Our Most Lavish Villas of 2017

UltraVilla brings together the top villas of the world, however, some villas are a cut above the rest. We’ve surveyed our international villa specialists to find their ultimate luxury rentals of 2017 and have come up with an exceptional list of regal historic properties, cutting edge clifftop villas, sprawling mountain chalets and gorgeous beach houses found on the chicest four corners of the globe. Prepared to be wowed below…

Villa Astor – Amalfi Coast, Italy

Dramatically clinging to a bluff directly over the sea next to Sorrento, this exceptional villa by Homebase Abroad is one of the finest along the Amalfi coast and was recently featured in the Robb Report. The aristocratic home exudes opulence and style which are coupled with soaring views of this stunning coastline.

Once the home of William Waldorf Astor, this exquisite six-bedroom villa is the epitome of the lavish elegance of Italian villas. The interiors feature top luxury amenities, gilded mirrors, beautiful antiques and marble fireplaces. It has a dream kitchen for home chefs, however, let yourself be pampered with a private chef whipping up divine Italian meals. The kitchen opens onto to a breakfast terrace, bathed in golden morning light. It is equipped with a wood forno, barbecue and table which can seat up to 10, making it ideal for casual meals. This leads down to the ocean terrace which extends the whole length of the villa from where you can take in breathtaking views of the Bay of Naples and Vesuvius. Here you will find an additional dining area, with seating for 16 at three tables and a retractable awning over the primary table. More formal meals can be served in villa’s elegant dining room which amply seats 12.

The property includes gorgeous grounds, a marble-finished pool and a two-hectare botanical garden with extensive collection of fauna – some specimens dating back several centuries. Walking paths dotted with ancient porphyry, friezes, busts and objects d’art crisscross the estate. The cherry on the top is the villa’s rooftop terrace which provides a 360-degree panorama of the coast, Sorrento and the countryside.

Surround yourself in Italian refinement at the Villa Astor through Homebase Abroad at this link.

Happy House – St-Tropez, France

Enjoy glamorous St-Tropez from your own private paradise tucked away a mere five minutes from town at this gorgeous eight-bedroom villa by Villas Prestige & Services. Situated high above the Mediterranean, Happy House offers a stylish and cozy setting and is equipped with fabulous facilities including a private tennis court, a soccer pitch, heated pool, helicopter landing and more, not to mention spectacular views over the sea and French Riviera coast.

The expansive, air-conditioned villa is surrounded by a vast 10,000 m² garden. Guests will enjoy the easy flow between the indoor living and dining areas and the fantastic pool terrace with a 12 x 6 meter heated pool, a large dining table and barbecue. There is another spacious terrace on the other side, with a sitting area area and a table for breakfast, dinner or enjoying the fiery sunsets.

The luxurious estate features a 22 x 36 meter soccer pitch, a tennis court with night lighting, a pétanque court and even a playground for children. The fun doesn’t stop there as other on-site facilities include ping pong, foosball and billiards tables, plus a short distance away guests can enjoy swimming and an array of watersports and neighboring beaches as well as biking, hiking and many other active and cultural pursuits that are available across the South of France.

A holiday destination in itself, you won’t be disappointed with a holiday at Happy House. Contact Villas Prestige & Services here for more information and booking.

St. Regis Villa, Mauritius

Relatively new to the market, and in the selective collection of Villanovo, is this spectacular villa – the largest and most exclusive private accommodation on the whole island. The sprawling 1,659 m² villa, features a gorgeous infinity pool, open plan indoor and outdoor living, jaw-dropping sea views, vibrant sunsets and is fully staffed.

Situated on ‘One Eye,’ a world famous kite surfing destination, the villa offers a true ‘resort within a resort’ experience for guests. It has four bedrooms, four heated swimming pools (including an infinity pool), a formal dining area, bar, two comfortable lounges, office, private gym, steam room and private access to this incredible beach.

At 100 m² each, the four suites are all extremely spacious and are luxuriously appointed with walk-in closets, oversized bathrooms with stand alone bathtub and separate shower and toilet room. Two twin bedrooms with two bathrooms are available in the staff quarters for up to four additional guests.

The villa manager oversees outstanding service from the dedicated team of professional butlers, valets and an excellent private who can whip up your favorite dishes any time of day or night to be served in the dining area, on the beach or in the private garden.

Reach out to Villanovo at this link to start designing an exceptional holiday in marvelous Mauritius island.

La Datcha – Val Thorens, France

Situated in the French Alpine resort of Val Thorens, the expansive 1200 m² chalet showcases sensational views over the resort and mountains as well as an incredible range of facilities from a fantastic indoor swimming pool to a Formula 1 simulator.

Available through Ultimate Luxury Chalets, the mega chalet spreads over five floors where you’ll find plush common rooms with vast south-facing windows, eight large ensuite bedrooms, a swimming pool, indoor and outdoor hot tubs, a sauna, a hammam and a gym. If that weren’t enough, there are two cinema rooms, a golf simulator and a Formula 1 simulator.

The chalet is fully staffed to ensure you have a perfect ski holiday. The chalet also has a fabulous chef who will prepared anything from mountain comfort food to gastronomic dishes.

Splurge on an incredible ski trip to the French Alps with Ultimate Luxury Chalets at this link.

Greensleeves Villa – Barbados

Nestled amidst tropical gardens fringing the beach of Barbados’ gorgeous West Coast is this magnificent nine-bedroom villa, one of the finest in repertoire of our local experts at Blue Sky Luxury.

This spectacular estate is set on three acres of land with over 600 feet bordering two spectacular beaches. Guests enter through golden bamboo-framed, Mongolian temple doors and into a Japanese water garden, dotted with colourful koi. Further tropical vegetation, colorful flowers and chirping birds create a wonderfully tranquil ambiance in the sprawling gardens.

The villa is a dream for families with its large two-bedroom children’s wing featuring storybook bunk beds, a jungle gym, a separate kitchen with a lounge and adjoining nanny accommodation. There is also a cinema room with a high-tech entertainment system and a free-form pool with its own mini island complete with coconut trees and swim-up bar. Across the road is a private floodlit tennis court for guests and the sandy beach is right in front of villa, perfect for snorkeling and other watersports.

The efficient, friendly staff and concierge team is on hand to cater to all guests’ desires throughout your stay from the airport meet-and-greet, to in-house spa treatments.

You can take a virtual tour of the property in this preview or contact Blue Sky Luxury here to start planning an exceptional getaway to Barbados.

Villa Trevo, VILA VITA Parc – Algarve, Portugal

With all the benefits of a fully-staffed five-star resort while having the privacy of your own exclusive free-standing holiday home, the Villa Trevo is one of the top holiday rentals on Portugal’s Algarve coast. The villa is found on a private clifftop within in the VILA VITA Parc Resort & Spa and boosts top luxury amenities, stunning views of the Atlantic and can accommodate up to 12 guests.

Exquisite views of the coastline and deep blue Atlantic can be taken in from the villa’s five bedrooms, the main lounge, gardens, terraces and swimming pool. The rooms feature classic Mediterranean style with muted tones, stylish furnishings, bright artwork and other decorative pieces. The two kitchens are very equipped and include Gaggenau and Smeg appliances. Guests will have plenty of privacy and comfort in the villa’s large suites, ranging from 90 to 272 m². There’s also a fully-fitted gym with a sauna and steam bath.

Find your ideal place to relax in one of the villa’s many outdoor spaces like the sunny poolside patio or panoramic sun terrace. Outdoors you can also make use of the barbecue area for al fresco entertaining, divine infinity pool, shaded garden gazebo and stunning rooftop sun terrace home to a fabulous Jacuzzi and spectacular views.

Guests have the added advantage of full use of the fantastic amenities of the hotel, including beach access and several restaurants.

Enjoy Portugal’s amazing Algarve at this extravagent villa through VILA VITA at this link.

Oasis de Salines – St Barthélemy

Set within 2.5 acres of cascading, tropical gardens and facing spectacular views of the gorgeous Saline beach and the aquamarine waters of the Caribbean Sea is this star-studded six-bedroom property. The sleek complex is made up of a main house, two pavilions, two pools, a wine bar and three kitchens.

Available through St Barth Properties, the stylish and contemporary villa is equipped with cutting edge technology and incredible amenities. The three-level main house includes the pool levels, a sumptuous first floor master bedroom suite, spacious indoor and outdoor living areas, and two kitchens, one being professionally equipped. Here you or your private chef can cook up delicious meals of freshly caught seafood and just picked fruits and vegetables which can be served in the outside dining area.

Two one-bedroom guest houses are located 300 feet from the main house and accessed by a stone staircase, offering privacy for the various parties of your group. Additional perks include plasma TVs in each of the luxuriously appointed bedrooms, a heated 80-foot lap pool, a heated 40-foot pool with graded access and an air-conditioned mini-gym. There is a footpath that leads down to the beautiful under-developed Grand Saline Beach.

Soak up the Caribbean sun at this divinely luxurious villa through St Barth Properties here.

Mykonos WRV – Aleomandra, Greece

After undergoing a brilliant total re-designed this outstanding villa by Five Star Greece has earned its place amongst the top villas on this glamorous Greek island. It’s situated in Aleomandra, a short distance from Mykonos town and the gorgeous, sheltered beaches of the south of the island.

The sleek, air-conditioned 1050 m² villa can comfortably accommodate up to 20 guests in 10 en-suite bedrooms, some with their own private Jacuzzis, terraces and gardens. Two rooms are located in a guest house with a large living space, fully equipped kitchen, study zone, independent access and pool view. There are a number of handsome living rooms, tastefully furnished and prized with spectacular sea and sunset views.

Stepping onto the villa’s 850m² of outdoor living space, guests will find a 6m x 2.5 meter pool off the master bedroom, a wonderful heated 17m x 4 meter infinity pool, a poolside bar, barbecue facilities and quirky designer seating and lounging areas.

The villa includes live-in staff. Guests are met and escorted to the villa, have housekeeping twice a day and can arrange a variety of concierge services, like private chefs or car/yacht rentals, on request.

Envelop yourself in the lap of luxury and incredible beauty of Greece at this exquisite contemporary villa through Five Star Greece at this link.

There’s nothing quite like the thrill of seeing your first animals in the wild on safari in Africa. Baby elephants splashing at the watering hole; a herd of stripped zebra grazing in a savannah valley; a towering giraffe craning up its neck to nibble on tree leaves or a gorilla peering through dense jungle vegetation. While some animals are more widespread across the continent, others inhabit more specific geographical zones. Use the helpful guide below to decide where to go on safari depending on which animals you are hoping to catch sight of.

 

Antelopes and Zebra

Members of the antelope family are among the most common over the African continent so you’re likely to observe them in most safari destinations. Of particular note, in Kenya you’ll spot various types of horned animals like impalas, spiral-horned antelopes, Coke’s hartebeest, white-bearded wildebeest as well as both Thomson’s and Grant’s gazelles. The best time to spot these herds is during the annual Great Migration, when 1.5 million animals make a circular tour between Tanzania’s Serengeti and Kenya’s Masai Mara. You can see a great range of this family in South Africa; especially Impala, Kudu, Blue wildebeest, Burchell’s zebra and the local famous springbok.

The largest of the antelope family, the African Buffalo, roams the open savannahs of Botswana, Kenya, Tanzania, Namibia and South Africa. These large beasts can weigh up to 750 kg and usually feature among animals seen on safari.

Giraffes

Constant grazers, graceful giraffe are generally found in grassland areas of Kenya, Botswana, Namibia, South Africa and Zambia. They can reach heights of up to 5.5 meters and usually travel in herds and roam specific territory of between 20 km and 70 km, depending on accessible food.

Elephants, Rhinoceros and Hippopotamuses

Of the large big game animals, elephants are the most widespread and commonly visible on safari. The majestic creatures are quite impressive, and general appear in a parade, but it’s important to keep your distance, particularly if there are young ones present. Hippos can be less common, however, a good safari guide could find them for you in Botswana, Kenya, Tanzania, Zambia and South Africa.

Rhinos are a different story and are some of the hardest animals to catch sight of. This is in great part due to their low numbers from intense poaching. Since 1961 South Africa has been actively involved in protecting and increasing the population of black and white rhinos and Kruger Park is now home to the world’s largest population. In Kenya you can find the largest population of black rhinos in the Masai Mara National Park and white rhinos in the Lake Nakuru National Park.

Cats and Dogs

Of course the most famous African animals are two of the “Big Five”: the lion and the leopard, the cheetah follows closely in third place. These large cats are rather widespread and can be found in South Africa, Botswana, Kenya, Tanzania and Namibia. Lions stand out from the other big cats as they are social animals and tend to live in prides of 20 to 30 members with one to three males. You have very good chances of seeing lions on safari in Kenya’s Masai Mara while leopards are much more elusive. Other unique cats you might spot on are wildcats, servals and caracals.

Among African dogs, the spotted hyena are very widespread across popular safari destinations as are African wild dogs. Black-backed and side-striped jackals and bat-eared foxes can be found in South Africa and Kenya, where you might also catch the spotted aardwolf.

Primates

You don’t even have to go on an official “safari” to encounter different breeds of these cheeky animals while visiting Africa. Monkeys are likely to come snooping around your accommodation for food and baboons can be found on roadside lookouts near forests trying to acquire leftovers (or more) from motorists. Of specific interest, in Kenya you could see a variety of monkeys including blue, Syke’s, copper-tailed, red-tailed and vervet in addition to the olive baboon. If you would like to do a focused gorilla trekking safari, then there are good options in the mountains of Uganda and Rwanda.

Smaller Creatures

Part of the fun of safari is also catching sight of smaller animals racing or poking up along your path. These could include the African hare, the Kenyan tree squirrel, the springhare, the Southern African crested porcupine, mongoose and the adorably odd looking warthog.

Unique Safari Experiences in Kenya’s Masai Mara

One of the best ways to truly experience the animals of Africa on safari is with the unique experiences offered by Cottar’s 1920s Safari Camp. Bordering the Maasai Mara National Reserve and only one kilometer from the Tanzania Serengeti game reserve, Cottar’s upholds five generations of safari traditions through their luxury camp, luxury bush villa and their excellent range of safari experiences, like their unique game walks. These are led by a professional guide of the camp who is accompanied by a licensed gun bearer. They give visitors the chance to observe the unique ecosystem from a closeup perspective. This provides a living textbook from which you can learn about botany and entomology in addition to how to interpret animal tracks and signs.

In addition to their luxury camp, Cottar’s has a gorgeous private Bush Villa. The 10,000 sq ft villa features a spacious, stylish living room, dining room, a large viewing deck, five en-suite bedrooms and a 25m infinity pool. Its guests enjoy their own private vehicles, guides, dinning and other activities.

Experience a safari holiday like no other in Kenya’s Masai Mara with Cottar’s here.

 

If your holiday dreams feature waking up to the sound of crashing waves and immediate views of a white sandy beach and shimmering turquoise waters, than there’s no better place for you than at a beachfront holiday home. Get as close as you possible can to the beach at these exceptional properties, which are literary steps away!

Villa Océane, Mauritius (one step)

Step off the deck and right into the powdery sands of Mauritius island by holidaying at this bright and stylish beachfront villa. Available through Villanovo, the contemporary three-bedroom home is situated directly on the beach of a fabulous freshwater lagoon on the east coast of the island, close to Trou d’Eau Douce.

The lagoon side of the villa features a spacious terrace which leads down to the pristine beach and offers stunning views of the aquamarine waters. On the opposite side of the house is private terrace area with a fantastic pool and different levels of decks with different seating areas and an outdoor dining area with seating for up to 12.

The interior of the villa features large windows offering airy open plan living accented by touches of designer furniture and decoration. There is a large living room with a TV, a dining area that seats 10 people and a well-equipped kitchen where you can prepare healthy island dishes. The three bedrooms all have double beds, double dressing rooms, ensuite baths with shower and their own private terrace or balcony showcasing spectacular views of the lagoon. Two of them also have office areas.

The villa is location a mere few minutes’ drive from Trou d’Eau Douce, where you can find a range of shops and restaurants and take boat trips out to Deer Island. For some additional sport, visit the nearby famous kitesurfing spots or one of the fantastic golf courses of the east coast.

Treat yourself to an exquisite Mauritian beach holiday with Villanovo here.

Torre di Clavel – Amalfi Coast, Italy (one step)

Torre di Clavel is a stunning villa which stands proudly at the edge of Positano’s second beach, Fornillo, which, depending on where you are on the property, can be as few as one step away!

Available through Homebase Abroad, the impressive fortress dates back to at least the 1200s and was saved from ruins by a Swiss man at the turn of the 20th century. The current owners have added all the necessary 21st-century amenities while retaining the structure’s historic features. The house is truly unique in design, spread over multiple levels, connected by open-air paths and hallways hewn from stone.

The presence of the sea and the Amalfi coastline is an essential part of the character of this sublime rental. From virtually every window comes the sound of the surf and a view of the jagged coastline, stretching east to Cilento and west to Capri. Follow the path of the sun throughout the many terraces, each one furnished for contemplating the commanding presence of nature all around you. There is a stone staircase descending to a virtually private pebble beach, where you can relax on the villa’s sun loungers and chairs. The villa benefits from complete privacy, though pretty Positano is easily accessible.

The sprawling layout is perfect for a larger group looking to have both shared and private spaces. Your stay is enhanced by an exceptional staff, with long personal connections to this particular home, who are happy to share their love of this dramatic and unique property.

Enjoy the best of the beaches of the Amalfi Coast right at the foot of this gorgeous villa through Homebase Abroad here.

Harmony House – Barbados (one step)

Place yourself one step away from gorgeous Gibbes Beach by staying at this charming three-bedroom villa available through Blue Sky Luxury. Surrounded by lush tropical gardens you’ll have both perfect privacy and direct access to the white powdery sands and of this beautiful beach and stunning waters of Barbados’ famed West Coast.

The villa features classic and tasteful coral stone decoration with touches of bright local artwork. The comfortable ground floor lounge has double French doors which open onto a covered patio area that includes a built-in bar, salt water plunge pool and alfresco dining area with seating for up to 10. The terrace is especially magical in the evenings lit by handmade copper lanterns and handmade candle sconces. A shady tropical garden extends off the patio and leads to white sandy Gibbs Beach.

The three bedrooms are all air-conditioned and have private balconies and en-suite baths, the master bedroom’s being especially well-appointed. The villa is cared for by a team of friendly and professional staff, including an excellent cook. Off the estate you can dine and explore Holetown and Speightstown in addition to a variety of other sites of interest of the West Coast.

Take your first step to a beach front holiday in Barbados by contacting Blue Sky Luxury at this link.

1958 – Waterfront Home, St Tropez, France (two steps)

New to the portfolio of Villas Prestige & Services, this lovely five-bedroom family home is a mere two steps from a beautiful beach located a few minutes from posh St Tropez.

Four of the villa’s bedrooms are located on the ground floor. In addition to their positioning, all have en-suite baths, two face the terrace and garden and one has two bunkbeds, making the house ideal for a large family. This floor also has a TV room opening onto the terrace and the garden.

The main living room is found on the upper level. It has a well equipped kitchen, comfortable lounge area and dining area which lead to a 60m² terrace with fabulous sea views. This floor is also home to the master bedroom which includes a private office and bathroom with shower.

The spacious 1 300m² garden has direct access to the beach, a 11 x 5m salt pool, a pétanque pitch and a BBQ and exterior kitchen and bar for fun family meals in this beautiful outdoor setting.

Book in at this perfect beachfront villa in the South of France by reaching out to Villas Prestige & Services here.

Villa Alegria – Algarve, Portugal (five steps)

Literally a few steps away from the beach, Villa Alegria is situated on a clifftop in the in the village of Salema, providing it with spectacular ocean views over the beach. The sophisticated property by VILA VITA Collection successfully blends contemporary design, elegance and luxury, set against the backdrop of the glistening Atlantic ocean.

The four-bedroom villa is decorated in a crisp and modern Mediterranean style, with large living areas and fabulous natural light streaming through the large windows. There are glass sliding doors that lead directly onto terraces, garden and a private rooftop pool with exceptional ocean views.

The ground floor is home to two of the bedrooms, each with a double bed, flat screen TV, en-suite shower room, separate dressing room and front line ocean views. The first floor features an open space living area with a modern state-of-the art open plan kitchen, a comfortable living room and a dining area with seating for eight people. The master bedroom has a large double bed, flat screen TV, an en-suite bath with a standalone bathtub and shower, a separate dressing room and awe-inspiring views.

Out on the vast east and westward facing terraces you can further enjoy the great vistas of the coastline, Salema beach, the picturesque village and bobbing fishing boats. If that weren’t enough, there’s another terrace on the rooftop where you’ll also find an exquisite infinity pool overlooking the coastline. Leaving the villa, in three or four steps you’ll have your toes planted in the soft sands of Salema beach.

Experience the best of Portugal’s Algrave Coast and its beaches staying with VILA VITA here.

Ananda Estate – Eleuthera, The Bahamas (eight steps)

Sitting on the edge of one of the most beautiful stretches of beach on Eleuthera and within a one-acre estate, is this wonderful Asian-inspired sleek villa within the selective repertoire of Pamela H. Murdock. Spread over three pavilions, a zen atmosphere hovers throughout, amplified by the breathtaking views of the delicate pink and white sand and crystal waters.

The contemporary villa has four suites and five baths, though can accommodate up to 14 guests. Attention has been paid to every detail and its attractive decor includes white Carrara marble, limestone, Sukabumi stones, rich walnut wood and stylish contemporary furnishings.

The Great Room of the main house has impressive, soaring vaulted ceilings and a vast tableaux of the spectacular ocean cast through a vast wall of retractable windows. Two large master bedrooms are found on either side of the Great Room, both with a king-size bed, sunken sitting area, private terrace and bathroom with dual sinks and both a rain shower room and large marble bathtub. The other master bedrooms, located in two separate pavilions, are equally luxurious and have the added amenity of their own kitchenettes.

A 10 ft. wrap-around terrace hugs the main building and allows for seamless indoor-outdoor living. In the center is a 50 ft. infinity pool which is flanked by two attractive pergolas, one with an elevated daybed and the other with a sunken sala that is equipped with an outdoor kitchen, dining area and both swim-up and regular bars.

Guests need only take a few steps and they will be on a virtually private beach. When not relaxing on the beach or next to the pool, you can partake in a number of watersports to make the most of the pristine coastline like windsurfing, diving and snorkeling. A more social ambiance can be found 10 minutes away at lovely French Leave Beach, home to a hotel and marina and a little further is the town of Governor’s Harbour and the airport.

Find yourself at this incredibly beautiful villa and beach by contacting Pamela H. Murdock at this link.

Vatuvara Private Islands, Fiji (10-40 steps)

Idyllically set atop the volcanic limestone cliffs of the Fijian island of Kaibu, the private villas of Vatuvara Private Islands are all located only steps from their own private white sand beach. The unspoilt 800-acre island is part of the Northern Lau Group and is surrounded by pristine aquamarine waters and a unique marine and tropical ecosystem.

The ultra exclusive resort is only accessible by private plane, making it supremely secluded. Each of luxurious one-bedroom villas (soon to be four with the addition of the Saku villa expected in early 2018)  is even more private, encircled by tropical vegetation and flowers. The comfortable seafront villas have been built with indigenous materials and have their own infinity pool, a personal massage bure and private beach, reachable in 25-40 steps with the upcoming Saku villa being the closest at only 10 steps.

Guests can enjoy the sunshine on their private beaches as well as discover the other gorgeous beaches of the island. Snorkeling or diving through the crystal clear waters you can observe some of the world’s best preserved coral reefs. Guests can explore further afield on their own by kayaking, paddle boarding or on a private boat tour. Delicious and healthy meals are served in the resort’s two restaurants, there is also a four-hole golf course and guests can arrange spa treatments, private yoga and sport instructors and diving certification.

Surround yourself in immense natural beauty at the beachside oasis of Vatuvara Private Islands here.

Residence on the Rocks – The Seychelles (1,210 steps)

Sitting on a high ridge in southern Mahé, the main island of the Seychelles, the Residence on the Rocks is around one kilometer along a path to the beach (much less as the crow flies), however, the additional steps are worth the effort as you’ll reach the exquisite Intendance Beach, voted one of the top beaches in the whole world.

Nestled in virgin forest in an absolutely private area of the estate of the Banyan Tree Resort, this stunning four-bedroom villa was built in 2008. Decorated in a colonial, Creole style, the interiors are adorned with antiques and artwork collected around the world personally by the villa’s owners. It has an ample and comfortable lounge which has a sitting area and dining room that lead into a fully equipped kitchen. Two of the villa’s bedrooms are in the main building and the other two are found in two separate guest houses accessible via a forest path.

Guests spend hours down on the spectacular white sands of Intendence Beach and swimming in the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. These can also be admired from one of the villa’s covered verandas, sunny poolside terraces or lovely pavilion. Guests also have access to all of the facilities and restaurants of the Banyan Tree Resort. The villa is within close distance to many of the other attractions of the Seychelles from hiking trails to watersports.

Take in breathtaking Intendence Beach and the incredible beauty of the Seychelles while staying at the Residence on the Rocks at this link.

When the grey skies start rolling over the Northern Hemisphere, there’s nothing more uplifting than a sunny winter vacation. Bask in the glorious rays on a stunning terrace overlooking the sparkling Andaman or Caribbean sea; step off your sun lounger and right onto the beautiful beaches of Barbados or Sri Lanka or cool down in your divine infinity pool in The Seychelles or St-Tropez, we’re guaranteed an exceptional and sunny holiday at one of these wonderful villas – all you’ll need to do is pack your swimsuit and UV 50 sunscreen!

Nelson Gay – Barbados

Constructed in the 1950s entirely of coral stone and designed in the grand Palladian manner, this beautiful six-bedroom villa by Blue Sky Luxury is steps from the beach, though hidden within two-acres of lush gardens. On the fringe of Speightstown on a lovely stretch of beach with a great reef for snorkeling, it’s the ideal villa for those seeking the convenience of a beachfront location and within your own private paradise.

The unique home was originally commission as the residence of a United States Ambassador and this elegance is apparent in its Palladian grandeur and 14-foot ceilings in the living room. Sitting between the house and the beach, the fabulous 50-foot pool is a definite high point.

The white walls are complemented by green accents, echoing the gorgeous natural surroundings and include classy furniture, antiques and artwork. The airy bedrooms feature comfortable beds, top quality cotton sheets and hypoallergenic pillows. There are a number of wonderful seating areas scattered throughout, including al fresco dining areas, two covered terraces and a gazebo with a wet bar overlooking the beach.

Within the gardens is the charming chattel house cottage. This is an excellent villa for a multigenerational family holiday and the villa can be transformed to accommodate 18 guests on request.

Start planning a fun and sunny holiday on beautiful Barbados with Blue Sky Luxury at this link.

Residence on the Rocks – The Seychelles

The Seychelles are a wonderful destination to stock up on your vitamin D in winter. Surround yourself in the island’s immense natural beauty at the outstanding Residence on the Rocks. Found in a very private location of the Banyan Tree Resort in southern Mahé and encircled by lush local vegetation, the four-bedroom villa’s position on a high ridge basks it in glorious sunshine, all the while providing you with lovely shady areas.

A labor of love, the colonial, Creole style villa was constructed in 2008. Its owners personally decorated the villa, traveling the world collecting unique antiques and artwork to adorn its rooms. It has a large lounge, including a sitting area and dining room which gives way to a fully equipped kitchen. Two of the property’s spacious bedrooms are situated in the main building whereas the other two are found in two separate guest houses, accessible via a forest path.

Visits will enjoy lounging in the sun next to the villa’s splendid infinity pool, reading a book on the covered verandas or having a refreshing drink in the charming pavilion – all with breathtaking views of the forest or sea.

A short walk away is Intendence Beach, voted one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Guests also have the benefit of the various facilities and restaurants of the Banyan Tree Resort. There is also an abundance of activities available in this part of the island from diving to hiking through stunning forests.

Treat yourself to a divine and sunny getaway to the Seychelles at the Residence on the Rocks at this link.

Villa Utopic – Saint Barthlémey

Following the hurricanes of September, we’re pleased to announce that St Barth will be quite operational by the end of October. This gorgeous three-bedroom villa, by St Barth Properties, is already ready and is an excellent choice for a winter escape to the island. As its name implies, this is a dream and luxurious villa with stunning views of the sea, Corossol Beach, and Gustavia’s iconic harbor.

The villa has been designed for seamless indoor and outdoor living, aided by glass walls between the large living room and spacious palm-tree studded terrace. Take in the glorious Caribbean sunshine lounging on the deck next to the long, heated infinity pool. There are also a variety of other both shady and sunny sitting and dining areas on the terrace.

The interior are decorated in a relaxing gray palette with touches of brighter colors as well as artwork including images by prominent Dutch photographer Désirée Dolron. Whip up fresh lunches or casual dinners in the well equipped kitchen which can be enjoyed alfresco on the terrace. All of the bedrooms are tastefully decorated, have king beds where you can wake up every morning to the spectacular sea views.

Enjoy revived St Barth and wash away your stress with the fabulous Caribbean sun at this exquisite villa by St Barth’s Properties here.

Villa Glamour – St-Tropez, France

Make the most of the South of France minus the summer crowds and take in some balmy rays by staying at the superb Villa Glamour through Villas Prestige et Services. One of the finest villas around St-Tropez, with its heated double swimming pool, living room fireplace and exceptional views of the sparkling sea, it’s an excellent villa in winter.

The interior’s light tones echo the bright and air expansion of the vast blue sea and sky. The spacious and sunny terrace is adorned with two pools and various seating areas. This is also a charming place for a winter evening meal lit by candles and torches before retreating next to the living room’s fireplace.

On cooler days keep yourself occupied in the villa’s snooker room, its gym or watching Sky TV. Those who like to hike or stroll while taking in the crisp sea air will love the area’s comprehensive network of trails or spend a day cycling around to the region’s charming villages or into St-Tropez to peruse its fashionable boutiques or sip a coffee on a café patio facing the picturesque port, empty of the summertime crowds.

Enjoy the South of France all to yourself this winter with Villas Prestige et Services here.

Villa Amanzi – Phuket, Thailand

Experience the best of sunny Thailand within the privacy of this sublime six bedroom villa. Perched on Kata Noi hill and available through Villanovo, the gorgeous villa overlooks Kata Noi beach and out to the sparkling Andaman Sea, which can be savored from the spectacular pool terrace.

Comprised of two master suites, three guest bedrooms and a contained guest suite makes this spacious villa an excellent option for large families or groups of friends. The modern and luxurious villa has fabulous lounge and dining areas featuring amazing vistas of the pool and bay, comfortable seating for up to 12, a professional bar and a stone waterfall.

It will be hard to tear yourself from the amazing pool terrace home to an exquisite infinity pool, comfy sun loungers and a Swedish sauna. For a quiet moment, retreat to the small reading terrace or take in more rays on the upper level sun deck. There is also an outdoor shower and wash area.

After taking in the sunset from the terrace, you can have a casual meal in the sala with a Viking barbecue, bar area and sea views. Or more formal meals can be prepared by the villa’s private chef and be served in the elegant indoor dining area with seating for 10 and more breathtaking views.

The bedrooms are all luxuriously appointed, the main master bedroom is particularly sumptuous featuring a king bed, A/C, large closet and dressing area,flat screen TV, ensuite bathroom with hydro tub, double vanities, separate shower, its own private outdoor patio as well as panoramic sea views both indoors and out.

The villa comes fully staffed and also has a massage table if you would like to arrange for some in-house treatments. There’s no need to leave such a splendid villa, however, the beach is a short distance away as are other outdoor active pursuits and great restaurants and shopping.

Contact Villanovo here to secure your supremely sunny stay in Thailand this winter.

New Grace Bay Villa – Turks & Caicos

Enjoy a sunny and stylish Caribbean vacation at this sleek newly built villa on fashionable Grace Bay. The five-bedroom ultra contemporary villa, by Villas and Apartments Abroad, has floor to ceiling windows and a fabulous pool terrace steps from the pristine sands of this gorgeous beach.

The bright and airy interiors feature locally crafted stonework, woodwork and cabinetry as well as custom ceramics, marble elements and unique wallpaper bring in additional modern flare. The open plan living and dining area opens right onto the pool area and the the aquamarine sea. The outdoor spaces bring outdoor living to a completely new level with a sunken fireside seating area and unique shaded areas on the terrace designer outdoor furniture. There is also a hot tub, in-pool loungers, a separate beach side deck with hammocks — all bordered by palm trees. For indoor entertainment, there’s a comfortable media room with a large flatscreen TV equipped with Apple TV, Netflix etc., a DVD player and board games.

Three bedrooms are located on the upper level and feature ocean views, terraces, walk-in closets, ensuite bathrooms as well as cutting edge amenities like central A/C with individual controls, Apple TV and blackout blinds. There is also a bunk room on the ground floor, perfect for kids, and the gorgeous master bedroom with a king-sized bed, pop up TV, walk-in closet, blackout blinds, an ensuite with a double vanities and an indoor and outdoor shower and a terrace and spectacular sea views.

Dive into the pristine waters of the Turks and Caicos with Villas and Apartments Abroad at this link.

Ranawara – Sri Lanka

If you’re looking for a secluded sunny getaway for January or February than consider this sublime villa nestled within a palm grove next to a virtually deserted beach of southern Sri Lanka. Situated 15 kilometres south of city of Tangalle, the gorgeous private villa sits on 23 acres of lush tropical gardens next to a tiny coastal fishing village.

The main villa is spacious at 46,000 sq. ft. of open plan living and five comfortable and stylish suites. Two single-suite cottages are tucked away on the grounds. The air-conditioned bedrooms are air-conditioned, have four-poster king size beds, lovely dark wood furnishings, Indonesian rugs and large en-suite bathrooms. There’s also a TV room, library bar area, open plan kitchen and dining room, outdoor dining pavilion, a private spa and a 100 ft long pool. The professional resident staff can arrange anything you may wish during your stay.

Soak up the Sri Lanka sunshine next to the fabulous pool or on the quiet and pristine beach. Afterwards withdraw to the shade by exploring the grounds filled with hundreds of coconut trees and tropical fruit trees including oranges, papaya, dragon fruit, bananas, mango and wood apple.

The villa is also a great base for discovering southern Sri Lanka’s points of interest such as authentic villages, turtles sanctuaries, the UNESCO World Heritage Galle Fort or whale and dolphin watching boat trips.

Have a sunny secret holiday in Sri Lanka at Ranawara here.

The winter is one of the most popular times for a romantic getaway. This could be as a shared holiday present, for Valentine’s Day or merely to spend some quality time together away from your hectic daily lives. From private tropical oases to cozy mountain retreats and from chic urban apartments to sexy beach getaways, here are our favorite ideas for a couples vacation this winter.

Vatuvara Private Islands, Fiji

Savor the incredibly romantic ambiance of your own private island in the South Pacific at Vatuvara Private Islands. Lost in the Northern Lau Group of Fiji as described by Forbes as “one of the world’s most beautiful places”, the gorgeous vacation paradise is found on the island of Kaibu.

The resort’s three expansive Villas sit on volcanic limestone cliffs above turquoise waters and white powdery beaches, offering incredible views of the fringing coral reef and the dramatic neighbouring islands.

The exquisite all-inclusive resort will be adding a fourth Villa to their private collection for 2018. The upcoming Nuku Villa, will be an intimate and secluded choice. It will feature an open plan layout, its own infinity pool and private beach, making it the perfect couple’s escape or honeymoon destination. Like the other sublime villas of the resort, Nuku will feature Pacific materials complimented by natural textures and is surrounded by colorful aromatic flowers within lush tropical landscaping.

In this supremely private and stunning setting, you can fully switch off from the world and focus on quality time with your loved one. Relax by your private pool, take in some divine spa treatments using Fiji’s fabulous pure coconut oil and fragrant flower extracts or arrange a private champagne picnic on a deserted palm-shaded neighboring island beach.

Guests can explore the island strolling through the verdant landscaping, playing golf, hiking to an ancient Fijian village, kayaking or paddle boarding through pristine lagoons, snorkeling or diving among coral and marine life, fishing, surfing or boating to neighboring islands.

Create memories to last a lifetime with your partner at Vatuvara Private Islands here.

Domaine de Charme – St-Tropez, France

Surrounded by a beautiful private park close to sunny St-Tropez is this perfectly private lovers’ nook. In the refined collection of Villas Prestige & Services, the five-bedroom villa exudes warm, peacefulness and with its cozy ambiance, fireplace and heated pool, it’s especially adapted to a winter couple’s vacation.

The 200m2 villa is set within a vast 5 000m2 garden filled with Southern France vegetation and iconic umbrella pines. The comfortable lounge, decorated in charming maritime decor, includes large sofas and armchairs, a TV with international channels and a toasty fireplace. The romantic master bedroom opens onto the terrace and garden and has its own fireplace and en-suite bathroom. The villa also has a gorgeous claw-foot bathtub for a heavenly soak at the end of the day.

Its lovely terrace has a dining area with seating for 10 under a vine laden canopy with a barbecue area. Just beyond is the heated 12x5m pool, bordered by sun loungers and vegetation.

The villa is a short drive from pretty and posh St-Tropez as well as the picturesque port of Ramatuelle, the Pampelonne Beaches and the Villa Marie hotel.

Bask in the gentle winter sun of the South of France this winter with Villas Prestige & Services at this link.

Leamington Cottage – Barbados

This enchanting one-bedroom villa is a self contained cottage nestled among the lush tropical gardens of the Leamington Estate, though since it has its own private entrance and separate driveway, guests have complete privacy. Available through Blue Sky Luxury, this charming beachfront cottage is ideal for lovebirds seeking some sun this winter in a relaxing and beautiful setting.

Situated just outside Speightstown on the Platinum coast of Barbados, it’s a great option for exploring this gorgeous region or closing yourself up in your own island hideaway! It features a large sitting and dining area that opens on two sides onto a spacious uncovered terrace. Here you’ll find a romantic plunge pool, lounge chairs, a casual dining area and gate to access the fine sandy beach.

There is a reef right in front of Leamington Cottage which facilitate swimming and snorkeling. From the cottage, you can also walk five minutes along the beach to reach Cobblers Cove Beach and Hotel. The cottage comes fully equipped and staffed with daily housekeeping. Other services, like a private chef, can also be arranged.

Contact Blue Sky Luxury here to start designing a luxurious couple’s winter getaway to Barbados.

Hotel de Ville Apartment – Paris, France

Paris is the City of Love all year round, that said, if you come in winter, when there are fewer other tourists, you can have more of the city all to yourself. The weeks leading up to Christmas, with the city decked out in lights and decorations, or around Valentine’s Day, are both excellent times to plan a couple’s vacation to Paris. You can base yourself right in the heart of the city at this lovely one-bedroom apartment by Haven in.

The contemporary, atelier-style apartment was renovated in 2016 and was designed with convenience, comfort and design in mind. The bright, living area is homey, chic and even has a natural feel with animal prints, designer furniture, and accents of natural wood. The compact, efficient kitchen opens onto the living room and has seating for six.

The bedroom is set off the other side of the living room and is decorated in earth tones and trendy wallpaper. The aqua-green colored bathroom has a heated towel rack, a sink, a heavenly rain shower and built-in cabinetry. There is a upstairs loft area, which serves as a comfortable TV room or a second bedroom with a large sofa/trundle bed that can convert into a queen bed or two single beds, in case some friends stop in for a few days.

The apartment is on a lively pedestrian street just steps from the Pompidou Center, the Hôtel de Ville and the hip Marais district. The area is abundant in shops and restaurants, charming streets and cultural sites. Plus, Notre Dame, Sainte-Chapelle, Ile St Louis and the Louvre are all within a five to ten minute walk. You can easily reach other places of interest on the métro, with a station located just a block from the doorstep.

Savor some quality time with your sweetheart in the center of Paris with Haven in here.

Villa Boudoir – Saint Barthélemy

Indulge on an uber glamorous getaway in the Caribbean this winter at this sleek and sexy villa by St Barth Properties. Designed with chic couples in mind, this lovers’ nest perched above Gouverneur Beach features a plush bedroom, a gold claw-foot tub and sensational views of the coastline and sea.

The sensual studio has a bold black, white and gold décor and stylish chandelier creating a mid 20th-century Hollywood glam atmosphere. The focal point of the bedroom is an opulent 4-poster king size bed from which you can take in the views or watch romantic movies on the state-of the-art pop-up TV.

The en-suite bath is simply divine and includes a sumptuous gold claw-foot soaking tub, two onyx-black sinks and a rain shower. You can also relax in the steam room or with your partner in the gold-tiled circular pool.

The deck has beautiful vistas of the sea and swaying palms as well as a covered dining area adjacent to which is a compact, open-air kitchenette with a bar – perfect for preparing canapés to go with a glass of champagne at sunset.

Take the first step towards a perfectly romantic Caribbean getaway by reaching out to St Barth Properties here.

La Petite Ferme, Morzine, France

Enjoy a romantic ski trip to the Alps while staying at the charming three-bedroom La Petite Ferme chalet, located in a picturesque hamlet of Montriond on the outskirts of Morzine. It’s only a five minute drive from the bubble at Ardent, so you can easily access the slopes and then retreat to your couple’s chalet at the end of the day for a cozy evening just for two.

Available through Ultimate Luxury Chalets, La Petite Ferme has been beautifully restored by its owners and is tastefully decorated in furs, cowhides, dark wood and other mountain elements. The double height ceiling of the lounge area give a fantastic spaciousness to the chalet, which is amplified by the the floor to ceiling windows with views onto the distant ski lifts and local church steeple. Adjacent is an open plan kitchen with a traditional wood burner.

Two of the chalet’s bedrooms have en-suite bathrooms whereas the third has an open plan and a separate shower room. The lovely decor is carried over into the bedrooms, each with individual character featuring cow or deer themed antiques.

If you’re not curled up on the cozy living room sofa enjoying its vast selection of DVDs, you can relax in the chalet’s outdoor private hot-tub.

Savor the mountains and romance this winter at this picture-perfect chalet through Ultimate Luxury Chalets at this link.

Townhouse Estrela do Mar – Algarve, Portugal

The Algarve is known for its almost 300 days of sunshine per year, so it’s no surprise to find sunny days with mild temperatures even in winter. The two-bedroom Townhouse “Estrela do Mar,” in the exquisite Vila Vita Collection, consists of two quaint fishermen’s townhouses located in the historic village of Salema, right on the beautiful beach. With a fireplace in the living room and a gorgeous view over the ocean, it’s the ideal place to enjoy a sunny and romantic winter getaway to Europe.

The houses are decorated in a clean, fresh style with touches of bright blues and maritime elements reflecting its seaside location. The first house has a well equipped kitchen and a ground floor bedroom with TV and en-suite shower room. Take the stairs or the elevator up a flight to the fabulous master bedroom featuring spectacular views of the beach and Atlantic Ocean, a king-size bed, TV and en-suite shower room.

Guests can reach the rooftop terrace of the second house via a glass bridge. Here you’ll find a barbecue, table and chairs for four people, sun loungers and sunshade and more stunning views over the beach.

House 2 is also accessible from the street. It acts as an independent annex of House 1. Directly facing the beach at only three meters away, it has exceptional views of the beach throughout and has a fully equipped kitchen, open space living and dining area with seating for six.

If you can tear yourself away from the terrace or the beach, you’ll enjoy discovering this picturesque town. A short 2.5 kilometers away is the Santo António Resort where you can enjoy some golf, tennis or make use of its Health Club & Spa.

Enjoy a balmy winter trip to the amazing Algarve Coast with Vila Vita Collection here.

There’s no one “perfect” holiday destination, and thankfully so, or it would be completely overrun! Some travelers crave the beach, others culture. Some want to commune with nature, while others nothing more than to clank glasses of champagne with friends. Here are six unique villa holiday ideas which aim to please a variety of personality types, from nature to city lovers and for the homebody to the socialite.

For the Stylish History Buff: Via Lambertesca, Florence

Located just blocks from the Duomo, the Uffizi and Ponte Vecchio, you’ll be living between contemporary times and Renaissance at this gorgeous five-bedroom apartment. It’s the perfect spot for history fans looking to be right in the middle of all the cultural treasures of Florence within modern design and comforts.

The unique, fully restored apartment, available through Homebase Abroad, is found in a beautiful 17th-century palazzo. You are struck with this historic ambiance upon immediately entering into the buildings grand entrance hall adorned with original columns, statues and vaulted staircase that leads to upper floors (which can also be accessed by a newly-installed elevator). This play of the old and the new is carried throughout the apartment, starting with its stylish open-plan living room/dining room with stone and beams, including rubble from an adjacent 12th-century tower damaged during bombing in WWII.

During your wanderings around the city, stop in at Florence Mercato Centrale for some seasonal ingredients to whip up dinner in the apartment’s sleek, fully equipped kitchen. On warm winter days, you can enjoy meals on your private terrace, sheltered from street noise, yet with lovely views of the Florentine rooftops. The five bedrooms are all outfitted in beautiful linens and their en-suites clad in marble and complete with luxe bath products and plush bathrobes.

Outside of this cozy and chic ambiance, you are steps away from the city’s main sites, its world class museums, excellent shopping (perhaps for an early festive season shopping trip) and a wide array of cafés and restaurants – a much appreciated advantage on those chilly winter days when you want to spend less time walking too far.

Take in all the historic greatness of Florence with Homebase Abroad here.

For the Sun-Loving Homebody: Sugar Hill – Illusions, Barbados

If you are close yourself up in a pampering villa that has absolutely everything in one place, than this stunning four-bedroom villa in sunny Barbados is for you. Available through Blue Sky Luxury, the spacious and elegant villa, found in the coveted gated community of Sugar Hill Resort, has an incredible line up of amenities ranging from its amazing infinity pool to its gorgeous gardens – not to mention the perks of the resort – so you may not even need to leave the complex during your whole stay.

The fabulous custom-built villa offers breathtaking, uninterrupted views of the Caribbean Sea from the vast windows throughout the building. The foyer opens onto a covered terrace which overlooks the spectacular pool. After a swim you can take in some rays on the very sunny pool area or enjoy the awe-inspiring views under the shady parts of the terrace.  A casual barbecue lunch can be enjoyed in the charming dining gazebo or if you’d like a more formal meal, there’s an interior dining room with seating for twelve and folding glass doors for alfresco dining.

When you’re not taking in the peaceful evening atmosphere of the great outdoors, cozy up in the comfortable living room for some drinks around the bar or for a movie on the large flat screen television with cable TV, DVD player and Bose surround speakers.

All guests will have ample personal privacy in their bedroom suite, as each has its own covered terraces and en-suite bathrooms. Found on the first floor, the master suite is a real indulgence with its own living room, walk-in closet, large king-sized bed, en-suite bathroom with both a tub and shower and sweeping panorama of the sea.

You can even stay fit on holiday in the villa’s private gym as well as keep up your swing on its putting green, nestled within the property’s lovely gardens dotted with banana, coconut and papaya trees.

If you feel the urge to venture from your splendid abode, you only need to walk a short distance to the Sugar Hill Resort’s Clubhouse, superb restaurant, two swimming pools, and four championship tennis courts. Guests also have access to the beach facility at the nearby Fairmont Royal Pavilion hotel.

Surround yourself in luxurious warmth this winter at this cozy and perfectly equipped villa through Blue Sky Luxury at this link.

For the Sporty Yogi: Marchons Sur l’Eau – St-Tropez, France

Connect with your inner self while staying super fit on an energizing vacation at this gorgeous villa situated next to charming and classy St-Tropez. Available through Villas Prestige et Services, the aptly named “Walk on Water” villa was designed to give the impression of an endless horizon from its divine infinity pool out to the shimmering Mediterranean, the ideal place for morning yoga sessions. The villa’s pool is also heated, allowing for year-round swims, plus there’s a private gym and many opportunities for hiking and other active pursuits straight from or nearby the villa.

The recently built villa is perched in a hidden location on the cliffs above the picturesque port of Ramatuelle, providing you with a very peaceful and private environment. The centerpiece of the outdoor areas is the spectacular infinity pool, which is bordered by two levels of terraces and a barbecue and dining area. The open living flows naturally indoors and into a comfortable living room and kitchen, tastefully decorated with colorful modern furniture and beautiful artwork inspired by Miro.

You can keep up your workout routine in the villa’s private gym or maintain your zen state of mind by hiking the cliffs around the villa and taking in the sensational views. A short walk away you can reach the “Cap Taillat” beach and club for some tennis and a variety of watersports. Pretty Ramatuelle is also best visited on foot to peer into its charming shops or stop for a break on one of its cafes. If you would like to explore further afield, the South of France offers an excellent array of other sports and cultural activities.

Plan your wellbeing retreat on the Cote d’Azur by contacting Villas Prestiges et Services here.

 

For Culture-Vulture Explorer – Cottar’s 1920s Safari Camp & Bush Villa, Kenya 

Satisfy both your cultural curiosity and a quest for adventure at Cottar’s 1920s Safari Camp and Bush Villa.  Located on the edge of the Maasai Mara National Reserve and only one kilometer from the Tanzania Serengeti game reserve, the camp offers much more than your average safari excursions.

While staying at Cottar’s you can visit a Maasai Village and experience their rich culture. This involves a trip to their Manyattas (mud huts), village setup (security, healthcare, education and management of resources e.g. meals, water, firewood), local market with wonderful Maasai artefacts/attire for sale, their live-stock and many more. Guests can even try their hand at milking or for children they can also do fun activities like a firewood collection competition.

They offer a large variety of activities to keep avid explorers enthralled including day and night game drives, Bush breakfasts, lunches and dinners, swimming and line fishing at the seasonal waterfall, bush walks, Masai warrior school and balloon safaris. Every day at Cottar’s is an enriching and exciting experience!

For the Artsy Urbanite – St Germain Arty Getaway, Paris

This chic and artistically decorated apartment in the St-Germain-des-Prés neighborhood is the perfect base for art lovers who want a central base and quick access to art galleries, antique shops, design boutiques and museums.

Owned by an illustrator, the attractive and bright apartment, available through Haven in, is filled with original artwork and scores of books. The eclectic decor of furniture and design objects beautifully contrasts the classic wood floors, large French windows, marble fireplaces, and crown moldings.

The airy and spacious living and dining area features tall windows overlooking the historic street and gorgeous Haussmannian buildings. Just off of this is a well equipped, fully renovated kitchen, perfect for preparing some delicious French-inspired meals.

The comfortable master bedroom has a queen bed, a marble fireplace, and generous storage space. The second bedroom has a single bed and works will for a child. Both bedrooms face a quiet courtyard, providing a tranquil environment for sleeping.

The apartment is steps away from the rue de Seine art galleries, the St-Germain antiques network and the Boulevard St-Germain design shops. The Musée d’Orsay and the Louvre can be easily reached on foot and other museums are a short métro or taxi ride away. The neighborhood is also home to the gorgeous Luxembourg Gardens, the fashionable Bon Marché department store, an organic market on boulevard Raspail and a multitude of wonderful restaurants and food shops.

The autumn and winter is a great time of year for art lovers to visit Paris. There are a number of large art events, like the FIAC in late October and Paris Photo in November. It’s usually the time for the best large exhibits at places like the Grand Palais and the Centre Pompidou, plus the other museums have many fewer visitors outside the regular tourist season.

Enjoy an artistic getaway to Paris this fall at this stylish apartment through Haven in at this link.

For the Armchair Nature Lover – Casa Triton, Careyes, Mexico

Envelop yourself in the most stunning nature without having to budge from your lounge chair at this exquisite villa combining lush tropical vegetation, rolling mountains, pristine beaches and jaw-dropping 360-views of the sea and landscape. All aspects of the lovely six-bedroom home embrace these natural elements and are designed for the exterior lush tropics to take center stage.

“At The Triton you can enjoy complete privacy, away from the world and in touch with miles and miles of nature and deserted beaches,” describes Sylvia Delvaille Jones, Director of Villas and Apartments Abroad who represents the villa. “However, the gorgeous home is close enough to Careyes village for you to enjoy the animated social life during high season.

“The best views are admired from the villa’s Eagles Nest tower, where, if you listen closely, you’ll hear the ocean waves in the distance as well as birdsong that breaks the soothing silence. A thousand trails around the property offer many options for hiking and exploring.”

You can also take in this peaceful and exceptionally beautiful environment next to the villa’s panoramic, infinity pool, built like an aqueduct that reaches out 50 meters over a verdant cactus garden. All you need to do is take a few steps to find yourself in a different ambiance on the estate’s multiple patios, alcoves and gardens – all ideal places to relax, sit back and enjoy the cool, refreshing breeze and stunning natural surroundings.

Leaving your incredible personal, natural hideaway, you can hike along a series of extensive trails departing straight from the villa or spend an afternoon on one of the neighboring, spectacular and empty beaches. Guests also have access to the Careyes Polo Club. For a cozy evening at the villa, there’s a movie room/screening room/library. Anything else you may need can be arranged by the villa’s attentive, bilingual staff of six.

Contact Sylvia here to start planning your divine get away draped in stunning nature and sunshine.

For the Chic & Social Skier – Chalet Edelweiss, Courchevel 1850, France

A vacation in the Alps doesn’t only have to be about the slopes. If you’re both a passionate skier and social butterfly, then reserve a week this winter at the Chalet Edelweiss, by Ultimate Luxury Chalets. A ski in ski out chalet in the posh Alpine resort of Courchevel 1850, equipped with a fabulous lounge, dining area, a cinema room and luxurious spa not to mention its own nightclub, you’ll be able to zoom from the slopes and right up to your own cocktail or dinner party.

The eight-bedroom, six-level chalet has a 50m² ski room which opening directly onto the Bellecote piste. Inside you’ll find a comfortable and charming lounge and dining areas which have stunning views of the surrounding mountains and pistes. Invite all the new friends you meet on the slopes over for an amazing dinner party, prepared by your private chef and served on the chalet’s large dining table that seats up to 24 people.

Be sure to tell your guests to bring their swimming suits to enjoy the chalet’s exceptional spa floor with hammam, sauna, 13m x 4.50m swimming pool with Jacuzzi featuring a waterfall surrounding a skylight, a bar and relaxation area (and high tech gym and double massage room). The night isn’t over after yet, as you can then make your way to the chalet’s private 130m² nightclub, which can accommodate over 100 people and has a DJ booth, dance floor and bar. For a smaller and cozier night, bunk down in the state of the art private cinema to watch the latest releases or sip on some brandy in the library.

Once everyone is gone, retreat to the chalet’s plush bedrooms, all with the newest furnishings, fittings and en-suite bathrooms. Sprawling over 100m², the two master suites are ultra luxurious, the main one being comprised of two dressing rooms, a private lounge, bedroom and bathroom.

Keep up your busy social life in the mountains at this exquisite chalet through Ultimate Luxury Chalets here.

With an amazing combination of fascinating history, rich culture, world famous gastronomy and stunning nature, France is the quintessential European holiday destination. From the seaside to the ski slopes and from tiny countryside villages to the buzz of the capital, find your ideal holiday tempo with our guide below.

Paris & Ile-de-France

Paris is a destination in itself and many visitors come time and again to take in the diverse pleasures of the French capital. World-class museums, incredible dining and a shopper’s paradise, there’s really something for everyone. It’s a great walking city which allows you to stop to admire curiosities you come across in areas like the Marais or Montmartre, where you duck into boutiques and enjoy a drink on a café terrace. The city’s parks are sublime and the perfect place to rest your feet and people watch, local favorites are the Luxembourg Gardens, Les Buttes-Chaumont and the Parc Monceau. As for museums, the Louvre and the Musée d’Orsay are a must for any first time visitors, but try to make time to peruse the collections of some smaller museums like the Jacquemart André, the Gustave Moreau or the Orangerie. End your day with some divine dining, either at an haute gastronomie establishment or a cozy neighborhood bistro.

Beyond the city’s borders, there is a multitude of excellent day trip options. For example, the Ile-de-France region which encircles Paris has dozens of gorgeous castles. The Palace of Versailles usually steals the limelight, however, many others are are much less crowded and highly worth visiting such as Fontainebleau, Vaux-le-Comte, Chantilly and Rueil Malmaison. For a taste of French village life, venture out to nearby medieval towns like Senlis or Provins. Art fans can also walk in the footsteps of artists like Monet in Giverny, Van Gogh in Auvers-sur-Oise or the early 19th-century artist colony at Barbizon.

More on Paris and Where to Stay Here.

Normandy & Brittany

Easily accessible from Paris either by train or car, many visitors travel to Normandy to visit the D-Day landing sites. These are very moving places of commemoration and can be visited in a long day trip or a several day itinerary. The lovely region has deep-rooted cultural heritage and some stunning medieval sites like the Bayeux Cathedral and its amazing 11th-century tapestry. Mont-St-Michel is another regional highlight, the impressive abbey and village crowning an island off the coast. Seaside resorts like chic Deauville and picturesque Honfleur are also key tourist destinations.

Brittany remains slightly removed from the regular tourist track, a factor that has helped it retain its authentic character. Fervently proud of its distinct cultural heritage, the region’s stunning and rugged coastline is marked with sleepy fishing villages, lighthouses, and deserted pristine beaches of the Wild Coast.

Loire Valley & Burgundy

The Valley of the French Kings, dotted with hundreds of enchanting castles, is what French holiday dreams are made of. You can spend your days discovering breathtaking castles such as Chambord, Chenonceau, Amboise and Azay-le-Rideau and your evenings dining on the region’s exquisite gastronomy. To the southeast of the Loire, Burgundy also provides an excellent holiday spot for those seeking to combine culture and gastronomy. It’s abundant in rolling vineyards, charming villages, bustling markets and unique historic sites – all the delights of France in one place. Small barge river and canal cruises are a wonderful way to experience both of these spectacular regions.

More on Where to Stay in the Loire & Burgundy Here.

Champagne & Eastern France

The best known destination in the east of France is certain Reims, where people come the world over to sample its delectable bubbly. It’s an easy day trip from Paris and there are many champagne tasting cellars right in the city. True champagne fans will want to stay longer and visit the houses in the neighboring area, especially Epernay. The beautiful cathedral in Reims is not to be missed and other cities of the regional are also lovely, such as Troyes with its medieval city-center. Further towards Germany, Strasbourg, with its charming canals, narrow streets and awe-inspiring cathedral, is a popular destination. It’s also the starting point of the Alsatian wine route, the oldest in Europe.

The French Alps

The French Alps have something for all levels of skier, or those who want to merely take in the chic après-ski vibe. Base yourself at a cozy luxury ski chalet, perhaps in ultra posh Megeve, and get ready to hit the slopes. Les Trois Vallées (The Three Valleys) features the largest interconnected ski fields in the world. Head to Chamonix for a quintessential Alpine experience with majestic Mont Blanc in the background. The French Alps aren’t only a winter destination, summertime also offers a wide range of activities, particularly for sport and nature enthusiasts.

More on the French Alps and Where to Stay Here.

Provence & the French Riviera

Provence evokes images of lavender fields, hilltop villages and bucolic country estates, it’s the ideal destination for taking in French joie de vivre. While it has grown in popularity over the last few decades, there are still plenty of authentic places to visit. Sip pastis in St Remy, wander the laneways of Les Baux or visit the vibrant markets of Aix. The Riviera is still one of Europe’s most popular beach destinations and the best way to take in the area is on a secluded villa overlooking St Tropez, home to a charming port and picturesque town center. You can also escape the crowds by tracking down some of these hidden beaches across the French Mediterranean coast.

More information and where to stay in Provence here and the French Riviera here.

Bordeaux & The Atlantic Coast

France’s southwest is not to be overlooked. Serious oenophiles can spend their entire holiday tasting some of the country’s best wines around Bordeaux. The city itself is lovely, and its new Cité du Vin wine center is an excellent place to start your wine-themed vacation in the area. Saint Emilion is a desirable stop, the scenic medieval village is surrounded by vines that produce some of the region’s best wines. The nearby Bay of Archon and other coastal resorts have splendid beaches of fine white sand and refreshing Atlantic waters. The whole coastline has some gorgeous islands, little discovered by foreign travelers. Ile de Ré attracts wealthy Parisians whereas Belle Ile and Noumentier are also very delightful. The small coastal city of La Rochelle is your gateway to that coastal area and has a number of nice attractions and good shops and restaurants.

More on Where to Stay in Bordeaux and the Atlantic Coast Here.

The devastating series of hurricanes that pummelled parts of the Caribbean and the US in September caused the death of dozens, the loss of livelihood to thousands and immense damage to infrastructure, housing and flora and fauna. Despite this destruction, the resilient spirit of locals and nature’s incredible ability for rebirth are already propelling many destinations back on their feet. We touched base with our local experts spread across the Caribbean to get an on-the-ground report on the damage and estimates on when various destinations are expected to welcome visitors again. Read their valuable insight below.

The Bahamas

The vast archipelago of The Bahamas wasn’t as impacted by the hurricanes as other Caribbean islands. Pamela H. Murdock, who represents a variety of villas across the Caribbean and many in The Bahamas, has heard back from a number of clients on Harbour Island and Eleuthera. These north-easterly islands were fortunately outside the destructive path of the hurricanes. That said, Hurricane Irma did hit Ragged Island and other islands in the south-eastern Bahamas.

Barbados

Located in the southern region of the Caribbean islands, Barbados was luckily spared from the hurricanes, as reported by our local experts at Blue Sky Luxury. Visitors can feel confident traveling there and it makes for a good option for those hoping to escape to the Caribbean this winter.

Anguilla

Two villa owners of Pamela H. Murdock reported minor damage to the property, although there was more serious damage to the landscaping. “The island was not so lucky, but rebuilding is going fast. I think everything will be back to normal by Feb/March,” said one owner. This was also echoed by Tim Roney of Villa Concierge, one of our Caribbean regional villa experts. Tim feels the island could be ready as early as January.

Nevis

Pamela H. Murdock also heard from two owners on Nevis who explained that the island “came through the latest storm very well. There were some trees down, some beach erosion on part of the island, and lots of rain. But overall, no major destruction. We understand all the hotels expect to have a normal season.”

Another lost a couple of trees and went on to say that they “have been very lucky considering the devastation on neighbouring islands. Our property is functioning normally, no damage but there has been a lot of tidying up to do both here and around the island. The power was back on the day after Maria, but land lines and cell phones only fully restored a few days ago.”

Providenciales, Turks & Caicos

The owner of several properties represented by Pamela H. Murdock positively reported that “the island is bouncing back with incredible speed! The international airport PLS is now opened for commercial flights. Water service has been restored to much of the island while power is following… already some areas have power including Turtle Cove and Leeward. Flooding has largely receded, restaurants like Baci, Sharkbite and Mango Reef are open already, and excursions are going out on the beautiful turquoise water! The IGA grocery store was open just days after the storm passed.”

Another commented that it’s “now just a matter of getting power restored to the entire island and cleanup. But many of resorts are already back open for business.” Tim Roney is also optimistic about Provo and thinks it will likely be ready for Christmas.

Saint Barthélemy

Caught in the eye of Hurricane Irma, Saint Barthélemy received a great deal of destruction. However, according to our local experts at St. Barth Properties, who have been a great resource for updates and reports on the hurricanes, the island is recovering quickly – especially thanks to the effort of so many locals who are pitching in (like the villa company’s team itself!). The island is still in recovery mode, nevertheless, the Tourism Board announced that “all roads are cleared, electricity and drinking water networks are being deployed in the neighborhoods, the port of commerce and the airport are operational, bakeries and the power supplies are open, restaurants and bars are gradually opening up their establishment…everything is back to life with the goal of welcoming our loyal visitors from October 30th on our island.”

This is great news for the island and life is already starting to return back to normal, noticeable with the reopening of various popular restaurants. Flora is rejuvenating and the fauna is returning. The island is also maintaining its annual sailing regatta, Les Voiles de Saint-Barth, as scheduled from April 8-13 2018, so this could be a good time to plan a trip.

That said, Saint Barth does have a major obstacle. Many visitors reach it via Saint Martin which was worse hit by the storm and whose commercial airport is not yet reopened. The St. Barth Properties team has a great solution: if you can fly to San Juan (SJU), then they can make arrangements for you to fly directly from there to St. Barth. You can find up-to-date reports regularly on their blog or feel free to contact them here for further information on travel and accommodation on the island.

Saint Martin

One of the worst islands hit, our local experts at Carimo have advised us that unfortunately they will not be welcoming guests to Saint Martin for some time. They have had to cancelled all their reservations through March 31^st, 2018, however, this could be extended. We are wishing them a speedy recovery and hope visitors return for late spring or for the 2018/19 season.

British and American Virgin Islands

Other islands severely damaged by the Hurricanes, Tim Roney has been following the situation on the islands carefully. He feels that the US Virgin Islands may be ready to receive holidayers by February. On the other hand, the British Virgins Islands might not be ready until spring. Contact him here to stay updated on the situation in these islands.

Other Islands

Tim went on to precise that other major villa destinations like Jamaica, Dominican Republic and St. Lucia are all fine. He will also divert Caribbean clients will divert to Mexico which is unscathed as well.