Heart & Sol

Heart & Sol: Madeira

Sharing its sea views and its fabulous infinity pool with just one neighbouring home, this modern villa is in a quiet, rural part of the island. The interiors are minimalist and strikingly contemporary, with all-white walls, pale wood floors and bespoke matching furniture. Simple and stylish throughout, floor-to-ceiling windows make the most of the panoramic vistas and the bathroom features a natural stone wall and sliding glass doors to a private courtyard. But it's the outside space that dominates this place. A sun terrace with access to the pool is the perfect spot for evening drinks, while a private balcony off one of the bedrooms is a peaceful place for morning coffee. The infinity pool seems to spill over the edge of one of the island's typically steep slopes and the sea views from here are simply breathtaking. And for a real treat, spend some time each evening in your private hot tub, a quirky circular outdoor bath sunken into the sloping lawn. Best of all, you'll have access to the owner's lush subtropical gardens, filled with fresh fruit, palm trees and herbs. Beneath you, banana farmers go about their business, tending their crops, and it's a pleasant stroll down to the sea, while keen walkers will be able to hike off uphill to take in even more impressive views.

Home truths:
*The pool is shared with one other home
*You'll need a car to get around this part of the island, and this home comes with private parking
*If you're staying for longer than a week, things like cleaning and the replacement of linens take place on a weekly basis