Archive for the ‘Tuscany’ Category

GET BACK TO NATURE IN THESE FIVE DESTINATONS

Tuesday, December 8th, 2020

As the saying goes, the best things in life are free. And recently we’ve all come to realise that the simple beauty of nature is one of the greatest gifts we have.

This has given rise to a growing demand in ‘great outdoors’ holidays and time out in quiet, secluded destinations. However, that doesn’t mean that you need to forgo all the luxuries of modern living. In fact, many of our luxury home rentals are positioned in and near beauty spots, from soothing waterfront villas to eco-lodges in the rainforest.

So, what are you waiting for? Here’s five destinations with nature firmly on the agenda.

Costa Rica
An oasis of charm and beauty, Villa Octavia is the perfect embodiment of eco-living in the great outdoors. This twin-villa estate boasts an open-air living room, outdoor pools and sweeping views to wake up to every day. The location of Mal Pais is known for its achingly beautiful beaches – recently voted one of the best in the world by Forbes.

Bordeaux
As you’d expect from a leading wine-growing region, Bordeaux is drenched in beauty. Its vineyards stretch for miles, offering the perfect playground for adults to get lost in. Come for a walk, come to sample the local produce, or simply come to mooch around its chateaux’s and cobbled roads. Of course, being France’s wine capital, there’s plenty of great wines to knock back, or sip slowly from your Bordeaux luxury home rental.

Aspen
Aspen isn’t just for ski lovers. The chic resort is also a haven for outdoorsy types of all kind. Visit in the summer and you might be pleasantly surprised by the complete change of scenery inviting you to be at one with the world. Hike, bike, trail or kayak – there’s so much on offer, it can be hard to know where to begin.

Tuscany
Where pink sunsets meet green and yellow fields, Tuscany is just as you imagined it would be. The Italian countryside retreat may be home to some of the most recognizable artworks, statues and architecture, but its landscape is equally as enticing.

The countryside is best enjoyed from a Tuscany  luxury villa rental with plenty of room to lounge in. Take your time to discover the sights and vistas at a leisurely pace.

Turks and Caicos
If your idea of reconnecting with the world involves sun, sea and plenty of coral reef, then add the Turks and Caicos islands to your bucket list. This A-list favourite destination is steeped in beauty at every turn. Endless white sand beaches, azure blue waters and luxury villa rentals that you’ll never want to leave.

The scuba here is great, allowing you to discover the peace and tranquillity of its still waters. Why not hire a yacht and make the most of your stay? It’s all about sea life in the Caicos.

Get back to nature and get booking your luxury villa at Global Luxury Villas today.

LUXURY TRAVEL DESTINATIONS FOR WINE LOVERS

Friday, June 21st, 2019

Some destinations need to be tasted to be believed! France, Italy, Greece and Costa Rica, are just some countries high on the list of any self-respecting foodie and wine lover. Yet finding the right luxury villa to rent can in itself be a challenge.

With many of these vineyard retreats hidden in valleys, or nestled deep in the countryside, it can be a challenge to find an accessible destination to visit. That’s why we’ve compiled our list of top destinations for wine lovers, complete with luxury vacation homes within the neighboring vicinity.

Blissful Bordeaux

Arguably, France should be visited at least once if you’re serious about wine. There’s endless regions to choose from, but Bordeaux stands out as one of the most appealing, with plenty of high quality vacation rentals to enjoy.

Blessed with the perfect conditions for flourishing vineyards and with extensive sprawling grounds, the temperate climate of Bordeaux is globally acclaimed for its wine making. Here over 90% of the produce is red wine, made with Merlot and Cabernet, attracting visitors from far afield, any time of year.

The charming coastal town of Arcachon makes the perfect stop-over point for visiting; combining both the local beach, and with links to the great French countryside for wine tasting.

For a truly French experience, a country estate is a prerequisite! With eight generously-sized bedrooms, Villa Tatianna offers a vast luxury vacation home in its chateau-style estate. It’s a wonderful base for exploring the region, without being limited to just one vineyard. Plus, its many facilities make it ideal for larger groups and families too.

Iconic Italy

The Amalfi Coast is home to sweeping views, world-class cuisine, and Villa Adele. Perched on Sorrento’s rugged hills, many come here for a romantic escape and appreciation of its outstanding local cuisine. With local Michelin star restaurants on your doorstep, you may never want to step outside the village. The luxury vacation home is also equipped with everything you could desire for a five-star stay. But if you do venture out, there’s a world of wineries awaiting your arrival; including the renowned Winery De Angelis, half an hour away by car.

For a traditional experience, the coastal village of Monte Argentario in Tuscany is home to Villa Larissa. Appealing to large groups, this seven-bedroom luxury villa rental has its own fully-equipped kitchen for dishing up locally sourced dishes. Hanging off the Italian coast, it looks and feels like an island in itself, however it’s perfectly located for trips to nearby wineries, within easy reach.

Glorious Greece

Mykonos is a lively place for those that love delicious food and drink, with beach life thrown in for good measure! Nonetheless, this small Greek island, does produce a small amount of vino, using native Greek grapes ‘assyrtico’ that offer a rich nutty flavor.

Staying at Villa Kendra you can have it all; glorious sunshine and a pool to dip in to, as well as a 10-minute drive to the ‘Ecologically Vineyard and Winery of Mykonos’.

Charming Costa Rica

While it might be better known for coffee, Costa Rica’s wine region is well worth a visit. Pair this with a stay at Villa Kamala for a truly memorable experience. Set in paradise, this luxury vacation home offers ten-bedrooms in its world-class eco-lodge. Committed to wellbeing, the pioneering design utilizes the natural terrain, to create a zen-like space. There’s plenty of local vineyards to discover, although you’ll need a car to visit them all. Neighbouring Finca Vidor, tends to be very popular with tourists, and much like Villa Kamala, should not be missed!

Global Luxury Villas offer luxury villas in a selection of leading destinations around the world.

FIVE STAR EUROPE – WHERE TO WINE, DINE AND REST IN STYLE

Thursday, December 6th, 2018
Luxury Villa Rental

If you have a penchant for the finer things in life, appreciate five-star dining, a well-bodied glass of wine and luxury villa rentals for your holiday, then Global Luxury Villas has the perfect picks for you.

For those with discerning taste, we’ve compiled the ultimate places to wine, dine and stay in some of Europe’s leading destinations. From the breath-taking views of the Amalfi coast, to the chic Riviera, and tucked-up Tuscan retreats to Spanish finca’s, there’s something for everyone…

Villa Adele

Amalfi Coast

Where sweeping views fawn over clashing rocks below, where bright blue skies transform into perfect pink skylines, the Amalfi Coast remains one of the most exclusive destinations to visit. Enjoy the views at La Cambusa, a long-serving restaurant that does fresh seafood like no other (zuppa di pesce comes highly recommended). While a night cap at Silver Moon is a romantic spot to enjoy a crisp glass of local wine. Take luxury to the next level, staying at your own luxury vacation rental in Villa Adele. This cozy five-bedroom property perches high in the clifftops to offer unrivaled views.

Villa Pilar

Tuscany

Let the warm Italian hospitality wash over you in Tuscany – a melting pot of great food and drink, history and art.

Strategically located between Florence, Pisa, Siena and Lucca, Villa Pilar is the ideal location for exploring the region, while enjoying all the trappings of five-star luxury. This hotel-size mansion can sleep up to 23 guests, making it ideal for larger groups. Nearby the local town includes delightful local eateries, while some of the best vineyards are all within reach.

Villa Nora

French Riviera

Attracting a jet-set crowd and host of A-listers for good reason, the French Riviera always makes a chic get-away. Staying at the delightful Vila Nora, just above Cannes, guests can make full use of its private pool, or relax in comfortable surroundings in this luxury house rental. It makes the ideal base for discovering the local area, with the nearby village of Le Cannet offering plenty of great local eateries to discover, down winding back roads. Travel a little out of town and enjoy the best seat in the house at Le Bar L’Amiral in the world famous Hôtel Martinez, for a glass of champagne – what else!

Villa Pedra

Mallorca

Turning the heat up, the magical island of Mallorca provides some of the best mansion rentals in the whole of the Balearics. For unrivalled luxury Villa Pedra delivers five-star living in this fantastic finca hidden in the beautiful countryside, accommodating up to 12 guests. With your own private library, swimming pool and tennis courts, you may never want to leave. But it’s worth stepping outside, if only for the great restaurants in the area. Local spot Restaurante Clivia is known for its great cocktails and menus, or venture a little further for Michelin-star dining in the picturesque setting of Es Raco d’est Teix in Deia.

For the best value luxury vacation rentals, visit Global Luxury Villas. With a wide selection of high-end properties including concierge services, you’re guaranteed a memorable stay.

GREAT LUXURY ESCAPES FOR THE KIDS WINTER BREAK IN EUROPE AND USA

Wednesday, November 21st, 2018

It’s that time of the year again when thoughts turn to holidays with the family. When it comes to high-end escapes, a luxury home rental is essential to complete your dream vacation. Providing a home away from home, there’s no better way to indulge the family than with a five-star residence.

Whether you’re looking to the warm shores of America, cozy cabins of France, or tranquil settings of Tuscany, you’re sure to find inspiration in our exclusive pick of luxury vacation rentals.

Compiled with the forthcoming winter break in mind, here’s four dreamy destinations for total pampering…

Hello Europe!

Europe really lends itself to the winter season, with plenty of culture to enjoy, as well as world-class ski resorts.

With it being low season, Tuscany in winter is a good time to come. Costs are lower and there’s fewer crowds, making it handy for visiting attractions like Florence Cathedral and the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Visit in February and you’ll be able to enjoy festival season, which the whole region gets involved in.

Villa Regina

Complete your stay with a luxury home rental such as Villa Regina. Nestled in the historic region of Arezzo, there’s great museums and wonderful architecture on your doorstep, and Florence is only an hour away by car.

While Tuscany also has its fair share of mountains for snow and ski (check out the Pistoia province), it’s the French Alps that ski aficionados flock to.

Villa Talia

Tucked away in the French ski resort of Val Thorens, Villa Talia is on the doorstep of some of the best ski runs. And when it’s time to cool down (or heat up), its private sauna, gymnasium and swimming pool are always a hit with younger ones. This hard-to-beat family-friendly luxury house rental spans 12,900 sq ft with eight cozy bedrooms for when it’s time to retire.

Get Away to USA

America has it all, and there’s no better time for families to visit than winter. At the end of November, the annual tradition of Thanksgiving makes it a wonderful time to come, plus there’s the Black Friday sales too!

Villa Ola

Winter is always warm in Miami, and the kids will love the many outdoor activities and water sports on offer. Hire a luxury villa in Miami beach, for the perfect base to explore the city. At Villa Ola you’re on the right side of Miami beach to access its many restaurants, bars and renowned night life, without being in the thick of it.

Villa Trina

For complete luxury and escapism with the family Villa Trina in the stunning Turks & Caicos islands is a firm favourite. Here you can completely relax and unwind in this huge mansion, right on the golden shores of Long Bay Beach. Complete with your own butler, outdoor movie theater, two pools and private tennis courts – it’s hard not to feel spoilt, but that’s what holidays are all about – right!?

So, pack your bags, book time off work and gather the kids, for an unmissable break to one of our stunning winter destinations.

For the best value luxury vacation rentals, visit Global Luxury Villas. With a wide selection of high-end properties including concierge services, you’re guaranteed a memorable stay.

WINE COUNTRY – GREAT EUROPEAN VACATIONS NEAR THE VINEYARDS

Friday, September 7th, 2018
Vineyards

Dripping in culture and attracting foodies from the world over, there are some 3.2 million hectares of vineyard to conqueror throughout Europe. But knowing where to find your dream luxury villa rental can be the hardest part.

With so many visitors wanting to soak up the local culture, as well as enjoy a tipple or two, we’ve compiled some of the best destinations to help you on your way.

Sprawling villa rentals in Saint-Tropez, idyllic Italian retreats and beautiful Bordeaux abodes, are just some of the perfect locations in which to immerse yourself in wine country, here’s why…

Villa Tatiana

Blissful Bordeaux

Known around the world for its high-quality produce, France is a must-visit for wine connoisseurs. One of the most celebrated wine-growing regions is Bordeaux – synonymous with great food and drink – some even say it’s the wine capital of the world.

For gastronomy lovers, Villa Tatiana is one of the most exquisite residences in the region to base yourself. It’s within close proximity to no less than eight Michelin star restaurants and endless vineyards, including; Latour, Margaux, Haut Brion and Cheval Blanc.

What makes this country estate so special though, is its early 20th-century architecture and vast space with eight rooms. It’s the ideal base for wine-lovers and big groups to come together.

Villa Anastasia

Sun-drenched Saint-Tropez

Further south, the glamourous shores of Saint-Tropez attract a well-heeled and well cultured set. Not just offering glamourous clubs, designer shops and yacht-upon-yacht, Saint-Tropez is perfectly positioned to enjoy a number of local vineyards in the area.

Finding the right vacation home allows you to enjoy the best of both worlds, all of which can be found in Villa Anastasia a seven-bedroom property offering the ultimate luxury get-away. Its sizeable gourmet kitchen is the perfect place to rustle up dishes using local ingredients, best enjoyed al fresco with plenty of outdoor space to choose from.

This lavish property is well placed too – 55 minutes from the airport and within driving distance to a number of charming vineyards in the area. These include Domaine Bertaud Belieu and Chateau Minuty, which offer tours and tastings.

Villa Pilar

Soak Up Florence

There’s no shortage of vineyards to visit in Italy. But, if you want to combine your stay while soaking up the local culture, the vicinity of Montecatini Terme is a must! Perfectly positioned between Florence, Pisa, Siena and Lucca, it offers the ideal base for exploring the many wineries in this bustling Tuscan region.

When it’s time to rest your weary head, a fabulous place to stay is Vila Pilar. With 11 bedrooms and a stunning outdoor area with private pool, this sprawling mansion is great for larger groups. It celebrates the very best of rural Italy, with thermal resorts and medieval villages close by.

Enjoy gentle walks to the village to enjoy fresh baked goods and local wine – a simple delight that many flock from afar to enjoy.

For a memorable stay, Global Luxury Villas offers some of the most exclusive luxury vacation homes in the world. With outstanding customer service and an unrivaled portfolio of properties, you’re guaranteed a five-star stay.

ITALY VS SPAIN… WHERE TO GO THIS SUMMER?

Thursday, August 9th, 2018

La Dolce Vita versus Vicky Cristinia Barcelona, antipasti versus tapas and pasta versus paella! Spain and Italy may be neighbors, but their offerings are varied. When it comes to luxury villas for rent though, they both offer exceptional standards. Where you decide to go is entirely up to the experience you’re after.

To help you decide, we give the low down of two of Europe’s top spots to visit this summer.

Go for the Food

Both countries have a great love of food, both benefitting from their beautiful climate creating delicious tasting local produce and wines.

Villa Regina

For a love of fresh ingredients as well as pizza, pasta and steak, Italy is best served with a glass of local vino on the side. Tuscany provides the perfect backdrop for your luxury villa rental, with lots to explore in the Chianti region.

Villa Carlora

For something meatier, Spain’s famous tapas serves up a rich mix of chorizos, spicy meatballs, fried fish and patas bravas to name a few. There’s no shortage of local wine or ‘cerveza’ either, it would after all be rude not to try a local Estrella! Each region is known for its own speciality, with so much diversity, you’d may be inclined to extend your stay. If you do, Villa Carlota in Marbella is surrounded by peace and tranquillity in its expansive gardens.

Villa Adele

Soak up the Culture

Neither country is short on heritage and sights, but Italy is home to some of the most famous art and architecture in the world. From the Colosseum in Rome, to Michelangelo’s David statue in Florence. Stay in luxury villa in Sorrento and you’ll be close enough to visit the incredible Pompeii historical site.

From the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona to the Guggenheim in Bilabo and the modern architecture of Valencia. Spain’s cultural sights are endless and plentiful. Gothic architecture with baroque influences, fused with modern design deliver something for everyone.

Villa Livia

Bliss out on the Beach

Glorious weather and coastal shores are a plenty in Spain. The magical Balearic Islands provide the perfect escape for beach life. In fact, it doesn’t get much more exclusive than Villa Livia, a beautiful Ibizan bolthole set in luscious surroundings. It’s also within easy reach of some of the island’s best beaches, including Cala d’Hort and Cala Vadella. Meanwhile, the ultimate beach island of Formentera, just off the coast of Ibiza, demands a visit – least of all for its famous picture postcard views.

Looking to the mainland, Costa Brava is known for its stretches of coasts with turquoise waters, attracting tourists throughout the summer season.

Villa Wendy

Italy is of course known for its lakes, be it Como or Garda. A-listers including George Clooney are huge fans, and as such it attracts a well-heeled visitor. The seductive island of Sardinia, should however not be overlooked. With tens, if not hundreds, of beaches to choose from, it regularly tops the ‘best beaches in the world’ list. Don’t miss out on your luxury villa rental and stay close to the action.

We’ve only skimmed the surface of what these great countries have to offer. However, both are ideal to visit during the warmer summer months, and are well geared towards tourists. Wherever you decide, you can’t go wrong with a trip to two of Europe’s most popular destinations.

Villazzo and Global Luxury Villas provide luxury vacation homes around the globe, including Spain and Italy. Coupled with outstanding service, Villazzo provides all the trappings of a five-star hotel, in the privacy of your own luxury villa.