Desert island hideaways don't get much better than idyllic Majahuitas Resort. The hotel's 18 acres are actually part of the mainland, but because there are no roads to the area the only access is by sea.

And so your vacation begins with a leave-your-worries-behind-you boat trip along the stunning coastline of the Bay of Banderas.

Away from Puerto Vallarta, the sea becomes clearer and blue-green. Twenty minutes later the boat arrives at one of the most picturesque coves on the coast. Seven casitas cling to the shoreline and slopes of the one third of a mile long beach, each casita having a perfect sea view.

We love the airy rooms, the hammocks overlooking the bay and the handcrafted furniture. Each casita is individually designed and, though all are close to the beach and main building, their positioning ensures a high level of privacy.

Waking to the sound of birdsong and the caress of tropical breezes is sublime. Guests tend to spend most of their days on the blissful beach, where the only distraction is the often daily visits by the snorkelling tours from town (who cannot be prevented from landing on the beach but who are not offered any services). They usually stay for an hour or two, after which the tranquillity returns.

To describe the resort as simple or rustic is deceptive. While it's true that there are no televisions, telephones or air-conditioning (in fact the hotel is mostly solar powered), the resort boasts gourmet food and extraordinary service.

Evening meals are candlelit occasions, served beachside with beautifully presented dishes worthy of any five star restaurant in town. Delicious and freshly prepared breakfasts and lunches are also included in the nightly rates.

We'd highly recommend Majahuitas for romantics and honeymooners (the hotel has also hosted complete wedding ceremonies). It's also one of the best places we've found for pure relaxation.