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.

There’s nothing quite like observing wild animals in their natural habitat, especially in Africa where you can witness some of the world’s most exceptional wildlife scenes. On an African safari, you might catch baby elephants playfully bathing themselves at the watering hole, spot the thrilling chase of a lion after his prey or come face to face with a giant gorilla in the misty mountains. These are memories to last a lifetime which can be made all the more special by staying at one of these top luxury safari lodges across the continent, recommended by our experts at cazenove+loyd and Volcanoes Safaris.

Leobo Private Reserve – The Waterberg, South Africa

Leobo Private Reserve is an entirely private 20,000-acre estate nestled in the beautiful Waterberg mountains and overlooking the Palala Valley, a three-hour drive north of Johannesburg. It’s home to the award winning ‘Observatory Bush Villa,’ possibly the most spectacular safari house in Africa not only from an architectural and stylistic perspective but also as the perfect home for families and small groups.

This luxury bush retreat, which sleeps up to 27, is owned by an English family as their private home and has only recently become available on a limited commercial basis. The reserve can only be rented exclusively, therefore, you won’t have to share it with any other guests, making it your personal playground for the duration of your stay. An excellent option for families, the main house has two main bedrooms facing out over the amazing view, and then at the back there is a bunk room for children and a nanny’s room right next to it. There is also a further eight bedrooms about three-minute drive from the house.

Guests are not confined to timetabled game drives, strict programs or meals at set times. Instead, they can go on game drives whenever they like, day or night. Activities include quad biking, riding safaris, clay pigeon shooting, fly fishing, helicopter safaris, fresh water swimming and – for the extra adventurous – skydiving from 20,000 feet above the reserve. At the end of a long day, relax in the heated infinity pool and rooftop Jacuzzi. Leobo Reserve is ideal for those seeking more than the picture perfect holiday moment, rather those in pursuit of an authentic natural experience.

Singita Castleton – Sabi Sands, South Africa

The former family home of Singita founder Luke Bailes’ grandfather, the Singita Castleton is an exclusive-use lodge set within 45,000 acres of private reserve. It is comprised of the main house with communal living spaces, and accommodation located in six individual cottages within the grounds, catering for up to 12 people.

Steeped in history, the spirit of the original Castleton house is still captured in today’s lodge which blends the best elements of a private safari lodge with the rustic charms of a country farmhouse. This is accentuated by the extensive high-end facilities, including a vast garden, swimming pool, wine cellar, gym, tennis court and spa room.

Guests can relax together in the courtyard, gather around the traditional ‘boma’ or meet in the country-style kitchen then enjoy their own privacy at the individual cottages; all this overlooking a waterhole where wild animals casually meander for a drink.

Virunga Lodge – Rwanda

It’s hard to beat the phenomenal views from the Virunga Lodge in Rwanda, perched on a ridge and overlooking the Virunga Volcanoes and the twin lakes Bulera and Ruhonda. This is a premier luxury base for Rwanda gorilla safari tours and tracking the endangered mountain gorillas.

The organic, ‘bush-chic’ design of the lodge reflects the local building style while offering luxurious modern comfort. The complex includes 10 stone guesthouse “bandas” with tile roofs (two deluxe, four doubles and four twins) and en-suite bathrooms with flushing toilets, double vanity sinks, and showers with hot and cold running water. Each “banda” has its own terrace with stunning views of the Virunga volcanoes or twin lakes. The lodges incorporate eco-friendliness with low-flush toilets and solar power energy.

There is a wide array of activities to throw yourself into, such as gorilla trekking, golden monkey trekking, volcano hiking, visiting local schools and communities, Dian Fossey’s grave, and massages.

Mount Gahinga Lodge – Uganda

On the Ugandan side of the Virunga Volcanoes is this exclusive Uganda adventure lodge. With the spectacular backdrop of three of the volcanoes, the lodge exudes rustic charm within a tranquil and historic atmosphere.

Each of the luxury safari lodges were built by employing local techniques and design. The main building brings guests together in its large living space with a cozy central fire and its adjoining exterior terrace and spacious sunroom. Each of the guesthouse “bandas” is reached by taking a short stroll through the large gardens and all have been renovated to offer unparalleled luxury in the region. They have all have their own fireplace and ensuite bathroom with showers and flush toilets.

In addition to guided hiking and trekking, the Gahinga Lodge has partnered with the Batwa Tribe, one of Africa’s oldest tribes, to offer interactive tours through their community.

Cottars Private House – Masai Mara, Kenya

Kenya has some of the top safari lodges in Africa, and the newly built ‘Cottar’s Bush Villa’ is among the best. Situated on the Olderikesi conservancy, the award-winning Cottar’s 1920’s Safari Camp, it borders the amazing Maasai Mara National Reserve and is just one kilometer from the world famous Tanzania Serengeti game reserve.

Designed by Calvin and Louise Cottar, it was built using indigenous and eco-friendly materials. The villa is managed by the Cottar’s 1920s Safari Camp, as such guests can enjoy the same levels of service and standard for which the camp is known while maintaining a completely private, luxury experience. The villa is over 10,000 square feet which includes a large living room, dining room, viewing deck, and five en-suite bedrooms. There is also a private 25-meter pool and guests have access to the Cottar’s 1920s Camp swimming pool, shop and other facilities.

The villa has exceptional views over the plains and rolling Olderikesi Hills. Many private activities can be arranged, including guided game drives (day or night), bush walks, swimming, and fishing. Cottar’s Bush Villa is rented on an exclusive basis only, and comes with a dedicated staff of eight as well as drive vehicles and guides provided to guests during their stay.

For information and booking, contact Cottar’s 1920s Bush Camp here.

Luangwa Safari House, Zambia

To experience true unspoiled African wilderness, reserve your stay at the Luangwa House, one of the most beautiful wildlife sanctuaries on the continent. This private estate is on the edge of Zambia’s South Luangwa National Park, accompanied by stunning natural setting rivers, lagoons, woodlands and large plains which are home to a vast variety of game such as elephant, buffalo, lion, leopard, giraffe, hippo and over 450 species of birds.

The unique and luxurious house was designed by Neil Rocher and fits perfectly into its natural surroundings. You can sit on the terrace to observe herds of elephants, impalas, giraffes and many other species passing by right in front on their way to the lagoon. The stylish design offers contemporary comforts with local design elements like its impressive thatched roof.

Inside is a large living room a vaulted ceiling, a marble dining table and plush sofas, four ensuite bedrooms and access to the viewing balcony. In addition to several sitting areas, the grounds also feature a plunge pool which you can cool down in at the end of a hot day on safari. The house has its own dedicated team of chefs, waiters and safari guides. They can also arrange private vehicles and an armed scout for walking safaris. This is an ideal safari lodge for families with children over seven.

Chongwe River House, The Lower Zambezi, Zambia

One of the most unique African safari lodges available on the rental market is this gorgeous private home designed by renowned architect Neil Rocher and located one kilometer from the Chongwe River Camp, in the South Luangwa National Park like the Luangwa House mentioned above.

The design of the house was inspired by the spires of termitarium abundantly found in the area. The organic forms of the building flow naturally through the exterior common spaces and to the pool, incorporating indigenous vegetation. Nature streams into the house through details like the furniture in the sitting room, carved from a single fallen winter thorn tree and the colored pebbles from the Chongwe river embedded into the ceiling.

The house sleeps eight guests in four, large ensuite bedrooms which feature king size or twin beds as well as bathtubs or waterfall showers and private viewing decks in each room. From various vantage points in and outside the house, you can observe the slowly passing herds of elephants and other game as they stop to drink or play in the river. The house has its own safari guide and safari vehicle for private activities and tours for the guests. There is also a dedicated house manager, a team of chefs and a full complement of support staff.

To enjoy the many delights of Marrakech from shopping at the souk to having the perfect moment of relaxation at a traditional spa – while also bearing the intense Moroccan sun – one needs to be within the comforts of the right holiday home. Our experts at Villanovo have expanded their already exceptional portfolio to include three new properties which achieve the above with supreme excellence. Be tempted by them below.

Riad Derb Sraghna

Located in the heart of the old medina, close to the famed Jemaa el Fna square, the souk and the Dar el Bacha palace, this traditional riad was carefully renovated in 2007 and converted into a spectacular private guesthouse.

The courtyard house combines elegance and tranquility while respecting the simplicity of old colonial Riads. Admire its traditional Arab-Andalusian architecture, built around a central courtyard dotted with orange trees and a small fountain complementing the romantic atmosphere.

Every room is uniquely decorated with individually selected furnishings including family heirlooms, old prints and mirrors, large paintings and vintage photographs, these give each room a feeling of nostalgia, of travel, of encounters in far away places.

The 10 spacious bedrooms and suites all have private bathrooms. The common areas include three different salons, a spacious, sunbath kissed roof terrace and a hammam. The attentive and soft voiced staff of the property will cater to all your wishes, making your stay as comfortable and unique as possible.

Villa Deliceya

The Domaine Royal Palm was recently developed by Beachcomber. It is a luxurious private enclave in Marrakech on a gorgeous golf course facing the awe-inspiring Atlas Mountains. Villa Deliceya is one of the largest private houses in the complex offering seven bedrooms on almost one hectare of gardens, plus it’s the only property with a private tennis court.

The house was decorated in a minimalist style with Moroccan touches and bright colors. It is a perfect Moroccan holiday rental for a family with small children due to numerous areas designed with kids in mind: a TV room which is also a play room, an outdoor game area with a trampoline, a filtered, shallow pool.

The villa also features a large 20-meter pool (with pool cover) which is heated in winter, a hammam, a massage room, a private tennis clay court, a covered terrace at the edge the pool for an al fresco lunch or dinner, a large outdoor terrace in front of the living room and a covered lounge area near the second pool.

Etoile des Sables

Situated in the posh Palmeraie of Marrakech, Etoile des Sables is a contemporary and luxurious villa designed by architect Helena Marczewski. The house offers 1,000 m2 of living space on two hectares of fenced land near the Ksar Char Bagh, a beautiful small hotel member of the Relais and Chateaux group.

The villa is organized around a central courtyard which functions as a lounge. It blends organic qualities and earthy feel of traditional Moroccan homes, with strong clean lines, an abundance of natural light and an instinctive flow between inside and outside living.
There are four bedrooms in the main house and two rooms in a guest cottage.

The large swimming pool is 25 meters by five meters with a shallow range of five meters at one end. There is also a lovely spa area which includes a hammam, massage room and indoor heated pool (8×3 meters) with swimming against the current system.

For more information about any of the above villas or other options in Marrakech, contact Villanovo here.