"Life's short. Work less. Eat the Dessert. Vacation more."
Want to rent a house with some friends or your partner to celebrate a big milestone? These spectacular homes around the world are dreamy places you can rent for an incredible trip that will surely have lasting memories for years to come.
Maldives
The Maldives is a tropical paradise that offers a variety of things to do for travelers who love nature, adventure, and relaxation.
Best time to visit Maldives: Winter or Spring
Where to stay: a 1 bedroom bungalow
Soneva Secret - Maldives
Experience a fresh new wave of personalized hospitality at Soneva Secret 2024, located in the sparkling waters of the Maldives’ Haa Dhaalu Atoll. Thirty years in the making, tthis barefoot paradise presents the ultimate in privacy and seclusion, where the beauty of nature abounds. Soneva Secret features 14 overwater and island villas, including the Maldives’ only floating villa. Designed to offer the ultimate in Soneva hospitality and exemplary service standards, each villa features a dedicated team of three, which includes a Barefoot Guardian, Barefoot Assistant and dedicated chef, to ensure every stay is wholly personalized.
Things to do in Maldives:
Sunbathe
Snorkel or Scuba dive
Watersports
Adventure tours
Boat trips
Try the Garudhiya (Fish Soup)
Oia, Greece
Oia is a small coastal town on Santorini, Greece, where vistas and sunsets are the main attraction. Stunning Oia is carved out of Santorini’s cliffs—a panorama of white buildings dotted with colorful rooftops typical of the country—set against the deep blue sea. This is the place to spend the day on a boat or on a chaise lounge taking in the sun, then enjoying long meals and strolls through town. There are also pretty churches to see, which makes for a relaxing afternoon outing. Sunsets in Oia are legendary. Watch from a café, or, better yet, from a boat—you’ll be spellbound.
Best time to visit: Late Spring
Where to stay: A Greek villa
Villa Serenity
4 bed/4 bath
Discover the epitome of elegance at Villa Serenity, a stunning luxury villa located at the entrance of Oia Village in Santorini. With its prime location and breathtaking views, this villa offers a serene and unforgettable experience. Set on a gently sloping hillside, you can soak in the mesmerizing vistas of the Caldera, the Aegean Sea, and the volcanic island. Relax and unwind in the outdoor hot tub or take a refreshing dip in your private pool. The ground level features two separate chambers adorned with king-size beds, each accompanied by an en-suite bathroom with a shower. Additionally, you'll find a stunning sauna and a hammam, providing the perfect setting for relaxation and rejuvenation. Ascend to the upper level, where a third independent bedroom awaits, complete with a king-size bed and a bathroom with a shower. Located near the entrance of Oia, Villa Serenity offers peace, privacy, and easy access to explore the enchanting village.
Things to do in Greece:
Boat trips
Get lost in the winding village streets
Drive a jeep or ATV around island
Try the Mousakka
Sunbathe
Dig into Chlorotyri (special goat cheese)
Appreciate the sunset
Go for a wine tour
Hike the volcanic trail
Tuscany, Italy
Tuscany is a beautiful region in central Italy, famous for its art, history, wine, and scenery. It has many attractions to offer, from historic cities like Florence and Siena, to medieval hill towns like San Gimignano and Pienza, to stunning landscapes like the Val d’Orcia and the Chianti region.
Best time to visit: Spring
Where to stay: A Tuscan villa
Villa Monastero
7 beds, 7 baths
Formerly a 16th century convent, this enchanting villa is bursting with character and has been renovated with every comfort and enjoyment in mind. Step into the cool stone entrance hall and you will instantly note the attention to detail. There are two distinctive reception rooms, decorated with a curated selection of original furniture, paired with custom creations from local artisans and designer touches. The kitchen is fully stocked with high spec appliances, and the dining room is the perfect place for breakfast, with views of the rolling green olive groves out of the window. Outside, there are plenty of spots to relax in the sun and the shade, and there is no better way to start the day than plunging into the sparkling pool. There is also an indoor hydro massage pool to relax and unwind in after a day's activities. At sunset, gather everyone for an aperitivo under the pergola, whether it’s a negroni or a bottle of red from neighboring Montepulciano, and fire up the barbecue for an al fresco dinner. There is a vegetable garden you are welcome to pick from. If you don’t fancy cooking, a private chef can be arranged to whip up Italian delicacies. The villa is on the outskirts of Sarteano, a tiny town with picturesque stone streets, a Mediaeval castle, and some excellent Tuscan restaurants.
Things to do in Tuscany:
Taste all of the wines
Ride a Vespa through the countryside
Enjoy a gelato and some pizza
Visit Florence
Explore a castle
Lake Tahoe
Lake Tahoe is a stunning destination for travelers who love nature, adventure, and relaxation. It is a large freshwater lake in the Sierra Nevada mountains, straddling the border of California and Nevada. It is known for its clear blue water, scenic views, ski resorts, hiking trails, and more.
Best time to visit: Winter or Summer
Where to stay: A Lakehouse
Lake Living
4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms
This spectacular home, which boasts its own dock, lies on the banks of Lake Tahoe. Its upper deck is the perfect spot for drinks overlooking the water, thanks to its sweeping views of the lake below. On cooler evenings, fire up the wood-burning firebox to keep you warm. Dining al fresco here is a real treat, either on the upper deck or directly above the water on your personal dock. Spend days kayaking or stand-up paddleboarding on the lake, and make the most of the boating closet, which lies on the water and contains a refrigerator and ice chests, meaning you can fuel up on food and drinks without having to leave the water. On the way back up to the lakeside house, why not warm up with a dip in the Jacuzzi? Back in the home itself, you’ll find a richly decorated interior, with unique furniture and artworks creating a stylish yet individual space. Head up to the loft overlooking the main hall and play a game of pool or admire the collection of antiques. Exposed wooden beams, huge windows, and wooden floors add to the homely vibe, so put your feet up on the sofa in front of a roaring fire and relax into the cozy surroundings.
Things to do in Lake Tahoe:
Boating and water sports
Visit one of many State Parks
Go skiing or snow boarding(in winter)
Biking and Hiking
Casinos
Visit Tallac Historic Site
Hot air balloon rides
Palmilla, Mexico
Palmilla is a beautiful destination in Mexico, where you can enjoy the white sand beach, the clear blue water, the luxury resorts, and the golf courses. It is located on the southern tip of the Baja California peninsula, near the town of San Jose del Cabo.
Best time to visit: Winter
Where to stay: a Mexican villa
Villa los Amigos Palmilla
4 Bedrooms, 5 bathrooms
Villa los Amigos is nestled into the prestigious beachfront community of Palmilla. Perfectly named, the villa is indeed an ideal space for a group of friends or family searching for a spectacular seaside escape. Sit on the tranquil terrace surrounded by vibrant blossoming flowers and soak in the Caribbean sunshine whilst catching up with loved ones. Admire the breathtaking sea views from the jacuzzi and then cool off in the curved sparkling swimming pool. Take a spot of shade underneath a swaying palm tree or unwind under the lavish umbrellas. With multiple al fresco seating areas, this villa offers endless opportunities for socializing and relaxing outdoors. You can also walk to the pristine beaches in just five minutes and dive into the crystalline waters of the Sea of Cortez. With access to the One&Only Palmilla, you can play a round of golf on the manicured courses or take to the tennis court for a morning match. Dine at outstanding beachfront restaurants or treat yourself to a spa treatment for full rejuvenation. The world is certainly your oyster here at Villa los Amigos.
Things to do in Cabo:
Go whale-watching
boating, snorkeling and watersports
sunbathing
Eat Tacos al Pastor and have a margarita at one of the many restaurants in town
Go shopping in Cabo
Hike the Pedregal
Visit Flora Farms
Go Ziplining or Rapelling
Go on an adventure canyon tour
Enjoy the nightlife
Stroll around the marina
Brittany, France
Brittany is a beautiful region in France, where you can explore its rich culture, history, nature, and cuisine. It is known for its wild and dramatic coastline, medieval towns, and thick forests. It is also a land of prehistoric mysticism, proud tradition, and culinary wealth, where the locals celebrate their Breton identity and heritage.
Best time to visit: Spring/Fall
Where to stay: a French Chateau
The Gilded Stag
4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms
Almost 800 years after it was first built, this former royal hunting lodge is still a place that instils awe. The flickering candles, lush fabrics and antique furnishings that fill these painstakingly restored whitewashed walls give the impression that you’ve stepped back in time, to a simpler and more beautiful era. Not that you have to sacrifice the mod cons, that is, with an en-suite for each room and a heated swimming pool right outside. And there are no shortage of quirks to investigate, whether you’re playing table football in the bedroom or exploring the grounds.
Things to do in Brittany:
Stroll the streets of its medieval towns
Enjoy a coastal walk
Try the Kouign-amann and Kouignettes, a speciality in Brittany, kouign-amann stands for “cake” and “butter” in the local Breton language
Tour a castle
Visit the pre-historic monuments
Hike the Parc d’Amorique
Enjoy oysters, cider and crepes
Tour the Quimper Cathedral
Visit the market at Remparts de Vannes
Take a boat ride on the canals
Saas-Fee, Switzerland
Saas-Fee is the main village in the Saastal, or the Saas Valley, and is a municipality in the district of Visp in the canton of Valais in Switzerland. The village is situated on a high mountain plateau at 1,800 meters, surrounded by a total of 13 peaks above 4,000 meters which is the highest concentration in the Alps, giving the village the nickname the Pearl of the Alps. It is a classic ski resort characterized by well-preserved Swiss wood architecture and a car-free city center.
Best time to visit: Summer or Spring
Where to stay: A Swiss Chalet
Alpine Zen
3 bedrooms and 1 bathroom
Modern penthouse directly on the slope with three bedrooms. Two bedrooms have a double bed, and one bedroom has two single beds. The apartment offers two bathrooms and a modern, open kitchen adjacent to the large living area. From the spacious balcony, you'll be captivated by the breathtaking panoramic views of the mountains. The cozy fireplace invites you to unwind and relax during your stay. Located in Saas-Fee, within close proximity to the Stafelwald ski lifts, this penthouse provides guests with an immersive alpine experience. With the SaastalCard, you'll enjoy attractive discounts, including unlimited access to cable cars (excluding Metro Alpin) in the summer and free bus transportation throughout the Saas Valley all year round.
Things to do in Saas-Fee:
the Charles Kuonen Suspension Bridge
Oberrothorn
Skiing in winter
Allalin Ice Pavilion
"threes!xty" Revolving Restaurant
Saas-Fee Village
Längfluh Gorge
Alpine Saasermuseum
Feeblitz Rope Park
Hannig Toboggan Run
Try the fondue and raclette
The Cotswolds, England
The Cotswolds is a region of outstanding natural beauty in England, covering parts of five counties: Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, Warwickshire, Wiltshire and Worcestershire. It is famous for its picturesque villages, rolling hills, historic landmarks and cultural attractions.
Best time to visit: Autumn
Where to stay: An English cottage
Castle Vale Cottage in Winchcombe
4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms
Charming and bright, this Grade II-listed cottage in the heart of Winchcombe is a beautiful mix of old and new. Retaining some of the original character –including beamed ceilings and stone walls – it has been modernised to make your stay comfortable. There's plenty of space here for eight, but if you need more, there's also a garden with an alfresco dining space. Given the central location, you're surrounded by boutiques, artisanal shops, cafes and more. You're also within walking distance of a pub for a quintessentially British experience.
Things to do in the Cotswolds:
Enjoy a traditional fish and chips at a pub
Wander the villages
Visit Bath
Shop at antique stores
Visit the Cotswold Wildlife Park and Gardens
Explore the Cotswolds Way (on foot, bike or horseback)
Turks & Caicos
Turks and Caicos is a beautiful destination in the Caribbean, with stunning beaches, coral reefs, nature trails, and luxury resorts.
Best time to visit: Winter
Where to stay: A Modern Caribbean villa
Miami Vice 2
2 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms
Resting only a short stroll from the idyllic white sands of Sapodilla Bay Beach, Miami Vice 2 boasts an enviable location right by the sparkling azure ocean. Step straight into the warm crystal clear waters from the villa’s private stairs, shared only with the neighbouring villa of Miami Vice 1. The home’s interiors are crisp, clean and minimalist, a backdrop for unique statement pieces and for the spectacular views visible from all throughout the villa. Outside, slide into the shimmering aquamarine pool or simply lie back on a sun lounger, a cool beverage in hand. Venture out onto the waves in the villa’s kayaks or on the paddleboards, then take the gentle walk to the popular Las Brisas restaurant for a taste of delectable Mediterranean cuisine. Should you prefer a quiet evening at home, the European-style kitchen is fully equipped with you’ll need to cook up a sumptuous feast, which you and your guests may enjoy al fresco out on the covered terrace.
Things to do in Turks & Caicos
Sunbathe at the beach
Watersports
Boating
Explore the island
Enjoy a Johnny cake or conch fritters at a nearby restaurant
Explore the island caves
Snorkle or scuba dive
Enjoy a spa day
Visit Grand Turk
Nosara, Costa Rica
Nosara is a beautiful and relaxing destination in Costa Rica, with stunning beaches, coral reefs, nature trails, and luxury resorts.
Best time to visit: Winter
Where to stay: A contemporary villa
Quin Sunset House
2 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms
Tucked away in a peaceful pocket of North Guiones jungle and offering the most captivating sunsets over the azure ocean, Quin Sunset House lives up to its name. Though you'll feel magical seclusion at this contemporary villa, you're just minutes from idyllic beaches and the charming boho vibe of Nosara, where eclectic shops, a diverse range of restaurants and friendly beach bars await. Flooded with natural light, an open plan design and sliding doors onto the grounds allow an effortless inside-outside flow for your guests. The airy living room is minimalist and soothing, boasting cosy white sofas for lazy evenings in front of the flat screen. Nosara is renowned for its health-imbuing local produce, so enjoy rustling up nourishing feasts in the handsome modern kitchen, where the chef's helper can perch at the island, keeping the wine flowing. A beautiful, covered terrace forms the perfect spot for al fresco dining.
Things to do in Nosara:
Surfing and sunbathing
Visit holistic spas and yoga studios
Ostional National Wildlife Refuge
Whale and dolphin-watching tour
Kayak through mangroves
Hike through wildlife reserves
Visit some waterfalls
Enjoy the Gallo Pinto (traditional Costa Rican breakfast)
*For castles that you can stay in, visit my blog post:
What's next on your bucket list?
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