Property HWO56040, Holiday for rental in Las Manchas, La Palma, Canary Islands

If it wasn't for the palm trees and sunshine, you could almost be forgiven for thinking you'd slipped into the world of the Brothers Grimm. Chunky flagstone walls, a wooden veranda and a cutesy little chimneystack give this casita an almost storybook feel. If there were such a thing as an 'enchanted properties scale', Casa Santos would sit firmly at the 'woodcutter's cottage' end. But the fairytale doesn't end there – it's in a gorgeous spot, too. Surrounded by volcanic slopes and with nice sea views, it is far from the madding crowd. It's a simple one bedroom, one bathroom casita. The living room's open-plan, merging into the kitchen by way of a breakfast bar. And the dark wood furniture gives the place something of a rustic feel. There's a sofabed in the living area, too, so there's actually room for three. What's more, Casa Santos looks straight out to sea. It goes without saying, waking up here is a joy. You can literally fling open the doors and gaze out across the deep blue of the Atlantic. And with ocean views like this, it's almost as if this place were made for al fresco dining. If you do want to eat out though, El Bodegon Tamanca is close by. It's a traditional Spanish restaurant serving up Canarian specialities. Slightly further afield, about 15 to 20 minutes by car, you've got more in the way of restaurants, bars and shops at Puerto Naos. Not to mention a Blue Flag-winning beach.