When it comes to planning a getaway, accommodations go a long way to determining the vacation experience. There are rustic cabins in the mountains, chalet in the hills, and cottages along the shore, but for an expansive and picturesque holiday, it’s hard to surpass the luxury of a well-appointed villa. Whether you’re dreaming of an extended trip or a short-term visit, these spacious houses provide the backdrop for a relaxing, rejuvenating, and inspiring holiday.
From Corsica to Ibiza, New York to Mykonos, each villa listed here is charming in its own way, offering fresh views and new horizons. Enjoy a glass of wine poolside while watching the sun go down, take a dip in the clear, turquoise waters, or simply let yourself soak up the magic of being in a new place. These villas are worth the wait—and worth bookmarking for the not-so-distant future.
A Private Island Villa Near Ibiza, Spain
Ibiza, Spain | Montse Hernandez, Ibiza Sotheby’s International Realty
There are few vacation experiences quite as indulgent as staying in a villa on a private island. This tranquil home is located in the center of Tagomago, a small and beautiful island just a half mile from cosmopolitan Ibiza or a 30-minute motor yacht ride to Formentera. Set amidst shrub-spotted hills and rocky coastal cliffs, the villa stands as the island’s only residence. The Spanish-style architecture, with its cool white palette and the occasional stone detailing, completes the graceful image of this iconic home.
With a swimming pool, jacuzzi, sauna, and steam room, the five-bedroom villa is an oasis in and of itself. Take in the view of the sea and nearby islands from the poolside lounge area, where white-canopied loungers make afternoon cocktails a must. The living space features retractable glass doors that let in the sea breeze, and the stunning views are as much a part of the room as the sleek leather sofas and contemporary glass coffee tables. The villa is open and airy, with picture windows in the bedrooms and spacious dining areas for larger gatherings. The exterior dining space is a particularly special spot, where a partially covered terrace frames some of the most entrancing sunsets in the world.
A Gleaming Seaside Villa in Mykonos, Greece
Mykonos, Greece | Violetta Sacharidou, Greece Sotheby’s International Realty
Dubbed the Aegean Legend, this villa in Mykonos, Greece, is a secluded getaway for those who value their privacy while wanting to stay close to everything that Mykonos has to offer. Visit the many nearby ancient ruins or explore the scenic waterfront of Little Venice before retiring for the evening. In typical Grecian style, the villa is painted white to reflect the heat, with architectural details like interior wooden beams, cool stone flooring, and pale blue accents to complete the aesthetic.
While the interiors are welcoming in their own right, the setting for this villa is an inarguable draw. Guests can look out any of the many windows to the swimming pool and, just beyond, the shimmering Aegean sea. Every detail of this villa, from the carved blue clay shower to the spacious outdoor dining areas, feels like the epitome of Grecian luxury.
A Mediterranean-Style Villa in Water Mill, New York
Water Mill, New York | Anthony Rosina, Sotheby’s International Realty – Bridgehampton Brokerage
Step onto the grounds of this villa in Water Mill, New York, and you’ll immediately feel the romance of the place. With a Mediterranean architectural influence and beautiful landscaping, the property offers guests a respite from the ordinary. Featuring a heated pool and an outdoor gazebo dining area with a barbeque grill, the villa is the ideal setting for extended periods of time spent outside. Located only 10 minutes from the historic villages of Southampton, Water Mill, and Bridgehampton, as well as several beaches, the home offers guests both slowed-down days spent poolside as well as the potential for charming day trips to the surrounding communities.
The villa’s interiors feature double-height ceilings, rounded entryways and windows, and marble flooring, providing a sense of expansive openness. With five bedrooms, a library, and a formal dining space, it makes for a convenient and restorative abode away from home.
Contemporary Villa in Corsica, France
Corsica, France | Julie Bercegol, Corsica Sotheby’s International Realty
With a distinctly modern take on the European villa, this vacation rental in Corsica, France, offers guests refined luxury and comfort in a Mediterranean island setting. The slate-gray-and-pristine-white color palette shines against the lush green landscape, and the heated mirror pool invites guests to stay a while. Equipped with state-of-the-art technologies, including SONOS audio systems and high-speed internet, the villa is prepped for any length of stay.
Spend the day at the Spérone golf course, where 18 holes offer views over the sea to Sardinia, or play a game of tennis at the villa’s own court. To wind the day down, guests can enjoy an al fresco dinner while taking in the stunning waterfront views. The rental provides linen and towel services and weekly cleaning, as well as various concierge services, ensuring that your holiday is nothing short of spectacular.
The enduring charm of the villa persists, especially at a time when travel remains restricted. The dream of waking up to the sounds of crashing waves, jet-setting to far off locales, and exploring cultural and historical landmarks feels far off now, but these villas will be there when you’re next at liberty to plan an excursion.
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