Villas Steps From, Right On, or Next To the Beach

 

If your holiday dreams feature waking up to the sound of crashing waves and immediate views of a white sandy beach and shimmering turquoise waters, than there’s no better place for you than at a beachfront holiday home. Get as close as you possible can to the beach at these exceptional properties, which are literary steps away!

Villa Océane, Mauritius (one step)

Step off the deck and right into the powdery sands of Mauritius island by holidaying at this bright and stylish beachfront villa. Available through Villanovo, the contemporary three-bedroom home is situated directly on the beach of a fabulous freshwater lagoon on the east coast of the island, close to Trou d’Eau Douce.

The lagoon side of the villa features a spacious terrace which leads down to the pristine beach and offers stunning views of the aquamarine waters. On the opposite side of the house is private terrace area with a fantastic pool and different levels of decks with different seating areas and an outdoor dining area with seating for up to 12.

The interior of the villa features large windows offering airy open plan living accented by touches of designer furniture and decoration. There is a large living room with a TV, a dining area that seats 10 people and a well-equipped kitchen where you can prepare healthy island dishes. The three bedrooms all have double beds, double dressing rooms, ensuite baths with shower and their own private terrace or balcony showcasing spectacular views of the lagoon. Two of them also have office areas.

The villa is location a mere few minutes’ drive from Trou d’Eau Douce, where you can find a range of shops and restaurants and take boat trips out to Deer Island. For some additional sport, visit the nearby famous kitesurfing spots or one of the fantastic golf courses of the east coast.

Treat yourself to an exquisite Mauritian beach holiday with Villanovo here.

Torre di Clavel – Amalfi Coast, Italy (one step)

Torre di Clavel is a stunning villa which stands proudly at the edge of Positano’s second beach, Fornillo, which, depending on where you are on the property, can be as few as one step away!

Available through Homebase Abroad, the impressive fortress dates back to at least the 1200s and was saved from ruins by a Swiss man at the turn of the 20th century. The current owners have added all the necessary 21st-century amenities while retaining the structure’s historic features. The house is truly unique in design, spread over multiple levels, connected by open-air paths and hallways hewn from stone.

The presence of the sea and the Amalfi coastline is an essential part of the character of this sublime rental. From virtually every window comes the sound of the surf and a view of the jagged coastline, stretching east to Cilento and west to Capri. Follow the path of the sun throughout the many terraces, each one furnished for contemplating the commanding presence of nature all around you. There is a stone staircase descending to a virtually private pebble beach, where you can relax on the villa’s sun loungers and chairs. The villa benefits from complete privacy, though pretty Positano is easily accessible.

The sprawling layout is perfect for a larger group looking to have both shared and private spaces. Your stay is enhanced by an exceptional staff, with long personal connections to this particular home, who are happy to share their love of this dramatic and unique property.

Enjoy the best of the beaches of the Amalfi Coast right at the foot of this gorgeous villa through Homebase Abroad here.

Harmony House – Barbados (one step)

Place yourself one step away from gorgeous Gibbes Beach by staying at this charming three-bedroom villa available through Blue Sky Luxury. Surrounded by lush tropical gardens you’ll have both perfect privacy and direct access to the white powdery sands and of this beautiful beach and stunning waters of Barbados’ famed West Coast.

The villa features classic and tasteful coral stone decoration with touches of bright local artwork. The comfortable ground floor lounge has double French doors which open onto a covered patio area that includes a built-in bar, salt water plunge pool and alfresco dining area with seating for up to 10. The terrace is especially magical in the evenings lit by handmade copper lanterns and handmade candle sconces. A shady tropical garden extends off the patio and leads to white sandy Gibbs Beach.

The three bedrooms are all air-conditioned and have private balconies and en-suite baths, the master bedroom’s being especially well-appointed. The villa is cared for by a team of friendly and professional staff, including an excellent cook. Off the estate you can dine and explore Holetown and Speightstown in addition to a variety of other sites of interest of the West Coast.

Take your first step to a beach front holiday in Barbados by contacting Blue Sky Luxury at this link.

1958 – Waterfront Home, St Tropez, France (two steps)

New to the portfolio of Villas Prestige & Services, this lovely five-bedroom family home is a mere two steps from a beautiful beach located a few minutes from posh St Tropez.

Four of the villa’s bedrooms are located on the ground floor. In addition to their positioning, all have en-suite baths, two face the terrace and garden and one has two bunkbeds, making the house ideal for a large family. This floor also has a TV room opening onto the terrace and the garden.

The main living room is found on the upper level. It has a well equipped kitchen, comfortable lounge area and dining area which lead to a 60m² terrace with fabulous sea views. This floor is also home to the master bedroom which includes a private office and bathroom with shower.

The spacious 1 300m² garden has direct access to the beach, a 11 x 5m salt pool, a pétanque pitch and a BBQ and exterior kitchen and bar for fun family meals in this beautiful outdoor setting.

Book in at this perfect beachfront villa in the South of France by reaching out to Villas Prestige & Services here.

Villa Alegria – Algarve, Portugal (five steps)

Literally a few steps away from the beach, Villa Alegria is situated on a clifftop in the in the village of Salema, providing it with spectacular ocean views over the beach. The sophisticated property by VILA VITA Collection successfully blends contemporary design, elegance and luxury, set against the backdrop of the glistening Atlantic ocean.

The four-bedroom villa is decorated in a crisp and modern Mediterranean style, with large living areas and fabulous natural light streaming through the large windows. There are glass sliding doors that lead directly onto terraces, garden and a private rooftop pool with exceptional ocean views.

The ground floor is home to two of the bedrooms, each with a double bed, flat screen TV, en-suite shower room, separate dressing room and front line ocean views. The first floor features an open space living area with a modern state-of-the art open plan kitchen, a comfortable living room and a dining area with seating for eight people. The master bedroom has a large double bed, flat screen TV, an en-suite bath with a standalone bathtub and shower, a separate dressing room and awe-inspiring views.

Out on the vast east and westward facing terraces you can further enjoy the great vistas of the coastline, Salema beach, the picturesque village and bobbing fishing boats. If that weren’t enough, there’s another terrace on the rooftop where you’ll also find an exquisite infinity pool overlooking the coastline. Leaving the villa, in three or four steps you’ll have your toes planted in the soft sands of Salema beach.

Experience the best of Portugal’s Algrave Coast and its beaches staying with VILA VITA here.

Ananda Estate – Eleuthera, The Bahamas (eight steps)

Sitting on the edge of one of the most beautiful stretches of beach on Eleuthera and within a one-acre estate, is this wonderful Asian-inspired sleek villa within the selective repertoire of Pamela H. Murdock. Spread over three pavilions, a zen atmosphere hovers throughout, amplified by the breathtaking views of the delicate pink and white sand and crystal waters.

The contemporary villa has four suites and five baths, though can accommodate up to 14 guests. Attention has been paid to every detail and its attractive decor includes white Carrara marble, limestone, Sukabumi stones, rich walnut wood and stylish contemporary furnishings.

The Great Room of the main house has impressive, soaring vaulted ceilings and a vast tableaux of the spectacular ocean cast through a vast wall of retractable windows. Two large master bedrooms are found on either side of the Great Room, both with a king-size bed, sunken sitting area, private terrace and bathroom with dual sinks and both a rain shower room and large marble bathtub. The other master bedrooms, located in two separate pavilions, are equally luxurious and have the added amenity of their own kitchenettes.

A 10 ft. wrap-around terrace hugs the main building and allows for seamless indoor-outdoor living. In the center is a 50 ft. infinity pool which is flanked by two attractive pergolas, one with an elevated daybed and the other with a sunken sala that is equipped with an outdoor kitchen, dining area and both swim-up and regular bars.

Guests need only take a few steps and they will be on a virtually private beach. When not relaxing on the beach or next to the pool, you can partake in a number of watersports to make the most of the pristine coastline like windsurfing, diving and snorkeling. A more social ambiance can be found 10 minutes away at lovely French Leave Beach, home to a hotel and marina and a little further is the town of Governor’s Harbour and the airport.

Find yourself at this incredibly beautiful villa and beach by contacting Pamela H. Murdock at this link.

Vatuvara Private Islands, Fiji (10-40 steps)

Idyllically set atop the volcanic limestone cliffs of the Fijian island of Kaibu, the private villas of Vatuvara Private Islands are all located only steps from their own private white sand beach. The unspoilt 800-acre island is part of the Northern Lau Group and is surrounded by pristine aquamarine waters and a unique marine and tropical ecosystem.

The ultra exclusive resort is only accessible by private plane, making it supremely secluded. Each of luxurious one-bedroom villas (soon to be four with the addition of the Saku villa expected in early 2018)  is even more private, encircled by tropical vegetation and flowers. The comfortable seafront villas have been built with indigenous materials and have their own infinity pool, a personal massage bure and private beach, reachable in 25-40 steps with the upcoming Saku villa being the closest at only 10 steps.

Guests can enjoy the sunshine on their private beaches as well as discover the other gorgeous beaches of the island. Snorkeling or diving through the crystal clear waters you can observe some of the world’s best preserved coral reefs. Guests can explore further afield on their own by kayaking, paddle boarding or on a private boat tour. Delicious and healthy meals are served in the resort’s two restaurants, there is also a four-hole golf course and guests can arrange spa treatments, private yoga and sport instructors and diving certification.

Surround yourself in immense natural beauty at the beachside oasis of Vatuvara Private Islands here.

Residence on the Rocks – The Seychelles (1,210 steps)

Sitting on a high ridge in southern Mahé, the main island of the Seychelles, the Residence on the Rocks is around one kilometer along a path to the beach (much less as the crow flies), however, the additional steps are worth the effort as you’ll reach the exquisite Intendance Beach, voted one of the top beaches in the whole world.

Nestled in virgin forest in an absolutely private area of the estate of the Banyan Tree Resort, this stunning four-bedroom villa was built in 2008. Decorated in a colonial, Creole style, the interiors are adorned with antiques and artwork collected around the world personally by the villa’s owners. It has an ample and comfortable lounge which has a sitting area and dining room that lead into a fully equipped kitchen. Two of the villa’s bedrooms are in the main building and the other two are found in two separate guest houses accessible via a forest path.

Guests spend hours down on the spectacular white sands of Intendence Beach and swimming in the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. These can also be admired from one of the villa’s covered verandas, sunny poolside terraces or lovely pavilion. Guests also have access to all of the facilities and restaurants of the Banyan Tree Resort. The villa is within close distance to many of the other attractions of the Seychelles from hiking trails to watersports.

Take in breathtaking Intendence Beach and the incredible beauty of the Seychelles while staying at the Residence on the Rocks at this link.

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

 

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

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

 

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

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

 

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

 

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

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

 

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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.

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.

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.

The beach is synonymous with romance, so it’s not surprising that it features high on the list of locations for a destination wedding. That said, there are amazing variety of beaches on the planet, each with different types of sand, shades of blue waters and natural surroundings. Make your beach wedding dreams come true at these heavenly seaside villas stretching from New Zealand all the way to Mexico.  

Six Shillings – Harbour Island, The Bahamas

The stunning sands and waters of the Bahamas beckon those looking to tie the knot on the beach. One of the most memorable islands is the laidback, yet exclusive Harbour Island. Our local expert, Pamela H. Murdock, tells us more about organizing your special day on this unique island:

“As small as Harbour Island is, it’s big for destination weddings. And it’s something the island knows how to do perfectly. Whether one gets married in a church or on the beach, this idyllic isle is completely romantic and fun. No matter where the location of the actual ceremony is, brides should definitely plan at least one event on the pale pink sand beach framed by clear turquoise water. What could be a more beautiful, fairy-tale setting?

 

“As wedding guests are usually on island for at least three days, there’s lots to do to keep everyone busy – from charming shops and a variety of restaurants to in-house massage and personal training to boat charters for diving, snorkeling, fishing (deep sea and bone) and picnics on a deserted island. All of which we can organize for clients who rent villas through us.

“Another fun feature on the island are the golf carts which are how one gets around. One bride even planned a island-wide treasure hunt and guests had great fun zipping around clutching the list of things they must find. Golf carts are also ideal as one can’t get into too much trouble – especially after a couple of glasses of champagne!”

For a small wedding of under 20 people, Pamela recommends the Six Shillings Villa. The secluded estate has two lovely beach houses located on two acres of well-landscaped oceanfront property. The main house features a Great Room with cathedral ceilings, a comfortable living area, dining alcove and a fully equipped kitchen. There are three spacious, air-conditioned bedrooms that open onto a wrap around deck with both shaded and sunny sitting areas as well as a covered dining area overlooking the beach.

Twenty-five feet from the main house is a quaint cottage, tucked in the lush garden, which can accommodated an additional two guests. It’s immersed in palms and bougainvilleas and the other flowering trees scattered throughout the garden. The beach is a mere few steps away.

To marry in The Bahamas, couples must present valid passports and birth certificates. Divorce decrees are also required if applicable. Pamela will take care of the rest! Reach out to her here to start planning a beautiful Bahamian beach wedding.

Residence on the Rocks – Mahé, The Seychelles

What setting could be more perfect for a beach wedding than on one voted best in the world? In addition to the Seychelles’ amazing beaches, the area surrounding spectacular Intendance Beach features some of the most pristine indigenous forests in the world, allowing you to be completely enveloped by natural beauty on your special day.

High above Intendance Beach is the magnificent Residence on the Rocks, a private four-bedroom villa found on the estate of the Banyan Tree Resort. Thanks to its discrete position, the Residence offers supreme privacy yet with easy access to the beach and the 5-star amenities of the resort. The villa is perfect for the bride and groom and possibly the wedding party whereas the other guests can be lodged at the hotel.

The ceremony can take place directly on this breathtaking beach or it can be performed at the gazebo of the Residence where guests can watch it from the pool deck. The staff of the Banyan Tree can assist with all arrangements and even have a variety of wedding packages. These include everything from beauty services for the bride to stylish tropical bridal bouquets and groom’s boutonnieres and from signature two-tier wedding cakes to scenic helicopter flights before or after the ceremony. Catering options range from a gourmet grill on the sand to a more formal sit down dinner with fine wines and house champagne. A personal wedding coordinator can also be hired for the occasion.

Afterwards, you can kick back and relax in this piece of pure paradise. Reach out to the Residence on the Rocks at this link to make your beach wedding dreams a reality.

Casa Aramara – Punta Mita, Mexico

Over in Mexico, the spectacular Casa Aramara, by In Villa Veritas, is ideal for a beach destination wedding in every way. Located in posh Punta Mita, north of Puerta Vallarta, a wedding at this gorgeous 12-bedroom estate facing the turquoise waters of the Pacific, can be customized to fit clients’ desires and the sky’s the limit.

The largest property in Punta Mita, the estate’s spacious grounds are filled with lush tropical gardens bordering a gentle, beautiful beach. The exquisite beachfront house sleeps 24 with endless nearby options for additional guests including several estates on the same beach. Newly renovated in 2013, the design emphasizes indoor-outdoor living with airy rooms with exotic and colorful touches.

Catering for the big day can be as fancy or fun as you wish, from lobster cookouts or tacos and prepared by the estate’s two 5-Star executive chefs trained at some of the best restaurants in the world. Music can be arrange with live bands playing lively reggae or rock or a classical 10-piece orchestra.

Add some Mexican flare to your luxurious beach wedding with In Villas Veritas here.

Kauri Cove, Bay of Islands, New Zealand

Make your wedding an event to remember on your own private beach and villa in New Zealand’s awe-inspiring semi-tropical Bay of Islands.

Designed by acclaimed New Zealand architect Pete Bossley, Kauri Cove is somewhere that stands out from the crowd – literally. This stunning beachside house, available through Touch of Spice, has been skilfully built to take advantage of the soothing water and island views as well as to fit into its native surroundings on the idyllic Moturua Island.

Additional features include accommodation for 14, chefs’ kitchen, heli pad, ample lawn space for a marquee, children’s playground and games room. Access to the island is restricted to boat or helicopter so you know it’s going to be an exclusive location. Plus, the warm Bay of Island waters and golden sand will make for a picture perfect backdrop on your special day.

Touch of Spice’s team can help make all the necessary arrangements to ensure that your wedding in this exclusive and exceptional destination exceeds perfection. Contact them here to start planning.

Little Harbour Estates, Anguilla

With over 30 sandy beaches and populated mostly with small boutique hotels and luxury villas, Anguilla is an ideal location for a chic Caribbean beach wedding in stunning surroundings. A magical and memorable event can be arranged at the luxurious Little Harbour Estates, available through In Villas Veritas.

Set within four acres of lovely tropical gardens and the quiet waters of Little Harbour, the estate is the ultimate in luxury and privacy. Comprised of two villas, Indigo and Le Bleu, each property has two private swimming pools, a tennis court, gym, private beach access and fabulous views out to the Caribbean Sea and islands beyond. The two villas combined can sleep 40 guests in 20 bedrooms, plus there are many options for overflow guests from villas to nearby hotels.

Little Harbour Estates has an Executive Wedding Concierge Team that can work with couples to custom design the perfect wedding that reflects their personality and fits into their budget. Every wedding at Little Harbour Estates is a truly memorable occasion. Contact In Villa Veritas at this link to learn more about this fabulous beach wedding venue.

There’s nothing like taking in the peacefulness of the mist over the mountains of Myanmar and Uganda, the quiet of the graceful plains of Kenya and New Zealand or the lapping of the waves on some of the world’s most stunning beaches. These are precious moments for travelers looking to escape the masses found at many popular destinations. If you would like to retreat from the buzz of your world, these exquisite luxury escapes are for you.

Residence on the Rocks – Seychelles

The beautiful Residence on the Rocks is a private estate on the property of the Banyan Tree Resort, situated in the very south of Mahe on the main island of the Seychelles. This part of Mahe still has some virgin areas of indigenous forest and the Residence, is surrounded by this lush greenery and situated on a high ridge, offering absolute and total privacy facing one of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

The luxurious four-bedroom complex has a refined yet relaxed colonial, Creole style. This elegance is evoked in a collection of antiques and art objects from around the world collected by the villa’s owners. Two bedrooms are found in two separate guest houses, giving great privacy and making it a good fit for multi-generational families or groups of friends. One of the guest cottages has a separate access path through the gardens that allows a party to come and go without having to interact with the guests in the main house.

There are several large covered verandas where guests meet and relax. The gorgeous infinity pool is a favorite and the nearby plunge pool with some water jet action is generally enjoyed by the children. The Banyan Tree resort hosts one of their famous spas and massage experts are available at the spa or are willing to come to the Residence when booked in advance.

Guests of the Residence can make use of all the resort’s facilities, including a range of restaurants including a Thai and a Creole restaurant. In addition, the caretakers are pleased to take guests food shopping to local markets for acquire fresh fruit, vegetables and a range of seafood items. They can also assist with casual meals at the Residence.

The surrounding area has many lovely beaches, local Creole restaurants and other facilities in the South of Mahe or sailing, fishing or boating excursions to outer islands of the Seychelles can be arranged. Superb snorkeling and diving can be enjoyed on many of the beaches and occasionally killer whales and dolphins can be seen from The Residence’s pool deck.

The owners of Residence on the Rocks work closely with guests to plan the perfect trip to this unique, secluded part of the Seychelles, they can be reached here.

Amara Mountain Resort – Myanmar

Lost in the mountains of Myanmar, the former British guest house Amara Mountain Resort is the ideal setting for getting away from the world. Located near Kalaw at an altitude of 1250 meters, some guest start switching off by arriving via a two-day hike from Lake Inle, though fear not, it can also accessed by bus, car or train or plane into Heho airport, a 45-minute drive away.

Built in 1909, the lodge has been restored and converted into a luxury hotel with a sophisticated colonial ambiance. The various lounges and separate dining room are decorated lovely turn-of-the-century antiques. With just ten rooms, each with an open fireplace, it is a comfortable and tranquil oasis.

You will absorb the peace and privacy while meandering the graceful English gardens, relaxing in the sauna or admiring the spectacular views from the terrace of the Kalaw and Shan Mountains.

Guests can partake in trekking through the Kalaw National Park, teeing off at the nearby 9-hole golf course, touring the colorful Kalaw market or the traditional villages of the Palaung, Danu and Pao people, where you can learn about the local customs and cultures.

Meals at the resort are all healthy, with a variety of traditional Myanmar and Western dishes made with organic fruit and vegetables from the estate’s garden.

Revel in the tranquility of Myanmar by staying with Amara Mountain Resort. 

Villa Sirine – Oualidia, Morocco

This stunning villa by Kensington Luxury Properties is in an elevated position above a winding tidal estuary, with panoramic views towards the sea and pastoral farmland. Designed to blend with the landscape, it sits in 2.5 hectares of grounds with lawns, a swimming pool, an extensive kitchen garden, an olive grove and natural farmland.

The villa is a wonderfully peaceful and relaxing place to bask in Oualidia’s ethereal light and space, whilst the sea breezes keep the temperature bearable even on the hottest days (there is air conditioning in the summer and heating in the winter). With no neighbors for miles, all you’ll hear is the wind in the trees, birdsong by day, the frog chorus at night and the occasional hee-haw of a donkey. Its friendly, welcoming staff are there to take care of your every need, so all you have to do is relax, unwind and enjoy the view.

Built into the side of a gentle slope, the house is on two levels. On the ground floor, built around a large courtyard lush with palm, olive and orange trees, there are 4 double bedrooms all with en suite bathrooms, a TV room, a large sitting room, a dining room and a kitchen. Two fold-out single beds are available on request. A large roof terrace with extraordinary 360 degree views is reached via a staircase from the inner courtyard.

The sitting room opens onto an 80 ft veranda (25 m) with a wonderful view over the estuary to the sea, and plenty of comfortable seating from which to enjoy it. Try sitting here and watching the sun set over the Atlantic whilst sipping a delicately chilled Moroccan wine accompanied by olives from our own trees, flavoured with fresh rosemary from our herb garden. Bliss.

The dining room leads out onto a charming pergola with a large, green mosaic-tiled communal table and cushioned seating, wonderful for outdoor meals. Under the veranda on the lower level are two further double bedrooms with en suite bathrooms and a ping pong room. All the rooms on this level overlook the estuary, fragrant eucalyptus trees and the swimming pool beyond.

The bedrooms are all spacious, with double beds, attractive rugs and original artworks. All beds have electric blankets in case evenings are chilly. All bathrooms have two sinks and a shower.

As water is very scarce in Morocco there are no bathtubs at Lagoon Lodge. Water comes from our own well, and we’re sure you’ll understand how valuable this resource is. We run an eco-friendly lodge. We heat all the water in the house using solar panels and recycle all our grey water through various filtration tanks. It is then used to water the garden.

Surround yourself in the beauty, tranquility, and luxury of Morocco with Kensington Luxury Properties.

Mahu Whenua – New Zealand

As a Mahu Whenua guest you will enjoy a full hosted, exclusive experience in total privacy on over 55,000 hectares (550sq km or 200sq miles) of majestic beauty – towering mountains, lush green valleys, native bush, forests and meandering rivers. In fact, this land is so private it was completely closed off until now, except for an annual endurance event that runs through this iconic piece of New Zealand landscape.

Located in New Zealand’s South Island just 20 minutes’ drive from central Wanaka, or a 15-minute helicopter flight from Queenstown airport, the Ridgeline Homestead & Eco Sanctuary at Mahu Whenua, available through MajorDomo, is easily accessible while giving you the feeling of seclusion and privacy on what is virtually your own private national park.

Mahu Whenua consists of four adjoining high country sheep stations – Motatapu, Mt Soho, Glencoe and Coronet Peak – which combined, stretch from Glendhu Bay in Wanaka all the way through to Arrowtown in Queenstown.

More than 90% of the land has been protected by covenants to ensure that sustainable farming practices and a plant regeneration and native bird breeding programme continue in perpetuity, making it the largest conservation undertaking on private land in New Zealand’s history.

You can discover more about this unique property here and can start planning your supremely secluded getaway with Majordomo at this link.

Ranawara – Sri Lanka

Hidden behind the palms on a practically uninhabited stretch of coastline of southern Sri Lanka, Ranawara is exquisitely private. The stylish villa sits on 23 acres of tropical gardens next to a small coastal fishing village, 15 kilometres south of city of Tangalle.

The main villa extends over 46,000 sq.ft. of open plan living and five suites within. Two single-suite cottages are located on the grounds. The air-conditioned bedrooms have four-poster king size beds, Indonesian rugs and spacious en-suite bathrooms. The property also has a library, TV room, bar area, open plan kitchen and dining room, al-fresco dining pavilion, a spa and a 100 ft long swimming pool. The professional and discrete resident staff take care of all the needs of guests during their stay.

Your peaceful days can be spent relaxing by the pool, walking or lounging on the virtually abandoned beach or ambling through the estate’s gardens amidst the hundreds of coconut trees and tropical fruit trees including dragon fruit, green oranges, papaya, bananas, mango and wood apple.

If you choose to leave the haven of the villa, various excursions can be organized to nearby villages, turtles sanctuaries, the UNESCO World Heritage Galle Fort or boating excursions to go whale and dolphin watching.

Enjoy the secret beach paradise at Ranawara by contacting them here.

Villa Ixfalia – Saint Barthlémey

The location of the Villa Ixfalia provides the “best of both worlds” as it combines extreme privacy with proximity to St. Jean Village’s vibrant scene of restaurants and shops as well as one of the island’s most popular beaches. Plus, the four bedroom villa, available through Saint Barth Properties, has stellar panoramic views of the sea and the surrounding lush green hills.

The open plan interior of the contemporary villa includes a living room, dining area and a sleek well-equipped kitchen that opens to a covered terrace, perfect for relaxing on the comfortable furnishings or savoring a delicious meal alfresco. The lovely beachy-rustic décor blends crisp whites with warm wood and accent pieces. The stunning vista can be enjoyed from almost every vantage point. All the four equally sized en-suite bedrooms have king beds (one has a king/twin option) and glass sliding doors to showcase the phenomenal ocean views.

An L-shaped heated infinity pool surrounded by plush day beds is the focal point of a vast deck. There is also an intimate lower deck for a quiet moment away from your group. Guests can workout in the air-conditioned mini-gym located in a separate bungalow and a challenge each other to a game or two on the bocce court.

Enjoy a quiet oasis with the benefits bustling St Jean by contacting Saint Barth Properties at this link.

Cottar’s Bush Villa – Kenya

For those that want absolute privacy in the Maasai Mara, combined with dedicated and discrete staff, award-winning guides, and an abundance of wildlife, Cottar’s Bush Villa offers the only real private luxury home in the Maasai Mara.

Cottar’s Bush Villa has a breathtaking view onto the savannah plains that carry the great annual wildebeest migration, and is set amidst a backdrop of the Olderikesi Hills. Guests can enjoy privately guided game drives, night game drives, bush walks, swimming in the Villas exclusive 25m pool to name but a few activities. Cottar’s Bush Villa is rented only on an exclusive basis, so privacy is guaranteed.

For the discerning client, Cottar’s Bush Villa offers complete privacy and is perfect for those who want to immerse themselves in nature.

The Villa has its own 6,000 acre private conservancy and is situated one kilometre from the Masai Mara game reserve. This location provides easy access for day and night game drives to the Masai Mara game reserve and the conservancy, meaning you will rarely come across other vehicles. It’s the Masai Mara minus the crowds!

Envelop yourself in the calm and spectacular nature of the Masai Mara at Cottar’s Bush Villa by reaching out to them at this link. You can discover more about their excellent community engagement work here.

L’Ilot Villa – Mauritius

Have your own private island getaway in Mauritius at the exquisite L’Ilot Villa by Villanovo. Located on a rock platform of 3100 m² approximately 100 m from the coastline in the lagoon of Roches Noires, the rustic chic villa offers complete privacy and comfort.

Accessed via a bridged causeway, the 300 m² villa is on a sand bed and surrounded by filaos trees. It faces northwest, offering  its lovely breezes, spectacular sunsets and awe-inspiring views of the turquoise lagoon, seen from any room of the house.

The villa sleeps six adults and two children in four bedrooms. The building and its interiors blend contemporary style with natural building materials such as stone, white or weathered wood, raw concrete along with natural fabrics, linen, comfortable and adaptable furniture.

The large open veranda with a view of the lagoon brings guests together, there is also a dining table under the trees and a 35m² deck overlooking the aquamarine sea, the perfect place for your evening sundowners or lunch with a view lunch with a view. An outdoor shower allows guests to cool down after swimming and a standby generator to start automatically ensures a continuous supply of electricity.

Savor the tranquility and superb sunsets at L’Ilot with Villanovo by reaching out to them here.

Gahinga Lodge – Uganda

Located in the foothills of the majestic Virunga Volcanoes and bordering a lush and beautiful forest, Gahinga Lodge is the perfect place to unwind and experience a real away-from-the-crowds stay.

This exclusive Uganda adventure lodge, by Volcanoes Safaris, was built using local techniques, material, and design features. The main building has a rustic and inviting living room with a central fire, the ideal setting for relaxing after a long day exploring the surrounding forests. Guests can also spend some quiet time on the terrace and spacious sunroom adjoining the living area.

There six private, traditional bandas which have been renovated to offer unrivaled luxury in the region. Each one has a fireplace and an en-suite bathroom with showers and flush toilets. The bandas are accessed by traversing the lodge’s large, lush gardens.

Gahinga Lodge works very closely with the local Batwa Tribe. One of Africa’s oldest tribes, interactive tours through the community, dance performances and other cultural connections with the Batwa can be arranged as well as a range of other activities like Rwanda gorilla safaris.

Learn more about the history and mission of Volcanoes Safaris or contact them to enquire about booking.

Villa Nektaria – Greece

With its ideal position at the tip of a peninsula in Amvrakikos bay, where three rivers merge into the Ionian Sea, the Villa Nektaria by White Key Villas is the ultimate luxury hideaway. The best of the mainland and the best of the sea unite at this unique villa which is a paradise for nature enthusiasts and families,

Well situated off the picturesque town of Vonitsa, home to a historic Venetian castle perched above one of Greece’s hidden gems, amazing Amvrakikos bay with its lagoons, reeds and endemic wildlife. The villa boasts its very own grove in addition to a citrus orchard and a small pond. Guests can enjoy these lovely grounds on long strolls and they provide children with hours of hide and seek or treasure hunts. The property’s in complete isolation allowing guests to enjoy moments of tranquility by the water on one of its three private or in the the large swimming pool.

The estate consists of a main eight-bedroom residence decorated in a classic yet homely feel and a newly-built guest house that has two additional rooms. The main residence has a well-equipped professional kitchen, where your professional chef and host serve delicious meals made with produce from the estate’s vegetable garden and fresh eggs right out of the chicken coup.

Have a well-rounded and tranquil experience of Greece with White Key Villas here.

Schloss Kogl – Austria

With some of the most beautiful forests and mountains of Europe, Austria is an ideal place to retreat to nature. You can have an elegant escape at Schloss Kogl, an exceptional baroque castle in the heart of the the Salzkammergut lake district.

This gorgeous region, north of charming Salzburg was formerly the posh playground of Austria’s aristocracy, including the Emperor and the country’s intellectual and artistic elite. The area boasts pristine lakes, pre-alpine mountains covered in forests, quaint villages and elegant lakeside villas.

Built in 1750, Schloss Kogl has been in the family of the Barons of Mayr-Melnhof since 1872 (more on its history in this article). Extensive renovations where undertaken in the early 2000s to carefully restore the castle to its previous splendor. It is decorated and furnished in a refined fin-du-siècle style. In winter guests enjoy reading by the fireplace in the library and in summer the pool in the garden is a favorite gathering point. Anytime of year you can explore the bucolic grounds or test out their historic bowling lane. The grounds are also idyllic and are encircled by Austria’s largest privately owned forest, owned by the Mayr-Melnhofs.

It’s an excellent base for discovering the many natural and cultural sites of the area from boat trips around the lake to trekking in the national parks.

Experience the elegance of Austria’s heritage in the tranquil setting Schloss Kogl here.