There can't be many log cabins with wetrooms featuring Grohe rain showers but then these aren't ordinary log cabins. Set in 14 acres and run by a long established bistro in North Yorkshire, these luxury boutique-style retreats also feature private hot tubs, Opus music systems and intelligent mood lighting.

Dotted amongst lush mountainous vegetation near the coastal city of Santa Cruz, this collection of raised huts were former granaries known as hórreos, typically found on the Iberian peninsula. Now converted into self-catering units they provide an unusual base from which to explore the subtropical island of Madeira.

Just a short stroll from the Djemaa El Fna, where all the drama of Marrakech unfolds 24/7, this charming riad hotel is located in the Mouassine district of the city's old medina. Its vast roof top terrace, with plenty of discreet corners, offers views over the city with the Atlas Mountains forming a majestic backdrop.

Elqui Domos is a unique hotel where the rooms are a collection of geodesic domes. Inside, the domes are split over two levels with the upper part housing a double bed from where you will quite literally be seeing stars courtesy of the detachable roof. Each dome opens onto a private terrace with its own telescope.

From its vantage point in the Santa Teresa district of Rio de Janeiro, this former colonial mansion, turned intimate guest house, commands spectacular views of Guanabara Bay and Sugarloaf Mountain. At Mama Ruisa, the proprietor has skillfully blended an exotic Brazillian feel with a modern French touch.

Grab a bunch of mates and experience the wonderful Lycian coastline aboard a traditionally-built Turkish gulet. And the great thing is, the majority of bays in this region are accessible only by sea, allowing guests the luxury of having them completely to themselves.

Here at Holiday Pad we’re absolute suckers for lighthouses on remote islands of Croatia – so here is another beauty for you. This lighthouse, built in 1887, is on the island of Plocica between the islands of Korcula and Hvar, and the Peljesac peninsula.

Allegedly the inspiration for Peter Pan’s Never-Never Land (JM Barrie rented the island in the 1920’s), Eilean Shona has remained untouched by civilization for centuries. Visitors leave their cars and 21st-century technology behind, trading it in for secluded footpaths, jagged cliffs and breathtaking views.

These self-catering holiday lodges are situated in the beautiful countryside of Balbeg Estate. Covering 300 acres, visitors can use the space and privacy to relax and unwind or use the lodges as their central location to explore many of Scotland’s most popular visitor attractions such as Burns Cottage.