Island life

This week we've been daydreaming about islands: perfect little pockets of alone time, away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Here are some of our favourites...

1. Isola Bella

Isola Bella is one of the Borromeo islands in Lake Maggiore, Biarritz, and has been described as a 'floating wedding cake'. It's gardens were commissioned by Count Carlo Borromeo in 1632, and are reached through the Borromeo Palace. Old Carlo didn't believe in doing things by halves, and the result is the vast, baroque gardens crammed with statues and water features. Vistiors are left in no doubt as to Carlo's wealth and power. It might sound a bit brash, but we can't think of anything nicer than sitting on the grass, listening to the lovebirds and looking out to sea.

2. Taprobane

Sri Lanka's only privately owned island was built up in the 1920s by Count de Mauny-Talyande and has had all sorts of impressive visitors since. It's not too isolated - only 100m from Weligama Bay - and ca be reached by wading, 'elephant or sedan chair'. Of course it costs an arm and a leg, but who needs limbs anyway.

3. Pine Island

A small private island in the heart of central Maine's Lake Maranacook. Just looking at it makes you feel relaxed...

4. Nanuku Levu

This is just getting ridiculous... a 10 acre island in the South Pacific. Basic but beautiful, this little wonder will set you back a grand total of £333 a night. Excuse us while we get on Momondo and have a quick browse for flights....