Cliffhouse

A laid-back villa in Cousins Cove with a superb pool, extensive gardens and friendly staff: a great base for a relaxing holiday (sleeps 10)

As one might expect, Cliffhouse is perched on a clifftop overlooking the Caribbean sea - perfectly positioned to catch sunset every evening. A spacious self-catering property set in 3 acres of leafy garden, it's located just off the west coast road between Montego Bay and Negril in the unspoilt community of Cousins Cove, far from the touristy resorts.

Outside, there's a large L-shaped pool, tennis court, and direct access into the sea from a private jetty (although no beach). Inside, the vast open-plan living area is the hub of the house, with high lofty ceilings, which keep it cool. Simply furnished as opposed to slick and glossy, it's relaxing and attractive, in a beach-chic way.

With 5 lovely, light bedrooms (4 doubles, 1 twin, all with muslin-draped four-poster beds and private bathrooms), it's an ideal rental for families or groups of friends. And the icing on the cake? The friendly staff can cook and arrange activities - fishing, beach trips, crabbing - or leave you to your own devices. It's all very easy.

Highs

• Totally private, so perfect for families. Kids will love tearing about the gated garden, and playing tennis, soccer and badminton
• Simple pleasures: picking fresh fruit in the garden, snoozing in a hammock, watching the sun set
• The friendly team, who guests say are an integral part of the holiday: the fabulous cook Yogi, manager O'Neil, housekeeper Angelita and events organiser Vessel
• A well-equipped kitchen and barbecue for self-catering, plus a great outdoor dining terrace
• Panoramic sea views and your own platform into the ocean to check out the reef-side location; great for avid snorkellers

Lows

• The house isn't quite as glossy as it looks: a little clear out and minor maintenance would have been welcome prior to our visit
• Some won't like having staff live on site, however unobtrusive they are
• Despite the vast amounts of space it’s actually quite dark in the house, even in daylight with all shutters open
• The nearest proper beach is a 20-minute drive away at Half Moon, but it is shallow, sheltered and very private
• We found the loos a bit temperamental to flush