If you are planning a last-minute escape to the sun, we have unexpected availability in a couple of our top properties, with discounts of up to 25% and suggestions on how to save up to £1000.

Villa Arte Mare Blue has a secluded infinity pool which looks out over the Sicilian countryside to the coast from its blissfully peaceful location in the hills above Cefalù. The owner’s vintage art collection is scattered throughout the 5-bedroom villa and mature garden, which has a superb covered outdoor kitchen with pizza oven. Spend lazy days on the beach, explore UNESCO world heritage sites in Cefalù and Palermo or head for the cooler hilltop villages of the Madonie mountains.

12-25 August: Save €700 per week. One week from £5177 (sleeps 10), before discount.

Casa a Ortigia is a new addition to our collection and already attracting rave reviews! In prime position on the island of Ortigia, the historic centre of Syracuse, the 2-bedroom waterfront villa has a rooftop terrace and is situated across the road from a sunbathing platform with sea access. The spectacular Piazza del Duomo and the Fonte Aretusa are just a short stroll away and the villa is also within easy reach of the sandy beaches to the south of the city.

12-25 August: Prices have been reduced by 25%. One week from £1449 (sleeps 4), after discount.

Villa Costanza is a gorgeous 4-bedroom property with two exquisitely furnished first floor terraces that provide additional outdoor living ‘rooms’. Cefalù is just ten minutes away but the chances are you will not want to leave the heavenly garden where highlights include a 16m pool, secluded jacuzzi and, dotting the lawns, hammock-strung trees and double width sunbeds.

Save £1000: The villa is available from 19 August but you can save £1000 by booking the following week, 26 August, when prices start at £2212 (sleeps 8).