Best Villas for Families: From the Countryside to the Mountain Top

Each family is unique and therefore each family holiday should also be unique. A trip to the mountains could involve hiking and horseback riding in one destination or thrillingly zooming down the slopes in another. A holiday in the countryside could include spotting one’s first herd of elephants, rafting through ravines or picking through Mayan ruins. Whatever your vacation cravings, our experts have the perfect private villas and lodges to make your family time, quality time.

Cottar’s Bush Villa, Kenya

A family trip to Africa will create lifelong memories for the whole family. As a fifth-generation run family safari service, the team at Cottar’s 1920s Camp and Villa value family tremendously. They accept children of all ages, plus those aged five and under stay for free. Rich with family history and the history of Kenya, Cottar’s return to the original spirit and essence of ‘safari’, the golden era of professional guiding and adventure.

“Our Cottars family is passionate about Kenya, its conservation and community,” explains Calvin Cottar, current director of Cottar’s and great-grandson of the its founder, Chas Cottar. “We know the wildlife and the people of our area intimately and you are welcomed in and treated as personal friends and we hope you leave feeling like part of our family.

“The key to our family friendly ethos is that we realise that time spent with your family is so precious and so we do exactly what you want to do, the only thing scheduled in your day is your game drives. We listen to you to find out what your individual interests are and then the adventure begins.

“Nothing beats watching a child’s face change from awe to delight as they come face to face with their first elephant or make their first bow and arrow with their guide. They will be immersed into the authentic safari experience and tribal interaction, looked after by our guides who truly engage with children and enjoy teaching them all about their surroundings, flora and fauna and the wildlife. With numerous activities they are sure to be kept busy and captivated throughout your stay: Maasai Warrior School, Day & Night Game Drives, Guided Bush Walks, Bush Meals & Sundowners, Cultural Visits, River Swimming and Fishing, Balloon Safaris and a private Swimming Pool.”

The Bush Villa has all guests need to keep families entertained in comfort and style surrounded by breathtaking views onto the savannah plains that carry the great annual wildebeest migration. The villa is over 10,000 square feet in size, and features a large living room, dining room, a magnificent viewing deck, and five en-suite bedrooms, all with stunning views. It has internet access throughout, satellite TV and DVD, and is powered with electric and solar energy. So for any family, big or small, it’s the perfect getaway, providing something for everyone.

You can work directly with the Cottar’s team to design your magical family African safari experience at this link.

Casa Chimera, PT Ski – Klosters, Switzerland

Skiing holidays have proved themselves time and again to be an ideal family getaway and you couldn’t be in no better hands than with our Klosters specialists at PT Ski. Located in the Swiss Alps, this charming ski resort is populated by chalets built in classic Alpine style, and has a low key chic feel to it.

“There are ski slopes for everyone with the sunny south facing slopes on the Madrisa being idyllic for beginners while the Gotschna on the other side of valley is well suited to the more experienced skiers,” details James Palmer-Tomkinson, founder of PT Ski and a father himself. “As well as the magical skiing there are other activities such as skating and sledging to keep the children entertained, and for the non skiers there are beautiful walks up pretty valleys and gorgeous restaurants with sun terraces.”

When it comes to looking after children, PT Ski come into their own. Their kids programmes over the main holiday periods cater for children of all ages, ranging from the under fives in their “Pandas” course to older teenagers experiencing off piste in the “PT Ski All Mountain” course. They use instructors from the local ski school while their delightful reps are on hand to oversee the pastoral side and ensure that all the courses run smoothly. Their philosophy is that children learn best when they are having fun and the smiles on the children’s faces are certainly testament to this.

After a wonderful day’s skiing there is nothing better than relaxing with drink in hand on a comfy sofa in front of a log fire. As such, any family would adore to stay at PT Ski’s Casa Chimera. Built in 2005 as a luxury family home, it’s within easy reach of the lifts and centre of Klosters village. The chalet has a wonderful spacious feel and exudes Alpine charm and is ideal for families.

The chalet can sleep up to 10 guests in five beautiful bedrooms, each with its own bathroom or shower room. It features a generous open-plan living space divided into three sections: a double-height living room with comfortable sofas, a cosy games area separated by a large double sided fireplace and a dining area with a large table that sits 14. Just off the hallway is a fully equipped TV/audio room with widescreen TV. The kitchen is also situated on the first floor near the dining area.

On the second floor are the chalet’s two master bedrooms, each with its own fireplace and en-suite bathroom. There is a further double bedroom with an en-suite shower room. The last two bedrooms are on the ground floor, both twins with en-suite bathrooms. There is a sauna on the ground floor and separate power shower. As would be expected of a chalet of this calibre, the ski boot racks in the ski room are heated.

The chalet has a dedicated staff of two who live in and take care of guests impeccably. They prepare breakfast and have tea waiting for you for when you get back from skiing at the end of the day. In the evening they serve a four course dinner, preceded by canapés.

PT Ski’s expert staff will also help you take care of every detail you need for an exceptional ski holiday in Klosters. Contact them at this link to start planning today.

Hacienda Itzincab – Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico

Removed from the chaos of modern life; historic and fully-staffed Hacienda Itzincab, available through Catherwood Travels, is ideal for a special escape and recharge with your family. The Hacienda Itzincab is close to many major natural and historic sites of the beautiful Yucatan. Here you can enjoy delicious dining, refresh at the cenotes, relax by the pools, explore the on-site Mayan ruins or simply enjoy life lounging in your hammock.

The hacienda features three swimming pools and lush gardens home to abundant bird life. Its 14 bedrooms – five in the main house and nine in the original hacienda outbuildings – are air-conditioned and most of them have private plunge pools and terraces. Room distribution makes this hacienda an ideal location for family reunions or celebrations. And when it’s time to explore and discover, Merida, cenotes, archaeological sites and Maya villages are just a short drive away.

Itzincab is a dream place where you’ll swim, relax, explore, and dine in complete privacy, far from life’s worries and stresses, and where fun with family is your only prerogative.

Contact Catherwood Travels here to design your special family trip to the Yucatan.

Sawtooth House, Majordomo – Queenstown, New Zealand

New Zealand is a phenomenal destination for active families seeking unparalleled outdoor adventures. Queenstown is a gateway to many of these adventures and our experts at MajorDomo have a fabulous family villa in the area: Sawtooth House.

The aptly named Sawtooth House is a unique architecturally designed villa sitting over the famous Shotover River with breathtaking views of the valley and the mountains behind. The contemporary flow of the house continues throughout with all five bedrooms leading off from the most exquisite hallway turned art gallery. Four large childrens’ bedrooms with king single bunks are perfectly designed and share two designated separate bathrooms. The owner’s passion for contemporary art can be seen throughout with pieces by artists from all over the world finding their way into every aspect of this villa.

“With the perfect blend of modern design and a warm welcoming feel, this villa would be perfect for a family holiday with a large garden outside with swimming pool and children’s play area,” says Lisa Hayden, co-founder of MajorDomo. “In the evening, while children entertain themselves in the media room, parents will find the perfect spot for pre-dinner cocktails looking out over the Shotover River, or they may wish to sit poolside with a Central Otago Pinot while they watch the sun set behind the mountains.”

Only a seven minute drive to downtown Queenstown, this villa is close to the action. For the more active, make use of the in-house gym or even better explore the Moonlight Trail which will take you hiking to Moke Lake and lies at your doorstep in Arthur’s Point.

With their comprehensive local knowledge, MajorDomo can help you design the ideal New Zealand family holiday. Reach out to them here.

St Remy Zen, Haven In – Provence, France

The French countryside is an enchanting destination for families and the magnificent, seven-bedroom St-Remy Zen villa by Haven In is a Provençal retreat the family won’t forget.

Hidden in an olive grove at the foot of the beautiful Alpilles Mountains, the villa is located a mere three kilometers from the center of St-Rémy-de-Provence, a quaint community offering bucolic French pleasures, like daily markets, cobblestone streets, restaurants using wonderful local ingredients, and much more.

The villa has been renovated to the highest standards to offer guests the perfect combination of authenticity and contemporary style. There are seven bedrooms and four bathrooms, accommodating up to 12 guests. The living room is spacious, bright, and sophisticated, and features a fireplace, beautiful artwork, and large windows.

There is plenty to do at the villa or in the area. Enjoy splashing around in Olympic-sized swimming pool set in beautiful grounds of well-manicured local trees and vegetation. Create culinary memories with the whole family in the fully-equipped chef’s kitchen. Or, discover the stunning, historic sites of the region on half or full day excursions.

Escape to Provence with the whole family at this refined villa by Haven In at this link.

Grizzly Creek Ranch, Mountain Homes – Montana, USA

The Grizzly Creek Ranch, situated just just seven miles from the Yellowstone River and available through Mountain Home, is a fabulous setting for families with children.

This luxury ranch can comfortable accommodate up to 30 guests. Guests have exclusive use of six homes, an expansive dining and event hall, a recreation barn, yoga and massage cabin, and the 2,000-acre ranch.

“Children can spend hours in the Recreation Barn, outfitted with pool table, foosball and ping pong,” describes Suzy Hall of Mountain Home. “There are mountain bikes yard games to use, and with the sleeping bags provided, the barn has been used for numerous kid sleep-outs.

“Just off the ranch are river rafting on the Yellowstone River, zipline adventures, and private tours of Yellowstone National Park. With accommodations in six different homes and cabins on the ranch, it’s a perfect gathering spot for one or multiple families seeking a Montana adventure.”

Enjoy this quintessential ranch experience through Mountain Home at this link.

Laragai House at Borana Lodge, Cazenove+Loyd – Mount Kenya, Kenya

With the snow-tipped peaks and glaciers of Mount Kenya to the south and a panorama of mountains and desert to the north, safari settings don’t get much more spectacular than at Borana Lodge, Kenya, available through cazenove+loyd. On this ranch land lies Laragai House, a stunning eight-bedroom private villa perched on the edge of a plateau, the perfect property for families.

Originally built as a country retreat by Lords Valentine and Michael Cecil, this house is unrivalled in its seclusion and style. Sympathetic to its surroundings, it has a thatched roof, panoramic views from the bedrooms and is filled with local-made furniture. Outside, there is large heated swimming pool and pool house, fully equipped with a bar and kitchen.

When not on game drives or other natural explorations of Mount Kenya National Park, your children will be thrilled by the lodge’s large games room stocked with table tennis, croquet and boules, not to mention the clay tennis court in the garden. The house is a master class in low-key luxury, of blending the traditional with the indulgence that you could want on holiday. Due to its size, you may be able to add to the fun by team up with another family. And if you want to arrive in style, why not take advantage of the house’s private helipad?

In addition to accommodation, cazenove+loyd can also assist with all the travel details and activities to make your trip to Mount Kenya a amazing family trip. Contact them here.

Chalet Rock n’ Love, Ultimate Luxury Chalets – Tignes, France

Bring all your children’s holiday dreams to life at the fantasyland Chalet Rock n’ Love by Ultimate Luxury Chalets. Situated in the family-friendly Alpine ski resort of Tignes, the magical 430m² chalet can sleep up to ten adults, plus three children, across five individually designed suites.

The one-of-a-kind chalet has an eccentric 1970s theme throughout offering an expansive living space with lots of grown up ‘toys’. The open plan living area boasts a unique mini car pool table, Wurlitzer style jukebox loaded with 100 albums, and an original Marshall Amp and speaker with guitar for those who can play a tune or two. With a comfortable lounge, dining area and bar, it’s the perfect place to unwind and have some fun after a hard day on the slopes.

Adult bedrooms are decorated in a sleek pop-art style whereas the bedrooms for children are decked out in car-shaped beds and other playful elements which will make them never want to leave – but the mountains call.

The chalet also boost a gym with cross trainer, rower and kettle weights, a massage room with a hydrojet bed system, a small outside Jacuzzi and an indoor swimming pool which will soon include a wave machine.

Make your children’s ski dreams a reality through Ultimate Luxury Chalets here.

We don our safari hats and journey to the African bush with Henrietta Loyd, our regional expert for Africa. She reveals how a first trip to this magical destination led to her to co-found the award-winning company cazenove+loyd, one of the world’s top specialists on safari tours and luxury holiday rentals across the African continent.

“I will never forget my first experience of Africa. I was a pretty naïve twenty-year-old when I first set foot in the African bush in South Africa and I can still see in my mind now, all these years later, my first glimpse of a giraffe as I drove into camp from the airstrip. It was a life-changing moment, as I could not believe that I was actually seeing for real and in the wild, such a magnificent creature. I never looked back.

“What I love about being on safari is the pure connection with nature and wildlife. It is the smells of the bush, the space and the lack of people in the areas that we choose to send our clients. I always feel a complete sense of calm and freedom when I arrive and go on my first game drive or walk. There is also the adrenaline rush when one comes across one of the cats – especially on foot!

“Susie Cazenove and I were inspired to set up cazenove+loyd twenty-five years ago, because we wanted to share our love of Africa with a wider audience and enable other people to share some of the experiences that we were lucky enough to have. It also gave us an excuse to talk about our favourite subject day-in/day-out and regularly go there ourselves to source new product and experience the safaris our clients were to go on and still do over twenty years later. Latin America and Asia and the Middle East, our further two divisions were formed by my other business partner Christopher Wilmot-Sitwell with the same ethos. We are passionate about travel and creating memories that will stay forever etched in the mind.

“Marrying our personal experiences and expert knowledge with our client understanding is how we are able to deliver the best every time. Our meticulous planning and incomparable contacts on the ground mean that we have exclusive access to some of the most spectacular private houses, residences and villas in South Africa, Mozambique, Botswana, Zambia, Kenya and Tanzania. We can also offer stunning beach villas in Mozambique, the Seychelles, Mauritius and Morocco.

“We are still owner-run and our philosophy is the same today as the day we opened our doors – we are about being the best rather than the biggest. We are particularly proud to have recently been voted the second best ‘Specialist Tour Operator’ in the world by Condé Nast Traveller, awarded for our ‘incomparable knowledge’.

“I am thrilled to be working with UltraVilla as their regional expert for Africa, at a time when the continent has developed so rapidly, and the proliferation of lodges and camps means that there’s more need than ever for help and guidance in designing a luxury holiday in Africa that’s exactly right for you.” – Henrietta Loyd

Start planning your dream African safari holiday with the vast expertise of Henrietta Loyd and her team by reaching out to cazenove+loyd here.

Family holidays are a time to disconnect from work, focus on the kids, have fun times together and create memories to last a lifetime. Your dream family beach holiday starts right here as we take you around the world to phenomenal villas which aren’t merely beautiful; each one is ideally adapted to families with their fantastic amenities, an incredible range of activities and, of course, stunning sea views.

The Beach House, Ricketts Luxury – Anguilla

Puma Estate, Papagayo Luxury – Papagayo Peninsula, Costa Rica

Mix natural adventures with beach time and family fun by staying at Papagayo Luxury, located on the gorgeous Papagayo Peninsula in the lush Costa Rican tropical dry forest. One of their best villas for families is the Puma Estate, and if you can get away before Christmas, Papagayo Luxury is offering the 7th night free now through December 14th (including Thanksgiving).

The Puma Estate House is a luxurious custom designed six bedroom / six and a half bathroom home featuring magnificent ocean views throughout the home. The property is backed by the Four Seasons Arnold Palmer Signature Course and Golf Club. This home is particularly well-suited for two families traveling together as it has two identically sized master suites (stacked). There is a flexible bed arrangement as a king can convert to two twins (for teens that don’t want to share a bed). It also has a sixth small, spare bedroom with a full/twin bunk bed, when guests need extra space for more kids or for their nanny.

In addition to comfortable living spaces and terraces, the estate includes a private pool and hot tub. Plus it’s a short drive from the Prieta Beach Club, a small putt putt course at the driving range and Nacascolo Beach, which is a long beach with flat water (bay side).

Scoop up this great deal on the Puma Estate for stays before December 14th or reach out to Papagayo Luxury at this link to check availability for other times.

Samujana – Koh Samui, Thailand

The beautiful Samujana resort, featuring stunning private villas, offers an amazing family holiday on the picturesque island of Koh Samui. Samujana was chosen by Smith Hotels as one of the World’s Best Family Resorts 2016, below are some of the reasons it made the list.

Perched on a hillside overlooking a coral cove with private beach access, this private resort, designed by award-winning designer Gary Fell, is comprised of a collection of oversized and opulent villas, some of which feature private cinemas and games rooms making are perfectly suited to families. They have experienced and qualified bilingual babysitters and nannies available on hourly, daily and weekly rates, so parents can take a little break for themselves.

Family activities at Samujana include cooking classes, Muay Thai boxing lessons and a range of watersports such as waterskiing, snorkelling and diving. Its team of chefs provide delicious in-villa dining experiences including family-fun barbecues which you can enjoy poolside.

The island also has tenpin bowling, two modern cinemas, and even a jumping castle playzone. A number of excursions can be arranged from tours to see the waterfalls and temples or to one of its family attractions like the Aquapark, Butterfly Garden or Coco Splash Waterpark.

Book your dream family holiday to Thailand at Samujana.

Kauri Cove Villa, Touch of Spice – Moturua Island, Bay of Islands

Have a private island in New Zealand’s exquisite Bay of Islands just for you and your family by staying at the Kauri Cove Villa by Touch of Spice. Step off your private helicopter transfer straight onto a white sand beach and find a split-level beach haven designed by renowned New Zealand architect Pete Bossley tucked into the native bush.

“Right on property there’s access to all the best non-motorised water toys, including kayaks, stand up paddleboards, a dinghy, top notch snorkelling and fishing equipment, and an ocean trampoline,” explains Jacqui Spice, founder and CEO of Touch of Spice. “Rock pool exploring, sprat fishing or the good old-fashioned playground will keep the wee ones entertained. For the big kids, ATV Quad adventures, jet skis, parasailing, deep sea fishing charters and heli flight-seeing tours are all on the motorised menu.

“If white knuckles are not your thing, there’s the Department of Conservation Moturua Scenic Reserve walk or exploring Maori artefacts and indigenous history at any one of 27 recorded archaeological sites on the island. Your concierge in residence would also be delighted to book a private yoga teacher or horseback riding session, in addition to assisting with anything mentioned above (or anything you may dream up).

“Of course, we’d be remiss not to mention the internationally ranked golf course, spa services and world-class dining at Kauri Cliffs, just a short helicopter ride away. There is truly something for everyone on this island retreat and Touch of Spice can offer bespoke packages that will leave you never wanting to return to the mainland.”

The Kauri Cove Villa is still available for the Christmas and New Years holidays. Plan your family holiday to the beautiful Bay of Islands with Touch of Spice at this link.

Tres Soles Villa, In Villa Veritas – Punta Mita, Mexico

For a fantastic family holiday in Mexico, our expert Laura Blair of In Villas Veritas take us to the gorgeous Tres Soles Villa on the Punta Mita Peninsula found on Mexico’s Pacific coast north of Puerto Vallarta. Since it has eight bedrooms, two of which are masters, it’s ideal for extended families or two families traveling together. Laura Blair of In Villas Veritas tells us more:

“The pool is lovely and fun for kids as it winds around palm islands,” describes Laura. “There is a gentle slope down to the fantastic beach so no big drops.

Alternatively, it’s just a few minutes’ drive from the punta mita resort and residents’ beach club where you can meet other families and kids. There you’ll find beach service, a pool, club bar and restaurant, golf and tennis. There’s also tennis in the private villa community a two-minute walk from the villa.

There are wonderful nature and adventure activities for those more sport-minded. Everything is possible here such as tennis, golf, scuba, hiking, zip lining, whale watching, surfing, paddle boarding, kayaking and more. Or you can just relax in the sun with a good book and a Margarita (and still see the whales migrating from your chaise lounge). This includes full staff for all services including a wonderful chef so you don’t even have to leave the property and still have plenty to do with the house, pool and beach.

Escape to this remarkable villa and lovely part of Mexico with In Villas Veritas here.

Skiathos 1L Villa, Five Star Greece – Greece

With its exceptional climate, spectacular natural beauty and fascinating cultural discoveries, the Greek Isles are an ideal family destination and our expert Ileana Von Hirsch of Five Star Greece has the perfect family villa on the Island of Skiathos.

“The Skiathos 1L Villa has something for all ages in a family group,” says Ileana. “The island has an airport so it’s more readily accessible. The villa has a private sandy beach with easy swimming, plus onsite there is a huge pool set in lawned gardens, a family cook and staff, and separate guest cottages for when family tensions rise…

“A friendly boatman to take you out on day trips to explore the gorgeous beaches of the wilder north coast, cross over to the lush and mountainous island of Skopelos, where Mamma Mia was filmed or try your hand at water-skiing at Tourlos Beach. For some cultural discoveries, visit the secret monasteries in Skiathos’ green hills, seek out some homemade almond sweets or “Amigdalota” or shop for some artisanal jewellery at Varsakis in Skiathos town.”

Have a superb family getaway to Skiathos with the help of Five Star Greece at this link.

 Villa Athena, St Barth Properties – Anse des Cayes, St Barthélemy

The breathtaking and relaxing island of St Barthélemy is a fantastic family destination in the Caribbean and our local experts at St Barth Properties have just the right property for families: the Villa Athena.

This marvelous multi-level villa features floor-to-ceiling windows and an airy, open feel. Admire the sparkling sea and Anse des Cayes from inside or from one of its many terraces. The long, heated pool and surrounding terrace with a pool bar is highlight. There are two spacious living rooms, a guest bath and a dining room. The villa is furnished in a chic minimalist décor and also includes a sleek professionally-equipped kitchen.

The seven bedrooms include a master suite with an outdoor shower that is located in a separate bungalow. All the bedrooms have king beds convertible to twins, beautifully appointed en-suite baths, terraces with sea views. Two on the lower level are “master-sized” with king/twin beds. Four bedrooms (two with outdoor showers) have king/twin beds and are located on the lowest level. There’s U.S. Satellite TV, a sound system and Apple TV in the bedrooms.

The Villa Athena is still available for Christmas, however, there is a minimum stay requirement of 14 nights. For further information or to reserve, contact St Barth Properties here.

Whether you’re five or fifty-five, it’s never too late to learn to ski. It may be much easier to start young, however, you can ease into skiing at any age by learning the basics on a right level-appropriate slopes. With this in mind, we’ve tapped our local experts in the French and Swiss Alps to find out the best beginner slopes that will have you courageously gliding in no time.

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Colourful local culture, awe-inspiring temples, lush mountains and secluded beaches are what draw many to magical Myanmar. But, more than anything, it’s the incredibly genuine, warm and welcoming people that make visiting the country such a special, once-in-a-lifetime experience. Our experts at Amara Group offer visitors an intimate connection with the Burmese via their resorts, cruises and charitable foundation. We caught up with Zenaida des Aubris of Amara to discover their unique travel options and humanitarian efforts.

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There’s nothing like sitting back and relaxing after an active day on the slopes. You can extend your enjoyment of the stunning mountain scenery by staying at the perfect chalet overlooking the incredible snowy peaks. Whether you’re savoring the spectacular vistas while relaxing your muscles in your outdoor hot tub or curled up by the toasty fireplace gazing out of your floor-to-ceiling windows, we’ve surveyed the resorts of the Alps to bring you the top luxury chalets with the best views across the region.

Chalet M – Morzine, France

The lovely resort of Morzine is home to the beautiful Chalet M, available through Ultimate Luxury Chalets. It offers a commanding position overlooking the town and the Portes du Soleil skiport.

“On the mountain opposite the chalet is the Pleney ski run so from its vantage point you can watch as what looks like small ants meander their way down into the resort below,” says Andy Castle of Ultimate Luxury Chalets. “The dining room has been cleverly designed with large windows which showcase the view of Morzine and the surrounding Portes du Soleil ski area.”

“The large terrace is south facing so benefits from being bathed in sun all day. What better place to relax and enjoy this view than the outdoor hot tub? At night you can see the twinkling lights of the resort below.”

The large chalet, which sleeps 10 to 12, is furnished with a blend of classic and contemporary pieces, making it one of the most elegant chalets in the Portes du Soleil. Inspiration has been drawn from some of the Alps’ finest residences with materials, furniture and artwork sourced from across the world. The main living area includes a fabulous fireplace, and in the dining room a bespoke walnut table made by local craftsmen takes pride of place.

Chalet M boasts some of the best spa facilities in the area. The view from the outdoor hot tub is simply breathtaking, set on the edge of a large terrace overlooking Morzine and the surrounding mountains. Inside there is a large sauna with adjacent drench shower, as well as a dedicated massage and treatment room where you can enjoy the services of its in-chalet therapists – the ideal sanctuary for relaxation.

For further information on the Chalet M, contact Ultimate Luxury Chalets here.

Chalet Bear – Klosters, Switzerland

The authentic Swiss resort of Klosters features some of the most charming chalets of the whole Alps and one of the best is the Chalet Bear by PT Ski. Its Director James Palmer-Tomkinson tells us more:

“The Chalet Bear is a beautiful log chalet, lovingly restored in 2006 to create one of the finest chalets available for rent not only in Klosters but anywhere in the Alps,” reveals James. “Within easy walking distance of the lifts and centre of Klosters, it is perched on a small hill with beautiful views of the village and mountains behind.”

The interior has been sensitively decorated to maintain all the character of a traditional chalet, but with the comfort of a luxury home. It feels like you’re living in an ancient wooden jewel box, which creaks and groans when the sun hits it in the morning and it starts to warm up. It has 4 gorgeous bedrooms, all with their own bathrooms, and a cosy sitting room with open fireplace, perfect for relaxing after a day’s skiing. The dining room also features a fireplace and has a long table which seats up to 16 people.”

Start preparing your dream ski holiday to this gem of the Alps with PT Ski at this link.

Eco Lodge – Argentiere, France

For phenomenal views of Mont Blanc mountain range and Mont Blanc itself, book in at The Eco Lodge, by Ultimate Luxury Chalets. Argentiere is known for its unbelievable views and the Eco Lodge uses this to its advantage. With a large outdoor terrace and hot tub there is plenty of space to enjoy this stunning vista.

“One of the more unusual features of the chalet has to be the outdoor barrel sauna with a large window at the end which gives amazing panoramic views,” details Andy Castle. “It is a great way to relax in the warmth whilst seeing the snow falling outside.

“The Eco Lodge was named because of its design features and the fact it is designed to be environmentally friendly. The owners want to preserve the view of the snow-capped mountains for future generations.”

In fact, the five bedroom chalet has been built with green technology and is completely self-sufficient and able to fully power itself with its advanced renewable energy systems, making it the perfect choice for ecologically-minded skiers who are also seeking some pampering.

Enjoy this unique chalet and its spectacular views by reaching out to Ultimate Luxury Chalets here.

Chalet Nyumba – Verbier, Switzerland

If you’re looking for a chalet with a stunning view in Verbier then look no further than the Chalet Nyumba, also by Ultimate Luxury Chalets. Andy Castle tempts us further:

“Beautiful views and Verbier go hand in hand,” explains Andy. “The resort is built on the end of a mountain and overlooks the valley below. The Chalet Nyumba enjoys incredible panoramic views across the resort of Verbier and the property basks in the sun throughout the day, making it the perfect place to enjoy a relaxing snooze on the balcony.

“The chalet has been built to utilise the fantastic backdrop. From the swimming pool you can enjoy the stunning backdrop of the mountain range opposite. With large floor to ceiling windows, the chalet gives a feeling of openness and makes you feel at one with nature. You feel like you are immersed in the natural environment whilst enjoying the heat that the large open fire gives out.”

With a maximum capacity of 16, the chalet has been interior designed throughout and is the height of Alpine chic, with worn leather sofas, distressed antique wood finishes and beautiful alpine detailing.

The chalet also boasts one of Verbier’s most extensive private Spa facilities. This is finished throughout in Italian marble with views over the valley and mountains beyond. These lavish facilities include an L shaped pool with adjustable floor depth and swimming current (floor can be lowered or raised for children or converted into a dance floor), steam room, indoor and exterior spa, sauna and bar. Adjacent to the spa is a massage room where the chalet’s in-house team can ease your aches and pains from the days skiing.

Experience this exceptional Verbier chalet with Ultimate Luxury Chalets at this link.

Chalet Etta – St. Moritz, Switzerland

Our global expert Sylvia Delvaille Jones of Villa and Apartments Abroad is always on the look out for the best rental properties around the world and she’s spotted this amazing seven-bedroom chalet in St. Moritz. It’s still available over the Christmas period and Sylvia tempts us with these further details:

“This gorgeous luxurious chalet is modern, yet sumptuous and elegant. Meticulous attention has been paid to every detail. The interior is of the highest quality using ETRO fabrics throughout. Deep, comfortable sofas and local antiques mixed with a collection of contemporary art sit against a backdrop of old wood and granite.

“The bedrooms are all well appointed with Superba mattresses are topped with down duvets, a choice of pillows and soft Egyptian cotton sheets, flat-screen TVs and iPod stations. Bathrooms have been laid out for pure indulgence with power showers and extra deep bathtubs inviting you to relax sore muscles with exclusive Miller Harris beauty products.

“You will have plenty of room to relax or entertain. Both living rooms have large wood-burning, open fireplaces and offer stunning views of the Corvatsch mountain. The live-in kitchen seats 10 and the dining room up to 14. With bedrooms spread across separate parts of the house and a choice of rooms to retreat to, the chalet is an ideal retreat for an extended family or group of friends. Guests can also exercise in a well-equipped gym or relax in the sauna/steam room. For the youngest members of the family, there is a fully stocked playroom which also serves as a home cinema.

“What sets this chalet apart from others? The service is extremely bespoke and the chef is superb. The location is also ideal. You are in a real Swiss villa which offers the real Swiss experience, but only 10 minutes from all that is happening in centre of the main village. The neighbours are real local people with a few millionaires and billionaires mixed in. You have a fabulous view, but you can step outside and walk to grab a coffee or stroll down to the lake.

“St. Moritz hosts many fantastic events and this year will also be the holding the World Ski Championships for which we can get VIP tickets. Here are some other great events taking place in town:

• December 2016: Christmas and New Year Extravaganzas all over town. Please enquire about our two week special offer at this chalet.
• January 27th – 29th: The 33rd: Snow Polo World Cup
• February 12th, 19th and 26th: White Turf Horse Race on the Ice
• February 6th – 19th: The FIS Alpine World Ski Championships
• March 12th: The Engadin Ski Marathon

Allow Sylvia and her team to arrange your ideal and eventful skiing holiday to St. Moritz by reaching out to Villa and Apartments Abroad here.

Chamois Lodge – St Martin de Belleville, France

Ultimate Luxury Chalets has the ideal chalet for smaller groups looking for wonderful views: the Chamois Lodge. The stunningly finished chalet, which can sleep six adults and up to three children, is located in the traditional mountain village of Villarabout close to the resort of St Martin de Belleville.

“The chalet allows you to fully experience traditional mountain life in a setting that is relatively untouched by the larger operators,” describes Andy Castle. “This is the perfect place for those to stay who are looking for a large and varied ski area as it is part of the large Three Valleys, yet don’t want to be staying in one of the busier and livelier resorts. The chalets’ driver service will have you down at the lifts within five minutes, ready to take on 600km of beautifully groomed ski slopes.

“The chalet has a large terrace which overlooks the beautiful mountains on the opposite side of the valley. This section of the valley is not part of the skiing area so is stunningly beautiful and untouched. As with most of the chalets with a view on this list, the best way to appreciate this view is from the chalets private hot tub.”

Start planning your dream family holiday to the Three Valleys with Ultimate Luxury Chalets here.

Few dishes are so associated with a destination as fondue is with the Alps. After a cool day on the slopes there’s nothing that warms you up better than a toasty fondue. Whether it’s a cheesy Savoyarde or meaty Bourguignonne, these piping hot pot dishes will please the bellies of the entire family. Get your two-pronged fork ready to dip in at these best fondue restaurants of the Alps, including some great recommendations from our local luxury chalet experts.

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Marrakech just got hotter with the gorgeous Villa Hemal by our experts at Kensington Luxury Properties. This sleek, contemporary villa features traditional Morocco elements with lovely artistic touches and all the modern luxuries for an exquisite holiday in Marrakech. Join us on a virtual tour below.

Located in the most sought after resort of Amelkis, with its 27 hole golf course and Amanjena Hotel, the 400 sq m three-bedroom villa (on a plot of 1500 sq m) is a mere 10-minute drive from Marrakech.

“It is one of the very few products on the market that stands out for the quality workmanship, its minimalist and refined decoration and for the impeccable and professional live-in staff,” explains Alex Pato of Kensington Luxury Properties.

One immediately notices the crisp, contemporary lines which create a beautiful, bright home with fantastic views overlooking the golf course. The 18-meter pool is also perfect for those who want to swim and do laps or relax on the comfortable deckchairs.

The villa offers many different areas to relax including a pool house with bar area and the two large terraces which make excellent areas to eat alfresco or relax watching the golf or the stars alike.

The interior is decorated in contemporary furnishings, mainly in white tones with colorful accents. Displayed throughout is a collection of international art and antiques. The dining room, with a table that seats eight, looks out onto the terrace and pool area. The generous bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms ensure a good night’s sleep for all the guests.

The Villa Hemal starts at 600€/night or 4200€/week.

Learn more about this or the other luxury rental properties of Kensington Luxury Properties by reaching out to them here.