Touch the Sand

Touch the Sand: Balearic Islands

With some homes it's hard to know where to start, but with this place in Cala d'Or there's a very obvious beginning point. The beach. Set so close to the gorgeous Cala Petita that all you have to do is stroll down the garden path and step out of the gate to feel the warm sand between toes, it overlooks this pretty little inlet – the crystal-clear water constantly tempting you from below. With one of the best beach views we've seen, this beautiful spot is one of our favourites.

Screened from its neighbours by lush hedges and fragrant pine trees, you'll feel tucked away here, with a fabulous view from the private terrace. The home itself is as pretty as a picture, with green shutters and a traditional covered porch. Inside, high ceilings, all-white walls and plenty of curves and arches provide the backdrop, while comfy, stylish furnishings and nautical artwork make for a homey feel. The living room is dominated by a gorgeous fireplace and there's a covered dining space with huge doors opening to the sunny terrace. Cooking at home will be a pleasure in the well kitted-out kitchen, but it's just a few minutes' walk to the nearby shops and restaurants.

Perfect for a family or a great choice for a multigenerational stay, two rooms are well suited to children, with enough bathrooms to prevent any queues for the shower. And if you're the kind of person who likes to begin the day with a swim, nothing could be more invigorating than a sea dip before breakfast.


Home truths:
*All guests must be over 27 years old
*There's driveway parking here for two cars
*A cot and high chair are available for little ones
*Two of the bedrooms are on the ground floor, one with a double bed and an en-suite shower bathroom, and the other with twin beds
*There's no safety barrier on the terrace so small children should be watched at all times
*There's no air conditioning in the lounge but the host does provide fans
*A gardener attends this home regularly
*There are steep steps to the beach