31 degrees - Port Douglas

This beach house in Port Douglas, Queensland is one of my dream holiday destinations. It is simple converted 1970's fisherman's cottage. It's set directly on the beach looking out to the Great Barrier Reef - palm trees sway on the beach, the lawn is soft and thick under foot and a hammock swings gently in the breeze.

What appeals to be about this place is the simplicity and honesty about this true 'Aussie' beach shack. It's all barefoot, barbeques and beach like the uncomplicated holidays when we were kids. This house is painted all white with louvred windows shutters but the difference lies in the fact that this holiday house has all the mod cons one might hope for on a relaxed holiday. The renovation was completed by a renowned Sydney hotelier and architect so the fit out is stylish and 'beachy'. Fortunately it is available for rent, so hopefully this year will find me waking up to the sound of the waves in this quaint little cottage.