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…

Karl Ammann in Africa

 

“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.

Arial View of the Residence on the Rocks

 

“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.

View of Residence on the Rocks pool and surroundings

 

“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.

Karl on spectacular Intendance Beach

 

“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.

Villa living room with exposed rock, art and antiques

 

“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.

Villa bedroom

 

“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.

Craftsman at work on the antique doors and artwork, building the villa

“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.

Dusk from the villa’s gorgeous infinity pool

 

“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.

One of the most enjoyable ways to things to do on a seaside holiday destination is taking to the waters, equipped with a mask and snorkel. An easygoing sport that pleases young and old alike, it’s a fabulous way to witness what is going on under the waves. Catch glimpses of vibrant pristine coral, a rainbow of tropical fish, regal sea turtles, graceful rays and perhaps even a shark fin (from a distance!) at these incredible snorkeling spots across the world’s oceans and seas.

Mauritius

Virtually entirely surrounded by a coral reef, the stunning Indian Ocean island of Mauritius is a fantastic destination for snorkelling. There are many places to snorkel on the island, however, a good place to start is at Blue Bay Marina Park in the southeast of the island. You can snorkel right off the beach through crystal waters full of a range of colorful fish like parrotfish, clownfish, vibrant coral and other aquatic life. Families might prefer the pretty Trou aux Biches with its tranquil, shallow waters. In the north, Pointe aux Piments has an protected coral reef that is easy to access and which is a popular spot for sea turtles. Alternatively, another great place is the spectacular Ile aux Cerfs, with its white sandbars, turquoise lagoon, colorful fish and brilliant coral.

Where to Stay in Mauritius.

In villa veritas turks and caicos diving

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos

There are many fabulous places to snorkel in the Caribbean, among the top is this chic island of the Turks and Caicos.

“The archipelago has the third largest barrier reef in the world,” details Laura Blair of In Villa Veritas. “The water is the most lovely turquoise and the spectacular reef is teeming with a fabulous array of fish and coral life.”

You can snorkel right from the beach on Providenciales, another great draw for snorkeling lovers. The best place for this is at the north coast’s Bight Reef and Smith’s Reef. Over these two reefs you can often spot barracudas, trumpetfish, stingrays, turtles and lobsters. To go a little further afield, In Villa Veritas can arrange snorkeling boat trips for their guests so you can swim above the most exceptional areas of the reef’s rainbow coral.

Where to Stay in the Turks and Caicos.

Northern Lau Group, Fiji

Described as “one of the world’s most beautiful places” and “Like No Where Else,” the pristine waters of the Southern Pacific Ocean are just one of the reasons this area is such a spectacular and naturally amazing place for snorkeling. Discerning travellers looking for a luxurious and conscientious experience of the Fijian waters can find this at Kaibu and Vatuvara Islands.

“The islands boast some of the planet’s most unspoiled surrounding reefs with an abundant marine life and multiple varieties of hard and soft coral,” explains Jacqui Reyes of Vatuvara Private Islands. “With the island beaches as significant nesting sites for endangered hawksbill and green sea turtles, there’s great chance of seeing these incredible creatures while snorkeling in the water.”

Vatuvara Private Islands accepts their responsibility as stewards of our natural environment and has joined together with the Vatuvara Foundation in protecting marine life with ridge to reef conservation. Whether delighted with snorkelling just off the island or traveling a bit further and deeper, scuba diving off one of the island’s three Marina boats, there is plenty to explore.

Where to Stay in Fiji.

Saint Barthélemy

The lovely Caribbean island of St Barthélemy offers some great snorkeling. According to our local expert Peg Walsh of St Barth Properties, the best place is off Colombier Beach, although you can only reach it by goat path or boat. The path starts very close to St Barth Properties’ Villa Les Embruns and Villa Brume to Mer and the hike takes around 20 minutes. Peg suggests spending the day there and bringing along a picnic lunch, a cooler filled with cold drinks, snorkeling gear. St Barth Properties can also organize renting a catamaran or private boat half or full day excursions to the bring which include drinks, lunch, snorkeling equipment and towels.

Where to Stay in Saint Barthélemy.

sea turtles bahamas

Harbour Island, The Bahamas

Of the thousands of islands of The Bahamas, one of the best places for snorkeling and diving is Harbour Island, located two miles off the north coast of Eleuthera. Made famous by Jacques Cousteau and National Geographic, the waters off this idyllic small island include impressive ridges and coral canyons full of alluring sea life. As such, this is an excellent spot for those who love underwater photography.

“On the whole, snorkeling and diving are much better during the rainy season, May to November, when the water is warmer and clearer,” recommends our local villa expert Pamela H. Murdock. “However, in the dry season, with the cold water, there is an abundance of rays and very rich plankton fill the water creating a lot of action. Snorkelers hoping to swim with sea turtles should come June through November. Whereas you can catch giant manta rays and other rays from January to March and sharks from May to November.”

For guests of her villas, Pamela can arrange excursions with the best boatman on the island who knows the best places to snorkel and observe the seasonal sea life.

Where to Stay in Harbour Island.

Sri Lanka

Offbeat and beautiful Sri Lanka is a great year-round snorkeling destination where you’ll be able to observe a huge range of tropical fish, coral and marine life, plus its warm waters are relatively shark free. The three-mile Bar Reef on the west coast at Kalpitiya is the largest in the country and the stunning waters around Pigeon Island, north of Trincomalee on the east coast, are ideal for snorkeling. If you’re looking for some intrigue other than fish, head to the southern and eastern coasts to discover some captivating ship wrecks around Trincomalee, Arugam Bay, Tangalle, Hikkuduwa, Weligama and Kirinda.

Where to Stay in Sri Lanka.

Barbados

The crystalline waters and long stretches of beautiful beaches will always impress visitors coming to beautiful Barbados, it’s no wonder that snorkeling is a favourite pastime of most holidaymakers.

“The calming depths remain picturesque and absolutely breathtaking,” describes Betty Cathrow of Blue Sky Luxury. “There are some amazing spots on the island for snorkeling as well as the popular Carlisle Bay wrecks.”

The bay is home to six shipwrecks through which swim schools of tropical fish, sea horses, rays, octopi, turtles and eels. These wrecks range in depth from 12ft to 55ft so you may also want to do some diving.

Avid snorkelers can swim with turtles and enjoy sightings of unique marine life of the Caribbean Sea all just a few steps to your door at the gorgeous Leamington Pavilion, one of the best beachfront holiday retreats in Barbados and available through Blue Sky Luxury. Travel virtually to this exquisite villa in this video tour here.

Where to Stay in Barbados.

Riviera Maya, Yucatan, Mexico

Home to the world’s second largest reef, the 450 miles (724 km) Riviera Maya coastline is one of the world’s top snorkeling destinations. While it may be a busy at times, Akumal is an incredible place for snorkeling, especially for swimming with sea turtles. You may also catch a glimspe of some of its other 150+ species of reef fish and nearly 100 varieties of coral. Akumal is a popular spot for night snorkeling during which you can marvel at a “Wall of Fish,” thousands of silver fish that swim in a dense school. More advanced snorkelers will appreciate the challenge at Yalku-ito, where freshwater flows into the ocean creating a mixture of freshwater over the heavier saltwater which attracts unique schools of fish. You can also snorkel in the cenotes sinkhole though these are best explored by scuba diving.

Where to Stay on the Riviera Maya.

Mahé, The Seychelles

Comprised of 115 stunning islands, the Seychelles is an fantastic place for snorkeling in the Indian Ocean. While many of the smaller islands offer excellent snorkeling, the archipelago’s main island of Mahé features a number of destinations to suit all levels. You can snorkel all year round in its warm waters, plus the reef is abundant in well preserved coral and marine life, especially angelfish, parrotfish and sea turtles. Beginners may prefer to get their feet wet in picturesque Baie Lazare or Anse Royale, due to their shallow lagoons and reef located close to the shore. The long and lovely Anse Soleil beach has some breathtaking aquamarine waters and pristine coral, whereas Anse Major requires a little more effort since it’s reachable by an hour long hike through the forest of Morne Seychellois National Park. Nonetheless, the coral is stunning and it’s a great place to admire the Seychelle’s beauty both above and below the water.

Where to Stay in Mahé.

Búzios, Brazil

The north of Brazil has some excellent snorkeling destinations, however, if you’re looking for an easy seaside getaway close to Rio de Janeiro, consider the luxury resort of Búzios, found only a two hour drive north. This stretch of coastline features 21 beaches and 26 hidden coves fringed with gorgeous turquoise waters and filled with exceptional marine life. The picturesque peninsula was once the hideaway of French pirates, therefore, you there are a number of shipwrecks which you can explore. You can also take a boat ride out to nearby Ilha Feia for some exceptional snorkeling. You won’t be short of other activities and entertainment during a holiday here at one of the area’s beautiful luxury villas.

Where to Stay in Brazil.

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 – Kaibu Island, 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 St Barth 2

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.