While clifftop homes come in for a lot of praise, what about those that sit at the bottom of a rockface, like this Madeiran villa? Not only does it benefit from uninterrupted views of the glistening ocean, but there's also ready access to a shared rocky beach just 30 metres from the home. Sticking around outside, guests will be pleased to find a private infinity pool positioned to make the most of the coastal vista, as well as seating and a table at the end of the terrace. The home itself was a farmer's barn in a former life but has since been converted into a rather desirable getaway. On the ground floor, there's a lounge flooded with natural light from the floor-to-ceiling windows and a kitchen with a brick barbecue for cooking over an open flame. Head upstairs to find a trio of contemporary bedrooms and bathrooms, plus a couple of balconies ideal for sunset-watching. When it comes to filling up your itinerary, this part of the island is renowned for its walking routes, especially a little further into the hilly interior. However, there are plenty of large sandy beaches along the coastline if you want to do nothing more strenuous than sunbathing and swimming.

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Additional fees

• Your host can help arrange car hire, airport transfers, catering and private chefs for an additional fee

• The swimming pool can be heated to 24ºC for an additional €140 per week, requested in advance and paid in cash on arrival – if you'd like it to be heated to the maximum of 26ºC, you'll need to pay a further supplement of €20 per degree per week

• If you'll be arriving after 11pm, you'll be charged a late arrival fee of €30

Additional fees subject to a 3.5% handling charge.