Pretty as a Picture Colonial Towns

Battled over by the British, Spanish, Portuguese, Dutch and French, South and Central America and the islands of the Caribbean are dotted with remnants of the colonial era and the struggle to control the New World. The colonizers left their mark through splendid Baroque churches, sturdy fortresses and charming European-inspired plazas. Travel back in time to the era of golden conquest by visiting these enchanting towns descending from Mexico to Uruguay.

Paraty – Brazil

Paraty is a beautiful colonial town between Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, only a few hours drive from both cities. It’s a favorite of our local Brazil expert Martin Frankenberg of Matueté Villas, who tells us a little more about this lovely destination.

“Settled in the mid-17th century, when gold was discovered in this region, Paraty became the most important port to transport it over to Portugal,” explains Martin. “Set in one of the most stunning stretches of the Brazilian coastline, it unites great private villas, good hotels and restaurants, vibrant culture and nightlife, great local shopping, tropical rainforest treks, waterfalls, and a bay filled with islands and virgin beaches, which are best explored by private boat.”

Matueté has a range of villas in the town center and also on an island only 10 minutes away by boat from town. Discover their luxury accommodation options in Paraty here.

Colonia del Sacramento – Uruguay

The small, understated country of Uruguay has one of South America’s prettiest colonial towns: Colonia del Sacramento. It was founded in 1680 by Manuel Lobo, the Portuguese governor of Rio de Janeiro, choosing the location for its strategic position across the Rio de la Plata from Buenos Aires, then controlled by the Spanish.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the charming historic center is crisscrossed by cobbled streets lined with charming cafés, boutiques, historic homes and an array of colonial buildings. You can easily trace the ramparts around the city, punctuated by the town gate. The brave who climb the stairs to the top of the El Faro 19th-century lighthouse are rewarded by an impressive view of the Barrio Historico and shimmering waters of the Rio de la Plata. Since the town is set on the north side of the vast river, it’s the perfect vantage point to savor spectacular sunsets.

Colonia is a great day-trip from Buenos Aires or make Uruguay your holiday destination by staying at the beautiful Villa Neptuno, available through Marina Gratsos of Carpe Diem Luxury Travel and situated further up the coast near the lovely seaside resort of Punta del Este.

A description of the villa can be perused in this article and learn more about this fabulous contemporary villa by reaching out to Marina at this link.

San Miguel de Allende – Mexico

Considered one of the most beautiful towns in Mexico, the picturesque colonial city of San Miguel de Allende marvels visitors. Nestled in the Bajio mountains in the center of the country, the colonial city was founded by the Spanish in 1542 and classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2008.

“It became an important stop on the silver route between Zacatecas and Mexico City,” explains our local expert Pamela H. Murdock. “This rise in prominence is evident in the splendor of the city’s architecture. One of the reason’s the city remains so special is that it was declared a national monument in 1926 and therefore all new construction must conform to the colonial architecture.”

The old town, with its cobblestone streets and lovely historic buildings, has a magical ambiance. Many visitors start their explorations in El Jardín, the lively main plaza animated by artists, musicians and street vendors. Here you can find La Parroquia, neo-gothic and baroque cathedral with a Moorish bell tower. There’s also a fabulous artisanal market where authentic local handicrafts can be purchased.

The city is also known for its impressive historic homes, like the magical Quinta Quebrada, represented by Pamela. Hidden by tall walls, the 16th-century house is set on almost one acre of graceful grounds encompassing courtyards, terraces, follies, gardens of climbing roses and cascading bougainvillea, loggias, a pool and a hot tub.

Complete your marvelous trip to San Miguel by staying at Quinta Quebrada. Find out more about this one-of-a-kind house here.

Bridgetown – Barbados

One of the best preserved British colonial cities of the Caribbean is beautiful Bridgetown, Barbados – so much so, its Garrison and historic core have been added to the UNESCO World Heritage list. The charming old town has buildings dating from the 17th to 19th centuries, architectural representations of the power of Great Britain’s colonial empire. It was one of the first fortified ports of the Caribbean, which led it to become one of the most important British trading ports in the region.

A visit to Bridgetown wouldn’t be complete without admiring the famous Garrison. Established in 1780, it’s the largest 18th to 19th centuries garrison of the British Colonies. A walk through the old town will also take you past several other historic buildings like the Parliament buildings, St Michael’s Cathedral and the Georgian era George Washington House. History buffs will enjoy learning more about the early days of the island at the Barbados Museum and Historical Society, located in the former Military Prison.

Soak up the colonial spirit and relaxed Caribbean vibe by staying at one of Altman Villa Rentals‘ exquisite collection of properties on the island. Learn more about their opulent holiday rentals at this link.

Cockburn Town – Grand Turk, Turks & Caicos

The capital of the Caribbean archipelago of the Turks & Caicos, Cockburn Town is said to be where Christopher Columbus first set foot on the “New World” in 1492. Visitors to the small city of 5,500 inhabitants will travel back in time as they stroll past the rows of colorful colonial buildings along narrow streets like Duke and Font Streets.

In your wanderings, seek out the Lighthouse, Fire Hill and the Hawks Nest Anchorage. Along your way, you’re likely to spot some donkey carts, still in use on the island. Stop in at the National Museum to delve further into the country’s history, a focal point of the exhibit is on the Molasses Reef Wreck, the oldest European shipwreck discovered in the Western Hemisphere (from around 1505).

Our experts at In Villas Veritas have a multitude of wonderful villas scattered around the islands of the Turks & Caicos. Let them assist you to plan the perfect trip here.

Dunmore Town – Harbour Island, The Bahamas

The Bahamas is also rich in Caribbean colonial history. A lesser known pearl is the charming town of Dunmore on Harbour Island, crowned by Travel + Leisure as the “Best Island” in 2015. It was founded in the late eighteenth century and named after the governor of the Bahamas from 1786 to 1798, John Murray, 4th Earl of Dunmore, who had a home on the island.

“The pretty town is lined with pastel colored clapboard cottages with picket fences and gardens full of colorful bougainvillea, oleander, hibiscus and other flowers,” describes Pamela H. Murdock, our local expert for the Bahamas. “Life on the island is laidback and peaceful, helped by the fact that there are no cars—only golf carts.”

For a small town of less than 1,800 inhabitants, Dunmore has a fabulous variety of authentic and delicious dining options from fancy bistros to tasty food shacks. Pamela shares her favorites in this article.

Enjoy planning a wonderful trip to Harbour Island with the help of Pamela and her immense knowledge of the destination. You can contact her at this link.

There’s nothing like taking in a spectacular sunrise or sunset to feel like you’re truly on holiday. Whether you’re a morning person wanting to get your day off to a stunning start or prefer to end your afternoon (possibly with cocktail in hand) gazing at a fiery sky, join us on the deck of these phenomenal private villas in the Caribbean and South America.

Tequila Sunrise Villa – Lover’s Cove, Dropsey Bay, Anguilla

As its name indicates, the sleek Tequila Sunrise villa by Ricketts Luxury Properties offers some dazzling sunrises due to its southeastern orientation, facing the Caribbean Sea towards the mountains of St Martin. The villa is also set on a private section of the Lover’s Cove beach, giving guests perfect seclusion.

The 5,000 sq. ft two-bedroom villa, with expansive windows and sliding patio doors, has a bright airy feel and stunning ocean views throughout. It’s decorated in a contemporary style with colorful accents and artwork. The master bedroom suites have king-sized beds, large HD TV, air conditioning, private patio, and an over-sized full en-suite bathroom.

The open plan 22′ ceiling great room, wonderfully equipped kitchen and dining room are perfect for evening entertaining and give way to the outdoor terrace. The large infinity swimming pool is surrounded on three sides with loungers and relaxation areas, and on the fourth side by the private beach and ocean.

Start your day, and your luxurious holiday in Anguilla, off right with Ricketts Luxury Properties click here.

Caraíva Villa 2 – Southern Bahia, Brazil

Brazil has hundreds of kilometers of east-facing coastline, making it a sunrise-lover’s paradise. Our experts at Matueté Villas can’t get over the incredible sunrises at the gorgeous Villa 2 in Caraíva. The town of Caraíva is ideal for those seeking the tranquility of Southern Bahia while only being a 15-minute drive away from town and an hour away from Trancoso.

The estate is situated on 150 meters of surrounding untouched beach, gardens and coconut grove, providing guests with absolute privacy and a lovely natural setting. With five bungalows scattered over the grounds, it’s perfect for a group of friends traveling together or families with children. Guests can gather in the old but renovated fisherman’s house, a convenient and comfortable meeting point for all the bungalows and where a beautiful pool is found. There is also a barbecue area, two TV rooms, a pergola with hammocks in the garden and a terrace with couches and garden view.

Wake up to the sunrise and enjoy a idyllic Brazilian vacation with Matueté Villas at this link.

Sunrise-Sunset Villa – Pointe Milou, St Barthémey

At this exquisite villa by St Barth Properties you don’t have to choose between sunrises and sunsets, you get both! Located in beautiful Pointe Milou, the three-bedroom Sunrise-Sunset villa features a striking walled stone terrace where a pair of palm trees frame a breathtaking vista of the sea and neighboring islands. The lovely terrace offers sun and shade as well as abundant living and dining spaces. The panorama expands across to Lorient, St. Jean (including the infamous little airport runway) and beyond.

Inside the crisp white kitchen, with elegant granite counters, has a striking view of the sunrise – a special treat with your morning coffee. There is a comfortable and spacious living room which has an alcove that works nicely as a TV nook and a formal dining area.

There are three bedrooms, all with king size beds and en-suite bathrooms. The master suite, which opens to the terrace, and a lovely, slightly smaller bedroom are in the main house while the third bedroom is housed in a separate pavilion. The pool, with its deep blue mosaic tiles, is situated on a lower level and is ensconced in the relaxing deck.

The villa is within walking distance to popular Le Ti St. Barth for dinner – and maybe some dancing on the tabletops! Villa Sunrise-Sunset is a beautiful vacation home that suits honeymooners, couples or families with children.

Start preparing for your sunny holiday in St Barthélemy by contacting St Barth Properties here.

Kishti Villa – Meads Bay, Anguilla

Recline in one of the many lounge areas on the vast deck of the Kishti villa and prepare for some magnificent sunsets. Also by Ricketts Luxury Properties, this gorgeous villa is located a five-minute drive from Cuisinart in Anguilla’s fashionable West End. The beautiful, mile-long Meads Bay is a mecca for island foodies due to its excellent variety of upscale restaurants and bars – all within easy strolling distance of the villa.

Taylor Smyth Architect and internationally renowned Interior Designer Cecconi Simone Inc. have teamed up to create the ultimate in contemporary style and design. The estate is comprised of one five-bedroom and one six-bedroom villa, two kitchens each, rooftop and patio gardens, home theater and home office. Guests can also enjoy, the non-intrusive but extremely attentive service by a staff of 11 who ensure the full, pampering, no-effort-spared “Kishti Experience.”

Treat yourself to the supreme sunsets and “Kishti Experience” with at this link.

Ti Moun St Barth Properties – St Barthémey

The sunset continues back in St Barth at the Ti Moun villa by St Barth Properties. It’s hard to beat this three-bedroom villa’s fabulous location, crowning a hilltop and thus offering exceptional views of the iconic harbor and the tremendously beautiful sunsets.

The villa has recently undergone a complete renovation, making it even more desirable. The indoor and outdoor living and dining spaces are luxurious and comfortable, including a sleek kitchen with a breakfast bar. The oversized pool is set on a sunny terrace and positioned to leverage the magnificent views of the sea and the neighboring islands. There are three large bedrooms, all with king-sized beds, en-suite baths and fantastic views. Two are found on the main level and one on the lower level. The blazing Caribbean sunsets are incredible all year round.

The villa is also located within a gated community and is very close to Gustavia’s chic shops and restaurants. Both Shell Beach and Gouverneur Beach are less than a five-minute drive away.

Get hypnotized by the awe-inspiring sunsets by reaching out to St Barth Properties here.

Mainland America has some of the best pro golf courses in the world, however, the landscapes of the other areas of the Americas offer the most spectacular locations to hit the green. Cliffside courses, awe-inspiring ocean vistas, and tropical oases; our experts transport us to the best turf stretching from Hawaii to Brazil as we put along the Pacific coast and hit hole-in-ones from one Caribbean Island to the next. Tee off with us at these exceptional courses.

The Plantation Course at Kapalua – Hawaii

With such stunning scenery, it’s not surprising that Hawaii also has fabulous golf courses. Our experts at Hawaii Hideaways recommend The Plantation Course at Kapalua with its lush vegetation, challenging holes and spectacular ocean views. Home to the annual Hyundai Open and frequently ranked the #1 golf course in Hawaii, it was designed by Ben Crenshaw and Bill Coore, who took into the natural backdrop of the West Maui Mountains. They also planned almost every hole to face dramatic ocean views. Its design challenges the pros but is also very accessible for the average golfer. The thrills last to the very end with an aggressive slope at the 18th fairway which allows for some of the longest drives you may ever have.

Where to Stay at Kapalua

You’ll ace your time in Kapalua by staying at the Avalon by the Sea villa from Hawaii Hideaways. It is situated within the Sea Glass estate, a one acre park lined with papaya, banana, orange, grapefruit and Plumeria trees bordering the golf course. The villa provides the perfect spot overlooking the 18th fairway to relax and watch all the action.

Other than the golf course, its hillside location offers a breathtaking view of the mountains or the ocean from every room in the home. It sleeps eight in four bedrooms with six bathrooms. The décor is contemporary with tasteful appointments and artwork. The open-flow design has three bedrooms in the north wing and the master suite in the south wing allowing for complete privacy for all guests. You can relax or enjoy a meal in the spacious grand room or the covered outdoor sitting areas.

For further information about the Avalon by the Sea villa or the other luxury designer villas in the Hawaii Hideaways repertoire, follow this link.

Pacifico Golf Course, Four Seasons Punta Mita. Photo Credit: Christian Horan

Pacifico Golf Course – Punta Mita, Mexico

The Punta Mita Peninsula, located on Mexico’s Pacific coast just above Puerto Vallarta, has two courses designed by the legendary Jack Nicklaus: the Pacifico and the Bahia. Both are located at the Four Seasons Resort Punta Mita, and feature extraordinary ocean views with world-class play.

Our experts at In Villa Veritas suggest The Pacífico which is ideal for both experienced players and beginners. It has eight holes directly facing or playing alongside the Pacific Ocean and also features the unique “Tail of the Whale”, an optional par-three hole with the largest natural island green in the whole world. The course extends over 81 hectares (200 acres) and takes full advantage of its seaside location, the area’s diverse tropical vegetation and sweeping Sierra Madre Mountains. You may even catch glimpses of whales swimming by during their seasonal migration.

Where to Stay In Punta Mita

The Casa Tres Soles villa by In Villa Veritas is a wonderful golfers’ base in Punta Mita. Located a short drive away, the villa has access to both golf courses, an outstanding staff and is absolutely gorgeous. Plus, with an average of 325 sunny days per year, Punta Mita has the perfect golf climate.

The enchanting villa is set on an oceanfront plateau overlooking the clear blue waters of the Pacific Ocean. It conveys the comforts and opulence of North American lifestyle while recreating the hacienda ambiance. Tres Soles is an inspiring 18,000 sq. ft. residence with more than 20,000 sq. ft. of terraces, paths, and patios. The spacious property sleeps 18 in nine bedrooms with 12 bathrooms. Guests can convene in the airy family room, dine together al fresco, relax in the fitness room, sauna and massage room or have a quiet moment in one of the two secluded casitas with their fantastic views of the mountains and sea.

Learn more about this paradisiac property or the other superb villas by In Villa Veritas at this link.

Arnold Palmer Golf Course – Papagayo Peninsula, Costa Rica

On Costa Rica’s gorgeous Papagayo Peninsula, our experts at Papagayo Luxury love teeing off next door at the amazing Arnold Palmer Course. The 6,800-yard, par 72 course managed by the Four Seasons made the 2012 list of “Top 100 Courses Outside the US” by Golf Digest.

The stunning views over the peninsula and Pacific Ocean begin at the very first hole. The route traverses through a Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary, which includes the “Trail of Giants” and a huge range of beautiful local flora and fauna. The Club has something for all levels on its driving range: an 18-hole real grass putt putt course, a sand bunker practice area plus chipping and putting greens, complimentary weekly clinics, private instruction and a pro shop.

Where to Stay on the Papagayo Peninsula

Found right next to the course, Papagayo Luxury has several villas facing the course and all condos overlook the driving range and/or some of the holes. All of their homeowners are members of the club which thus grant access to anyone staying at Papagayo Luxury. The spacious, classy villas are all custom designed with breathtaking ocean views, private pools, and contemporary furnishings. For smaller groups, they have luxury townhomes for up to eight guests.

Guests also have access to the private Prieta Beach Club which has several pools, restaurants,a  fitness center, and long beach. Papagayo’s concierge team prides itself on its attention to detail expediency, and can assist guests with planning excursions and other customized itineraries.

Discover which villa is best for you by contacting to Papagayo Luxury here.

Cuisinart Golf Club

Cuisinart Golf Club – Anguilla

The Idyllic Island of Anguilla features the heavenly Cuisinart Golf Club, an 18-Hole Greg Norman Signature Design Championship Golf Course and a favorite of our experts at Ricketts Luxury Properties. Completed in 2011, the course has quickly risen the ranks to become one of the top courses in the Caribbean.

Built on different levels and with different slopes, the route consists of 18 challenging holes. Arriving on the course, players are met with the amazing view of St. Maarten and the Caribbean Sea. The awe-inspiring vistas continue throughout the green surrounded by lush native vegetation. In addition to its sensational setting, Cuisinart prides itself on its sustainable design which aimed to preserve and enhance the island’s natural habitats. An essential factor of the planning process was the renewal of the Merrywing Salt Pond, a landmark of the island showcased on the course.

Where to Stay in Anguilla

At the end of the day on the green, park your clubs at the Kishti on Meads villa by Ricketts Luxury, located only a short 5-minute drive from Cuisinart in Anguilla’s Fashionable West End. The gorgeous, mile-long Meads Bay is the current venue of choice for island foodies with its array of upscale restaurants and bars, bookended by 5-star resorts at each side of the beach – all within easy strolling distance of the new Kishti enclave.

Taylor Smyth Architect and internationally renowned Interior Designer Cecconi Simone Inc. have created the ultimate in contemporary style and design. The estate has one five bedroom and one six bedroom villas, two kitchens each, rooftop and patio gardens, home theater and home office. Above all, they have non-intrusive but supremely attentive service by a staff of 11 to ensure the full, pampering, no-effort-spared “Kishti Experience.”

To enjoy your own “Kishti Experience” on Anguilla, or discover their wide range of fantastic properties, contact Ricketts Luxury at this link.

Canouan Golf Course – The Grenadines

According to our expert Sylvia Delvaille Jones of Villas and Apartments Abroad, Canouan Island, one of the 32 islands in the chain of the Grenadines, boasts one of the most beautifully scenic golf courses in the world: The Grenadines Estate Golf Club.

“Nothing was compromised in order to create this magnificent 18-hole course,” says Sylvia. “The 13th hole is much talked about, often followed by a chuckle. I wonder why? It crowns the very top of a hill, sitting there all alone beckoning world class players to come on up by day. However, by the time you are finished playing, the butler has transformed this plateau into a venue for sipping cocktails and hors d’oeuvres to the spectacle of the most amazing sunset.

“This course, if measured by the amount of wealth in the pockets of those who have played it, would win hands down due to the multimillionaires and billionaires who happen to own villas there. One villa owner who had sold his company for 900 million pounds jokingly said he suddenly realized he was the poorest person owning a home there and among the friends he was playing with.

“What makes this so special is the breeze Canouan is known for. The island is ideally positioned to enjoy the full benefit of the northeast trade winds year round. This makes playing ‘a breeze’ in the perfect temperature. The setting is also exceptional for its 360-degree view of mountains, numerous tiny islands, long stretches of beaches, the sights and sounds of the sea, sailing boats bobbing and sleek mega yachts cruising the coastline.”

Where to stay on Canouan Island 

If Sylvia’s description of the course hasn’t won you over, her Il Sogno villa certainly will. Set high on a hill, it offers unparalleled privacy and phenomenal views of the Caribbean Sea, the Atlantic Ocean, Mount Royal, the Southern Grenadine Islands, the golf course and the entire length of Canouan Island.

This lovely 4.2-acre estate features four one-bedroom cottages. Each cottage is 111 sq. m. with a bedroom, bathroom, sitting room and a large verandah, making it ideal for a couple or small family. The main entertainment area includes a great room with walls that slide open to a large verandah, an infinity pool 18 meters long, sun deck, two-story Gazebo and a fully equipped outdoor bar and grill – perfect for taking in the view, hosting a cocktail party or soaking up the Caribbean sun. The bucolic grounds spread out over graceful gardens, designed to bloom in every season, and are dotted with banana, plantain, lime, orange, grapefruit, mango, papaya, breadfruit, avocado and fig trees.

To book this fabulous villa or learn more about holidaying in the Grenadines with Villas and Apartments Abroad, contact Sylvia Delvaille Jones here.

Royal Westmoreland – Barbados

Over in Barbados our experts at Altman Villa Rentals send avid golfers straight to the Royal Westmoreland. It has recently been rated 31 in Golf Digest’s “Top 100 Golf Courses outside of the US” and it’s universally agreed to have some of the best par three golf anywhere.

Situated on the rolling hills of the exclusive Royal Westmoreland gated community, a former sugar plantation, this world-class 18-hole championship golf course was created by renowned course designer Robert Trent Jones Jr. Every hole of the 7,045-yard, par 72 course has breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea.

Where to Stay at the Royal Westmoreland

As the Royal Westmoreland is a private estate, golfing access is only available to villa owners or rental guests. Our experts at Altman Villa Rentals have the perfect property located on the premises: The Westerings villa. This prestigious colonial style Caribbean holiday villa offers incredible views across the golf course and the turquoise blue waters of the Caribbean Sea. The Westerings sits at an elevated position on the 13th hole of the resort’s championship golf course.

There are five superbly appointed double bedrooms in the main house, each with ensuite facilities and spacious verandas with sea views. The open plan lounge and kitchen open onto a large covered terrace – the perfect location for sunset cocktails. The guest cottage features a sixth bedroom, bathroom, kitchenette and lounge with pull out sofa bed. The villa’s layout is ideal for family gatherings and the outdoor living areas include a dining and bar area with barbecue, and an expansive terrace surrounding the luxurious infinity edge pool and jacuzzi. Guests have access to on-site tennis, golf, a fully equipped gym and an exclusive beach club at Mullins Bay.

If you’d like to tee off from this amazing villa or discover other extraordinary villas on Barbados, reach out to Altman Villa Rentals at this link.

Terravista Golf Course – Trancoso, Brazil

One of the best golf courses in South America is the gorgeous Brazilian Terravista Golf Course, highly recommended by our experts at Matueté Villas. Situated in Trancoso, on Brazil’s Discovery Coast in southern Bahia, Terravista is considered the most exclusive tourist and real estate development in the country. The site is also of immense historic importance to Brazil as it is the location where Portuguese sailors first set eyes on the Brazilian coastline over 500 years ago.

The resort’s setting couldn’t be more beautiful, sitting atop imposing cliffs and facing the Atlantic Ocean. The Terravista complex includes hotels, vibrant restaurants and other commercial and service centers as well as its private airstrip. A highlight is definitely the Terravista Golf Course. Opened in 2004, it was designed by Dan Blankenship, a Gold Tee Golf International Architect from South Dakota State University. It occupies 70 hectares and includes planted grass, lakes and native vegetation, the preservation of which was a crucial element to the course’s design. The front nine holes are routed through the area’s natural rainforest and the back nine holes work their way towards the gorgeous coastline.

Where to Stay in Trancoso

Matueté Villas has the perfect villa right inside the golf course complex, a safe gated community. Overlooking the course, the Trancoso Villa 30 combines local charm with contemporary luxury. It has well connected common spaces and terraces with a lovely swimming pool. It has five comfortable bedrooms and sleeps up to 10. The property is pleasantly airy. It Includes two housekeepers, a cook (from 8am to 4pm) a full-time bilingual concierge, menu planning, with food and beverage purchasing.

Matueté Villas has another villa in Trancoso as well as a large variety of refined villas across Brazil. Find out more about these luxury villa offered by Matueté here.