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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 theRegatta 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.
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.
With its millennia of civilization, Italy has an incredible wealth of notable historic landmarks. From Greek and Roman Temples to Renaissance churches and from medieval castles to UNESCO classified villages, here are some of the country’s most valuable cultural sites from north to south and presenting some big names and a few lesser known gems.
The Last Supper by Leonardo da Vinci / Wikicommons
The Last Supper, Santa Maria delle Grazie, Milan
While this Renaissance church in honor of Holy Mary of Grace is beautiful, it’s certainly the mural that adorns the wall of its convent refectory that is the draw for most visitors. Arguably one of the most famous paintings in the world, Leonardo da Vinci’s “The Last Supper” was commissioned by the Duke of Milan, Ludovico il Moro. He worked on the large 15 x 29 foot mural in 1494-97, illustrating the Last Supper of Jesus and his disciples at the moment Jesus announced that one of them would betray him. The It’s advisable to book tickets in advance which you can do here.
Most people automatic link the charming northern Italian city of Verona as the setting of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, however, it is also home to one of the country’s most impressive Roman amphitheater. The vast, well-preserved 2000-year-ago arena could seat up to 30,000 spectators, though damage from an earthquake in 117 has limited this to 15,000. Today it is still used for concerts, notably an opera festival held each summer.
One of the most famous waterways in the whole world, the Grand Canal likely follows the course of an ancient river which flowed into the Venetian Lagoon. With the rise of the Republic of Venice through trade grand aristocratic homes replaced houses and warehouses on stilts which once stood on the edge of the canal. There are now more than 170 buildings flanking each side of the canal, mainly from the 13th to the 18th century. Spanning the canal are four bridges, the best known being the romantic Rialto Bridge.
As much as its canals are emblematic of the Venice, it would be equally hard to imagine the city without its whimsical, gilded basilica. Originally built as the private chapel of the Doge, the rulers of the Republic of Venice whose palace is found next door, it has been the city’s cathedral only since 1807. Constructed from the early 1060s, the current basilica replaced a previous 9th century church. Its golden mosaics dazzle the eastern edge of the magical café-lined square of the same name.
Basilica of San Vitale, Photo by Sharon Mollerus / Flickr
Basilica of San Vitale, Ravenna
Often overshadowed by its crowded, canal interlaced neighbor to the north, for a time Ravenna was actually the capital of the Western Roman Empire. As such it was decorated with the spectacular churches, the most noteworthy being the Basilica of San Vitale. Built in the sixth century, the interior is virtually completely covered in mosaics illustrating various biblical stories. The octagonal basilica as well as eight other buildings in Ravenna, have been classified as UNESCO World Heritage.
A jewel of the Italian Riviera, the five towns of le Cinque Terre are among the prettiest coastal villages of Italy. Classified as a whole as UNESCO World Heritage, they can thus count as a landmark. The colorful buildings of the towns making up the “Five Lands” cling impressively to coves along the Mediterranean starting from around 100 kms south of Genoa. Connected by hiking trails and a very crowded train line, the charm of the towns can best be appreciated by boat or slightly off season on the spring or fall.
Certainly Italy’s best known tower, this medieval bell tower captivates the imagination. Found in the Field of Miracles next to Pisa’s cathedral, the tower started to lean a few years after they had started to build it in 1174 due to its sandy, feeble foundations. Construction was halted for a time and the tower was eventually finished in 1360. Made of white marble of nearby hills, the 186 foot tower has almost 300 steps. Contemporary restructuring works have ensured that the tower won’t topple over.
Santa Maria del Fiore, Florence by Mark Smith / Flickr
Santa Maria del Fiore, Florence
The most prominent structure of the elegant skyline of Florence, Santa Maria del Fiore is one of Italy’s most cherished churches. Heralded for its revival of the classical dome at the beginning of the Renaissance era, the church was consecrated in 1436. Inspired by the Pantheon in Rome, the dome was designed by Filippo Brunelleschi and at the time it was the largest in existence. It is usually visited in conjunction with the other monuments found in the square, the Baptistery and Giotto’s Campanile, all UNESCO World Heritage Sites along with the historic center of Florence.
Yet another UNESCO World Heritage Site, this stunning medieval square was created at the intersection of the three main roads and was meant as a neutral place where political and civic holidays could be celebrated. Around the shell-shaped square are several important buildings including the The Palazzo Pubblico and its famous tower, and the residential aristocratic “palazzi”. It’s the venue of Palio di Siena, an historic bi-annual horse-race disputed over by the 17 different districts of the city, which our villa experts at nearby Borgo Finocchieto highly recommend attending if you’re staying in Tuscany in the summer.
The Basilica di San Francesco, by Andy Hay / Flickr
The Basilica di San Francesco, Assisi
This 13th century church was built in the town where Saint Francis, the founder of the Franciscan order, lived and died. As such it is one of the most important Catholic pilgrimage sites in the country. A rare example of the Gothic style in Italy, the complex was begun in 1228 consists of two churches and a crypt where the saint is buried. The interiors feature lovely stained glass and some impressive frescos by the likes of Giotto and Cimabue. The site overlooks the hills much beloved by the humble monk and makes for a unique cultural excursion around 150 kms from Siena and 180 kms from Rome.
Possibly the most famous of all Roman buildings, this expansive amphitheatre could hold more than 50,000 spectators and was the largest constructed by the Romans. Completed in 80 AD under the rule of Titus, it is an impressive feat of engineering and architectural design. Used for gladiator battles and games, its opening was celebrated with one hundred days of games and was even filled with water for recreations of maritime battles. Much of its former elaborate decoration was pillaged over the centuries, however, it still evokes much awe.
Considered the best preserved Roman building was finished under the reign of Hadrian in around 126 AD. The 142 foot circular structure has a portico of granite Corinthian columns atop which is a pediment and what is still the world’s largest reinforced concrete dome. Originally dedicated to all pagan Roman gods, in the 7th century it was converted into a Roman Catholic church in honor of “St. Mary and the Martyrs.” Today it is one of the visited sites of Rome, receiving around 6 million visitors annually.
One of the greatest achievements of the Renaissance and designed by several of the most talented architects of all time, Saint Peter’s is the largest church in the world. In the Papal enclave of the Vatican City, the current church replaced a previous one which stood here what is considered to be the place where Saint Peter was buried. It was constructed between 1506 and 1626 with contributions by Donato Bramante, Michelangelo, Carlo Maderno and Gian Lorenzo Bernini. It’s most recognizable feature is its soaring dome, rising up 136.57 metres (448.1 ft), making it the world’s tallest dome.
Devastatingly buried by volcanic ash from the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 AD, the remains of these two towns offer an amazing window into the live of ancient Rome. Visitors can wander the lanes of these vast archeological sites, viewing what is left of their houses, shops, public administrative buildings and other structures like a large 20,000 person amphitheater. Some objects, mosaics and other decorative work have been preserved and are on display on the sites and in the Archaeological Museum in Naples. You could spend a full day just at Pompeii, however, Herculaneum is well worth the visit and less busy.
Like Cinque Terre above, the Amalfi Coast marvels visitors with its dramatic coastline of picturesque villages hugging steep cliffs. Found below Naples, running from Positano to Salerno, this spectacular coast is also a laureate of the UNESCO World Heritage List. The best way to enjoy the area is by exploring the villages while basing yourself at a cliffside villa overlooking the stunning coast and gorgeous Mediterranean Sea.
You might recognize this imposing fortress from the one cent Italian euro coin. It was completed in 1240 as the hunting lodge of Emperor Frederick II and became his seat of power. He had constructed many castles in the region, however, with its perfectly octagonal towers and advanced facilities for its time, it is quite unique. It served as a military stronghold for many centuries and since much of its more elaborate interior decoration and marble walls were looted over time. It is now a national monument at UNESCO Heritage Site.
Next to the town of Agrigento is one of the most significant ancient Greek archeological sites and is the world’s largest archeological site at 1,300 hectares. On the site are seven temples, in the Doric style dating back to the 5th century AD. The site was first restored in the early 19th century and has since become an Italian National Monument and UNESCO World Heritage Site. A highlight is the Temple of Concordia, an extremely well preserved temple with a six column, triangular pediment facade.
An important element to choosing a luxury holiday rental can be its location, especially if this involves a breathtaking view. Some of the planet’s most breathtaking panoramas are of its dramatic coastlines and you will certainly be in absolute awe at the vistas you can gaze upon from these outstanding villas found in the four corners of the globe.
Residence on the Rocks – Mahé, The Seychelles
Of the 115 islands of The Seychelles, its main island, Mahé, is exceptionally beautiful and has one of the most dramatic coastlines in the world. This long, irregularly shaped island is bordered by large granite boulders and stunning pristine beaches and its interior features gorgeous lush tropical forests. Almost half of the total landmass of The Seychelles has been designated as natural parks to protect the archipelago’s 250+ indigenous plant species and native fauna. There are also a number of hiking trails along the coast of Mahé, a wonderful way to admire the island’s exceptionally beauty.
Crowning a high ridge of the southern part of Mahé, the Residence on the Rocks (visible in the foreground above) is a wonderful place to stay for anyone who would like to savor the island’s tremendous scenic coastline and Intendance Beach, voted one of the best beaches in the world. Tucked away in virgin forest in a completely private area of the estate of the Banyan Tree Resort, this beautiful four-bedroom villa was built in 2008. Decorated in a colonial, Creole style, the interiors feature antiques and artwork collected by the villa’s owners. It has a large comfortable lounge, including a sitting area and dining room which is next to a fully equipped kitchen. Two bedrooms are in the main building and the others in two separate guest houses which are accessible via a forest path.
Guests can enjoy relaxing on one of the villa’s covered verandas, sunny poolside terraces or lovely 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 incredible coastline of Mahé, as well as its breathtaking beaches and lush forests while staying at the Residence on the Rocks at this link.
Bay of Many Coves – Queen Charlotte Sound, New Zealand
The Bay of Many Coves is a secret our experts at MajorDomo love to share, with its perfect seclusion right on the water’s edge, deep in the Marlborough Sounds of New Zealand’s South Island.
The Marlborough Sounds provides perfect conditions for sailing in one of the world’s most picturesque environments. You can cruise the Sounds in your private charter, taking in the handsome coastal islands and viewing historic sights such as Tory Channel, Ship’s Cove or Motuara Island, where you can go ashore to explore. Fishing charters can be arranged to suit both those who enjoy a leisurely cruise around the sounds to catch and release blue cod and those who prefer a more extreme excursion to outer Sounds for a full fishing expedition.
An ideal base for enjoying all the pleasures of this spectacular area of New Zealand is the Bay of Many Coves Resort available through MajorDomo. The exquisite lodge is a 30-minute water taxi from the township of Picton (at the top of the South Island) and also reachable by private boat. The accommodation suits couples or families with its one, two and three bedroom apartments – all with breathtaking bay views.
MajorDomo recommends staying at least three nights to thoroughly make the most of this gorgeous location. The resort also has a day spa, two restaurants, private guest sitting room, hot tub and heated swimming pool. During the day if you are not enjoying the lodge facilities or out on the sea, then escape into the 59 hectares of privately owned bush clad hills or walk in the Queen Charlotte Track. There is also kayaking and paddle boarding available. At the end of the day you can savor the lodge’s award-winning cuisine and the finest Marlborough and international wines.
Experience the magic and exceptional views of Bay of Many Coves with MajorDomo here.
Torre di Clavel – Positano, Amalfi Coast, Italy
The Amalfi Coast is what holiday dreams are made of. With colorful villages clinging to ravishing verdant cliffs plunging down to turquoise waters, it’s hard to top this dramatic Italian coastline which has been designated a World Heritage site by UNESCO. The area around Positano, an hour and a half south of Naples, is particularly spectacular. The south facing town also receives a lot of sunshine, sparkling the whole afternoon over the Tyrrhenian Sea.
Enjoy this exquisite location while staying at one of the most unique homes in Positano: the Torre di Clavel. In the refined repertoire of Homebase Abroad, this medieval tower was built right into a promontory on the edge of Positano’s Fornillo Beach and is surrounded by water on three sides.
Dating back to at least the 1200s, the amazing fortress was saved from ruins by a Swiss man at the turn of the 20th century. The current owners have added 21st century amenities, all the while retaining the structure’s historic character. It extends over multiple levels connected by open-air pathways, stair cases and hallways and features accommodation for 13 guests in eight bedrooms. The unique layout is perfect for a larger group that is looking for both shared and private spaces.
There is a private stone staircase leading down to a virtually private pebble beach, where you can lounge on the villa’s sun beds and beach chairs. The tower’s numerous terraces offer sunshine in both the morning and afternoon, and are the ideal place to take in a pre-dinner aperitivo with the backdrop of the setting sun.
Admire the extraordinary views of the Amalfi Coast straight from your own private villa with Homebase Abroad here.
Vatuvara Private Islands – KaibuIsland, Fiji
Described by Forbes as “one of the world’s most beautiful places,” the island of Kaibu is located in the Northern Lau Group of Fiji. An 800-acre island, Kaibu’s coastline is touched by tranquil aquamarine lagoon waters and deep ocean blue of the Pacific. This unspoilt island is abundant in coconut groves and tropical vegetation which are populated by several rare and endemic species, as well as a large variety of sea and shore birds. The Lau group as a whole features some of best preserved reef systems in the world and thus attracts those in search of pristine natural beauty, both above and below the waters.
Kaibu island is home to the exclusive Vatuvara Private Islands resort comprised of only three all-inclusive private villas. Each villa is perched on volcanic limestone cliffs above the pristine waters and white fringing beaches, providing extraordinary views of the fringing coral reef and the dramatic neighbouring islands beyond the crystal clear waters of the lagoon.
The three secluded seaside villas have been meticulously crafted with natural textures and materials creating spacious and comfortably elegant environments. Each with private beach access, the villas include an infinity edge pool and personal massage bure surrounded by lush tropical landscaping and an abundance of aromatic flowers.
Envelope yourself in the phenomenal natural paradise of Kaibu Island while vacationing at Vatuvara Private Islands here.
Chant De La Mer – Pointe Milou, Saint Barthélemy
The coast of beautiful Saint Barth is fringed with some of the loveliest, white sandy beaches of the Caribbean, however, its northwest coast stands out for its striking craggy coastline. This can be observed around Pointe Milou, situated on a sensational peninsula atop which is the exquisite Chant De La Mer villa by St Barth Properties.
Meaning “song of the sea” in French, you’ll be able to enjoy just that as you sit on one of the villa’s wonderful terraces, taking in the sound of the lapping waves and the backdrop of stupendous sunsets. You can also soak up the spectacular views over a game of a pétanque (bocce ball), at the villa’s private court overlooking the coastline.
The villa has five en-suite bedrooms, making it an excellent option for extended families. It has a refined yet comfortable living room with a bar separating it from a sleek galley kitchen. Other highlights are its quiet mezzanine-level office and Techno-gym-equipped fitness room. All of the bedrooms (four kings and one queen) have stunning views of the ocean and the fifth bedroom has deck with a Jacuzzi. Its other fantastic outdoor amenities include a huge swimming pool, multiple decks, two BBQs and a dining gazebo that seats sixteen.
Enjoy these incredible views yourself while holidaying with St Barth Properties at this link.
Villa Torre – Gozo, Malta
One of 21 islands that make up the Maltese archipelago, Gozo offers a beautiful, more offbeat option to busier Malta. The rural island is encircled by a jagged limestone coastline, pebble and sand beaches and the most alluring aquamarine waters. Experience these delights within the comfort and privacy at the most outstanding luxury rental on island of Gozo.
The newly refurbished six suite villa, available through Blandings, is set on a two-hectare seafront estate featuring gardens containing Mediterranean flora, olive and fruit trees, a tennis court, a large swimming pool, direct access to a semi-private rocky beach and superb views of the sea, the coast and the smaller neighbouring isle of Comino.
The interiors are rustic yet contemporary and the open plan ground floor opens onto a paved terrace, perfect for barbecues and al fresco dining. There is a fully equipped main kitchen and spacious indoor dining area with seating for up to 16. A large U-shaped living/sitting area is the perfect place to relax on hot days thanks to its air conditioning. There is also a smaller sitting area with a second kitchen where you can gaze at the exceptional sea views. The six suites are divided in two sections separated by a small courtyard, making it ideal for two families.
With its excellent amenities, guests mightn’t even need to leave the property, however, the picturesque village of Qala is less than two kilometers away (15-20 minutes on foot) and has small grocery shops, a bar and a few restaurants centred on the picturesque church square. The picturesque harbour town of Mgarr is also a short drive away and the port for the regular ferries to Malta.
Vacation in absolutely secluded and scenic bliss on Gozo with Blandings here.
Palazzo Salo – Lake Garda, Italy
While technically not a “coast,” the edges of Northern Italy’s lakes are truly ravishing. It’s no wonder why these legendary bodies of water have been popular with vacation goers for over a hundred years. The pre-alpine hills swoop gracefully down into the crystal clear waters, bordered by charming villages and the most divine villas, like the aristocratic Palazzo Salo by Carpe Diem Luxury Travel.
Considered the finest private property on Lake Garda, this gorgeous lakefront villa, a national classified monument, dates to the 1580’s and is still owned by the family who had it built. The palazzo has original floorings, six to nine meter high cedar ceilings, frescoes, vast luxurious reception rooms, six bedrooms and six bathrooms. The 3,000 square meter gardens feature beautiful Japanese magnolia trees and cypresses and is flanked by a vast park which includes a helicopter landing space. There are also three little beaches on the lake, a private dock, perfect for swim in summer, watersports and boat trips around the lake.
Savor the remarkable vistas of Lake Garda in the refined setting of the Palazzo Salo with Carpe Diem Luxury Travel at this link.
One of the pleasures of travel is discovering local gastronomic specialities, some travelers even choose their next holiday destination based on its fresh fruits and vegetables, succulent seafood, high quality meats or unique herbs and spices. If you can’t wait to get your hands on these amazing ingredients to cook up a storm while you’re on holiday, than these luxury villas with fabulously well-equipped kitchens and special dining areas are for you!
Rancioli – Tuscany, Italy
In the heart of the gastronomic Val d’Orcia, this new to the market Tuscan farmhouse has been entirely renovated and equipped with a fabulous chef’s kitchen. Guest can enjoy a perfectly private and idyllic location while taking in the culinary and cultural pleasures of Tuscany.
In the portfolio of Homebase Abroad, the property was formerly occupied by two large farming families, it benefits from a very private location, surrounded by aged trees and splendid views of the valley. The renovations included various aspects to accentuate the culinary experience at the villa like its wonderful professional kitchen with Carrara counters, managed by Rossa, the villa’s chef and concierge. You can cook alongside her as well as perfect your Italian cooking with on-site classes led by her. Guests can sample these exquisitely dishes in the living/dining room with a dining area for 12+ and a working fireplace, at the table under the spreading ‘querce’ tree with its stunning views of Monte Cetona or under the grape arbor dining pergola with seating for up to eight. Lighter meals can be served in the relaxed cafe room.
The villa’s bucolic grounds also include vast lawns and an 8 x 17 meter swimming pool. The area presents many opportunities for wine-tasting, cheese-making, visits to local markets and other food related activities.
Design the perfect menu for a tasty vacation in the Val d’Orcia with Homebase Abroad here.
Eden – Barbados
Nestled within an acre of lush tropical gardens in the exclusive Sugar Hill community, “Eden” is a breathtaking Barbados holiday home by Blue Sky Luxury. One of the highlights of this spectacular colonial-style five-bedroom villa is its recently renovated kitchen.
The chef inspired kitchen is fully equipped and features stainless steel appliances, two dishwashers, two sinks and large breezy windows. Cooking in this kitchen is a culinary treat as it’s well positioned to appreciate lovely garden and pool views. Distant Caribbean Sea vistas are also enjoyed while the cook prepares tasty Caribbean delicacies. These delicious meals can be savored on the large upper terrace or in the lovely gazebo to the backdrop of the stunning sunset.
Start preparing a delectable Caribbean holiday in Barbados with Blue Sky Luxury at this link.
Il Convento – Umbria, Italy
Owned by a very well known film director, this vast 60-acre former convent is a chef’s paradise not only owing to its two kitchen and impressive dining areas, but also thanks to the incredible bounty coming straight from the estate.
The recently restored property, which can accommodate up to 22 guests and is available through In Villas Veritas, includes a main kitchen with a chef’s tasting table, a professional kitchen including food demonstration area for guest participation, a dining hall fit for a king with seating for up 40 guests, a more intimate dining room and various outdoor terraces for al fresco dining. The grounds feature a 16th century walled garden with 13 acres of enclosed formal gardens, a vegetable garden, an orchard, a grape arbor, elegant rows of lavender, sprawling lawns as well as an outdoor pool, a reflecting fountain bordering a native oak forest and a winter garden. The remainder of the estate is covered in 800 olive trees, vineyards and forest with stupendous views over Lake Trasimeno.
Enjoy a succulent taste of Umbria at this exquisite chef’s villa by contacting In Villas Veritas here.
Oasis de Salines – St Barthélemy
Cook up a storm at this star-studded six-bedroom villa which is comprised of a main house, two pavilions, two pools, a wine bar and a foot path to Saline Beach and three kitchens, including one that is professionally equipped.
The stunning estate, available through St Barth Properties, is set amidst 2.5 acres of cascading, lush tropical gardens and showcases breathtaking views of the glamorous Saline beach and its aquamarine waters. Two of the kitchens are located in the main house. The sleek, larger one is adjacent to an outside dining area, is air conditioned and includes state-of-the-art appliances. It also has a high bar, perfect for snacking and casual dining. More formal meals can be laid out on the interior dining room table with seating for 16. The decor of the whole house is extremely stylish and contemporary and is equipped with cutting edge technology and amenities including plasma TVs in each of the bedrooms, an 80-foot lap pool, and a 40-foot pool with graded access and an air-conditioned mini-gym, for working off those excess calories of all those delicious meals!
Combine exquisite food, awe-inspiring views and supreme luxury at the Oasis de Salines by reaching out to St Barth Properties here.
Villa Astor – Amalfi Coast, Italy
Located at the edge of picturesque Sorrento, this exceptional villa by Homebase Abroad and recently featured in the Robb Report, dramatically clings to a bluff directly over the sea, offering an incredible panorama of the Amalfi coast. This can be enjoyed from the various beautiful outdoor dining areas where you can enjoy exquisite culinary creations prepared in its dream kitchen.
Once the home of William Waldorf Astor, this opulent six-bedroom villa is the epitome of the opulence and elegance of Italian villas. The interiors are lavishly fitted out in top luxury amenities, gilded mirrors, precious antiques and marble fireplaces. Its equally classy kitchen is very well equipped and is a magic place for home chefs looking to have a taste of the Old World bella Italia. Its doors open onto to breakfast terrace, bathed in golden morning light is equipped with a wood forno and barbecue, making it ideal for casual meals for up to 10. It leads down to the ocean terrace that extends the length of the villa and has stunning views of the Bay of Naples and Vesuvius. It has seating for 16 at three tables with retractable awning over primary table for 12. More formal meals can be served in dining room which seats 12 comfortably.
In addition to the lovely outdoor terraces, the grounds also feature a marble-finished pool and a two-hectare botanical garden with extensive collection of fauna, some specimens dating back hundreds of years. Its walking paths are dotted with ancient porphyry, friezes, busts and objects d’art. The villa’s rooftop terrace is a real treat and provides a 360 degree vista of the coast, Sorrento and the surrounding countryside.
Sample the culinary treasures and beauty of the Amalfi Coast with Homebase Abroad at this link.
We travel to Bella Italia to hear the fairytale come true story of Simonetta Brandolini d’Adda. The Countess tells us how overcame early challenges and used her finesse to buildone of the finest villa rental companies in the country:The Best in Italy.
“With an American father and an Italian mother I had lived between Europe and the United States until the third year into my studies at Tufts University when I decided to study with Smith College… in Florence.
“It was wonderful to be back in Italy, taking courses at the Italian university as well as with our Italian professors got me even more involved with the Florentine lifestyle. Part of the fascination was also meeting Count Momi Brandolini d’Adda. We were married just after receiving my degree in art history.
“My husband’s family had several homes both in the Veneto and in Tuscany. Since we certainly could not live in all of these villas, the question that continuously arose at the beginning of 1980 was what to do with these properties, complete with staff, beautiful furnishings, gardens and attractive locations.
“In 1982 we created The Best in Tuscany at a time when no one offered luxurious homes for rent in Italy or in much of the rest of Europe. Those traveling abroad stayed for extended periods in the various five star hotels and the wealthy did not open their homes to strangers or for earning money from their stately villas. Nevertheless, this outlook quickly changed when they learned how we had managed to entice various friends from abroad to stay in our homes for a month or longer… at that time everyone took longer vacations. One year later, in 1983, we started receiving invitations from friends and relatives to come and see their estates. In the process of staying in them and meeting their staff and were able to give them advice on how to make their properties enticing to future guests.
“In 1984 The Best in Tuscany became The Best in Italy as we then had estates not only in Tuscany, but also on the Amalfi Coast, the Veneto and Venice, Umbria and in the nearby Rome. However, at that time Federal Express did not yet exist nor did the fax machine. Thus having an office in Florence did not allow for quick response by Italian mail but only by telephone. For more than 12 years I would travel around the United States and in Europe to meet future clients during cocktail parties or dinners that were given by former guests of ours who loved to speak about their stay in Italy to their friends and families.
“By the year 2000 we had homes in all of Italy, accepting only the most luxurious staffed villas….many still owned by friends and relatives. Now that the internet allows for instantaneous communication we no longer are in need of presenting our homes through extensive brochures or by personally meeting all of our clients by traveling to the US or around Europe. We always have a faithful following of clients who have been returning to our properties for more than 15 years, often to the same villa, and have now enjoyed hosting the second generation of certain families to our homes. And they delight in meeting our second generation of The Best in Italy with my daughter Polissena.
“In the past 33 years we have had many interesting actors, musicians, heads of state, wonderful extended families and fascinating guests stay in our homes….from Sting to Anish Kapoor, from Tom Cruise to Robin Williams, Mel Gibson and Bette Midler. Many of them bought homes with us and then rent them through us to our clients.
“Our world renown chefs are often demonstrating cooking in our homes, we have organised extraordinary special events and celebrations, our many famous interior designers and historians frequently give lectures as part of the educational experience clients enjoy during their stay in Italy.
“Many of our guests have attended private parties and concerts with us, the Palio in Siena, or special programs with private dinners beneath Michelangelo’s David and private visits to the Uffizi Gallery, the Sistine Chapel or other museums and collections in Italy though the non profit Friends of Florence foundation that I founded in 1998 to preserve and safeguard the artistic treasures and cultural heritage of Florence and Tuscany for future generations. I shall always be grateful to Florence and to Italy for enhancing my life and this foundation is my way of giving back for all I have received. It is also a superb example of sustainable tourism for our many clients who visit the country and contribute towards restorations and conservation projects here.
“The Best in Italy continues to flourish and to provide the utmost personalised assistance to all guests who then become returning friends who we enjoy seeing every year to Italy to enjoy all the best aspects of life in our unique country.”
You can view some of the exceptional villas and learn more about The Best in Italy here.
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