THE FACTS ABOUT PORTU D' ELICE

France

Plus points here include breathtaking sea and mountain views and easy access to a sheltered, semi-circular sandy bay. This smart villa, on the south-west coast of the island, is designed to withstand summer heat (under-floor cooling system, electronic blinds and white floor tiles throughout) and a partially covered terrace, with teak tables and chairs, wraps around most of the villa. Inside, vast windows let pure seaside light flood into the living areas. It has five bedrooms (two doubles and three twins), all with bathrooms, a Turkish steam room and Jacuzzi, and a well-equipped kitchen that opens onto the living space. A gate at the bottom of the garden leads to a simple wooden jetty where you can dive or dangle your legs in the water, but there's also a recently added swimming pool. The seaside town of Propriano is a 30-minute drive away. SLEEPS 10 COST £500-£730 per person per week, including flights and the hire of two cars. There is a £30 discount for children aged two to 12 years CONTACT Simply Corsica (020 8541 2205; www.simply-travel.com)