A Guide to Our Favourite Caribbean Islands

The Caribbean Islands are a sunshine and beach-lovers’ vacation paradise. From rugged cliffs to gently arching coves, from crystal blue waters to vivid turquoise and from glitzy to ultra relaxed, the diversity found across these thousands of islands is immense. Your decision over which island is right for you is made much easier thanks to our mini guide filled with excellent insider advice from our regional luxury villa experts.

The Bahamas

The northernmost of the Caribbean islands, the 700 islands and cays of The Bahamas start off the east coast of Florida and trail south to just above the Turks and Caicos. The archipelago stands out for its soft white, sandy beaches and waters ranging from clear blues to flashy jades. As such, diving and snorkeling are very popular in addition to bone and deep sea fishing. You can expect great weather all year round, a laid-back vibe and relaxed, luxurious vacation homes. Travelers craving solitude can enjoy the deserted beaches on Andros or those looking for more action can find it on Paradise Island or New Providence, where the capital city Nassau is located. Enjoy a happy medium on Harbour Island, a particular favorite of our local expert Pamela H. Murdock.

Situated off the coast of North Eleuthera, this dreamy island bordered by pale pink sand is only accessible by boat and features the homes of several well-known people including Elle Macpherson and Diane von Furstenberg. Despite its small size there is a good range of restaurants, both casual and chic, or opt for picnic on a sandbar. You can often find Pamela nibbling away on succulent lobster quesadillas at Sip Sip or digging into fresh conch salad at tiny food shack Queen Conch on Bay Street. She also suggests taking the short boat trip over to Ocean Talley, a restaurant set in a lighthouse on Eleuthera or to settle in for sunset drinks at Acquapazza. Tap into more insider knowledge of The Bahamas and where to stay via our local specialists here.

Turks and Caicos

The 40 low-lying islands of the Turks and Caicos, southeast of The Bahamas, are one of the few remaining destinations in the Caribbean that hasn’t been overrun by mass tourism. It’s an excellent option for those looking for privacy and luxury without the glitz of many of its neighbors. The island’s calm, crystal waters are ideal for snorkeling and paddleboarding, especially on graceful Grace Bay on Providenciales Island, thanks to  its long, protected coral reef abundant in colorful marine life, including the endangered green turtle. Here you can also find some of the Caribbean’s best mega villas, like those available through our local experts at In Villas Veritas. There are also world class spa facilities, amazing restaurants and golf courses. You can continue exploring the archipelago from Providenciales on boat trips to some of the splendid nearby islets like Iguana Island and Water Cay. Discover the beauty and intimacy of Turks and Caicos with the help of our local villa experts at this link.

Necker Island, British Virgin Islands

If unabashed luxury and privacy in a truly stunning setting is what you’re after then our Tim Roney, director of Villa Concierge and one of our global experts, suggests this particularly gorgeous island of the 60-island archipelago. Located north of larger Virgin Gorda, This 30-hectare tropical paradise is entirely owned by Sir Richard Branson who’s built a heavenly complete buy-out resort. Featuring Balinese design and open walls, it has ten bedrooms which can accommodate up to 30 guests. There are two beaches, several pools, tennis courts, watersport equipment and your own private chef. What else could one need? Perhaps make it an extra luxurious experience by also chartering out Mr. Branson’s private yacht the Necker Belle. Holiday in this glamorous luxury destination by contacting Tim Roney here.

Anguilla

For those looking to escape crowded resorts, Anguilla is the perfect destination. This is British overseas territory located east of the Virgin Islands and directly north of Saint Martin features only private vacation villas, spa resorts and small boutique hotels. A laid back, luxurious 16-mile-long island, it has pristine 33 white-sand beaches, small and large designer boutiques, art galleries and a wide variety of dining options from gourmet restaurants to food shacks. It’s a haven for seafood and fish lovers, some of the best in the region and active holiday goers won’t be disappointed with the island’s excellent watersport opportunities from sailing to windsurfing. With the Caribbean’s highest concentration of extravagant “super villas,” especially on Shoal Bay and Meads Bay, our local villa specialists can assist you with planning the perfect luxury holiday to Anguilla. Reach out to them here.

St Martin/St Maarten

Discovered by Christopher Columbus on November 11, 1493, the island was baptised after that day’s saint. The 37-square-mile island played a key role in West Indies trade from the 16th to 19th centuries and was eventually shared by the French and the Dutch. Today its spectacular beaches, tropical forests and vibrant restaurant scene provide an ideal vacation setting for those who want to relax or those who want to experience the best Caribbean glamor. Discover historic forts, plantations and old houses in Marigot, peruse the fabulous tax-free boutiques of Philipsburg, lounge by the pool of one of Terres Basses’ mega villas or find out why the island is known as the “Food Capital of the Caribbean” by tasting your way around the incredible restaurants of the picturesque fishing village of Grand Case. Our local expert Meghann Cundall of Carimo recommends those looking for laidback beach restaurants with amazing food should Le Sand, Calmos Cafe and Kontiki or for an amazing gourmet experience book in at Bacchus, Temptation or the Loterie Farm. Get more fabulous insider tips and the best luxury villas on the island with the assistance of our local experts here.

Saint Barthlémey

St. Barthlémey is a tiny (8 square miles) piece of France in the middle of the Caribbean, south of Anguilla. Our local expert Peg Walsh of St Barth Properties tells us more about this small but exceptional island:

St. Barth is not like any other island in the Caribbean. There is no poverty. There is a Swedish influence because Sweden owned the island in between French rule, as such, many of the streets in Gustavia have Swedish names. It’s renowned for having the best food in the Caribbean. The restaurants are fantastic, but casual. No jacket and tie! We also have sidewalk cafés, designer boutiques, and beautiful beaches. Since no high-rises taller than a palm tree can be built here, the island maintains its charm. There are no all-inclusive hotels, instead there are small 5-star hotels and over 250 private villas scattered across the island. The airport is also tiny. The largest plane that can land here is a 19-seater STOL.it, therefore it takes an extra effort to get here which keeps away large crowds. Many of the beaches have been protected from development, so exploring the beaches is a favorite pastime. – Peg Walsh, St Barth Properties.

Discover the best luxury accommodation on Saint Barthlémey via our experts here.

Antigua

With stretches of deserted sand bordered with aquamarine waters, this 174-square-mile island, and its sister island Barbuda, offer a wonderful beach escape with a healthy dose of history and local flare. In the southeast of the Island, English Harbour has long attracted sailors due to its sheltered bay, a tradition it retains today being a popular yachting and sailing destination. It also plays host to the Antigua Sailing Week, held annually at the end of April/early May. Visitors can visit its historic Nelson’s Dockyard or catch a passionate game of cricket. Discerning travelers can stay far removed from the cruise ships docked in the capital St John’s by vacationing in exquisite Jumby Bay, another favorite secret spot in the Caribbean of our expert Tim Roney of Villa Concierge. Here you’ll find the best exclusive, excellent fully staffed private villas along with a range of great restaurants, art galleries and other luxurious facilities. Use Tim Roney’s astute expertise to find you the perfect villa in Antigua at this link.

Barbados

In the south of the Caribbean, to the east of Saint Lucia, Barbados offers interesting colonial history, miles of white sandy beaches, a vibrant culinary scene and an abundance of island charm. Considered one of the safest islands of the Caribbean, the 21-mile long, 14-mile wide island offers a wide range of holiday options, though tends to attracts the uber-rich drawn by its collection of lavish vacation homes. The glamorous west coast of the island has narrow beaches with calm waters bordered by classy hotels and luxury rentals. There’s something for everyone on Barbados and visitors can spend their days lounging on the gorgeous beaches, hitting the waves surf board in hand, roaming through tropical forests, visiting heritage sites of historic Bridgetown or sipping some of the island’s delicious rum on a terrace overlooking the sea.

Our local Barbados specialists Blue Sky Luxury draw on their 30+ years in the luxury rental business in Barbados to bring you the most exceptional villas on the island. Let them help you plan the perfect holiday on this spectacular island by contacting them here.

Canouan, The Grenadines

The Grenadines may have 32 islands, but it’s hard to beat the exceptional beauty of chic Canouan with its divine beaches, picturesque coves and bays, steep green mountains dense in tropical forests and jaw-dropping sea views.

“But what really makes Canouan so special is its famous breeze,” reveals another of our global experts, Sylvia Delvaille Jones director of Villas and Apartments Abroad. “The island is ideally positioned to enjoy the full benefit of the northeast trade winds all year round.”

Spend your days combing its beaches, hiking into the hills, discovering its quaint towns or taking your clubs out on one of the world’s most scenic golf courses: The Grenadines Estate Golf Club. At the end of the day, soak up the spectacular sunsets over the neighboring islands and bobbing sail boats at one of the island’s flower encircled villas. Let Sylvia help you plan an amazing island holiday on Canouan here.

Italy is high on the list of countries for European destination weddings – and with good reason. Its timeless elegance, natural beauty and vast array of majestic historic properties provide the perfect location for your special day. We’ve chosen these exquisite villas and castles from the Veneto to Lazio and from the edges of Lake Como to the hilltops of Tuscany where you’re guaranteed to have a happily-ever-after event.

 Borgo Finocchieto, Tuscany

Celebrate your big day by taking over a whole Tuscan Hamlet at the Borgo Finocchieto. Surrounded by the rolling vineyards of Montalcino wine country, this small hilltop village features a cluster of recently restored medieval houses and graceful grounds, creating a perfectly private and enchanting wedding venue. The Borgo has already hosted a number of marvelous weddings:

“Thanks for an amazing experience! You helped make our wedding everything we had dreamed of. The Borgo is indeed a special place because of your hard work. We will have nothing but special memories of our time here. Hopefully it will be the first of many trips to Borgo Finocchieto.”  – Kristin and Tony Garcia, Miami, Florida

Special gathers were kept in mind during the Borgo’s restoration and thus its event facilities can manage weddings from small groups to up to 180 guests. Its team works with one of Italy’s top wedding planner, who is himself a star and television personality or guests can also hire their own wedding planners.

The ceremony can take place in its shady arcaded inner courtyard or on its expansive lawn giving way to the breathtaking views. The reception can be a more casual affair or on the outdoor dining terrace to the backdrop of the sunset or an elegant meal served in the formal dining room or ballroom, regardless, guests’ palates will be tantalized with Chef Daniele Ciofi’s special-occasion menus of classic Tuscan dishes and seasonal favorites paired with the perfect combination of local vintages.

The interior design was just as important as the structural restoration and the decor remains faithful to its heritage with a collection of beautiful furniture and artwork. Spread amongst the buildings are 22 suites which sleeps 44 people, additional guests can be accommodated nearby. The complex includes a high tech gym, a steam room, sauna, cold plunge pool, hot tub and pool.

Forge your own special memories at the Borgo Finocchieto at this link.

Isola Santa Cristina, Venetian Lagoon

Venice is the City of Love, and countless are those who travel there to celebrate their nuptials in style. Wedding destinations in Venice typically focus on luxury hotels on the Grand Canal – a place to see and be seen. But for those looking for privacy – for the kind of exclusive luxury that only space and a natural setting away from the tourist crowds can provide – a private island not twenty minutes from the city is the perfect choice.

Isola Santa Cristina is a 75-acre property with views over the famed Burano and Torcello Islands available through Siglinde Fischer / Charming Places. Set among organic fish farms, orchards, and a private lake, a nine-room villa brings contemporary comfort to an authentically Venetian environment.

“Walk down cypress-lined paths to an ancient brick chapel, or utter vows on the island’s charming peninsula as sea birds land on the distant marshlands and wild peacocks attend the ceremony,” suggests Allison Zurfluh of Isola Santa Cristina. “A pool area with teak decking sets the backdrop for a romantic outdoor reception, and two patios provide intimate nooks to mix and mingle.

“As the sun sets over the island and some of the guests catch private boats back to Venice or adjoining islands for the night, the villa’s rooftop altana with a panoramic view on the lagoon is an idyllic setting for newlyweds to wave them on their way.”

Make your wedding intimate and unique at Isola Santa Cristina by contacting the Siglinde Fischer / Charming Places team here.

Villa Passalacqua, Lake Como

A national monument and once the residence of composer Vincenzo Bellini, the lavish waterfront Villa Passalacqua is the perfect venue for a storybook on coveted and picturesque Lake Como.

Available through Villas and Apartments Abroad, its director Sylvia Delvaille Jones can work closely with couples to design a dream wedding in Italy. In fact, she’s already organized two weddings at this sublime villa.

“For the first I handled everything from caterer, music, sourcing the best wines from all over Italy using my wine expert with nose like a truffle pig sniffing out the best vintages throughout Italy and collectors in France,” explains Sylvia. “He has done this for me on a couple of occasions. This client was a true aficionado who knew what he wanted and we delivered as he asked.

“The second wedding was for Jay and Kendall Patry wedding in September 2016 (pictured above). It as a “Millennial” wedding with a stunning and sophisticated young couple with their quiet affluence.”

The well-manicured grounds feature fruit trees, roses, jasmine, and oleander as well as other lush vegetation and there’s even a 200-year old greenhouse found in the lake house. The stylish interior is decorated in Venetian chandeliers, historic paintings and period furniture. There are nice bedrooms and nine bathrooms, sleeping a total of 25. Guests can the billiards room, cinema room, workout room, music room, and grand-size swimming pool overlooking majestic Lake Como.

Make the most of Sylvia Delvaille Jones’s vast knowledge and attention to detail to plan the ideal wedding to represent your love by reaching out to her here.

The Palazzo Marchesa, Tuscany

With its historic charm, aristocratic elegance and gorgeous grounds this 17th century palazzo, located in Ancaiano district near Siena and available through In Villas Veritas, provides a dramatic setting for a magical wedding.

Designed by Carlo Fontana, the Baroque villa was built in 1680 by Cardinal Flavio Chigi for Pope Alexander VII – Fabio Chigi. Its gardens are often considered to be some of the most beautiful in the whole country, dazzling any visitor with climbing roses, fragrant lilies, vibrant irises, and vine-covered pergolas. In the spring months the wisteria turns the villa walls and walkways into a sea of purple. The surrounding fields of poppies and wildflowers juxtapose the cypresses, olive trees and vineyards whereas geometrically shaped flowerbeds and groomed hedges frame the citrus garden. Indeed, the lawned allée leading to the citrus garden would be ideal for a wedding.

The villa sleeps 27 and can be rented along with a seven-bedroom Casale and another three-bedroom villa on the same estate for a total of 23 bedrooms. The refined interior features marble tables, antiques, statues, wooden beams and a toasty fireplace. Of the 13 bedrooms many have king or queen four-poster beds and en-suites with marble tubs. There is also a fully-equipped kitchen, cinema room, games room, pool and tennis court. The area offers a vast array of cultural, active and gastronomic activities to keep guests busy before or after the big day.

Step into the shoes of prince and princess for your big day at the Palazzo Marchesa by contacting In Villas Veritas at this link.

Villa Pietro, Lazio

Combine both your dreams of a medieval castle and a refined historic villa at the spectacular Villa Pietro. Situated near Cisterna and Cori and only a 50-minute drive southeast from Rome, the incredibly romantic 500-hectare estate features a late 17th-century aristocratic villa, a world-famous English Garden as well as the ruins of Roman structures, a medieval castle and a chapel – the ideal romantic setting for the perfect fairytale wedding.

The unique estate, available through Carpe Diem Luxury Travel, was restored by architect Gae Aulenti, the genius behind the conversion of Paris’ Musée d’Orsay from a train station into a museum. She succeeded at maintaining the property’s elegance and refinement while incorporating some architectural avant-garden. It is divided into the Villa (1,520 sq m) and the Castle/Dependence, home to four and three spacious bedrooms respectively.

Highlights of the Villa include a large vaulted entrance, a custom spiral staircase, designed by Gae Aulenti herself, and a beautifully decorated drawing room. There’s also a large kitchen, a breakfast-room and a dining room seating up to 14 which all open onto the garden. The Castle/Dependence also has its own kitchen and dining room, plus a living room and a vast library/media room with projector, which could be of use doing a wedding reception.

There are many lovely areas which could serve as the location of the ceremony, especially in the gardens, which were designed by landscape architects Dan Pearson and Stuart Barfoot and are famous throughout Italy. Both relaxed and refined, they feature colorful flower beds, rose gardens, wisteria and jasmine trellises, pergolas and private romantic nooks. The swimming pool shaded by a medieval tower and wall and a lake inhabited by swans are of particular note. There’s also an olive grove and a working farm which provides the villa with fresh fruit and vegetables and can be included in the excellent local dishes served during the wedding reception.

This part of Lazio has many interesting natural and cultural attractions to keep your guests occupied before or after the wedding including beautiful beaches, the Roman and Medieval town of Cori, the gorgeous Gardens of Ninfa and the wilder Circeo National Park.

Make your special day a truly exceptional event at Villa Pietro by reaching out to Carpe Diem Luxury Travel here.

Limonaia di Celsa, Tuscany

As soon as you drive through the tall iron gate and down the treelined lane, you’ll be swept up in the entrancing ambiance of the Limonaia di Celsia. Arriving at the castle, you’ll be completely bewitched. With a history of over seven hundred years and a stunning setting overlooking mature woodlands, the bucolic Tuscan hills, Monte Amiata and even Siena’s famous bell tower and cathedral, the charms of this beautiful property will ensure you have a happily-ever-after wedding.

Owned by the descendants of the original castle built on the estate in the thirteenth century, the building was reconfigured in the 17th and again in the nineteenth centuries and is available through Homebase Abroad. The exterior, with its stoic tower and imposing stone walls, are proof of its impressive history. Its interiors are welcoming with high ceilings, large glass doors and windows casting plenty of natural light into its spacious rooms. The five bedrooms are decorated in light colors to maintain a bright feel and feature beautiful linens and luxurious baths. Guests enjoy getting their day off to a great start with a hearty breakfast in its country kitchen with seating for 10 and direct access to the garden.

The large private grounds include an Italianate boxwood garden, formal ‘alles’ leading to Baroque pools, a maze of pathways through woodland, lawns, a rose-covered pergola for outdoor dining, a pool, a tennis court, a fruit orchard and a vegetable garden which yields fresh produce for the guests.

Besides its elegance and natural splendor, the estate makes for the perfect venue for weddings thanks to its sixteenth century chapel, designed by Architect Baldassarre Peruzzi, who was born in the area. The lawn in front of the chapel is another excellent location for exchanging vows. The ceremony can be followed by a reception in the garden, the castle’s courtyard or in the barn that stores the lemon trees in winter, which can hold up to 180 guests.

At only 30 minutes from Siena, the estate is an fabulous base for exploring all the pleasures of Tuscany. Guests can enjoy the region’s many cultural and culinary pleasures or the bride and groom may want to commemorate their union on an early morning hot air balloon ride to take in the stunning views.

Prepare the Italian weddings of your dreams at the Limonaia di Celsia with the help of Homebase Abroad at this link.

The wedding venue is one of the most important considerations for any couple while planning their special day. The destination they choose will come to represent the couple’s eternal love and be forever engrained in the memories of all present on this very important occasion. Whether you’re looking for wild nature, stunning coastlines or soaring mountains, these exceptional locations for destination weddings will wow both you and your guests.

Koh Samui, Thailand

Heavenly Koh Samui island, located in the Gulf of Thailand is an ideal location for a wedding – big or small. On this island paradise, the exclusive and discreet luxury villa estate of Samujana offers guests’ uncompromised privacy surrounded by exquisite beauty.

The expansive estate boasts a prestigious hilltop location and is just a few minutes’ drive from Samui International Airport. Each villa has been individually designed and features a fabulous infinity pool, vast terraces and incredible sea views. Villas vary in size from three to eight bedroom and some include additional amenities like fully-equipped private gyms and home theaters.

For an intimate wedding, the wide terraces, with panoramas of the Gulf of Thailand and gorgeous sunsets, found at one of its private villas would be the ideal location. Medium to large weddings can be held at a dedicated event space, the Big Lawn and Little Lawn, a beautiful three-tiered landscaped area that cascades down to the seafront and which can host up to 200 guests for a banquet and 250 for cocktails. Another possibility is to hire the whole estate for the entire wedding party.

Whether you declare “I do” under a canopy of fragrant tropical flowers on the lawn or high above on a terrace facing the awe-inspiring vistas, the moment is bound to be extremely magical. A DJ, fire show or half day sunset cruise on luxury catamaran and many other options can be easily arranged to celebrate the occasion.

Once you’ve celebrated your big day, the island is also the perfect place to enjoy a romantic honeymoon. Their helpful team can assist in all the details for the wedding and for activities before and after for your group. Start planning with them here.

New Zealand Lakeside, Wanaka

If snowy mountains, fireside cocktails and the great outdoors are your idea of heaven, Wanaka is the natural wedding destination for you. Our experts at Touch of Spice have the perfect villas in the area for the perfect special day in this spectacular part of New Zealand.

“A magical paradise surrounded by untouched scenery and landscapes that look like paintings, it offers breath-taking ceremony backdrops with both lake and mountain views,” tempts Touch of Spice’s Marketing Manager Kelcey Radford.

“With all the comforts of a luxury destination, you are spoilt for choice for boutique accommodation. A stunning riverside estate situated on 17 acres, the Wanaka Wonder estate is available exclusively and is the perfect blank canvas for designing your dream wedding. The property can sleep up to 12 guests in two luxury villas and features manicured lawns and gardens, huge outdoor entertaining areas, a tennis court, swimming pool, steam room, hot tub and pétanque court.

“Alternatively, if a luxury lodge is more your style look no further than Whare Kea Lodge, one of the first luxury lodges in New Zealand. Strikingly designed in timber and glass, it appears to float on the edge of Lake Wanaka against the dramatic backdrop of the Southern Alps. With two master suites and four deluxe suites, each with a veranda and en-suite bathroom, along with comfortable, spacious living and dining areas with open fire and bar, it’s the perfect venue for intimate weddings and accommodations for up to 12 guests.”

Celebrate the magnitude of your love in one of the world’s most stunning settings with Touch of Spice at this link.

Canouan, The Grenadines

A total buyout of a chic island resort in the Grenadines, would make the ultimate venue for a destination wedding in a Caribbean oasis with family and friends. Of the 32 island’s of the Grenadines, picturesque Canouan is ringed with beautiful beaches, coves and bays, dense in lush forest and features amazing sea views. This fabulous natural setting, combined with the elegance of the Il Sogno estate by Villas and Apartments Abroad, provide couples with an immensely idyllic setting for their special day.

The beautiful island is abundant in tropical flowers from purple Petunias to the flaming red Flamboyant trees, set against steep green mountains. It benefits from a perfect climate all year round  thanks to the gentle trade winds that blow and sunny days as the norm. In the evenings witness beautiful sunsets along with the ever so gentle fragrance from the gardens, caressing the soul through all the senses.

Set on a hill overlooking the Caribbean Sea, the Atlantic Ocean the Southern Grenadine Islands, Mount Royal, and the Canouan golf course is the lovely 4.2-acre Il Sogno estate. It consists of four one-bedroom cottages, each with a bedroom, bathroom, sitting room and a large verandah, the perfect base for the wedding party with additional guests accommodated nearby. Guests can gather in the Great Room with walls that slide open onto a large verandah, an 18-meter long infinity pool, sun deck, two-story gazebo and outdoor bar and grill. The gorgeous grounds themselves could be the setting of the wedding with their flowers, palms and fruit trees designed to bloom in every season.

“Nearby the estate, there are various special spots to exchange vows,”  explains Sylvia Delvaille Jones, director of Villas and Apartments Abroad. “Such as the beautiful 17th century non-denominational limestone church located at the resort. For those seeking an authentic local wedding, can arrange this in the village  where churches and rum bars coexist side by side – you’re bound to have many well wishers and plenty of cheers.

“The beach is the ultimate venue, the dream choice of so many couples. Some take it a little further, diving together into the blue Caribbean sea decked out in Vera Wong gown and Ralph Lauren suit for that first underwater kiss. A waiter is ready to serve the prize couple that glass of champagne once they have emerged.

“For the golfers, the island’s 18-hole PGA Jim Fazio designed course beats all other venues. The ceremony can be arranged at the 13th hole, known by golfers to be one of the most challenging, which prides itself on being at the most prominent spot on the course. It’s also the spot with the most brilliant sunset, painting the most amazing backdrop just for the occasion. The party can carry on with celebratory fireworks, flowing bubbly, delicious hors d’oeuvres and a lively calypso band that’ll have everyone dancing till dawn!”

Tap into the local knowledge and creativity of Sylvia Delvaille Jones to help you plan an original wedding on the splendid island. Contact her here.

New Zealand Coastline, Bay of Islands & Banks Peninsula

In addition to having fabulous lakeside locations, New Zealand’s spectacular coastline offers incredible settings for an elegant and breathtaking wedding. Our experts at Majordomo have two exquisite, unforgettable venues with jaw-dropping coastal views.

Located in the beautiful Bay of Islands, off the north coast of North Island, Eagles Nest offers a truly unique ocean side location. Whether it’s a small, intimate wedding or a larger celebration with a seated gala banquet, there are up to five luxurious villas at Eagles Nest that can be tailored perfectly for you.

Your unique wedding day will be seamlessly put together by Eagles Nest’s dedicated wedding concierge who can also assist with celebrants, photographers, live music, wedding cakes, flowers, luxury transport, catering and more.

Over on the east coast of South Island, Annandale promises an outstanding and unique venue. Located on a farm overlooking the sea on Banks Peninsula, you will enjoy privacy and seclusion with incredible views.

Annandale offers a choice of venues, from the stately elegance of the homestead which can cater weddings for up to 40 people, to a more intimate affair at Seascape in a private bay right on the sea. There is also the option of taking over the entire property. The team at Annandale can create a bespoke package for your wedding, allowing you to do as much or as little decision-making as you like.

The farm at Annandale offers outstanding backdrops for your photographer to capture too: the elegant gardens at the homestead, breathtaking views over the coast at The Point, where the sunlight sparkles on the water like countless diamonds, or the strikingly contemporary and private setting of Seascape. It’s a dream setting for your most special occasion.

Experience the most memorable days of your life by organizing your wedding in either of these sublime locations with MajorDomo here.

Masai Mara, Kenya

Adventurous couples can have a truly unique wedding at one of the most astoundingly beautiful places in Africa, Cottar’s 1920’s Safari Camp and Bush Villa.  Situated on the Olderikesi conservancy, bordering the Maasai Mara National Reserve and just one kilometer Tanzania Serengeti game reserve, this historic and award-winning safari camp can host small and medium-sized weddings with African spirit and originality.

“Cottars has had the pleasure of organizing many beautiful blessings for our guests – from small, simple ceremonies involving a champagne celebration at the end of a game drive, to larger three day events with over 60 guests. We have become the hottest emerging destination for blessings in the African bush!” explains Cottar’s Director Calvin Cottar.

“A stylishly simple ceremony, led by a Maasai elder, coupled with the vibrant colours of Maasai dancing and celebrations away from the crowds yet amidst the herds! This requires very little paperwork and no official certificates are supplied.

“The ‘bride’ and ‘groom’ are both adorned in traditional Maasai regalia and the entire village joins in your celebration! The traditional ceremony is complete with gourmet dinner and a mouth-watering cake of your choice.”

Guests can be accommodated in the luxurious main camp, whereas the wedding party, or just the bride and groom, can stay in their gorgeous, intimate Bush Villa. Built using indigenous and eco-friendly materials, the villa is over 10,000 square feet and has a large living room, dining room, viewing deck, and five en-suite bedrooms. It has its own private 25-meter pool, though its guests also have access to the Cottar’s 1920s Camp swimming pool, shop and other facilities.

Add a touch of wild to your wedding with Cottar’s. Reach out to them here to begin exploring your options.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Ever wondered what goes into planning a villa stay? “It’s a time-consuming process and the reason you may find me up at wee hours, fielding questions from three different time zones,” says Sylvia Delvaille Jones, one of UltraVilla’s general consultants. Recently, Sylvia and her “master curator” put together an itinerary for a family with children who will be staying at one of her villas in Provence this summer, and she offered to share it with us.

What follows is a goldmine of information about the towns, restaurants, and attractions in this popular region—created, says Sylvia, “by people I’ve worked with for many years. None of the daily programs is hurried; it’s important to us to immerse guests in the local environment—the flavors, the land, the people, the culture—with each day a different experience.” Note: Some of these activities can only be arranged through a guide with the right connections.

The program starts with a list of attractions that are situated within a 30-minute driving radius of the villa and a list of restaurant recommendations. The information below is all courtesy of Sylvia’s company, Villas and Apartments Abroad.

Local Attractions

St-Remy de Provence: Famed as the birthplace of Nostradamus, St-Remy was also where Vincent Van Gogh was interred, at his own request, in 1889. It offers good shopping and has many good local restaurants.

Les Baux de Provence: One of the jewels of the region, Les Baux de Provence is a must in your week’s stay. It is a bit further on from St-Remy de Provence and we have included it in the same day (below).

Avignon: Once the seat of the Papacy, the city has retained all of its walls and the imposing Palace of the Popes, a UNESCO World Heritage and the biggest Gothic construction in the world. There is great shopping to be had here and fantastic restaurants as well. Over the Rhone River is the town of Villeneuve les Avignon, and a visit to La Chartreuse, one of the biggest Carthusian settlements in Europe, is well worth it for anyone interested.

Wine tasting and olive-oil tasting: The region of Les Alpilles has some excellent vineyards well worth taking the time to discover. These vineyards often produce olive oil as well, and a tasting of both can easily be organized.

Honey tasting: Visit a producer that has been making honey for four generations. We can visit La Mielerie (where the honey is conditioned) and taste different kinds of honey, such as lavender, forest, rosemary, mountain plants.

Carrières de Lumières: A unique immersion into an artist’s work. The Carrières de Lumieres is a sound and light show in an old quarry near Les Baux de Provence. Every year the theme is changed, and for 2016 it is Chagall. You are literally surrounded by the works of the artist on the walls and the floor using the latest digital technology. It is a worthwhile visit after Les Baux de Provence or St-Remy de Provence. Another possibility is the privatization for your group after closing time, allowing the choice of theme to be shown. Past themes have been Klimt, Van Gogh, and Gauguin, Renaissance masters, and the artists inspired by the Mediterranean.

Le Jardin de l’Alchimiste: A private garden with the label “Jardin Remarquable,” which lists it as one of the most beautiful in the region. The garden is made up of five parts, starting with a maze, then the garden of magical plants, followed by the alchemist’s garden, which is presented in three separate parts represented by colors: black, white, and red. This could be a perfect visit to precede the essential oils workshop, perhaps in the morning.

Top Restaurant Recommendations

This list of Michelin-starred restaurants (all within a 35-minute drive of the villa) is not exhaustive but gives an idea of the possibilities the region offers. There are also many bistrots and more modest establishments in close proximity.

Oustau de Baumanière, Les Baux de Provence: This two-Michelin-starred restaurant is probably the local reference for fine dining. On the table, the present pays tribute to the past and the past allows the present to express its creativity. When the founding father, Raymond Thuilier, was chef, the cuisine was rich and creamy. His grandson, the present chef and owner Jean-André Charial, added his own touch, a purer, more subtle style concocting a colorful and lively cuisine.

La Maison de Bournissac, Noves. This one-Michelin-starred restaurant is the closest to the villa. The chef and owner, Christian Peyre, takes his inspiration from his native Provence often using produce from his own garden to complement the fresh local produce you will find in your plate.

Le Saule Pleureur, Monteux: Laurent Azoulay, a young chef who obtained his Michelin star in 2009, will delight your tastebuds in his restaurant where he remains faithful to traditional Provence cuisine, whilst stripping it of its heaviness and keeping the essential.

Christian Etienne, Avignon: Christian Etienne is a man of strong passions—a passion for cooking, of course, but also a passion for life and a passion for Provence. His menus echo this passion, and often you will find an entire special menu based on a single product if it is exceptional enough! He has one Michelin star.

Six-Day Itinerary

Your tour coordinator will be at the airport in Marseille to meet you with three Mercedes V Class vehicles. A separate baggage transfer can be put in place if you have a lot of luggage.

Sunday, July 17

Isle sur la Sorgue Sunday market

This morning you will discover L’Isle sur la Sorgue. The main market itself is a myriad of colors and smells as you wander through the market stalls, but here is the antique market as well as the antique dealers in what is the second biggest antique buyers’ platform in Europe. Your guide will also show you some of the 14 remaining water wheels (there where once over 70), witnesses of the city’s milling industry, as well as the Church of Notre-Dame-des-Anges, one of the finest Baroque churches in Provence. We will depart from Isle sur la Sorgue at noon and return to the villa for lunch.

Wine tasting at the villa

A comprehensive wine tasting of the finest offerings from the Rhone Valley with sommelier Kelly McAuliffe. We can base the tasting on the region’s finest or go further afield with wines from Burgundy, Bordeaux, Alsace, and Champagne. The form of the tasting can be a predinner tasting of several local wines with delicious nibbles to accompany, followed by a tasting menu concocted by Kelly and our chef. (The choice of wines will need to be made as far in advance as possible especially if you wish to obtain rare vintages.) Kelly McAuliffe has been the only American sommelier working in France for the past 17 years. After doing an internship in Alain Ducasse’s three-star Michelin restaurant in Paris, Kelly was asked to run his new chic restaurant in Monaco, which was filled with international celebrities. Eventually he was asked by the chef to run his uber-successful restaurant back in Paris called Spoon. He left Chef Ducasse to be the head sommelier at Michelin-starred restaurant Christian Etienne in Avignon to be closer to his wife and family. This also allowed Kelly to meet and befriend the best wine makers in the Rhone. He is now a specialist of the Rhone and instructs professionals from around the world about its wonderful wines. After six years in Avignon, Chef Ducasse convinced Kelly to run his hugely successful restaurant in Las Vegas called Mix at the top of the Mandalay Bay Hotel. Kelly was then offered the French wine specialist position at Southern Wine & Spirits in Las Vegas. On a daily basis he would work with the best sommeliers and master sommeliers of Las Vegas. Now back in Provence, Kelly shares his knowledge and passion for wine as few others can.

Monday, July 18, 8:30 a.m.–4 p.m.

Canoeing on the Gardon and Pont du Gard

This morning we will drive to Collias, a small town on the banks of the River Gardon. Here you will meet at 10 a.m. with your canoe guides for the morning, who will lead you down the Gardon River by canoe, an easy activity for all levels. There will be two people per canoe and two guides for the group. On your journey you will pass underneath the stunning Pont du Gard (above), offering a beautiful perspective of this formidable monument. Built in the first century A.D., the Pont du Gard is the highest of all Roman aqueduct bridges and is, with the Aqueduct of Segovia, one of the best preserved. It was added to UNESCO’s list of World Heritage Sites in 1985 because of its historical importance. Once 44 million gallons of water flowed here every day, supplying the citizens of Nimes. At the end of your canoe ride, one of our “rustic chic” picnics will be waiting for you on the banks of the river with delicious local produce, pastries, cheeses, charcuterie, fresh fruit, and of course a drop of local rosé wine. The picnic will be organized in a public area, so we will possibly not be alone. After lunch we have a rendezvous at the Pont du Gard with an exceptional VIP visit of the aqueduct. From 160 feet above the Gardon riverbed, you can admire the surrounding region and marvel at the quality of Roman construction, which still stands strong after 2,000 years.

Tuesday, July 19, 8:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.

Camargue Private Manade Tour

For this tour we will drive into the heart of the Camargue (above) to meet with your hosts, who will take you on a private visit of their working manade, a traditional Camargue farm. Their manade has won more prizes than any other manade in Camargue, for its bull raising. Your hosts will explain their daily lives as we discover this wild wetland, which is also home to native pink flamingos, herons, storks, and many other beautiful birds. You’ll have lunch on site, then drive back toward the villa with an optional stop in Arles to visit the Roman Arena.

Wednesday, July 20, 9 a.m.–12 p.m.

St-Remy de Provence Market

Today it is market day in nearby St-Remy de Provence, which offers some good shopping opportunities for souvenirs and local produce; the children could maybe have the task of buying some local fruit and vegetables for their cooking class later this afternoon. One of our favorite places to visit and taste are Joel Durand’s chocolate shop, where his famous chocolate alphabet proposes a different chocolate for every letter of the alphabet as well as six punctuation marks! Also there is Premiers Pression Provence (also in Les Baux de Provence), where you can taste olive oils and tapenades. (Premiers Pression Provence was founded by Olivier Baussan, the founder of L’Occitane en Provence, and his first shop outside of France is in Hong Kong.) Historically, St-Remy is the birth town of Nostradamus, but aside from a statue and a plaque on the door of the house where he was born there is not a lot to be seen. However Vincent Van Gogh spent a year in the asylum of St-Paul de Mausole, which can be visited. There is also the archaeological site of Glanum, where the ruins of the original Roman settlement in St-Remy de Provence can be found, as well as the triumphal arch and mausoleum.

Cooking Workshop at the Villa

Celebrity chef Yvan Cadiou will come to the villa this afternoon for a pastry cooking workshop with the children (but the adults can join in!), which the entire group will be able to taste at dinnertime. Yvan will also be preparing tonight’s dinner, and so an impromptu cooking session with him in the kitchen will be possible whilst he prepares. Yvan was born in Brittany and has received classic French training in the kitchens of the Ritz Hotel and the Crillon Hotel. He then began life as a chef-traveler, cooking with celebrity and Michelin-starred chefs from England to the Algarve, to Barbados, Spain, luxury homes on the Côte d’Azur—all the while learning cooking traditions and combining his passions for fresh, local ingredients with creative cuisine. He did several shows on French national TV which have appeared worldwide and even created a theatrical cooking show which met with critical acclaim in Marseille. His flamboyant style and creativity will make this an unforgettable treat for the participants as well as the rest of the group, who will taste his food at dinner.

Thursday, July 21, 9:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.

Lavender and Luberon Tour

Today we will leave the villa and set off for the lavender fields of Provence. We will start with the drive to the Plateau de Sault, a 70-minute drive. Here you will discover the amazing fields of lavender that are picture-postcard perfect! We will visit a traditional distillery, its owner a “nose” keen to the subtle variations of the scents of lavender. You will have an opportunity to buy essential oils and other lavender products there, perfect as gifts.(We cannot guarantee that the distillery will be working as this depends on the dates of the lavender harvest.) We will then drive the very short distance to the town of Sault where you can discover the delights of André Boyer’s nougat shop (and delicious homemade ice creams), as well as Yves and Virginie, a fantastic charcuterie shop where you can find an unbelievable selection of hams, patés, and saussicons to take home for the evening’s aperitif. Lunch today can be either in Monieux at Les Lavandes, a local restaurant serving excellent meals at very reasonable prices, or Le Bistro de Lagarde, a 20-minute drive and one of the best-kept secrets in the region. This restaurant is off the beaten track, but today is perfectly positioned for us. Its chef, Lloyd Tropeano, had an incredible local following, and those in the know kept quiet. However, he was awarded a Michelin star in 2013 and the word got out. After lunch we will continue on to Roussillon (35 minutes) and maybe take a stroll in the ochre deposits before arriving at Gordes (14 minutes) to admire the view of probably the most iconic village in the region before heading back to the villa (35 minutes).

Friday, July 22, 9 a.m.–12:35 p.m.

Les Baux de Provence

Les Baux de Provence (above) is one of the most beautiful villages in France. Perched on a rocky outcrop, the village is crowned by the ruins of the medieval castle, which the children will love. We will take the scenic route along the interestingly named Val d’Enfer (Valley of Hell), which comes out above the village, offering a stunning panorama of the village on arrival. In summer there are demonstrations of the catapults and knights sword fighting, as well as a blacksmith. The village itself is extremely picturesque and historically fascinating, but being very beautiful it is also very popular with tourists, hence the morning visit. Olive-oil and wine tasting can also be planned today.

Sylvia’s company, Villas & Apartments Abroad, has properties all over the world, including luxury villas, smart city apartments and yachts. The above itinerary was designed for a family stay at a large private estate in Provence. For more information or to book a stay, contact Sylvia through Ultravilla.com.