Family holidays are a time to disconnect from work, focus on the kids, have fun times together and create memories to last a lifetime. Your dream family beach holiday starts right here as we take you around the world to phenomenal villas which aren’t merely beautiful; each one is ideally adapted to families with their fantastic amenities, an incredible range of activities and, of course, stunning sea views.

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The Beach House, Ricketts Luxury – Anguilla

The exceptional Beach House, available through our experts at Ricketts Luxury Properties, is the premier private villa in Anguilla. The award-winning beachfront villa has been designed with the highest level of detail in contemporary style. It consists of eight spacious en-suite bedrooms, ten bathrooms, two powder rooms and vast living and dining spaces open to lush, tropical manicured gardens, and the soft white sands and impossibly turquoise waters of Meads Bay – recently voted the best beach in the world.

With its unique blend of high-style and low-key elegance, The Beach House offers every convenience for the ultimate in modern island living. Complete with a 44ft infinity pool, outdoor jacuzzi, fully outfitted gym, full-size tennis court, built-in BBQ, and 12-seat private cinema, the villa is appointed throughout with premium brand amenities, entertainment, lighting and security systems. The top pick for celebrities, CEOs, and those seeking an ultra- chic yet relaxing lifestyle, The Beach House recently won best architecture at The International Property Awards. So many of its features make it perfect for families, its Estate Manager, Alison Strand, mother of three, tells us more:

“At The Beach House, we know that the best things in life are the people we love, the places we’ve been, and the memories we’ve made along the way,” says Allison.” After all, when the sand has washed off, the salt washed clean, and the tans have faded, the memories will last forever.

“That’s why The Beach House makes the ultimate family get-away – we understand that your priority is to craft shared moments as a family, to make memories that will last a lifetime.

“As a mother, I know what it takes to put a family vacation together. My role is to work hand- in-hand with you to create a fully bespoke experience tailored to your every wish and need. Before you arrive, I work with you to plan a range of services, activities, dining experiences, and excursions for you and your family. Once your journey begins, our full-service team is waiting to exceed all your expectations. At The Beach House, you get the personal touch from every member of our qualified team. We are waiting to make your dream Caribbean escape come true.”

The 1,600 square foot Entertainment Room, featuring a wide selection of children’s board and card games, pool table, ping pong table, basketball free throw and, and a kids’ favourite:  the air hockey table. This is an excellent spot to entertain the kids in the evening, and even to escape the afternoon heat.

The Beach House is equipped with snorkels, masks, fins, life vests, single and double kayaks, and three stand-up paddle boards. You can take advantage of a number of watersports including windsurfing, sunfish sailing, water trampoline, water skiing, wake boarding and glass bottom kayak tours.

Allison and her team can also arrange fabulous kids parties which just might be the cherry on your son or daughter’s cake during this magical Caribbean holiday.

The sky nor the beach is the limit at the amazing Beach House. Start planning your trip to Anguilla with Ricketts Luxury Properties here.

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Puma Estate, Papagayo Luxury – Papagayo Peninsula, Costa Rica

Mix natural adventures with beach time and family fun by staying at Papagayo Luxury, located on the gorgeous Papagayo Peninsula in the lush Costa Rican tropical dry forest. One of their best villas for families is the Puma Estate, and if you can get away before Christmas, Papagayo Luxury is offering the 7th night free now through December 14th (including Thanksgiving).

The Puma Estate House is a luxurious custom designed six bedroom / six and a half bathroom home featuring magnificent ocean views throughout the home. The property is backed by the Four Seasons Arnold Palmer Signature Course and Golf Club. This home is particularly well-suited for two families traveling together as it has two identically sized master suites (stacked). There is a flexible bed arrangement as a king can convert to two twins (for teens that don’t want to share a bed). It also has a sixth small, spare bedroom with a full/twin bunk bed, when guests need extra space for more kids or for their nanny.

In addition to comfortable living spaces and terraces, the estate includes a private pool and hot tub. Plus it’s a short drive from the Prieta Beach Club, a small putt putt course at the driving range and Nacascolo Beach, which is a long beach with flat water (bay side).

Scoop up this great deal on the Puma Estate for stays before December 14th or reach out to Papagayo Luxury at this link to check availability for other times.

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Samujana – Koh Samui, Thailand

The beautiful Samujana resort, featuring stunning private villas, offers an amazing family holiday on the picturesque island of Koh Samui. Samujana was chosen by Smith Hotels as one of the World’s Best Family Resorts 2016, below are some of the reasons it made the list.

Perched on a hillside overlooking a coral cove with private beach access, this private resort, designed by award-winning designer Gary Fell, is comprised of a collection of oversized and opulent villas, some of which feature private cinemas and games rooms making are perfectly suited to families. They have experienced and qualified bilingual babysitters and nannies available on hourly, daily and weekly rates, so parents can take a little break for themselves.

Family activities at Samujana include cooking classes, Muay Thai boxing lessons and a range of watersports such as waterskiing, snorkelling and diving. Its team of chefs provide delicious in-villa dining experiences including family-fun barbecues which you can enjoy poolside.

The island also has tenpin bowling, two modern cinemas, and even a jumping castle playzone. A number of excursions can be arranged from tours to see the waterfalls and temples or to one of its family attractions like the Aquapark, Butterfly Garden or Coco Splash Waterpark.

Book your dream family holiday to Thailand at Samujana.

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Kauri Cove Villa, Touch of Spice – Moturua Island, Bay of Islands

Have a private island in New Zealand’s exquisite Bay of Islands just for you and your family by staying at the Kauri Cove Villa by Touch of Spice. Step off your private helicopter transfer straight onto a white sand beach and find a split-level beach haven designed by renowned New Zealand architect Pete Bossley tucked into the native bush.

“Right on property there’s access to all the best non-motorised water toys, including kayaks, stand up paddleboards, a dinghy, top notch snorkelling and fishing equipment, and an ocean trampoline,” explains Jacqui Spice, founder and CEO of Touch of Spice. “Rock pool exploring, sprat fishing or the good old-fashioned playground will keep the wee ones entertained. For the big kids, ATV Quad adventures, jet skis, parasailing, deep sea fishing charters and heli flight-seeing tours are all on the motorised menu.

“If white knuckles are not your thing, there’s the Department of Conservation Moturua Scenic Reserve walk or exploring Maori artefacts and indigenous history at any one of 27 recorded archaeological sites on the island. Your concierge in residence would also be delighted to book a private yoga teacher or horseback riding session, in addition to assisting with anything mentioned above (or anything you may dream up).

“Of course, we’d be remiss not to mention the internationally ranked golf course, spa services and world-class dining at Kauri Cliffs, just a short helicopter ride away. There is truly something for everyone on this island retreat and Touch of Spice can offer bespoke packages that will leave you never wanting to return to the mainland.”

The Kauri Cove Villa is still available for the Christmas and New Years holidays. Plan your family holiday to the beautiful Bay of Islands with Touch of Spice at this link.

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Tres Soles Villa, In Villa Veritas – Punta Mita, Mexico

For a fantastic family holiday in Mexico, our expert Laura Blair of In Villas Veritas take us to the gorgeous Tres Soles Villa on the Punta Mita Peninsula found on Mexico’s Pacific coast north of Puerto Vallarta. Since it has eight bedrooms, two of which are masters, it’s ideal for extended families or two families traveling together. Laura Blair of In Villas Veritas tells us more:

“The pool is lovely and fun for kids as it winds around palm islands,” describes Laura. “There is a gentle slope down to the fantastic beach so no big drops.

Alternatively, it’s just a few minutes’ drive from the punta mita resort and residents’ beach club where you can meet other families and kids. There you’ll find beach service, a pool, club bar and restaurant, golf and tennis. There’s also tennis in the private villa community a two-minute walk from the villa.

There are wonderful nature and adventure activities for those more sport-minded. Everything is possible here such as tennis, golf, scuba, hiking, zip lining, whale watching, surfing, paddle boarding, kayaking and more. Or you can just relax in the sun with a good book and a Margarita (and still see the whales migrating from your chaise lounge). This includes full staff for all services including a wonderful chef so you don’t even have to leave the property and still have plenty to do with the house, pool and beach.

Escape to this remarkable villa and lovely part of Mexico with In Villas Veritas here.

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Skiathos 1L Villa, Five Star Greece – Greece

With its exceptional climate, spectacular natural beauty and fascinating cultural discoveries, the Greek Isles are an ideal family destination and our expert Ileana Von Hirsch of Five Star Greece has the perfect family villa on the Island of Skiathos.

“The Skiathos 1L Villa has something for all ages in a family group,” says Ileana. “The island has an airport so it’s more readily accessible. The villa has a private sandy beach with easy swimming, plus onsite there is a huge pool set in lawned gardens, a family cook and staff, and separate guest cottages for when family tensions rise…

“A friendly boatman to take you out on day trips to explore the gorgeous beaches of the wilder north coast, cross over to the lush and mountainous island of Skopelos, where Mamma Mia was filmed or try your hand at water-skiing at Tourlos Beach. For some cultural discoveries, visit the secret monasteries in Skiathos’ green hills, seek out some homemade almond sweets or “Amigdalota” or shop for some artisanal jewellery at Varsakis in Skiathos town.”

Have a superb family getaway to Skiathos with the help of Five Star Greece at this link.

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 Villa Athena, St Barth Properties – Anse des Cayes, St Barthélemy

The breathtaking and relaxing island of St Barthélemy is a fantastic family destination in the Caribbean and our local experts at St Barth Properties have just the right property for families: the Villa Athena.

This marvelous multi-level villa features floor-to-ceiling windows and an airy, open feel. Admire the sparkling sea and Anse des Cayes from inside or from one of its many terraces. The long, heated pool and surrounding terrace with a pool bar is highlight. There are two spacious living rooms, a guest bath and a dining room. The villa is furnished in a chic minimalist décor and also includes a sleek professionally-equipped kitchen.

The seven bedrooms include a master suite with an outdoor shower that is located in a separate bungalow. All the bedrooms have king beds convertible to twins, beautifully appointed en-suite baths, terraces with sea views. Two on the lower level are “master-sized” with king/twin beds. Four bedrooms (two with outdoor showers) have king/twin beds and are located on the lowest level. There’s U.S. Satellite TV, a sound system and Apple TV in the bedrooms.

The Villa Athena is still available for Christmas, however, there is a minimum stay requirement of 14 nights. For further information or to reserve, contact St Barth Properties here.

We’re pleased to take you on an insider tour of the exceptional Camp David, a sprawling villa compound new to the rental market and available through our experts St Barth Properties. Located on the quieter end of St. Jean this vast beachfront property, which sleeps 24, is the perfect place to gather family and friends for the beach holiday of a lifetime. Enter the gate of Camp David with us below.

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It’s love at first sight for most visitors to the stunning island of Saint Barthélemy. One of the most glamourous of the Caribbean, it attracts the wealthy and the beautiful with its pristine beaches, world-class restaurants and chic duty-free boutiques. The hottest new places to stay on this stylish island are these two villas by our experts at St Barth Properties.

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Villa La Lune

Located in Pointe Milou, this gorgeous two-bedroom villa, boasts a three-sided vista of the sea. It offers guests ultimate privacy and delights them with contemporary-styled sophistication and a wealth of special features. The living room is stylishly furnished for comfort, conversation, and feet-up TV viewing while an air-conditioned office area makes the space truly multi-functional.

La lune villaThe classy simple décor is complemented by a soothing palette custom designed by Donald Kaufman and Taffy Dahl, the U.S.’s foremost color consulting firm. Accessories by one of St. Barth’s favorite designers, Christian Liaigre, adds stylish finesse. Elevated above the main level, a sleek stainless kitchen and adjacent dining area open to a shaded porch and a spacious sunroom furnished for relaxing (with a double-sized day bed) and dining. The views from this room are particularly dramatic.

la lune villaThe outdoor living space includes a vast deck with a long solar-heated pool, an open cabana and a lower-level gazebo. Two equally-sized air-conditioned master suites have king beds, smartly appointed en suite baths and glass sliders to decks overlooking the ocean. The doors and windows are screened providing the option to enjoy tropical breezes and the sound of the surf.

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Villa Shadowfax

Situated in Flamands, the elegant three-bedroom Villa Shadowfax treats guests to fabulous views of the sea, neighboring islands and lush green hills. Well laid-out with soothing minimalist décor, it’s vacation-perfect. A comfortable living room opens to a spacious deck furnished for outdoor living and accommodating to shade seekers. A long, heated infinity pool is easily accessed by steps and sparkles in the sun.

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The villa’s sleek summer-white kitchen opens to a covered dining area via a wide pass-through. A full guest bathroom is conveniently located nearby. There are two (French king) bedrooms and another one with twin beds convertible to a king.

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All bathrooms have well-appointed en suite baths and glass sliders that open to a deck and frame a view of the sea. Air-conditioned, they are also screened providing the option of enjoying tropical breezes. A benefit to its location is the proximity to the beloved neighborhood bakery La Petite Colombe for breakfast pastries, baguettes or to pick-up a sandwich en route to nearby gorgeous Flamands Beach.

For more information about these two villas or to learn more about St Barth Properties excellent repertoire of private villas on the island, contact them here.

 

Where are our travel experts taking us this month? We’ve got a fabulous new luxury home with phenomenal mountain views in New Zealand, refined apartments in a historic palazzo on Venice’s Grand Canal as well as hot deals in Saint Barthélemy and Costa Rica, plus great local tips for making the most of June on the Mexican Riviera.

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New Opening: Slope Hill Serenity by Touch of Spice, New Zealand

Our members down in New Zealand at Touch of Spice have just added the exceptional new Slope Hill Serenity in Queenstown. Touch of Spice has a carefully selected portfolio of New Zealand’s most luxurious boutique accommodations.

The timing couldn’t be more perfect for this new offering. The snow is just starting to sprinkle the mountain tops and the property is located at the base of one of New Zealand’s best ski fields: Coronet Peak. The contemporary, chic house features five bedrooms, four bathrooms and sleeps up to 10 people. There is a nice patio area that’s ideal for enjoying an evening meal and those fabulous views of the mountains.

To learn more about this or other luxury homes and apartments in New Zealand, contact Touch of Spice here.

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New Openings: excellence.Villas, Venice

excellence.villas have just opened two fabulous apartments in the Ca’nova palazzo on the Grand Canal in Venice, decorated personally by company founder Katharina Allès Trauttmansdorff.

The private historic palazzo is minutes away from Piazza San Marco, the Palazzo Ducale and right across from the Santa Maria della Salute basilica. Both two-bedroom apartments are on the third floor, accessible by a new elevator. The apartments have been redecorated in a classic style with a contemporary twist. The Borsato faces the Grand Canal, whereas the Hayez looks onto a quiet square. There is also a lovely terrace shared by all guests of the palazzo.

Be one of the first to stay at these gorgeous apartments by contacting excellence.villas at this link.

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Special Offer: St Barth Properties, St Barthélemy

St. Barth Properties has an exclusive offer for UltraVilla readers. They will generously pay the 5% island tax on any new confirmed booking of seven nights or more that are made during the month of June 2016. The perfect place to stay on the island is the stunning, contemporary and luxurious six-bedroom Villa Galaxie.

Located above the quieter side of Gustavia, Villa Galaxie boasts a breathtaking seascape and fiery sunsets. A terrace with a gorgeous infinity pool provides a focal point and is configured to include spacious living and dining areas. Sleeping accommodations include a master (French king) suite housed in a private pavilion. The other five lovely bedrooms, all with en suite baths, are located in an adjacent pavilion. The villa’s chic décor is ultra-modern with a white palette, and techno amenities include a surround sound music system. Gustavia’s shops, restaurants, and Shell Beach are just a short walk away. This is an exceptional vacation home and ideal for an extended family and is the perfect venue to host a celebration.

Contact St. Barth Properties here to scoop up this great deal.

Last Minute Special: Papagayo Luxury, Costa Rica

Don’t be scared off by a little volcano smoke. Despite the recent eruptions of the Turrialba Volcano, it is still completely safe to travel to Costa Rica. Only the area within an approximate 50 km radius of the volcano has received any falling ash or debris, the rest of the country remains mostly unaffected, including where Papagayo Luxury is located, in the northwest corner. You can learn more about the eruption in this article from our Journal.

Papagayo Luxury also has an UltraVilla exclusive offer. Book any of their rentals for stays during the month of June and you will receive a 10% discount. (This offer is not valid for bookings for stays after June 30th 2016.) For more information on this great deal or future trips to Costa Rica, contact the Papagayo Luxury team here.

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June on the Mexican Riviera, Local Tips by Villa & Apartments Abroad

Heading down to the Mexican Riviera this month? Lucky you! To help you plan, our local expert, Sylvia Jones of Villas & Apartments Abroad gives us the inside scoop on the area’s top events in June:

June 2nd-5th: American Express is hosting the first ever Masters of Food, Wine & Golf event at the Mayakoba Resort. For three consecutive days, gastronomic masters will gather to offer their culinary delights, along with an impressive list of magical wines, tastings, pairings, and cooking classes that are sure to excite “foodies” from around the globe. This festival promises to attract an international attendance, including celebrities and golf professionals. It will no doubt be one of, if not the most important attraction to Mexico for the summer.

June 3rd: Cancun welcomes handsome Mexican idol, Alejandro Fernandez on his world tour. The Mexican people love music, especially their home grown artists who have made it big.

June 9th: World famous DJ Nicole Moudaber will be performing at the “Blue Parrot,” in Playa del Carmen. This talented DJ is quite familiar to the hot beds in the summers around the world. She knows how to spin and pack a beach, sending sound waves into the depth of the ocean.

Thank you Sylvia for these great tips! For help planning your perfect trip to the Riviera Maya, contact Sylvia here.