Some might say that we have been rather indulgent in choosing our three favourite islands. Some might recoil in horror that we should visit the ‘bucket and spade’ island of Mallorca or the ‘party capital’ of Ibiza, but the tourist scars on these islands are small and completely invisible to our guests if they choose. Many will be curious about Corsica, the most unrefined and intriguing choice in our collection; imagine filling the French Alps with water and sunshine and the likeness will not be far wrong.

The attraction for us lies in the incredibly diverse culture, people and history of these three islands that share the same Mediterranean Sea. As small isolated communities, each has been defenceless against the might of mainland armies over the last thousand years. The very same glorious environment that draws the latest of marauding invaders with camera and guide book has always lured a queue of armies onto the beaches, poised to seize and plunder.

Today, each island carries a unique palette of cultures and traditions, laid down under an idyllic climate over a spectacular geography. Whether you seek the intrigue and stunning rawness of Corsica with its history laid bare, the rustic sophistication of Mallorca or the cutting edge energy of Ibiza, each is very different and equally engaging. This summer is the perfect time to rent a holiday villa and explore the Mediterranean & Balearics Islands.

Despite their fascinating differences, each island shares those most precious of ingredients in the holiday medicine; spectacular scenery and translucent waters lapping white sand beaches under electric blue skies. Just what the doctor ordered.