From the fresh alpine air to warm sunshine shores, from the highest peaks to hidden beaches. It can be hard to choose between mountain or beach, winter or warmth, ski or swim.

Which is why our travel experts have compiled a list of the most desirable luxury vacation rentals around the world. Inspired by golden shores, rugged clifftops and mountainous ranges, there’s a destination for everyone in this contrasting list of unbeatable properties.

Magnificent Mountains

If you’re looking to change your scenery completely with outdoor adventure and total escapism, there’s no better refuge than the mountains. Calm and crisp, high and mighty, there’s something inviting about the highest peaks that beckons traveler’s year after year. Whether it’s for adventure travel, getting back to nature or just getting away, there’s many reasons why a mountain break could be the right choice.

With high hilltop views, romantic wood burning fireplaces and complete isolation, head to Villa Justine in Aspen. This six-bedroom home offers complete privacy in the lap of luxury with all modern comforts, including; a wet bar, built-in barbecue grill and fire pit to wow guests. This world-famous American destination has some of the best ski runs in the world.

Conversely, if you’re looking for mountain fun in the thick of it, Villa Rayna in the popular French ski resort of Courchevel is a great spot. Up to 15 guests can stay in this magnificent chalet, perfectly placed for all the ski action, as well as local entertainment and dining options nearby. But with your own private chef, swimming pool, sauna and steam room, you’ll probably never want to leave your luxury vacation home.

Blissful Beaches

If you’re more in tune with the gentle sounds of crashing waves and sand between your toes, then a beach holiday may be more suited to you. There’s certainly no end of choice when it comes to white sands and turquoise waters – the challenge is finding somewhere unspoiled and undiscovered.

If total pampering and pristine beaches is your thing, then say hello to the Turks & Caicos islands! With impossibly blue waters and endless stretches of golden sand, it offers the ultimate beach break. In Long Bay, the breath-taking mansion of Villa Trina is a stand-out property spanning 10,000sq feet. It features seven impeccably designed bedrooms, an outdoor movie theater with fire pit, hot tub, no less than two private pools, a tennis court and of a course a butler!

Perhaps you’re looking for a tranquilly and beach life, with all the amenities of modern living nearby? Then the private residence of Villa Denise in Miami Beach offers a stunning luxury vacation home to unwind in. Expect total tranquilly and escape in this elegant property on the elite Sunset Island. Its heated pool and luscious gardens provide the perfect backdrop to a restful stay.

But if you can’t decide where to go, why not have it all?! High in the hilltops of St Barth, Villa Estelle perches on a mountain cliff, minutes from the famous Eden Rock and overlooking the beautiful ‘Baie de St Jean’. A luxurious retreat with six bedrooms for guests, complete with private pool and sweeping views, it delivers all the magic of the mountains with a ‘beach within reach’ for the complete package!

Whether you’re seeking magnificent mountains or beautiful beaches, Global Luxury Villas offers unrivaled luxury in some of the most desirable locations in the world.