SPAIN

As the clock ticks, and tour operators face the prospect of empty properties during peak season, prices are tumbling fast. Two weeks ago, Villa Select (01789 764909, www.villaselect.com) told us it had discounts of 20%. Last week prices were being cut by as much as 40%.

Villa Select recommends Can Tia, a stylish Spanish house tucked away in quiet countryside near the historic town of Pollensa in Mallorca. Features include three air-conditioned bedrooms, two bathrooms, a large lawn and a pool. For the week beginning July 23, the price is down from £2,195 to £1,295. Flights are extra: £249 from Gatwick, bookable with the operator.

The Villa Collection (01753 853737, www.thevilla-collection.co.uk) has 20% off properties with private pools in Mallorca and Minorca. For instance, Casa Golf, in Cala d’Or, Mallorca, sleeps six and is down from £2,059 to £1,647 per week throughout August. Flights are extra; EasyJet (0905 821 0905, 65p per minute; www.easyjet.com) has flights from seven UK airports to Palma, from £156 in August.

Iglu has 40% off Villa Zambra, near Frigiliana on the Costa del Sol. The house has a private pool, shaded terrace and views across a neighbouring valley. The week beginning July 31 is down from £810pp to £459pp, based on two sharing and including flights from Gatwick and car hire.

James Villa Holidays (0870 085 0722, www.jamesvillas.co.uk) says its sales are strong for July and August, but admits that it too is rolling out deals on unsold properties. For instance, Casa Luque, overlooking the Andalusian coast near Nerja, sleeps six, has a private pool, sun terrace and barbecue, and costs £899 for the week beginning July 23 — a saving of £490. Flights from Gatwick cost from £334.