While there are plenty of gorgeous hotels around the world that make for lovely holidays, there’s just something about having the entire place to yourself that makes all the difference. Whether you’re planning a trip to Europe with the family, or a relaxing getaway with friends, there are some stunning villas to book around the world, from seaside retreats in South East Asia to legendary villas in the Italian countryside. Here are some of the best private villas in the world to book if you’re looking for privacy:

Villa Cetinale, Tuscany, Italy 

One of Tuscany’s most stunning homes, Cetinale was originally built in 1680 and used as a baroque villa for Pope Alexander VII. Today it’s known to have hosted some legendary parties with guests that have included the likes of Princess Margaret, Mick Jagger and Kate Moss. With private access to its famous Cetinale gardens, the villa has a heated pool, tennis court and some gorgeous spots to have your meals whether you like them indoors or alfresco. There’s lots to do nearby, from horse riding in the Tuscan countryside to swimming in the river Merse. For a dose of history, venture to the nearby Romanesque cloister at Torri or visit the beautiful churches of San Leonardo del Lago and the Pieve di San Giovanni Battista.

www.villacetinale.com

Villa La Bougie, French Riviera, France

A gorgeous villa that can hold up to 16 guests, with eight bedrooms and seven bathrooms, there’s a heated swimming pool with sun beds, a beautiful garden and a lovely covered dining area here. You enjoy the benefits of complimentary concierge service with your booking, plus the villa is close to the beach, and gives you easy access to the bustling town. Perfect for stays with family and friends when you want a luxurious holiday, this is the kind of dreamy place where one would expect to run into film stars – except of course, you won’t because it’s completely private!

This is the kind of dreamy place that one would expect to run into film stars – except of course, you won’t because it’s completely private.

www.lecollectionist.com

Villa Kiko, Barbados

Nestled on the stunning Paynes Bay Beach in St. James, Kiko is where luxury meets laid-back Caribbean charm. This four-storey coral stone villa, with its nine spacious beachfront bedrooms, each boasting private balconies, feels like your personal slice of paradise. Its beachfront, intimate setting make it perfect for family vacations, tropical weddings, or any special celebration. With room for up to 20 guests, it makes sunny spot for a dose of relaxation in the heart of the Caribbean.

kikovillabarbados.com

Soneva Fushi, Maldives

The Maldives is home to some stunning villas, whether they are the highly Instagrammable over-water ones or the swanky beach stays. But when it comes to choosing our favourites – we couldn’t resist going with the one with the water slide – after all, what is cooler than jumping out of bed and landing straight into the sea? With its location in the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Soneva Fushi offers the chance to wake up to stunning views – you can even spot dolphins from your room if you’re lucky. All the villas come with a 24/7 personalised “24/7 Barefoot Guardian service” and the resort offers some very cool experiences from swimming with manta rays in Hanifaru Bay to zipling with a view of the jungle.

With its location in the Baa Atoll UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, Soneva Fushi offers the chance to wake up to stunning views.

www.soneva.com

Amanpuri Ocean Villa, Phuket, Thailand

Overlooking the turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea, Amanpuri’s eight-bedroom ocean villa is perfect for large groups. The king-sized bedrooms offers incredible views of the dramatic seascape, and a large swimming pool makes for midnight swims under the stars. Finally, the stunning courtyard offers lovely views of the sunset, best enjoyed with some bubbles. The chef here specialises in home-style Thai cooking, so you won’t have to venture outside to enjoy some great local food.

Overlooking the turquoise waters of the Andaman Sea, Amanpuri’s eight-bedroom ocean villa offers the chance to unwind in a secluded location with dramatic views.

www.aman.com

Minos Beach Hotel, Crete, Greece

This three-bedroom waterfront villa offers glorious views of the sparkling blue waters of Mirabello Bay. Hosting up to six people, the property has one master and two twin bedrooms with private dressing areas and ensuite bathrooms, a separate living room with dining table and sofas, plus a fully equipped kitchenette. The interiors are designed in a minimalist, boho-chic style and there’s also a DVD home cinema, whilst the large verandah with the sun terrace hosts a private pool that offers panoramic views of the sea.

www.minosbeach.com

Somerhaze House, Somerset, UK

This seven-bedrom countryside offers a gorgeous getaway not too far from London, with a private river beach, sommelier-stocked wine fridge, heated swimming pool, fire pit and BBQ grill. Plus, there are fabulous gardens to wander. This quaint cottage is ideal if you’re looking for a place that’s suitable with children as it comes equipped with a travel cot, children’s books and toys, a high chair and even a baby monitor.

The cottage comes equipped with a travel cot, children’s books and toys, a high chair and even a baby monitor.

www.scottwilliams.co.uk


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