Incredible Luxury Villas We Wish We Were In Right Now
By Rebecca Cox
1 year ago
The ultimate way to relax
There’s something magical about a villa holiday: all the luxury of a hotel with added peace and seclusion. Whether you’re looking for summer seclusion or to hole-up on a cosy winter escape, from short-haul trips to long-haul family-sized party pads, these are villas we wish we were in right now…
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The Best Luxury Villas To Escape To In 2023 & Beyond
Villa INDIGO at Vila Monte Farm House
Algarve, Portugal
Villa Indigo houses three suites, large living and dining spaces, secluded outdoor pool, solarium and verdant gardens and access to an exclusive butler service. The villa comprises one suite with a living room and bathroom, one indoor and outdoor shower and bath-tub; one suite with bathroom, one indoor and one outdoor shower; one suite with bathroom; living room with fire place; dining room and open kitchen.
BOOK: vilamonte.com
Meda Gedara
Dickwella, Sri Lanka
Sleeping 18 guests, this stunning beach house features a beautiful ocean view garden, private pools, and seven comfortable bedrooms. Described as “the most beautiful villa in Sri Lanka”, the bedrooms feature four-poster beds while outdoor spaces include landscaped gardens, yoga pavilion, 20m pool and a plunge pool.
BOOK: From $1,750 per night. edenvillas.com
Sunset Luxury Water Villa, Joali
Maldives
Joali’s 19 sunset-facing Luxury Water Villas feature decadent marble showers and sinks with ergnonomic rose gold taps, freestanding bathtubs looking out over the water, flower-shaped ceiling fans, high ceilings constructed from dark sustainable timber, pastel pink and cream Turkish rugs designed to keep feet cool rather than warm and a minibar bursting with healthy snacks as well as a smoothie maker, rose gold pineapple decanters and a quirky cream vintage coffee machine for morning espressos. Each overwater villa has its own infinity pool and outdoor rain shower as well as hammock suspended above the turquoise waters, steps down into the ocean plus snorkel and flippers to have turtle-spotting adventures off your deck.
BOOK: joali.com
The Estate Villa at Four Seasons Resort and Residences
Napa Valley, USA
Four Seasons Resort and Residences Napa Valley is soon to open and will include The Estate Villa, featuring a private garden and swimming pool, wet-room style bathroom with shower and deep soaking tub, double vanity sinks, walk-in wardrobe and a living room with built-in fireplace. The resort is Napa Valley’s first-ever resort within a winery, with a farmhouse-chic design, surrounded by vineyards, mountains, and forest.
BOOK: fourseasons.com
Pullman Maldives Maamutaa Aqua Villas
Maldives
Pullman Maldives has 122 villas including two Aqua Villas with underwater bedrooms featuring floor to ceiling windows. With a thriving coral reef, guests can enjoy a memorable experience of the region’s marine life up-close and the chance to see blacktip sharks, sea turtles and surgeonfish. There is also a private pool, a second bedroom looking out across the ocean, and an open-air bathroom.
Armitage Hill
Galle, Sri Lanka
This property has a 200-year history, and is set on 20 acres, 7.5kms from Galle Fort and a short drive to white sand beaches. Originally built as a collection of separate pavilion buildings centred around the original plantation house built in 1820, the property has five en-suite bedrooms, large living and communal areas, courtyards, a dining pavilion designed to seat 20 guests, a 70ft pool and large pool pavilion plus kitchen and separate staff buildings. A trip to nearby UNESCO World Heritage Site Galle Fort is a must.
BOOK: From $700 per night. edenvillas.com
Lepogo Lodges
South Africa
One of Africa’s few not-for-profit luxury safari lodges, Lepogo Lodges are set within the 50,000-hectare Lapalala Wilderness Reserve. Noka Camp’s five stilted villas sit atop a 100ft cliff overlooking the Palala River and feature window-side sunken bathtubs and private heated plunge pools offering panoramic views of the surrounding terrain and inhabiting wildlife. Not close enough to nature for you? Each villa also offers an outdoor ‘sky bed’ placed on the glass floor balcony over the ravine, providing the opportunity for star-gazing under the African night skies.
BOOK: lepogolodges.com
Parco del Principe
Macciano, Italy
Situated between Umbria and Tuscany, this 18th century historic villa sits in a private 60-acre park with views over the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Val d’Orcia. The 8-bedroom villa sleeps up to 16 people but if you need some space during your stay there are miles of Italian countryside waiting to be explored.
BOOK: parcodelprincipe.it
Stay One Degree Camps Bay
Cape Town, South Africa
For breathtaking views of table mountain from Camps Bay mountainside, add this impressive South African villa to your bucket list. The villa features floor to ceiling glass windows and contemporary design with minimalist spaces. There are eight bedrooms all with ensuite bathrooms plus two kitchens that can be occupied by a full-time private chef, if desired.
BOOK: stayonedegree.com
Villa Sola Cabiati
Lake Como, Italy
Villa Sola Cabiati at Grand Hotel Tremezzo is a beautifully preserved example of Italian neoclassical design with its own extensive gardens with pool, a 24-hour service team and access to the lake via a mini marina. The six-bedroom abode was once home to the Dukes of Serbelloni and features original frescoes, Como silks and antiques with fascinating histories.
BOOK: grandhoteltremezzo.com
Villa Agave
Dubrovnik, Croatia
Villa Agave is perched on a clifftop located in the beautiful historic city of Dubrovnik offering guests a panoramic view of Lokrum Island and the Old Town. The villa sits on the remains of the 16th-century chapel of St. Lazarus (two of the original walls now form part of the meditation room) and was originally the exclusive summer house of the 19th-century English archaeologist, Sir Arthur Evans. Experiences that can be arranged by Adriatic Luxury Hotels during your visit include private yacht sailing around the Elfati Islands, a boat trip through the labyrinth of marshes, wetlands and lagoons of Neretva Valley, known as the ‘Garden of Dubrovnik’, a dune buggy safari along the rugged coastline or a day trip to Croatia’s beautiful neighbour, Montenegro.
BOOK: adriaticluxuryhotels.com
Soneva Fushi, Maldives (c) Julia NeesonSoneva Fushi Water Retreats
Maldives
Soneva Fushi resort has opened the largest one and two-bedroom Water Retreats in the world of eco-designed villas that make the most of the ocean vistas. They feature water slides straight into the crystal-clear waters, plus retractable roofs that slide back above the master bed to reveal sunny skies or starlit nights. The villas also feature a large al fresco deck, with plush sun loungers, a sunken seating area and catamaran nets. Guests can choose to swim in the ocean or in the private pool, as well as Soneva’s signature outdoor bathroom with direct access to the sea.
Read our review of Soneva Fushi here
BOOK: soneva.com
Heritage The Villas
Mauritius
Located on Domaine de Bel Ombre in southern Mauritius, these villas provide a ‘home from home’ environment with mountain, golf course or sea views, private gardens with an expansive terrace and a pool, perfect for alfresco dining and barbecues. Relax on the white sand beaches, swim in the ocean, play a round of golf at the award-winning Heritage Golf Club, chill out at the C Beach club, or have a relaxing spa treatment in the adjacent hotel’s spa, before returning to your private villa.
BOOK: heritageresorts.mu
The Royal Villa at Abaton Island Resort & Spa
Crete, Greece
This two-story villa is perfect for a romantic getaway, with chic, minimalist interiors, situated in a seafront location just a few steps from the beach and with views over the Hersonissos coastline. The villa has a 40sqm heated pool and spacious garden, plus an outdoor jacuzzi, steam bath, gym, and a home cinema.
BOOK: abaton.gr
The Andromeda Villa At Anassa
Cyprus
Anassa is located on the Akamas Peninsula in Cyprus and features four gorgeous private villas. Villa Andromeda, named after mythological heroine Andromeda who was saved from a sea dragon by Perseus, has three large bedrooms (sleeping up to 9) all with en-suite bathrooms and balconies, plus charming blue shutters that sit against beautiful white-washed walls on the exterior. Andromeda has a huge terrace with a beautiful infinity pool and stunning views over the sea and pine-clad cliffs beyond.
BOOK: Sleeping up to 9 people. anassa.com
DolceVita
Sicily, Italy
Escape to this chic, architect-designed home with stunning sea views and a gorgeous pool for the ultimate villa escape this summer. Features include beautiful indoor spaces that flow seamlessly outside onto extensive sea-view terraces, Arabian-inspired walled gardens that guarantee privacy, a sleek cobalt pool and views of Vendicari Nature Reserve that is just waiting to be explored.
BOOK: From £3,966 per week (sleeping 4). thethinkingtraveller.com
Eden Rock Villa Rental
St Barths
Choose from more than 140 villas on St Barths with Eden Rock Villa Rental, all of which are within 15 minutes of the resort. Villa guests will receive a freshly prepared breakfast delivered daily to their door, the stylish welcome amenities and a round-the-clock five-star concierge service. All have stunning sea views.
BOOK: edenrockvillarental.com
TerraMia
Sicily, Italy
This villa sleeps up to six guests in three bedrooms, with accommodation all on one floor. Polished concrete floors run throughout with ceilings in unfinished concrete, white-painted walls and partitions of creamy local stone and a lava stone. There are spacious terraces that wrap around the property, a built-in barbecue, a lounge area with designer furniture and an extendable electric sunshade. Guests will love the lava stone, Arabic-inspired plunge pool, and will spend evenings taking in views out to sea and across the Vendicari Nature Reserve.
BOOK: From £4,695 per week (sleeping 6). thethinkingtraveller.com
Villa Paralia
Mykonos, Greece
In the popular Houlakia area of Mykonos, this villa boasts beautiful, minimalist interiors, sleeping up to 10 guests across four spacious, en-suite bedrooms split over two levels. The private infinity-style swimming pool is sheltered from any north winds and makes the perfect spot from which to enjoy the magnificent sea views over Delos island and the sparkling Aegean Sea.
BOOK: Rates from £6,336 based on occupancy of 8 people and a seven-night stay on a self-catered basis. oliverstravels.com
Forte San Giorgio
Capraia, Italy
This 16th-century fortress is steeped in history, located on the eco-friendly island of Capraia situated in the Tuscan Archipelago. Restored over 10 years, this villa has 11 bedrooms spread over separate wings, two infinity pools, sea views with garden gated beach and sea access.
BOOK: From £23,213 per week. thethinkingtraveller.com
Khaleesi
Corfu, Greece
If your perfect villa escape requires gorgeous sea views, an infinity pool and easy access to the beach, look no further. This stylish villa in northeastern Corfu features a 17m-long infinity pool and sleeps up to eight across four bedrooms. Situated above one of Corfu’s most picturesque stretches of coastline, guests will enjoy modern interiors and relaxing terraces, if they can tear their eyes away from the views…
BOOK: From £4,860 per week (sleeping 8). thethinkingtraveller.com
Villa AT
Corfu, Greece
As soon as you arrive at Villa AT, I can assure you you’ll never want to leave. Built on Corfu’s majestic north-west coast near Nissaki, the six-bedroom villa has panoramic views over to Albania to the east (the UNESCO World Heritage site of Butrint in full view), and mainland Greece and the Ionian islands to the south. You can choose to spend your holiday simply drinking in this view from the terrace, or you can splash about in the split-level waterfall pool, or work on your zen in the yoga pavilion, followed by a session in the hammam. If you can bear to leave, there’s a private jetty from where you can explore this rugged coastline in the villa’s yacht.
BOOK: Sleeps 12, from €35,000 per week. fivestargreece.com
Château Capitoul
Languedoc-Roussillon, France
Gourmands rejoice: this is the holiday for you. Nestled in the Languedoc-Roussillon region, Château Capitoul is a working wine estate just three kilometres from the azure blue of the Mediterranean sea. There are 44 villas to choose from, each combining natural and reclaimed materials with a clever use of space and light. They all have private gardens, terraces and fantastic views.
As well as wine tasting, there’s the Mediterraneo fine dining restaurant and the luxurious Cinq Mondes spa in the nearby château, plus acres of gardens and miles of walking and cycling trails.
BOOK: chateaucapitoul.com
Villa Hortensia
Lošinj, Croatia
Uncover a new corner of the Adriatic at Villa Hortensia, located on the picturesque Croatian isle of Lošinj. The three-storey, ten-bedroom residence dates back to the Belle Époque of the Austro-Hungarian era, and has an unrivalled seafront location.
Everything here is as you could wish for: there’s a butler to see to your every need; a chef to cook up daily feasts of fish straight from local boats; and a sommelier to help you choose the perfect wine from the cellar of over 400 bottles. Work up a sweat in the fitness area, enjoy an al fresco massage by the sea, or head next door to the luxury Hotel Bellevue to take advantage of its spa treatments.
BOOK: Sleeps 24. losinj-hotels.com
Villa du Lac, La Reserve
Geneva, Switzerland
Following a pause in popularity, the early 19th-century trend for a convalescent getaway is having a resurgence – and where better to do it than on the shores of Lake Geneva, looking out over the Alps? Fringed by landscaped gardens with its own outdoor swimming pool, La Villa du Lac is part of the La Reserve Hotel & Spa, benefitting from both private Remi Tessier-designed interiors and access to the hotel’s Nascens medispa.
In addition to a private fitness area, a team of medical and nutrition specialists, therapists and coaches are on hand to whip you into tip-top shape. By the time check out arrives, you’ll feel as fresh as a daisy.
BOOK: Sleeps six. michelreybierhospitality.com
Crystal Springs
Barbados
From its beach-front location and tropical gardens to its infinity pool, Crystal Springs is a real gem on Barbados’s west coast. The ten-bedroom villa comes with a staff of chefs, butlers, housekeepers and boat captain, and is conveniently located between vibrant Holetown and historic Speightstown. And if you can tear yourself from the white beach and crystal blue Caribbean sea (you’ll have use of the speed boat, plus its water skis, wake board, snorkels and kayak), there’s also a home cinema and gym on site, plus tennis and golf facilities nearby.
BOOK: Sleeps 20. worldwidedreamvillas.com
Villa Fos
Corfu, Greece
Escape into your own private idyll at Villa Fos, a much-sought-after luxury villa overlooking the beautiful bay of Kalámi on Corfu’s north-east coast. Here you’ll spend your days swimming in the heated infinity pool, basking on a choice of terraces (all with magnificent sea views) or enjoying a dinner from the villa’s private chef as the sun goes down. If you can tear yourself away, then lunch and cocktails at the nearby White House (home to Gerald and Lawrence Durrell in the 1930s, and now a popular taverna) is a must-do.
BOOK: Sleeps 12. ultimacollection.com
Photo: © Paul RaesideHenry’s Townhouse
London
Recently restored in a manner befitting its Upper Berkeley Street neighbours, Henry’s Townhouse is the latest renovation-project-meets-experiential-private-home from the husband and wife team Jane and Steven Collins (also behind Temple Guiting Manor in the Cotswolds). The former home of Jane Austen’s favourite ‘own particular little brother’, this Georgian gentleman’s residence has had the 2021 treatment with delicious meals served in the pantry and seven bedrooms individually designed by Russell Sage Studio. In the Carriage snug, you might also spy a couple of Jane Austen first editions and an original copy of her brother’s Oxford journal, The Loiterer. We think Henry would approve.
BOOK: Sleeps 14. henrystownhouse.co.uk
Image: © Paul Raeside
Ultima Corfu
Greece
Revelling in its ultra-private, cliffside location with epic views, chic relaxation is the order of the day at this sprawling 1,000 sq/m villa. Wander from one infinity pool to the other, get hot in the gym, destress in the spa (you can even opt for a tweakment – you’re in the perfect place for some downtime) or just lap up the stunning blue sea from every vista.
The architecture intrigues, built as it is over several floors, but a glass lift seamlessly transports you from house to private dock if you don’t fancy the walk. There’s a private yacht to charter and a chopper to get you there in style. Let the dream holiday commence.
BOOK: Sleeps 12. ultimacollection.com
Villa Favorita
Tuscany, Italy
Skilfully combining Italian charm with luxurious contemporary amenities, this traditional stone house can be found in a leafy valley where Umbria and Tuscany meet. You’ll enjoy the peaceful seclusion of this quintessential Italian setting, and the five bedroom and five bathrooms make it ideal for hosting extended family or friends. The large, landscaped gardens contain a heated pool, with views out over the verdant landscape, and a covered terrace for dining al fresco. There’s also a traditional pizza oven for you to practice your Italian cooking, plus a state-of-the-art gym to burn it all off again.
BOOK: Sleeps ten, from £8,039 per week. cvvillas.com
La Chartreuse de Cos d’Estournel
Bordeaux, France
Oenophiles and budding viticulturists staying at La Chartreuse de Cos d’Estournel will have more than enough to keep them occupied on the estate’s 200 acres of vineyards and gardens. The surrounding countryside of Bordeaux is an idyllic setting for this historic château, which was built in 1791 by Louis Gaspard d’Estournel, nicknamed Maharajah of Saint-Estephe for his love of the Orient.
When you’re not talking long finishes and sampling the Chateau’s own 20-year-old vintage in the magnificent cellar, soothe away stresses in the vast swimming pool, steam room or library.
Villa Encosta do Lago
Quinta do Lago, Portugal
With its tropically turquoise waters and whitewashed fishing villages, Portugal’s Algarve is up there with Sicily and the South of France as a European must-visit. Villa Encosta do Lago is the place to do it properly, situated just five minutes from the beach and Quinta do Lago lake. Sunworshippers can park a towel by the vast pool and unwind to their heart’s content while adventure enthusiasts can explore the local Ria Formosa trail and budding chefs flex their skills in the open plan kitchen or outdoor barbecue.
At the end of the day, a secluded al fresco dining terrace is the perfect place to come together over a Douro region vintage.
BOOK: Sleeps up to 12, from €7,000 per week. quintadolago.com
Sunset Cove
Watch Hill, Rhode Island
Part of the Ocean House collection of Rhode Island cottages, Sunset Cove is a cut above the rest with a saltwater pool, shallow-water dock and beautiful river vista. An ideal holiday rental for families visiting the New England state, the four-bedroom property (with the addition of a third floor ‘bunk room’) delights in contemporary, yet cosy interiors with an open plan living and dining area. From the living room, a set of inviting French doors lead to a wide-ranging decking area with views across Little Narragansett Bay.
Plus, with Ocean House hotel close by, you’ll have everything you desire on your doorstep, including the Forbes Five-Star spa and Coast restaurant.
BOOK: oceanhouseri.com
Villa del Faro
Sicily, Italy
A one-of-a-kind Italian property, Sicily’s Villa del Faro was originally built as a lighthouse in 1912. Now renovated to an exceptional standard, the three-bedroom Italian bolthole enjoys outstanding sea views reaching the medieval Aragonese Castle and Mount Etna (best observed from the majolica-tiled roof terrace), plus a chromotherapy jacuzzi and direct access to the beach. Located in Brucoli, a picturesque Sicilian fishing village in the Province of Syracuse, the former lighthouse is encompassed by the Ionian Sea.
Meanwhile, inside, the villa exudes modern elegance, with a sumptuous, contemporary design; think chic marble tabletops, white-washed walls, and a ground-floor fireplace for chillier evenings.
BOOK: From €5,000 per week. sicily4u.co.uk
Owner’s Cabin at 62 Nord
Island of Giske, North Norway
Escape to Norway’s sequestered Island of Giske for the ultimate secluded getaway. And where better to pitch up than at the Owner’s Cabin in Staurneset, a luxury three-bedroom hideaway surrounded by the Nordic Sea. Arrive by helicopter and succumb to simplicity at this homespun, white-washed bolthole, where you’ll delight in delicious Norwegian dishes curated by a private chef and even indulge in a little adventure – kayak, anyone?
Local guides will assist you in exploring the historic area (once home to a number of Viking families) where you can soak up the scenery – and perhaps even spot a seal, or two.
BOOK: 62.no
Villa Sa Punta de S’Aguila
Mallorca, Spain
Ocean views, elegant interiors, and a heated 15-metre swimming pool are just some of the features to be enjoyed at this stunning Mediterranean villa. Situated above the coastline, near to the western village of Banyalbufar, the traditionally designed residence is destined for family and friends to enjoy with its five spacious double en-suite bedrooms (each with its own private terrace) and expansive outdoor areas, ideal for languorous lounging and al fresco drinking and dining.
There is even the option to have your very own private chef, including a buffet-style lunch and bespoke three-course dinner, all curated with locally sourced produce.
BOOK: From €17,150 per week self-catering, and from €24,300 per week catered. Sleeps 10. fishandpips.co.uk
Cottar’s Bush Villa
Kenya
If a safari trip is up there on your bucket list, a stay at Cottar’s Bush Villa would not go amiss. Nestled on a hillside, the outstanding private home enjoys awe-inspiring views overlooking the savannah plains and further out towards the Olderekesi Hills. Ideal for travelling with family and friends, the house – designed by the Cottar family with sustainable, locally sourced materials – delights in five en-suite bedrooms, a viewing deck and a 25-metre pool.
For those with a thirst for adventure, a private guide and safari vehicle will enable you to explore the surrounding wildlife, whilst river swimming, bush walks and conservation experiences can also be enjoyed.
BOOK: aardvarksafaris.co.uk
Villa Fanya
Syros, Greece
This villa, designed by a renowned Greek architect, descends down to the Aegean Sea. It has a flat, modern cubic design, allowing natural light to flood inside. The pool terrace and outdoor spaces are surrounded by beautiful gardens with private access to a secluded pebble beach below.
BOOK: From £9,145 per week, sleeping up to 10 guests. thethinkingtraveller.com
Masseria Saccente
Puglia, Italy
A sophisticated and luxurious masseria with an abundance of original features – as well as a private chapel, extensive grounds and a gorgeous pool – Masseria Saccente is filled with character, art and soul. Emerald lawns, dreamy terraces, and a liberal scattering of al fresco living and dining areas make for a secluded and tranquil retreat that maintains an abundance of space.
Fully equipped with modern technology, ten guests sleep comfortably across five bedrooms after a day of lounging by the heatable infinity pool on daybeds and loungers, gazing across the surrounding farmland, or exploring the local area with the help of The Thinking Travellers’ specialist team. Bliss.
BOOK: From £6,391 per week, sleeping 10. thethinkingtraveller.com
The Villa, The Grace Hotel
Santorini, Greece
Craving an escape to Santorini but want to avoid the hoards of Instagrammers? For a dose of peace and privacy, the tailor-made Villa experience at the Grace Hotel packs all of the best bits of a luxury hotel into a secluded five-person villa.
Outdoors, a firepit, split terraces and private swimming pool makes the most of sweeping views of the caldera. You’ll also be treated to your own private treatment room and personal chef – but if you’re ready to venture back to the hotel, the Santoro restaurant is just on the doorstep offering immersive culinary experiences and wine pairings.
BOOK: aubergeresorts.com
Isla Sa Ferradura
Ibiza, Spain
If total privacy is what you’re after, Isla Sa Ferradura will certainly fit the bill, set on its own islet in a nature reserve off the north coast of Ibiza. Arrive by boat to see the 35,000m2 property from its most impressive angle: a vision in white surrounded by sparkling blue and lush greenery. Once ashore, you’ll be met by a team of 22 staff ready to cater to your every whim.
Fancy a cocktail party on the roof terrace? A massage at the Oriental-style spa? A table at a fully booked restaurant in Ibiza? Nothing is out of the question at this dream peninsula.
BOOK: Sleeps 12, from €250,000 per week. myprivatevillas.com
The House of the Blue Balcony
Cartegena, Colombia
Step through the doors of history into this townhouse in Colombia’s (delightfully car-free) cultural capital, which has been meticulously restored. On the ground floor life revolves around a leafy central courtyard with a swimming pool, but ascend for a lofty swim in the second pool and you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views.
Explore the 16th-century city by foot – all Italianate fountains and colonnaded walkways – before heading out of the city walls to discover secluded beaches licked by the Caribbean Sea, (a boat and skipper is available with the house).
BOOK: Sleeps 20. merrioncharles.com
Villa Roellia
Porto Heli, Greece
This ultra-modern, architect-designed villa is close to the beach and has all the right attributes for the ultimate villa getaway this summer – thanks to the diversity of its amenities, which include garden gate beach access, a pair of pools, a gym and a basketball court.
BOOK: From £10,430 per week, sleeping up to 12. thethinkingtraveller.com
Villa Pashalia
Corfu, Greece
Offering a large pool area and a short path to Kogevinas Beach for a cooling dip in the Ionian Sea, there’s everything a family needs in this five-bedroom villa.
Close to island hotspots but secluded enough for peace and quiet, this gem of a villa sleeps up to 10 guests, with five ensuite bathrooms plus a private gym and paddle boarding equipment.
BOOK: From €8,000 per week. villacollective.com
Villa Pliniana
Lake Como, Italy
Perched on an inlet of Lake Como, Villa Pliniana is a historical Italian palazzo surrounded by lush vegetation. The views are incredible from all angles – particularly the waterfalls, which cascade into the water below, and the speckled mountains in the distance.
Inside is equally beautiful, with 16th-century art and architecture blending with modern luxuries. There’s a dedicated spa building, complete with an infinity pool surrounded by glass walls that is supplied with water from the lake, plus 19 bedrooms, two elegant ballrooms and a billiard room.
BOOK: serenohotels.com
Domes of Elounda, Autograph Collection
Crete, Greece
The Domes of Elounda, Autograph Collection of villas bring an added edge of luxury to the Greek island of Crete. For complete privacy, opt for the Haute Living villa, which boasts panoramic sea views, an eco-heated private pool, a fully-equipped kitchen and an in villa spa.
Guests can opt to take part in a Greek odyssey boat trip around the island of Spinalonga, as well as Minoan cooking courses that celebrate the local heritage.
BOOK: From €1,689 per night. domesresorts.com
Villa Skyline
Corfu, Greece
This impressive villa is carved into the rockface of Corfu’s North East Coast, with uninterrupted sea views of the water and direct access to the sea. The position of this villa is hard to beat and is perfect for a big family get together, sleeping 12+2 across six bedrooms. There is an infinity pool to enjoy the views from, and the local vest tavernas are only 15 minutes’ walk away.
BOOK: From €8,000 per week. villacollective.com
Montekore
Puglia, Italy
A working farm spread across eight hectares of land, Montekore is home to the organic cultivation of over 100 medicinal and aromatic plants, 200 species of carefully protected trees and shrubs, and perhaps now you on your next holiday.
Beautifully designed by the owners (who have a background in fashion) along with designer Riccardo Barthel, the Salentine inspired architecture is elevated by Tuscan interiors: Florentine textiles and the impressive rusticated arch above the main entrance blend with lofty cross-vaulted ceilings and the creamy, honey-hued local stone typical of the area’s masserie.
BOOK: From £4,723 per week, sleeping 8. thethinkingtraveller.com
Cheval Blanc, Randheli Private Island
Maldives
There’s a high bar for great views in the Maldives – but the birds eye view ocean panoramas from the master suite of Cheval Blanc Randheli Private Island are up there. If you don’t nab the top room, fear not: there are plenty of other spectacular vistas to feast your eyes on, with private beaches and tropical gardens right there on your doorstep.
If you fancy heading out on the water, a fleet of traditional Dhoni and expedition boats are available for private excursions throughout the atoll. Elsewhere, you’ll find meditation pavilions, a private spa treatment room and a fitness centre.
BOOK: Prices available upon request. redsavannah.com
Mamole Tree House Villa
Sumba, Indonesia
Escape to Indonesia for the ultimate tranquil retreat. Set amongst the leafy tropical landscape of Sumba – you’ll be just moments from the sandy shores. The villa is divided into three luxury treehouses, each boasting a stunning circular bedroom with panoramic views, magnificent living area, private lounge area and swimming pool.
Gather together in the communal al fresco sitting room, before sitting down for a gourmet dinner under the stars. Truly a haven of serenity set amongst stunning nature, expect to exclusively hear birds chirping and waves lapping up on the beach.
BOOK: From $6,045 per night (sleeping 6; excluding taxes). onefinestay.com
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Featured image: Corfu AT, Five Star Greece
