of this terrace, which houses this home's secret weapon – a private, sea-view hot tub. Elsewhere in the building, there's also a shared outdoor pool.

Home truths:
*The pool is shared with the other homes in the development
*If you're staying longer than a week the apartment will be cleaned on a weekly basis – and linens will be changed then too
*Funchal is a twenty-minute walk but be prepared for steep hills on the way back – you may prefer to hop on a bus
*If you're hiring a car this home comes with a parking space