THE FACTS ABOUT CASA DO DRAGAO

Portugal

Within a few minutes' walk of a superb curved, white-sand cove, this rambling villa is worlds away from the concrete developments that mar so much of the Algarve's coastline. There are four bedrooms, a double and three twins, all with their own bath or shower rooms, a small pool and a long terrace overlooking the sea, while the interior's plain colours and simple furnishings enhance the feel of sea and sky. A cook/maid works five days a week, providing breakfast and lunch, plus dinner at extra cost if required. This is not somewhere to take very small children (the pool is unfenced), but it is suitable for families with older children. And while Armacao de Pera, the nearest village, has little to recommend it, Albufeira, with its fishing port and remnants of a Moorish castle, is close enough for day trips and food shopping. SLEEPS Eight COST £2,210-£3,620 per week, including cook/maid CONTACT CV Travel (0870 606 0802; www.cvtravel.net)