Vila Vita Parc, Algarve

Your table overlooks the Atlantic, twinkling in the clear sunlight. After breakfast you stroll through the 54 acre gardens, past the curved swimming pool, and find yourself high of a cliff offering spectacular seascape panoramas. You take the obligatory photographs – even though you know they can’t possibly do the scene justice – before sidling down to the irresistible white beach. What a way to end a day. At the Vila Vita you have a choice of eight different restaurants ranging from modern and stylish to traditionally Portuguese, plus six bars and a striking wine cellar, 10 metres below ground.