Set in its own extensive gardens, with open countryside beyond, Marco Polo is very attractively situated; there are no immediate neighbours, which means a high level of privacy yet you’re still just a kilometre from traditional Porches village and a 10-minute drive from the beach. The villa is substantial and very well cared for, with facilities and comfort that you’d more often associate with a permanent home.

Off the main living area there’s a dining terrace with the option of sun or shade, plus a barbecue for easy family meals; the kids don’t even have to change out of their swim things if they don’t want to! There are two ground floor bedrooms and a large master suite on the first floor which has its own balcony. It’s a lovely spot to sit overlooking the garden, which is one of the highlights of this property, complete with palm trees and lawned areas for the kids to play on, plus a sparkling 12-metre swimming pool.

Marco Polo is an ideal place to simply relax and spend some quality family time or chill out with friends, but when you want to get out and about, there’s plenty to see. Porches is charming; famed for its pottery, authentic local restaurants (including O Leão, a local institution) and traditional whitewashed houses, it’s a pretty place to wander and perhaps pick up a few gifts in one of the pottery workshops. For beaches and more of a resort feel, head for Senhora da Rocha (10min drive), Armação de Pêra or Carvoeiro, perhaps checking out the incredible sculptures at nearby Sand City for some sand-castle inspiration along the way.