Egypt

Egypt comes fully equipped for self-catering: central heating and hot water are covered, as are bed linen, towels and wifi. The kitchen has a gas hob, electric oven, microwave, dishwasher and full-size fridge and freezer. There's a woodburner in the living room (initial logs included), and the utility room has a washing machine. A travel cot and highchair are available if needed.

Three bedrooms sleep seven: the first has a double bed and ensuite shower room, the second holds a double and single day bed, and the third has two single beds. A second bathroom with bath and shower serves the rest of the cottage. All rooms are on the ground floor, with level access to the entrance. Parking for three cars sits on the property, and there's a large garden with furniture. No smoking is allowed inside.

The cottage sits on farmland on South Ronaldsay, one of Orkney's southern islands, reached by a rough track and connected to the mainland via the Churchill Causeways. The beach is a short walk away. St Margaret's Hope village is four miles off; Kirkwall, the main town with shops, restaurants and museums, is thirty minutes' drive. Orkney's Neolithic sites, distilleries and dramatic coastline all lie within reach, making this a practical base whether you're interested in history, nature or simply coastal walks.