THE FACTS ABOUT THE WINDMILL

Greece

Just 10 paces from the exposed and sometimes windy beach of Ormos Tskalia, this simply converted windmill still has its workings (and canvas sails, if you request them in advance). Alonnisos, which neighbours Skopelos and Skiathos in the Sporades, is only 20km long and 5km wide; the hillside is covered in thick pine forests and olive groves but it has been saved from over-development by the lack of an airport and is stunningly beautiful. The windmill is a 15-minute drive from Patitiri, for bars and shops, and a little further from the sleepy old town of Alonnisos where a handful of café-bars and tavernas huddle on small squares shaded by mulberry trees. Access to the villa is by rough track and it stands completely isolated on a mix of sand, stone and shingle sand, Ormos Tskalia means 'broken pottery beach', and you can sometimes find bits of ancient amphora in amongst the large pebbles. A small circular pergola acts as a simple outside eating area and, although designed as two separate apartments, it is only rented as one unit, which makes it a good option for two couples holidaying together. SLEEPS Four COST £465-£645 per person per week, including flights, transfers and car hire CONTACT Greek Islands Club (020 8232 9780; www.greekislandsclub.com)