Description Citrus & Canyon: Palm Springs

Located in a prestigious neighbourhood, this villa wraps a fully enclosed backyard around a 33-foot pool and attached spa – tall hedges and a six-foot wall mean you'll have it entirely to yourselves. Mature citrus trees dot the garden, the shaded dining terrace seats eight beside a wet bar, and the cathedral-ceilinged living room – hung with original art – looks out over it all. When the desert heat demands a cool retreat, the book-lined TV den delivers. Downtown Palm Springs and the San Jacinto Mountains are both within easy reach for when you're ready to venture out.

Home truths:
* You're welcome to bring one larger dog or up to two smaller dogs – they'll need to be well-behaved, flea-free, and house-trained. Cats aren't accepted.
* If you're travelling with little ones, your host can provide a travel cot and high chair. You'll need to request them in advance.
* Downtown Palm Springs is a five-minute drive rather than a walk, so you'll want a car for evenings out – though the semi-circle driveway and three-car garage mean parking at the villa itself is never a concern.