The little island of Holbox is about three hours from Cancun by road and boat; an adventurous journey that takes you far from the tourist trail over minor roads and via local ferries or small launches (transfers are available). But the journey is worthwhile, for at the end you'll find Villas Delfines, an enclave of thatched-roof casitas by a wide and deserted beach, a natural paradise and a perfect escape from the crowds.

Most people come to Villas Delfines to relax; to appreciate the simplicity of life without cars, televisions and computers; to wake with the sun and to enjoy blissfully tranquil days snoozing in hammocks, eating delicious seafood and strolling along the beach at sunset.

It's also a great destination for fishing and bird watching, and the hotel offers some excellent excursions. We recommend at least a boat trip through the mangroves, or a visit to the nearby bird sanctuary of Isla Pajaros, but you can also go in search of dolphins in their natural habitat throughout the year or see turtles between May and September.

Whatever your reasons for visiting, Villas Delfines is certainly worth a visit of at least three nights - most people stay for a week or more.

The enchanting casitas, with their huge terraces and hammocks, are idyllic tropical hideaway cottages and they are also big enough to accommodate a family with two or three children.

Kids will love the huge beach with its powder soft sand scattered with seashells, and although the ocean isn't clear enough for snorkelling or diving it's ideal for a refreshing dip and shelves very gently in places.

This is definitely not a place to visit in a rush, but it's one of the closest destinations to Cancun offering total tranquillity and environmentally friendly accommodations.

If you want to escape the real world for a while, we can think of no better place to choose.