What is it about the Mediterranean coast that makes it such a paradisiacal place for a personal retreat? Perhaps it’s the juxtaposition of white sand beaches and translucent blue waters with beautifully preserved artifacts of history and culture, or the sense of peace brought on by the breathtaking tranquility of an open horizon.
Of course, the most iconic way to vacation in the Mediterranean — whether temporarily or permanently — is with a seaside villa. Here’s a peek inside three paragon properties whose aesthetics, caliber, and locales place them at the pinnacle of classic Mediterranean living.
A True Renaissance of Quintessentially Italian Style
Renaissance literally means “rebirth”, and some of the most luxurious villas on Italy’s coasts are indeed a rebirth of the art and architecture that originated in this region half a millennium ago. Immortalizing both the style and the spirit of the Italian Renaissance, the most prized villas here pay homage to classical elements — pillars, friezes, vaults, and archways framing magnificent views — even among more contemporary constructions.
Sabrina Majello – Italy Sotheby’s International Realty
Caprese-style villas are no exception, as epitomized by this panoramic estate that offers rare proximity to both Capri’s legendary Piazzetta and the seaside. Each level of this mansion is a unique, self-sufficient unit, complete with their own bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchens, living rooms, and dining rooms. But the second and third floors boast the best views, with sweeping vantages of the Bay of Naples on one side of the villa and Marina Piccola on the other.
Sabrina Majello – Italy Sotheby’s International Realty
The terraced gardens are practically a private park. Like the home, each area provides a wholly different experience — whether dining outdoors between the vibrant greener and graceful stone archways, relaxing on the full-furnished patio, or enhancing the spa treatment in the solarium and hot tub.
Artisanship and Architecture That Speaks of Spain
Those who have holidayed in destinations like California, Florida, and Mexico are likely familiar with Spanish style villas, with their textured, low-slung roofs, simple exteriors, and exposed beams and structural elements. But long before colonists brought the architectural aesthetic across the ocean, it was widespread across Spain’s cities, countryside, and epic waterfronts.
Isabel Moll – Menorca Sotheby’s International Realty
Nowhere are the country’s Mediterranean villas more luxe than on the Balearic Islands of Menorca, Mallorca, Ibiza, and Formentera. Specifically, this peaceful escape on the southern coast of Menorca encapsulates everything an island retreat should include. It’s secluded, yet close to both the historic town of Maó and the sapphire beaches of Binidalí, and its high vantage provides views reaching from the windswept bluffs of Macarella to the serene lighthouse that illuminates Illa de l’Aire.
Isabel Moll – Menorca Sotheby’s International Realty
In this home, life takes place on the main level. With a single continuous expanse of more than 2,500 square feet, the open-plan oasis incorporates living and dining rooms, a state-of-the-art kitchen, four bedrooms, three bathrooms, patios, gardens, and a pool where you could float contentedly for hours. The lower floor features a recreation and entertainment space, as well as another bedroom and bathroom.
Chic Greek Minimalism Creates a Modern Marvel
Minimalism wasn’t inaugurated in Greece, but judging by the iconic coastal villas found throughout the Aegean Sea — with their simple white walls and functional square shapes — it might as well have started here. That’s why Greek luxury villas are so covetable. They can be future-forward and visionary, while maintaining all their authentic Mediterranean character.
Despina Laou – Greece Sotheby’s International Realty
This stunning property on the island of Mykonos is an example of how modern design can seamlessly merge with, and elevate, the classic elegance of the local architecture. Contemporary Mediterranean villas are acclaimed for their ability to blend indoor and outdoor living. This home takes that to a whole new level with a zigzagging structure hewn directly into the landscape, which maximizes space, privacy, garden access, and awe-inspiring vistas.
Despina Laou – Greece Sotheby’s International Realty
These vistas are most spectacular when seen from the infinity pool overlooking the Aegean Sea. But this is just one of the notable features of the outdoor space, which also includes an external home theater for those looking to simultaneously enjoy a great film and a soak in the sun. Meanwhile, the main house and guesthouse offer a full range of amenities, including a spacious wine room and a private gym, and are within walking distance of the island’s main town.
The Mediterranean Sea is vast, and its tides touch an incredible variety of coastlines, countries, and cultures. This diversity is reflected in the many types of villas found across this region, and regardless of the form it may take, a Mediterranean villa demarcates and delivers a uniquely luxuriant lifestyle.
Taking the celebration outdoors? You might like to picture a wedding at these luxury properties.
