This sun-washed villa deftly marries pared-back design with a number of luxurious touches. Inside, it’s all muted grey tones, natural textures and sleek black accents – we particularly loved the Crittall-style doors in the kitchen. Spend unhurried mornings lounging in the uncluttered living space before heading outside to splash about in the private pool. And when it’s time for breakfast, flex your culinary skills in the summer kitchen. Should you fancy a change of scenery, watch the boats to and fro from the nearby harbour or take the short stroll to Borik Beach and stretch out on the fine pebbles. If you’d like to swap the sea for the city, the heart of Zadar is a quick car ride away. Admire Byzantine treasures in St Mary’s Church and Treasury, brush up on your history knowledge in the Archaeological Museum, then fill up on Croatian cuisine in a local restaurant. Head home at dusk for a glass of wine on the sundeck or treat yourself to a much-deserved pamper session in the private spa and an early night in the serene bedrooms.

• Your host can arrange an airport shuttle service for an additional feeCost on request