The outstanding natural beauty and understated elegance of the glorious Sorrento Peninsula need little introduction. The luxury villa of Miragalli sits atop the cliffs, in prime position to present an unparalleled panoramic vista of the rocky, wooded outcrops of the islands of Li Galli and Vetara rising from the deep aquamarine waters of the bay.

As if this weren’t enough, the villa boasts the ultimate luxury of an infinity pool from which to relax and gaze out towards the horizon.

For some time now, travellers heading to the destination of Italy have been gradually searching more and more for vera Italia, translated to 'the true Italy'. It is an Italy where the countryside and coastline remains as untouched as possible, less ventured to by masses of tourists. It is an Italy where there is an abundance of fresh, simple food available which is not necessarily Michelin rated but just as delicious in every sense. It is an Italy where a conversation with the locals may take up to half a day as their unbridled loyalty and love of their country is apparent with every word spoken. And it is an Italy where homes heed to their historic and rustic roots yet remain ever so present with their increasingly contemporary design where old partners new.

A 20-minute drive from Cape Town, along an exhilarating coastal road, brings you to the town of Hout Bay. Rugged cliffs form a majestic backdrop, sheltering the sandy inlet from the prevalent easterly wind of the Atlantic Ocean and circling a perfect natural harbour fringed by lush, tropical vegetation. Sitting back from a quiet street, Hout Bay Beach Cottage is tucked away in the private tranquillity of its immaculate gardens only 100m from the beach-you can actually see the white sand dunes from the front door!