Set between Iceland and the Shetland Islands, the Faroe Islands first became a settlement in AD560. Nowadays, on some of the islands, the Faroese and their brightly painted houses are vastly outnumbered by birds and sheep, and lush valleys

. The historic Portugese town of Sagres is also just a stroll away, while nearest airport, Faro, is a one-hour drive away. Prices start at €275 per day for a two-bedroom villa (three-bedroom villas also available). Monarch fly to Faro from Gatwick, Birmingham

Where? The Algarve, in the country’s far south.Why go there? For the beaches, the unspoilt countryside east of Faro and the year-round sun.Children will love... A cross-country quad-bike trek. Book for older children through Quad Ventura. Meanwhile