Six Springtime Events & Festivals to Tempt You to the South

While the crisp autumn is gradually veiling over the Northern Hemisphere, many countries south of the Equator are coming to life with blossoms and a lively series of special events and colorful festivals that mark spring. Admire art installations, sip bubbly, follow along in religious precessions and get your groove on over the coming months in these various Southern Hemisphere destinations.

Cirio de Nazare, Belem, Brazil

On the second Sunday in October Belem explodes in color and music as two million people descend on the beautiful and historic Amazonian city for its annual 15-day Cirio de Nazare festival. Commencing this year on October 8th, it’s the largest religious event in Brazil and includes a lively lineup of parades, cultural activities, and amusement parks to honor the Virgin Mary of Nazareth. The main event involves a statue of Our Lady of Nazareth, which is thought to have performed miracles when it was found by a farmer from Belem, Placido Jose de Souza. As the miracle goes, the statue would “return” on its own accord to its home in Icoraraci. Today the statue makes the journey from the Catedral da Se in Bellem to the basilica in Icoaraci with the help of hundreds of colourful decorated boats, filled with thousands of singing, dancing attendees. Visitors to this unique festival can make the most of their trip by staying on to explore the beauty of the Amazon.

Where to Stay in Brazil.

Fiji Day and Week

October is a special month across the Fijian archipelago as the 10th of the month marks the day when it was officially granted independence from British colonial rule in 1970. This important milestone is celebrated in a week of festivities taking place in most towns and villages around the country, making it a nice time to visit Fiji and discover its diverse cultural traditions. Depending on the destination, you might catch military parades, artistic and musical performances or enthusiastic street parties.

Where to stay in Fiji – Vatuvara Private Islands

After taking in the party, retreat for some tranquil R&R at Vatuvara Private Islands. Located in the Northern Lau Group of the Fiji Islands, this exquisite resort offers conscientious luxury to the discerning traveler.

The boutique resort only has three very secluded seaside villas which have been carefully crafted with natural textures and materials creating spacious and comfortably refined environments. Each villa has its own private beach access and individual infinity edge pool surrounded by lush tropical landscaping and aromatic flowers.

Fiji Week celebrations aside, October to early November is the perfect time to visit Fiji as you can get some great airfare deals and the weather is warm and dry. The Vatuvara Private Island team can assist you with planning a fabulous itinerary to enjoy the Fiji Week festivities as well as other activities to take in Fiji’s unique culture and environment.

Enjoy the best of Fijian culture and spirit at Vatuvara Private Islands at this link.

 

Festival Kreol, The Seychelles

October also plays host to the annual Festival Kreol in Seychelles, one of the biggest and most significant cultural events in the archipelago. Held this year from October 23-29th and now in its 32nd edition, the week-long event showcases the various aspects of Creole life including food, music, dance, art, language and other traditions manifested in a range of activities which contribute to maintaining and promoting the cultural roots of this Seychellois population. The festival is particularly lively on the main island of Mahé, specifically in the capital city of Victoria, but there are events taking place on beaches and hotels around the island.

Where to Stay in the Seychelles – The Residence on the Rocks

Set on a high ridge in the southern part of Mahé, on the estate of the Banyan Tree Resort, the Residence on the Rocks benefits from being extremely private yet with all the advantages of a five-star hotel.

Constructed in 2008, the stunning four-bedroom villa is surrounded by virgin forest overlooking Intendance Beach, voted one of the best beaches in the world. Decorated in a sophisticated colonial, Creole style and incorporating natural elements of its location, the villa feature antiques and artwork collected by the villa’s owners.

It has a spacious comfortable lounge, including a sitting area and dining room which is next to a well equipped kitchen. Two bedrooms are found in the main building and the other two in two separate guest houses which are accessible via a forest path. The main villa is bordered by gorgeous covered verandas, sunny poolside terraces and a lovely shaded pavilion, all with stunning views of the forest or sea. Guests also have access to all of the facilities of the Banyan Tree Resort.

Enjoy the lively festivities of the Kreol festival on the island as well as some Creole culture right within the comfort of your own private villa at the Residence on the Rocks here.

Porlwi by Nature, Mauritius

Over the course of this five-day festival, taking place this year from November 29th to December 3rd in Port Louis, the capital city of Mauritius, visitors can learn about the island via art and nature – this year’s theme for the festival. A favorite of our local experts at Villanovo, this third edition of the festival aims to create a reflection on the environment and our surroundings. Port Louis has a rich botanical history and an incredible array of flora and fauna, the art created for the festival will strive to raise awareness of this and reintegrate green spaces in the heart of the city. This will be done through street art, light installations, music and other displays created specifically for this year’s festival.

Where to Stay in Mauritius – Villa Kavanga

Carry on with the theme of nature by staying at this stunning beach villa, located on the northeastern coast of Mauritius in Roches Noires and set on a gorgeous lagoon and surrounded by exotic garden and lush lawns.

The luxurious 305m2 villa, available through Villanovo, has a backdrop of a formation of black rocks and it faces a wide lagoon with a sandy beach. The stylish villa is divided over two floors. The ground floor has a welcoming open-plan lounge/living room with lovely teak furnishings and beautiful view over the turquoise lagoon. This leads out to the gardens, a covered terrace, a private infinity pool (3 x 2m, depth 1.5m) and the spectacular sandy beach. There is also a high quality furnished dining area and a fully equipped kitchen with a granite kitchen top. The first floor is home to the four spacious bedrooms and a cozy TV room.

Guests can partake in a number of watersports right from the villa, made all the more enjoyable due to the surrounding islets which provide shelter from the waves. In the vicinity are three acclaimed golf courses of the Eastern Coast as well as Grand Baie, the “Northern Riviera” known for its luxury shops, restaurants, clubs and marina. A half an hour drive is the world-renowned Pamplemousses Garden and Port Louis can be reached in less than an hour.

Savor a private paradise in a stunning natural setting with Villanovo here.

Cap Classique & Champagne Festival and HSBC World Rugby Sevens, South Africa 

As spring gradually blends into summer, the Cape Town area has some excellent events recommended by our local experts at La Rive. Firstly, the lovely winelands town of Franschhoek will host its annual Cap Classique and Champagne Festival, the ‘Magic of Bubbles’, which takes place December 2nd-4th at the iconic Huguenot Monument. It’s always a wonderful weekend of amazing weather, beautiful people dressed to impress and, most importantly, South Africa’s finest Méthode Cap Classiques (MCC) bubbly. The following weekend, the event calendar turns to sports for the HSBC Cape Town Sevens. Held on December 9th-10th, it’s regarded as one of the best sporting events in South Africa and is the second of 10 global destinations that will comprise the 2017/18 HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series.

 

Where to Stay in the Western Cape – La Rive

Enjoy the Franschhoek Cap Classique & Champagne Festival while staying at the beautifully restored six-bedroom La Rive Farmhouse, located in a the town center. The villa combines a lovely mix of Victorian, Cape Dutch and Georgian architecture and furniture, as well as artwork by famous South African artists like Neil Rodger, Gregoire Boonzaier, Edward Wolfe and Dylan Lewis. Each of the villa’s bedrooms has its own personality, character and decoration.

Outside, guests can enjoy the property’s spacious, airy patios and inviting swimming pool, ideal for a quick dip to cool down from Franschhoek’s hot late spring day. There is also a lush “secret” garden with a number of paths leading to various alcoves, benches and lawns, a great place to wander in the shade or have a peaceful moment.

During your stay, you will be extremely well taken care of by the villa’s live-in chef and butler who can also give you advice on how to best take in the sparkling festival.

Over in Cape Town, La Rive also has a divine four-bedroom Penthouse. The luxurious “Home in the Sky,” was redesigned two years ago giving it an Art Deco, stylish, yet cozy feel. The expansive, classy living area includes a classic grand piano and, like at the La Rive Farmhouse, paintings and sculptures from some of South Africa’s best known artists.

The large, comfortable bedrooms are divided around the apartment to provide guests with their own privacy. The south-facing apartment has a sublime infinity pool, surrounded by terraces from which you can admire breathtaking views of Robben Island, the Atlantic Ocean and the Metropolitan Golf Course and the Green Point Urban Park.

The building is found right on the bustling Sea Point promenade with nearby access to Cape Town’s world famous beaches, the V&A Waterfront, and a fabulous range of excellent restaurants are within walking distance. A 24-hour Concierge Service is on hand to welcome all guests and assist with anything you may need during your stay. If you would like tickets to the HSBC Cape Town Sevens, please let the La Rive team know when you book.

Learn more about these gorgeous La Rive luxury rentals at this link.

There are many beautiful towns in England, however, the lovely region of the Cotswolds might have the greatest concentration of charming English villages. Spanning six counties in south-central England, the Cotswolds runs from Bath in the south to Chipping Campden in the north and is dotted with dozens of charming towns lined with quaint flower-laden cottages, historic pubs and medieval limestone churches. Our local experts at Luxury Cotswold Rentals and Loyd & Townsend Rose reveal their favorite towns and luxury accommodation in this splendid pocket of, not only England, but the world.

Burford

Situated in north Oxfordshire, twenty miles west of Oxford, Burford is one of the Cotswold’s finest market towns and is considered the southern gateway to this exquisite region. A recommendation of Nigel Stengard-Green of Luxury Cotswold Rentals, this pretty town sits on the river Windrush and was the site of a fortified fort in Anglo-Saxon times.

“The town rose to be an important crossroads and very wealthy wool town,” explains Nigel. “Today it is very popular with visitors, drawn by its high street lined with dignified old houses, ancient cottages and many shops, all of which appear little changed since Tudor times. There are wonderful little side streets to explore as well as old pubs, tea and antique shops. The 15th-century St. John Baptist church is marvelous and is another sign of bygone riches based on wool.”

The historic town slopes gently down to the river and from above, you have beautiful views over the open countryside, down to the willow fringed River Windrush in the pretty Windrush valley in addition to a three-arched medieval bridge spanning the river at the foot of the hill. While in town, be sure to track down some of its most important historic buildings like England’s oldest pharmacy, a chemist’s since 1734, a well-preserved set of medieval almshouses next to the church and the 16th-century Tolsey building, once the meeting place of medieval merchants, now a local museum focused on the town’s social and industrial past.

Where to Stay in Burford – The Brewery Burford

A recent addition to the Cotswold rental market, the Brewery is a wonderful blend of the traditional and the contemporary and is in the repertoire of Luxury Cotswold Rentals.

This converted historic brewery is found in a very central location on Sheep Street, in the heart of Burford. The common spaces are cozy and accentuate the historic aspects of the building with stylish modern elements. Guest will enjoy entertaining in the large open-plan, well equipped kitchen and dining room with seating for up to 12 or in its comfortable drawing and study, which can also serve as an additional bedroom. Wall-to-ceiling glass around the private interior courtyard provides gentle nature light and a wonderful place to relax outdoors. Three of the four double bedrooms have ensuite baths, and the master bedroom has its own open fireplace.

Make the most of village life in the Cotswolds at this quaint and luxurious cottage with Luxury Cotswold Rentals here.

Stow on the Wold

Nestled in the heart of the North Cotswolds is the small market town of Stow on the Wold, a favorite of our Andrew Loyd of Loyd & Townsend Rose. The town boasts some beautiful old houses built by wealthy wool merchants, which have now become a plethora of attractive hotels, pubs and shops.

“Like all Cotswolds towns, there is an elegant church and a large market square off which various narrow lanes lead off to the surrounding countryside,” describes Andrew. “Stow is maintained in immaculate condition and the soft honey coloured stone is a big part of what makes this area so beautiful.

“However, the town is not just a tourist destination. Indeed alongside the tea shops, antique and gift shops are some excellent stores which is locals use on a daily basis like the superb butcher Lambournes, an excellent pharmacy and the delightfully hidden away Borzoi bookshop, which has been serving the area for 40 years.

“The pubs, hotels and restaurants attract a huge following and close by is the Cotswold foodstore, where the parking is a little easier. The Porch House on Sheep Street is in fact England’s oldest Inn, dating back to 947. Fortunately, the bedrooms and cuisine have all been brought up to date and their Sunday roast is excellent. The Old Butchers across the street is probably our favourite and offers excellent bistro style food. Just a few miles out of town, guests can also visit Lady Bamford’s Daylesford Farm Shop & Spa, which offers indulgent food, dining and spa treatments.”

There is certainly enough to do in Stow based on Andrew’s great insider tips, though if you are looking for more to do in the area, there are several other sites of interest in the area such as the famous gardens of Hidcote Manor, Kiftsgate Court and Sezincote, the Batsford Arboretum and Falconry centre or the historic Chastleton House in addition to other famous local market towns like Chipping Norton, Moreton in Marsh and Bourton on the Water.

Where to Stay near Stow on the Wold – Cornwell Manor

You could stay in town, however, to really spoiling yourself on exceptional accommodation, considering booking in at the beautiful Cornwell Manor, located just a few miles from Stow on the Wold. This quintessential Cotswold manor house, available through Loyd & Townsend Rose, is nestled in its own little village which is surrounded by thousands of acres of rolling countryside and is the perfect venue to base yourself at whilst exploring the Cotswolds.

The house is only rented out on an exclusive use basis and comes with its own ballroom, swimming pool, tennis court, church and lake. The interiors are elegant but warm and friendly, plus there are some lovely bedrooms that overlook the stunning gardens. It’s straight out of a Jane Austen novel and hugely romantic.

Loyd & Townsend Rose highly recommend this house for family groups or birthday celebrations — a great number of their guests have had many happy experiences here. There are music festivals at Cornbury, food festivals like the Big Festival at Alex James’ Farm, opera at Longborough, jazz and literary festivals at Cheltenham and many sporting events as well. This is the most popular area in Britain for visitors and when you come you will quickly see why.

Design your perfect English country holiday or special occasion at Cornwell manor with Loyd & Townsend Rose at this link.

Chipping Campden

Located in the northern Cotswolds, this picturesque old wool merchants’ town made of golden local limestone is considered one of the loveliest in England and is another favorite of Nigel Stengard-Green.

Once one of the most important wool towns of England, its wares become famous throughout Europe. This era of prosperity is displayed in the town’s beautifully crafted buildings. An excellent example is St. James Church, with its impressive 36-meter tower and historic altar tapestries, it’s recognized as the finest ‘wool’ church in the Cotswolds. The 17th-century Market Hall and Alms Houses are other testaments to the town’s mercantile history. Its attractive High Street is lined with single terrace houses, although of different architectural styles, there is charming symmetry.

The town is abuzz during the month of May with two renowned festivals the Campden Literature Festival and the renowned Chipping Campden Music Festival, which plays host to artists from across the world. Throughout the summer there are a number of other festivals, like the mid-June Chipping Campden Open Gardens Weekend.

The countryside around Chipping Campden is particularly exceptional and merits some dedicated time whilst holidaying in the area. Its springtime bluebells, fields of summertime poppies and lavender and seas of golden autumn leaves are a marvel for the eyes are can be admired a short walk or drive from Chipping Campden town centre. In addition to the immediate vicinity, Nigel also suggests visiting the nearby surrounding shire counties of Oxfordshire, Worcestershire and Warwickshire. Slightly further afield, within an hour’s drive, you can explore Blenheim Palace and the Cotswolds to the south, Worcester and the Malverns to the west as well as Stratford-upon-Avon and Warwick (the best medieval castle in Europe).

Where to Stay Near Chipping Campden – The Old Rectory

Featured by the Telegraph Luxury Travel as a Cotswold ‘destination’, The Old Rectory is a refined and charming Victorian family home nestled in five acres of garden with breathtaking views of the Cotswold Escarpment and Broadway Tower.

Available through Luxury Cotswold Rentals, the beautiful five bedroom property is located next to the 13th-century St Mary’s Church on the eastern edge of the village of Aston Somerville, and is 11 miles from Chipping Campden and only four miles from Broadway, another lovely village of the Cotswolds. Guests can relax in the various common rooms of the interior from the elegant drawing room, the sitting room with an open fire and the dining room with an antique billiard dining table. Three of the bedrooms are found in the main house and a suite is situated in the garden cottage.

The tranquil gardens have several venues for al fresco dining and socialising as well as hidden nooks for quiet contemplation. The grounds also have a heated swimming pool, hot tub and tennis court, perfect for a holiday with family or friends. The classic setting of the property is ideal for weddings and other celebrations, with a lawn protected by its own ha-ha – ideal for a marquee and the paddocks offering plenty of parking for guests.

Enjoy an sophisticated stay in the Cotswolds at The Old Rectory by contacting Luxury Cotswold Rental here.

Bath

Albeit a little large than a town, this beautiful and truly unique destination in the Southern Cotswolds still exudes immense charm and quintessential Cotswold character. Bath’s spectacular historic center has also been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

“Bath is so much more than just a tourist mecca.” says Nigel Stengard-Green. “It’s brimming with things to do and has a fantastic city centre, where you can shop until you drop, but also relax and unwind. Bath is the only place in the UK where you can bathe in naturally hot spa water and original Roman Baths, making it the ultimate spa break destination for thousands of years.”

In addition to its famous 2,000-year-old Roman Baths, visitors will enjoy discovering the city’s gorgeous Abbey, the iconic Royal Crescent and neighboring Circus, the enchanting covered Pulteney Bridge as well as other regal Georgian buildings. Literature fans can delve into the life of one of England’s beloved writers, Jane Austin, at a museum dedicated to her life and various stays in Bath. Food lovers will be thrilled with the city’s excellent variety of restaurants, bars and cafés and there are activities to please all ages in the area such as Stonehenge and Longleat Safari Park.

Where to Stay Near Bath – Langley Park

Situated a thirty minute drive from Bath, between Tetbury and Chippenham, you can carry on holidaying in Georgian style at exquisite Langley Park, an 18th-century listed mansion set within 85 acres of parkland, available through Luxury Cotswold Rentals.

Recently restored, the elegant home succeeds at being cozy despite its large size. It’s a wonderful, sophisticated venue for entertaining family and friends and is perfect for weddings and corporate retreats. Guests can socialize or relax in its refined drawing room, sitting room and study whereas meals can be enjoyed in the breakfast room or the formal dining room which seats up to 20.

There are 11 bedrooms and eight bathrooms in the main house and an additional two bedrooms and one bathroom in the attached cottage; where the Billiard and Table Tennis rooms are located. In addition, Langley has a fully equipped cellar Night Club, so there’s no need to go into town for evening entertainment! In summer guests can enjoy the gorgeous grounds strolling the formal gardens, the park and woodlands or take a dip in the heated swimming pool.

Contact Luxury Cotswold Rentals here to start planning your stylish escape to the Bath area at this magnificent mansion.

Further Reading

Looking for more inspiration for your trip to England? You may enjoy these other articles on our Journal about England:

– Must See Capability Brown Gardens

– In Search of 007

– Best Food Markets in Europe

– Fabulous Summer City Breaks

As the summer draws to a close, it’s time to start thinking about this winter’s skiing holiday in the mountains. Hit the fresh snow from one of these freshly built luxury chalets now in Ultimate Luxury Chalets’ exceptional repertoire of the most exclusive rental chalets and apartments in the Alps.

Chalet Queen Mijane – Three Valleys, France

Surrounded by fir trees yet conveniently located in the charming village of Meribel and a short distance from the Golf chairlift, this newly built six-bedroom chalet is ideal for families looking a modern luxurious mountain getaway.

The large chalet can sleep up to 10 adults and four children and keeps both young and old pleased with its swimming pool, hammam, toasty fireplace and spacious living areas. The chalet features classy and contemporary decor, natural wood and vast bay windows which cast in plenty of natural light.

A staircase and an elevator serve all floors, allowing for easy access from the bedrooms to the dining area or down to the swimming pool. The spacious living space, which includes a library and a piano, opens onto a south facing terrace via French doors. The dining room is separated from the living room by a beautiful stone fireplace and the well-equipped kitchen can be separated from the lounge area by a sliding door.

Each of the comfortable bedrooms (including a bunk room for the kids) has its own terrace, where you can savor a moment of privacy enveloped by the stunning nature of the mountains. You can further relax in the wellness area, home to an infinity pool that overlooks the pine trees or in the sublime stunning stone hammam.

Check availability through Ultimate Luxury Chalets here.

Chalet Altius – Three Valleys, France

Combine excellent skiing, a lively après ski vibe and great shopping by staying at this sleek six-bedroom chalet, also found in Meribel, just off the Doron piste which leads down to the Chaudanne lift hub.

The generous, modern luxury chalet is spread over four floors. The main living area is towards the top of the chalet along with its expansive terrace with spectacular views towards the south and west. Adjacent to this room is the dining room with a table seating up to eight as well as a fully equipped professional kitchen and bar area complete with a wine cellar. Just above this, the top floor is home to a spacious master bedroom, with its own ensuite bathroom and dressing area.

The other bedrooms are all located on level 1. Three of these have their own bathrooms, while two share a bathroom. Next to these rooms is the wellness area which contains a sauna, steam room, gym and massage area – the perfect place to rejuvenate after your long day on the slopes. You can also unwind in the chalet’s cinema room.

This chalet is getting booked up quickly! So enquire now to reserve your stay through Ultimate Luxury Chalets here.

Chalet Dolce Vita – Courchevel Moriond, France

This beautiful new seven-suite chalet is set to become the hottest luxury chalet in Courchevel Moriond. Set in a tranquil area of resort, it showcases stunning views and is only couple of minutes from the center and its high-speed gondola.

Extending over five floors, the 600m2 chalet enjoys gorgeous panoramic views over the valley beyond, especially from its upper level open plan lounge area where you’ll find expansive double height windows allowing in an abundance of natural light. When not gazing at the awe-inspiring views, you can curl up beside the rooms blazing fireplace.

Sleeping up to 14 guests, each of the chalet’s suite comes with its own ensuite bathroom. The chalet’s wellness area, finished in a Venetian style, is a definite highlight. It’s home to a large indoor/outdoor swimming pool where you can choose to keep warm inside or revive with some fresh mountain air outside. There is also a sauna and steam room and an outdoor Jacuzzi. Further entertainment facilities include a children’s playroom, cinema room and bar.

Bring family and friends together for an incredible luxury holiday at this new chalet by reaching out to Ultimate Luxury Chalets at this link.

Christiania Penthouse – Zermatt, Switzerland

Experience the best of the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise at the stunning seven-bedroom Christiana Penthouse, found only 500m from away from the entrance in the center town and its vibrant high street. Perfect for eager skiers, the Klein Matterhorn lift station is only an eight-minute walk or three-minute taxi ride and the Sunnega lift station is a nine-minute walk or four-minute taxi ride.

The penthouse occupies the top two floors of the brand new Christiania Residence. Its upstairs living space offers a spacious and elegant open-plan sitting and dining area. The bright room receives a lot of sunlight streaming through its floor to ceiling sliding doors, which open onto am ample balcony with exceptional views of the majestic Matterhorn. The stylish room has contemporary furnishings and design elements in addition to an epic dining table that regularly sits up to 18 and can be extended to 24. The well-equipped kitchen has a small breakfast bar and great views of the town of Zermatt.

The bedrooms are divided across the apartment’s two floors. They are all a comfortable size, have desks, TVs, safes and large super king size beds that can be split into twins. Most of the bedrooms have either a private or a shared terrace and some have their own seating areas. Five have ensuite or private shower/bathrooms and two share a bathroom and can also be closed off from the rest of the floor to make a family suite. The master bedroom has amazing views of the Matterhorn, a wood burning fireplace, ensuite bathroom, walk-in wardrobe and roomy terrace.

The apartment has its own private sauna and guests have access to the building’s shared gym with massage room and shower area. There is also a ski room with private lockers for each apartment that has heated boot warmers.

Enjoy the perfect stylish base in Zermatt with Ultimate Luxury Chalets here.

Chalet Joux Plane – Morzine, Portes du Soleil, France

The soon to be finished Chalet Joux Plane is set to be the premier luxury ski chalet in the Portes du Soleil. Accessible via a 15m underground tunnel, you’ll be transported into the latest generation of luxury chalets.

Conveniently located a short distance from the Retour de Nants piste and within close proximity to the centre of Morzine, the six-bedroom 600m2 chalet can accommodate 10-14 guests in five ensuite bedrooms and a bunk room for the kids. Every aspect has been carefully considered from the phenomenal open plan living area to huge indoor-out 22m pool which passes right through the building. In addition to the pool, there will be a range of other spa facilities including a sauna and massage room where guests can be pampered with Bamford Spa products and bespoke treatments.

The plush and sprawling living room is at the heart of the chalet. It has top-to-bottom windows, offering jaw-dropping views over Morzine and towards Avoriaz. From here you can access the dining area on a central mezzanine as well as a separate library and bar mezzanine at the front of the building via a glass staircase that allows guests to see down into the entrance of the pool area.

The property is named after the iconic road on which it is situated, one of the most famous Tour de France climbs in the Alps, which hosted the final stage of last year’s race. It’s a short distance from the centre of Morzine, and for advanced skiers, the property can be accessed by a gentle off-piste ski from the Retour de Nants piste.

Be one of the first to experience this superior chalet by contacting Ultimate Luxury Chalets at this link.

Related Articles

If you need any further inspiration for planning your ski trip to the Alps, you may like to peruse some of our other fantastic blog posts on the area:

– The Ultimate Luxury Ski Resorts in Europe

– Best Ski Resorts for Late Skiing

– 5 Perfect European Ski Destinations for Beginners

– Where to Find the Best Fondue in the Alps

Sometimes fate puts us in the right place at the right time. We discover a fascinating example of this through the story behind the gorgeous Residence on the Rocks villa. Located in a secluded area on the estate of the Banyan Tree Resort on Mahé,the main island of the Seychelles, the villa came about partially thanks to a race car driver and a member of the Beatles! The villa’s owner Karl Ammann tells us more…

 

“Like most frequent travelers to the Seychelles I fell in love with the islands on my very first visit. That was in 1977 while I was working in the hotel industry in Kenya and at British Airways (then still BOAC), operating a VC 10 which traveled from Hong Kong to London via the Seychelles and Nairobi – a strange route indeed by today’s airline routing criteria!

“However, at the time it was the most convenient way to get from Nairobi to East Asia. Having allotted some time for a short stop over on Mahé on one of these trips, I was soon back for a real vacation. Driving around the island immediately resulted in the desire to own a piece of this paradise.

 

“I then met up with some British expatriates who had decided to stay behind in the construction industry after working on the construction of the Mahé Airport. They had started to actively market properties to foreigners and managed to convince me that the time was right to build a retreat on Mahé. So after some research I bought a plot at Les Cannelles, overlooking Anse à la Mouche. Though this first villa project didn’t come without its share of complications from the local authorities regarding official documents from back home and some building regulations.

“For the next few years I was a regular visitor to Mah,é bringing along my diving equipment and making a range of friends. Once my father retired, my parents began spending regular winters in the sun, yet concerns regarding having proper medical back up gradually reduced their trips. Therefore, maintaining a predominantly empty villa started to become a financial issue and a twist of fate changed our Seychelles’ destiny.

 

“On a sabbatical from my hotelier’s job in 1980 I ended up in Kenya’s Masai Mara Reserve doing some research on cheetahs. One day I came across a stranded minibus and I stopped to offer the tourists a lift. It turned out to be Jackie Stewart, the race car driver, and his wife. We hit it off instantly and I took them on several game viewing excursions over the next two days. Afterwards we stayed in touch and got together several times in New York and Switzerland.

 

“One day, after I was back in the hotel business but still had my little camp in the Mara, Jackie’s secretary called me to see if I could arrange a safari for a friend of his, the business manager of George Harrison of the Beatles. This was of course no problem at all and Denis and his family had a great time on safari. During our time together, the Seychelles came up and Denis told me that George Harrison, together with Peter Sellar, had acquired a big plot of Intendance Bay in the south of Mahé. A coincidence since my wife and I would regularly play in the waves of what we consider to be one of the rougher but most beautiful beaches of the archipelago.

“Then came a time when land ownership and redistribution in the Seychelles became an issue and many underutilized properties were being seized for national development. I heard through the grapevine that these events could also affected the Harrison/Sellar’s plot on Intendance.

 

“A few years later there was a change in direction and former owners were given the option to renegotiate the status of plots which were still vacant. Fortuitous timing that I then a British investment broker in Kenya to whom I told the story of the Seychelles and the status of affairs with properties like Intendance Bay. He decided to take a visit over and came back enchanted and interested in investing. I contacted Denis who told me, “I hope we can still find the files, all that land was written down to U$ 1 in our books”. They did find it and a deal to purchase the land was concluded leading to the birth of the Banyan Tree Resort – the first real five star property on Mahé.

“As part of the package of helping to set up the initial phase of the above development, I received a residential plot which was to be part of a larger residential development. Thus, time had come to sell the villa at Les Cannelles and turn my attention to this much more ambitious project – one which did not come without its own set of challenges! From zoning and getting the title to the plot to from acquiring the right equipment to build and then maintain a five star hotel operation, there were many hurdles and things to plan for.

 

“In the meantime, I had an architect in Kenya, who had previously worked in Seychelles, draw up the plans for my villa based on my very specific instructions and based on some weekend visit to the site in the Seychelles. Dealing with contractors and trying to find the materials we wanted locally created a number of frustrations. Luckily the internet was on the rise and souring what we needed online was probably the best decision I made in the context of building this residence.

“As a result, my wife and I took the project in stride, traveling and searching local markets in several parts of Africa for interesting tribal art, looking for antique colonial furniture in Northern India and scouting the handicraft markets of Chiang Mai and Myanmar for additional décor. Being able to buy by the container load, and still in the end saving quite a lot of money, was one of the most enjoyable aspects of this project. We wanted to have a blend of these international elements with the local Creole style which is in itself a blend of French, Chinese, African Indian and English.

“In addition, we choose recycled Burmese teak timber for all the doors and the floors and most of the other wood needed, save for the 16 antique French doors. We also found a wide variety of antique wrought and cast iron pieces which we incorporated into the decor.

“I then decided to expand on the ‘green building concept’ by adding a 50,000-liter rainwater collection tank under the guest house, as well as incorporate solar panels for hot-water heating and other energy saving electrical devices.

 

“However, besides the fun items, I also had to learn about the more mundane aspects that go into a building, like insulating materials, electrical wiring, solar hot water systems, equipment associated with a large swimming pool, rust proof screws, and much more. Finding the right pieces and getting them to Mahé turned into a real challenge, but all completely worth it in the end.”

The “Residence on the Rocks’ was completed in 2008. Encircled by the tropical forest, the four-bedroom villa has a stunning infinity pool, relaxing covered verandas and spectacular sea views. It’s a unique property which has been built with passion and is a true labor of love. Enjoy a heavenly holiday at this villa paradise by contacting Karl here.

On July 11th Gencom, a leading Miami-based international luxury hospitality and residential real estate investment and development firm, announced an investment of more than USD 100 million investment towards a major enhancement of Peninsula Papagayo, a 1,400-acre premier residential and resort destination in northwestern Costa Rica, where our experts Papagayo Luxury is based.

 

The comprehensive works with begin in December 2017 and will take eco-luxury and transformative experiences in Central America to a remarkable new level. The transformation revolves around the re-imagined Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica and a range of unique first-ever Peninsula Papagayo amenities, transformative experiences and facilities which will help preserve one of the most extraordinary biological corridors on the globe.

“Intertwining luxury amenities with nature and sustainability have always been at the heart and soul of the Peninsula Papagayo resort development,” explains Jane Moore, director of Papagayo Luxury. “Under the new ownership of Gencom and their investment of significant funds, the resort will continue to evolve and strengthen its founding principles.”

 

These enhanced guest experiences will include:

• A major renovation of Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica, the only Forbes five-star resort in Central and South America and home to an 18-hole Arnold Palmer-designed course and five tennis courts available for guests of Papagayo Luxury
• An 8+ mile network of nature trails within the confines of the resort gates
• A Macaw sanctuary with the objective of cultivating this native species through conservation and educational programming
• An onsite Papagayo Explorers Club which will present a collection of “only here” experiences of different themes like adventure, culture, and volunteer opportunities
• An enhancement of the Marina Papagayo, which will include a new restaurant and lounge, gourmet market, and new yacht charter options
• Investment in the private Prieta Beach Club, scheduled to reopen in time for Thanksgiving week with a new restaurant, new spa services, and more.

 

 

It’s an exciting time to plan a trip to this exceptional biosphere where you’ll soon be treated to these wonderful new amenities as well as the area’s 11 miles of dramatic coastline, eight miles of gorgeous bluff edges, seven sandy beaches and one of the world’s only tropical dry forests.

Papagayo Luxury is evolving along with the resort. They have just added a spectacular newly built villa to their collection of luxury holiday villas and condos. The brand new four-bedroom Sky’s Edge villa has unbelievable views of the ocean and the vivid sunsets. The cutting edge design features crisp lines, phenomenal floor to ceiling windows, vast vaulted ceilings, a number of terraces and sleek contemporary furnishings.

The Peninsula Papagayo is located only 30 minutes from Liberia International Airport, which is accessible by over 100 weekly flights seasonally from major cities in the U.S., Canada, U.K. and across Central America. Be one of the first to stay in this exceptional villa or learn more about the resort’s upcoming transformation by contacting Papagayo Luxury here.

September through mid-December can be the best time to get away, especially for those who have the freedom to travel outside the traditional holiday times imposed by school holidays. It might be “autumn” in the northern hemisphere, however, you can get virtually any season you wish depending on where you go. Extend your summer in the Caribbean or South Pacific; admire spring blossoms in Mauritius or Cape Town; catch the end of the Great Migration in Kenya or the colorful fall foliage in New York State – satisfy your travel cravings (and possibly make great savings!) at one of these amazing luxury villas.

Villa Gardenia, Barbados

September and October are ideal months to go to the Barbados when three wellness and sports festivals are taking place. Therefore, if you are looking for a warm destination to focus on your wellbeing and enjoyment, this absolutely stunning beachfront property in Barbados by Blue Sky Luxury is the perfect place for a fall getaway, plus it’s included in Blue Sky Luxury’s special extended summer offer – giving you further enticement to this beautiful island!

The month of September kicks off with the Barbados Beach and Wellness Festival taking place on the 2nd and 3rd. It’s your chance to have early morning beach workouts and energetic yoga led by a talented local yoga and meditation instructors, musicians, speakers, chefs and other professionals. From September 5th to 10th mountain and road biking enthusiasts of all levels with flock to the island for the inaugural Barbados Cycling Festival. It’s a fabulous opportunity to discover Barbados along some of its fabulous biking trails in addition to possibly winning some big prizes! Spectators can also ride the wave of excitement on the last day with music and entertainment on the beach. Lastly, Barbados will be the first-time host of the Dragon World Championships – a paddleboard team racing event. This will take place from October 28th to 30th on lovely Carlisle Bay, Bridgetown and should be an enjoyable, laid back day of racing and fun!

Located between Holetown and Speightstown, the Villa Gardenia is an ideal base for taking in the excitement of the season in Barbados while having a sumptuous beach retreat. The vast six-bedroom villa is set amidst 3.3 acres of gorgeous gardens with trickling streams and lily ponds. It has a fabulous swimming pool and the beach is right at your doorstep. After a swim, you can enjoy delightful refreshments or meals underneath the large gazebo boasting spectacular sea views.

Inside, the entrance foyer flows into an alluring living/dining room, framed by coral stone pillars and which opens onto the verandah. The ground floor also has a family/media room, kitchen, laundry facilities, a fitness room and three of the plush guest suites. The elegant master suite spreads over the entire first floor and includes a sitting room, private balcony and a luxury bathroom with a dressing area.

The two additional guest suites, with wet bars, are located in the Gate House annex, allowing for excellent privacy. The property is conveniently situated close to the Golf course at Royal Westmoreland and Sandy Lane.

Contact Blue Sky Luxury here to learn more about this exceptional villa and their special extended summer offer!

La Rive Penthouse, Cape Town

The Southern Hemisphere is about to break out in a burst of springtime blossoms and Cape Town is an incredible place to take in the season. In September the Western Cape’s fields will break out in a palette in colorful wildflowers. The mild spring weather is also a major draw as the thermometer gradually rises in October into the mid 20s c (mid 70s f), pleasant days naturally refreshened by the lovely Cape Town breeze.

You can thoroughly enjoy the pleasures of the season directly on the terrace of the sublime La Rive Penthouse, an exquisite four-bedroom in Cape Town. Nicknamed the “Home in the Sky,” the luxurious apartment was recently redesigned two years ago giving it an Art Deco, stylish, yet homey feel. The expansive, classy living area features a classic grand piano and a number of paintings and sculptures from some of South Africa’s best known artists.

The spacious and comfortable bedrooms are positioned to provide guests with their own privacy. There are also two studies for those needing to do some work while on holiday, however, it may be hard to concentrate with the delightful outdoor spaces beckoning. The south-facing apartment has its own wonderful infinity pool surrounded by terraces with awe-inspiring views of Robben Island, the Atlantic Ocean and the Metropolitan Golf Course and the Green Point Urban Park.

The building is found right on the bustling Sea Point promenade with nearby access to Cape Town’s world famous beaches, the V&A Waterfront, and a fabulous range of excellent restaurants are within walking distance. A 24-hour Concierge Service is on hand to welcome all guests and assist with any desires you may have during your stay.

Enjoy a sublime springtime vacation in Cape Town at the magical La Rive Penthouse at this link.

Dutchess County Estate – New York, U.S.A.

If you are looking for an autumn getaway close to New York City where you can view fall foliage in a beautiful and your own private setting, than book in at this splendid seven-bedroom country estate available through Villas and Apartments Abroad. Locate only 2.5 hours from Manhattan, you will be able to start admiring the vibrant golds and reds blazing across the forests on your way to the estate on the outskirts of pretty Rhinebeck.

Built as an inn in the 18th century, which most likely received important guests like George Washington, the restored home retains plenty of historic character from its hand-chiseled triple height barn to its large fireplaces. This charm comes accompanied by all the modern luxury amenities and comforts. The interior has several dining areas, an antique barroom, a large TV room with 70” flatscreen and a sitting room with floor to ceiling bookshelves, the perfect place to curl up with a good book on a crisp autumn evening. The master bedroom includes a king bed, fireplace, sitting area, and a marbled master bath. Two of the other bedrooms have king beds, three rooms have queen beds and the last bedroom has a twin, making it ideal for a multigenerational family trip, two families traveling together or a group of friends.

Depending on when the leaves turn, you may be able to admire some bright colors while wandering through the 29-acre estate’s manicured gardens or wild woods accessed by a wooden bridge over the stream. If the weather is warm enough in September, you may be able to dip your toes in the swimming pool carved out of the natural rocks, the less brave can simply relax in one of the various outdoor sitting areas. For guests who do not wish to do their own cooking, a wonderful chef can come to the estate to prepare delicious seasonal dishes or there are great restaurants in the area.

Get in touch with Villas and Apartments Abroad here to help you plan an easy autumn escape from the city.

Villa Amanassa, Marrakech

After the intense summer heat has died down, the autumn is an fantastic time to visit Marrakech. With convenient connections to many European cities, it’s an ideal getaway for anyone fleeing the chillier, rainier weather which will soon be covering the skies (read more on our favorite things to do in Marrakech autumn and winter here). The striking Villa Amanassa by Villanovo is an excellent base for your luxurious break to Marrakech.

The beautiful property is located on the Amelkis Golf Resort and has accommodation for up to eight. It blends traditional Moorish architecture with the best modern amenities. It is organised around two patios (which can be be completely closed by sliding transparent domes in cooler weather) and fountains encircled by a private garden with a large swimming pool.

The interiors are decorated in lovely shades of blue, grey and beige and have comfortable furnishings. A large living room has a cozy fireplace and opens onto the terrace and golf course beyond. Another fireplace can be found in the dining room. Guests can relax indoors in the separate TV lounge, the theatre room with large sofas and projection screen, workout in the fitness room or be pampered in a wellness centre with hammam/spa (additional charge of 50 € per day). The four suites are equipped with king size beds (210 × 180) or twin beds (210 × 90) which are draped in luxury bedding and Egyptian cotton linens. All of the bathrooms have a shower, a bath and a separate toilet.

The terraces have been designed to take advantage of shade or sun depending on the season. The mirror pool (15m x 5m) faces south and is bordered by palm trees, orange, lemon and banana trees. The villa comes with a staff made up of a cook, two maids, a caretaker and a gardener.

Take in the sunshine and many autumn delights of Marrakech with Villanovo here.

Vatuvara Private Islands, Fiji

Autumn’s crisp days and nights are just around the corner in the northern hemisphere. Perhaps you can squeeze in one more vacation before winter sets in? There’s still time to extend your summer a little longer by making your way to the Northern Lau Group of the Fiji Islands where summer is endless and the sunsets extraordinary at Vatuvara Private Islands.

Vatuvara Private Islands offers conscientious luxury to the discerning traveler. The resort has three secluded and expansive seaside villas which have been meticulously crafted with natural textures and materials creating spacious and comfortably elegant environments. Each with their own private beach access, the villas include an infinity edge pool surrounded by lush tropical landscaping and an abundance of aromatic flowers.

October to early November is particularly excellent time to go to Fiji. You can get some excellent airfare deals and the weather is warm and dry. At Vatuvara Private Islands, you never have to worry about crowds as the island is only accessible by private plane. You’ll be surrounded by magnificent nature in your own personal private paradise.

Extend your summer in the tropic oasis of Vatuvara Private Islands at this link.

Serenity Villa, Saint Barthélemy

While the early autumn is not a good time to visit Saint Barth when almost everything is closed, the island wakes up mid-October. The hotels, restaurants and boutiques reopen and are ready for “The Season” which begins on December 15th.  Les Soldes, the famous biannual time of year when the boutiques offer great sales, is October 14-November 24, 2017. In addition, according to our local expert Peg Walsh of St Barth Properties, if you plan a trip between October 15 and December 15th, you can get a superb villa at 30%-40% less than in high season. Their Serenity villa is ideal for making great savings on your luxury accommodation and on shopping as it’s within walking distance to the boutiques!

This sublime three-bathroom villa is located on a hillside above the harbor in the exclusive Domaine du Soleil Couchant. It boasts exceptional views of Gustavia, St. Maarten and stellar sunsets. The master bedroom features a built-in king bedroom with ensuite bath and impressive views. The other two bedrooms have twin beds, ensuite baths and lovely views.

This panorama extends into the living room which has comfortable furnishings in dark wood, attractively contrasted by white cushions. Tasty island meals can be easily prepared in the well-equipped kitchen which has a bar that overlooks the dining room and the view. The outstanding swimming pool, one of the largest pools on the whole island, is bordered by a wooden deck and comfortable outdoor furnishings, the perfect place to sip a cocktail while watching the sunset.

Leaving the villa, you can easily reach restaurants, boutiques and Shell Beach all on foot. Claim those spectacular views and fabulous deals by emailing St Barth Properties at this link.

Ranawara, Sri Lanka

For a sunny getaway in late autumn, consider the south coast of Sri Lanka. The monsoon will just be ending granting you brilliant days of sunshine and blue skies. You’ll also be sliding in before Christmas holiday-goers, improving the chances of great flight deals and completely deserted beaches. Enjoy blissful seclusion at the edge of an incredibly beautiful stretch of beach at the stylish Ranawara villa.

Hidden in an extremely private location among 23 acres of tropical gardens fringed by an uninhabited section of coastline in southern Sri Lanka, the villa is only 15 kilometres south of city of Tangalle. The main building spreads over 46,000 square feet of open plan living with five ample suites. Two other single-suite cottages separated on the grounds. The air-conditioned bedrooms have four-poster king size beds, delicate Indonesian rugs and large en-suite bathrooms. The villa also has a library, bar area, TV room, open plan kitchen and dining room, outdoor dining pavilion, a private spa and a 100 ft long swimming pool.

The gardens are abundant in vegetation with hundreds of coconut trees and tropical fruit trees including dragon fruit, green oranges, bananas, papaya, mango and wood apple.

Take in a pre-Christmas vacation in Sri Lanka at spectacular Ranawara here.

Villa Océane, Mauritius

October is also springtime over in gorgeous Mauritius, so savvy travelers will be treated to warm temperatures in the mid 20s c (mid 70s f), without the humidity of summer and there is usually no rain. Ideal weather conditions and fewer other visitors means you’ll have the long powdery beaches mainly to yourself, easily accessible if you’re staying at the beachfront Villa Océane. This sleek contemporary three-bedroom villa by Villanovo is set at the edge of the freshwater lagoon on the east coast of Mauritius, near Trou d’Eau Douce.

The house also opens onto a large swimming pool fringed by terraces, a patio with outdoor dining for 12 guests, and a comfortable lounge area. There is also a spacious terrace on the lagoon side which leads down to the pristine beach. The contemporary design of the building is echoed in the interior’s designer furniture and decoration. Guests can take a break in the large living room with TV or prepare meals in the well-equipped kitchen to be enjoyed in the dining room with table and chairs for 10 people. Each of the three bedrooms has a double bed, ensuite bath with shower, a double dressing room, their own private terrace or balcony offering breathtaking views of the lagoon and two have an office area.

The villa is situated a few minutes from the village of Trou d’Eau Douce, from where you can take an excursion out to Deer Island. Guests will also enjoy visiting the nearby famous kite spots and the great golf courses on the East coast.

Make the most of Mauritius at this exceptional time of year by reaching out to Villanovo here.

Cottar’s Bush Villa, Kenya

For an incredible African Safari experience this fall, considering going to Kenya when it’s famous annual Great Migration is in full swing and wildlife is in abundance all across the Mara Reserve and all the conservancies. September and October are still the high season here, although they are not nearly as busy as August. You won’t catch as many animals in November, however, it’s still a lovely time in visit the Masai Mara, there’s still a lot of wildlife and many fewer other visitors. Learn more about the Great Migration and witness it yourself through the fantastic videos shared by our local experts at Cottar’s 1920s Safari Camp and Bush Villa in this article.

In a secluded area of their wonderful luxury camp is their unique Bush Villa. The spacious 10,000 sq ft villa features a vast living room, dining room, a magnificent viewing deck, and five en-suite bedrooms, all with awe-inspiring views. It has internet access throughout, satellite TV and DVD, and is powered with electric and solar energy. You can also cool off and admire the magical plains from its divine private infinity pool. Guests of the Bush Villa can also make use of the Safari Camps other facilities and guides.

Enjoy a supremely private trip for the Great Migration or Kenya off season at Cottar’s 1920s Safari Camp and their exquisite Bush Villa at this link. 

Certain things instantly come to mind when France is evoked: heavenly food and wine, picture perfect villages; majestic castles, intriguing historic sites and breathtaking scenery. Most visitors are hoping that their vacation in la Belle France will include most of these, though on what is often a rushed city-hopping trip, this goal can be hard to achieve. For an extraordinarily authentic French experience, escape to the countryside, slow down to a snail’s pace and hop aboard the Luciole hotel-barge, something our editor Lily recently had the chance to do. Here’s what has made her fall in love with the Luciole and experience of a luxury barge holiday.

More Than your Average Boat

Built in 1926 as a mule-drawn freight vessel and subsequently converted into a floating hotel in 1966, the Luciole is one of the oldest hotel-barges in France. The recently refurbished vessel is in the fine repertoire of Barge Lady Cruises, the world’s top experts on canal barge vacations. The 5 x 34 meter boat has eight luxurious double and twin en-suite cabins, a spacious lounge with comfortable seating and dining areas and lastly a large raised sundeck. It has been managed with pride by the Liley family for over 40 years.

John Liley undertook a detailed exploration of Europe waterways in the 1960s, during his time as editor of a British yachting magazine. His travels inspired several books include ‘France – the Quiet Way’, an exploration of the entire French canal and river system which brought him to discovering the gorgeous 200-year-old Nivernais canal. He knew he’d come across the perfect place to establish a hotel-barge business, which he did in 1976. His wife Penny is now at the helm and their sons have also taken up a passion for barging and are involved in the business.

Superbly Stunning Scenery

Only two hours from Paris, this hidden area of Burgundy has remained far removed from the region’s well trodden tourist destinations like Dijon and Beaune. This has allowed this very rural and extremely picturesque area to retain its genuine character and charm. The canal is little traveled by other cruising boats, adding to the sublimely serene atmosphere aboard. One of the pleasures of a barge cruise is being able to truly savour the scenery, something that you can’t really do while driving. As we gently cruised along we could peacefully admire the passing pastures dotted with buttercups and grazing cows, the gentle slopes of cascading vineyards or cluster of village houses in the distance, plus a few stretches of dramatic cliffs and other unique natural wonders. If you’re nice to Captain Francisco, he may even let you steer the boat, but you’ll have to keep more of your eyes on the canal than the pretty landscape!

Immensely Charming Villages

France is known for its lovely villages and the itinerary of the Luciole includes some unquestionable gems. The cruise begins in Auxerre, where the barge is moored in the center of town, in the shado its impressive medieval cathedral. Our first morning our friendly and knowledgeable local guide Andy who accompanied us throughout the week, led through its narrow laneways and charming city-center with it enchanting 15th-century clock tower. The barge also stops close to Noyers-sur-Serein, considered one of the most beautiful villages in France. Stopping in on market day, we had a peek at the colorful stalls of seasonal vegetables, homemade sausages and fresh cheeses before wandering the crooked streets in search of medieval towers, stone walls crawling in wisteria, boutiques displaying artisanal leather goods, pottery and creative gift items. On several nights we were moored in a tiny village found along the way which could be explored early in the morning after breakfast – a moment when we could witness it rising: a villager sleepily venturing out for his morning baguette, the postman calling, the sun twinkling on the canal beneath the lock-keeper’s cute cottage.

Stoic Churches and Striking Castles

Another highlight of France is certainly its attractive and important historic sites, usually in the form of castles and churches and the Luciole’s route included a number of these. This started from day one with Auxerre’s mystifying gothic Cathedral of St Étienne with its beautiful stained glass windows and sculpture work and built up to our much anticipated visit mid-trip to the awe-inspiring Vézelay Abbey. Crowning the hilltop of a splendid town, the 11th-century basilica was the starting point of two French Crusades and is still an important site of pilgrimage. Another day we toured the Château de Bazoche, the former residence of the Marquis de Vauban who was Louis XIV’s innovative fortress designer, thus in essence, helped France become the country (and the size) that it is today.

Divine Gastronomy

A trip to France wouldn’t be complete without enjoying many of the country’s vast culinary pleasures and these are taken very seriously aboard the Luciole. This begins right at breakfast which includes a variety of fresh bread, croissants and other viennoiseries, acquired straight from oven of the best local bakeries along the route.

Then all morning the barge’s talented Scottish chef Jade has been busy preparing a “light” lunch of creative salads, sophisticated sides such as stuffed summer squash or broccoli-chevre quiche and a traditional-themed pièce de résistance of garlicky snails, battered frogs’ legs, mussels or magrets de canard. We are meant to save room for the cheese or dessert course, though it was hard to refuse seconds. With any luck, an afternoon of biking along the canal would prepare us for the exquisite dinners. Here is where Jade’s skills and imagination really shine.

The four-course evening meals featured beautifully presented innovative dishes using seasonal ingredients and contemporary flare – marveling our eyes and our stomachs. The dishes were paired with mainly local wines from Chablis and the Yonne Valley (two of which we visited on excursions) and were followed by a cheese course (accumulating in over 20 varieties by the end of the week) and a to-die-for dessert. Hostess Kimberly and Naomi always made sure the meal ended well with coffee, or a local Marc de Bourgogne or other digestif.

La Joie de Vivre

Perhaps the most important element of the cruise was intangible. Whether it was the personable and professional staff who become our friends by the end or the barge’s owner Penny popping throughout the week for a warm hello, our interactions with a jovial local shoemaker or the laughter and smile of a café owner, the quintessentially French joie de vivre attitude was underlying our whole week. The French take their time, they enjoy the finer things in life from gastronomy to quality goods and these were the force which fuel the experience aboard the Luciole.

The Luciole can be book exclusively or on a single or double occupancy on scheduled small group trips. Learn more about booking your own unique holiday aboard the Luciole by contacting Barge Lady Cruises here.

The end of August means back to work for many, however, you don’t have to say goodbye to summer by enjoying a September holiday in certain sunny holiday destinations across Europe. With hot yet not stifling temperatures and fewer crowds, it can be the best time of the year to travel. Here are some of our favorite – and sublimely sunny – spots.

Greek Isles

The end of summer is an excellent time to go to the Greek Isles with hot weather carrying over into September is still hot and virtually no clouds in the sky. The southerly islands of the Dodecanese and the Cyclades experience gorgeous weather even into October. Across the whole archipelago there are also many fewer tourists, leaving the beaches and café terraces for savvy late summer/early autumn travelers. However, be sure to check the ferry schedules as their frequency can decrease dramatically after the high season – not that being “stranded” on a fabulously sunny island would be all that sorrowful! You could always extend your stay at one of our experts outstanding villas or avoid the issue of getting around altogether by hiring out your own private yacht.

Where to Stay in the Greek Isles.

Amalfi Coast

With Italian and other European holidayers back at work, you’ll almost have this legendary coastline all to yourself. Enjoy balmy days in the low 20s c (low 70s f) as you amble through the narrow streets of colorful villages, take to the waters on a boat ride out to enchanting Capri or simply sit on the terrace at your private villa sipping some crisp prosecco, bathed in mellow sun and refreshed by the gentle sea breeze.

Where to Stay on the Amalfi Coast.

Malta

This small archipelago boasts some of the Mediterranean’s best September temperatures (around 27°c / 81°f), making it ideal for those craving the heat. This under the radar destination is perfect for anyone seeking a great cultural and gastronomic getaway. You can have an even more authentic experience by holidaying on the lesser know of its two islands, Gozo, where you might be only one of the few travelers wandering through its charming villages. You can also admire its spectacular coastline boating, diving, snorkeling or swimming.

Where to Stay in Malta.

Majorca

With warm late summer days averaging 26°c / 79°f, Majorca provides posh appeal draped in divine sunshine. The largest of Spain’s Balearic Islands, it features excellent dining, breathtaking sandy beaches, and seductive secret coves. Dating back to Roman times, its stylish and attractive capital city of Palma has a wide range of fabulous fine and casual dining, excellent boutiques and lively bars. Anchor your yacht in the bay or retreat from the buzz of town to the privacy of an exquisite private villa overlooking its captivating turquoise waters.

Where to Stay in Majorca.

The Western Algarve

Bordered by one of Europe’s most beguiling coastlines of jagged low white cliffs and dreamy coves, the Western Algarve draws those looking for a relaxed luxurious escape surrounded by exceptional beauty and enveloped by warm temperatures through early autumn. Base yourself in a sleek clifftop villa and spend your days lapping up the sunshine next to a marvelous infinity pool, stroll through quaint whitewashed fishing villages or devour succulent seafood on a terrace overlooking the sparkling Atlantic Ocean.

Where to Stay in the Western Algarve.

Saint Tropez

This chic seaside spot in the South of France isn’t only glitz and glamour. The village itself is immensely charming and September visitors can observe more of its true local life as most of the tourist mobs have gone home, also leaving you to savour sparsely populated beaches and lovely mid 20s c (mid 70s f) temperatures. At the end of September, the town plays host to the Regatta Les Voiles de St Tropez, when over 300 sailing yachts from across the world converge to compete in a week of racing and festivities, a must attend event for sailing enthusiasts or avid people watchers.

Where to Stay in Saint Tropez.

Sardinia

Summer extends far into September on this captivating Italian island – a destination for those in the know, where you you can cruise through its aquamarine waters on a luxurious speedboat, zoom past its ravishing, rugged landscape in a red Ferrari and dine on incredibly fabulous Mediterranean cuisine in its lovely seaside ports. The more adventurous can spend their days hiking along its coastal paths or kayaking around its sublime beaches while those in need of some rest and relaxing can savor the island’s splendor right from their terrace of one of the island’s impressive villas, like the Villa Paradiso by Villas and Apartments Abroad.

Located on the waterfront at Portisco Bay, the Villa Paradiso was designed by the famous Italian architect, Ferdinando Fagnola. The gorgeous contemporary and ultra comfortable villa was built into the hillside and is surrounded by a beautifully manicured one-hectare estate. It has two spacious living rooms, seven bedrooms, a gym, a panoramic swimming pool and is equipped with the latest high tech devices. What’s more, since the end of the season is approaching, you may be able to have a fantastic luxury getaway to this divine island at a discounted price.

“This is the time to grab the opportunity to afford you a longer lasting summer holiday at stunning villas that would otherwise not have been possible if you tried booking a month ago,” explains Sylvia Delvaille Jones, director of Villas and Apartments Abroad. “ The villa owners around Europe that we work closely with are willing to listen to negotiate a better rate for our last minute clients.”

To learn more about this magnificent villa, or others available in some of Europe’s best destinations in late summer and early fall, contact Sylvia at Villas and Apartments Abroad here.