Slice of Sunshine

Slice of Sunshine: Madeira

Located in a quiet area on Madeira's western coast, this contemporary villa is your very own slice of Portuguese paradise. Step outside and you'll be greeted by a private pool as blue as the ocean that surrounds it, plus a lush green lawn with bean bags and a swinging egg chair – the perfect spot to sip a cup of coffee and watch a sunrise each morning. If you consider yourself a bit of a sun worshipper, you couldn't be better placed for catching some rays, as this part of the island has the highest sun exposure.

While it we wouldn't mind spending the whole day in the garden, a walk along the Levada Nova footpath that allows you to fully immerse yourself in the area's beautiful landscapes. From waterfalls to farmland, this picturesque hiking trail is a must if you're keen to discover natural, unspoiled beauty.

When you get home, head down to the lower kitchen (yes, there are two kitchens) to cook dinner on the barbecue. Take your food out to the terrace to enjoy an alfresco feast in the warm evening breeze. Post-dinner, get comfy in the hammock on the balcony and admire the changing sky before a long soak in the Jacuzzi bath.

Home truths:
*This home is spread out across three floors with no internal lift

*There's free private parking available here

*Your host can provide a cot, high chair and baby bath for free upon request

*You'll have your own private entrance here

*You'll have the whole home to yourself, so there won't be any other guests using the pool

*The swimming pool isn't fenced, so children will need to be supervised at all times

*There's a dedicated desk here if you need to catch up on some work during your stay

*There's an outdoor shower here