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Our favourite stylish villas across the globe

By Melanie Kruger   |  

Looking for a more private luxury getaway this summer? Then it may be time to swap that opulent five-star hotel for a lavish villa instead. Whether you’re planning a dreamy beach getaway to one of the most sought-after holiday destinations in the world, or looking for a remote bolthole nestled deep in the European countryside, a luxurious and stylish villa can make for the perfect accommodation – and offer you all the space and the peace and quiet you need to enjoy your holiday away from the masses.

From romantic villas that are just perfect for honeymooning couples, to larger residences that are great for larger groups, there’s something to suit you. And, if you’re in need of some inspiration then look no further – because we’ve handpicked our four favourite stylish villas for you from around the world.

COMO Cocoa Island Resort, The Maldives

If there’s one place in the world that is most renowned for its incredible luxury villas, then the Maldives is it – and with a plethora of opulent over-water bungalows to choose from, it’s tricky to narrow it down to just one.

The COMO Cocoa Island Resort, however, is a truly special place – offering 33 unique water villas designed to resemble Maldivian fishing boats. The perfect destination for a romantic honeymoon getaway, there are no family facilities here – so it’s peace and quiet all the way for couples in search of a much-needed luxury break.

Each suite boasts a raft of high-end facilities, including a state-of-the-art entertainment centre – but let’s face it, you won’t be spending a huge amount of time indoors with views like these. With your own private sundeck, there’s no better place to soak up the panoramic vistas, made up of crystal-clear waters, pristine white sands and lush green coconut trees as far as the eye can see.

With such a plethora of marine life to see, here you can spend your days snorkelling and diving on the house reef or soaking up some rays on the beach – and with an opulent spa offering a range of world-class treatments, you can enjoy R&R at its best.

Conrad Bora Bora Nui Resort, Bora Bora

Fast becoming a contender for the iconic Maldives, Bora Bora is one of the most beautiful beach destinations in the world, and when it comes to luxury villa accommodation, the Conrad Bora Bora Nui Resort is the cream of the crop.

Exclusively located in a private cove on Motu To’opua, it’s perhaps one of the most famous hotels in the South Pacific these days, and has even featured on the Kardashians thanks to its opulent, next-level range of villas that many could only dream about.

This sprawling resort boasts just 120 rooms, each floating over the turquoise waters of the lagoon or perched on a tropical hillside. Offering fine dining at each of its four restaurants and featuring a large infinity pool and spa, the Conrad is a hard act to follow, and its lavish villas will take your breath away.

Villa Rumbo, Formentera

Nestled on the beautiful and unspoilt island of Formentera, the Villa Rumbo is a private and comfortable luxury retreat in an exceptional coastal setting. Located in an idyllic private area just a stone’s throw from the beach, this pretty one-storey villa comes complete with its own private pool and lawned gardens dotted with palm trees, roses and olive trees.

Making the perfect setting in which to gather a group of friends for an evening of al fresco dining, Villa Rumbo boasts a large covered terrace with a barbecue, wood-burning oven, dining table and sitting area.

With stylish, nautical-inspired interiors and accommodation for up to ten, this quiet villa is a great place to relax and unwind – and a welcome departure from the hedonistic party vibes that seep from the neighbouring island of Ibiza. Even so, you’re just a short ferry ride away should the mood strike you – though in Formentera, the beaches are prettier, the sand is whiter, and the water is even clearer.

Villa Rumbo is located just 2.5km from some of the island’s most notable walking trails, leading you through the nature reserve of Ses Salinas where you’ll find spectacular coves and breath-taking views aplenty. But some of the best views you’ll get are from the terrace of the villa itself – the perfect place to sit and watch the sun go down.

Villa Flavia, San Casciano dei Bagni, Tuscany

Perhaps one of the most iconic and beautiful regions in all of Italy, Tuscany encapsulates all of the best bits this charming nation has to offer and is home to some stunning villas. Awash with impressive historic architecture, exquisite artwork and mouth-watering Tuscan cuisine, there’s a lot to love about this picturesque destination – so it’s no wonder it’s one of the most famous tourist destinations in Europe.

Villa Flavia is a stylish luxury villa created a renowned international landscape and interior designer, and the creative flair that has brought it to life certainly shows. Built in the tradition of an old Tuscan farmhouse but with all the mod-cons you’d expect from a luxury abode, this high-end but homely residence makes the perfect base from which to explore the Tuscan and Umbrian countryside.

Surrounded by vineyards and just a stone’s throw from iconic historical sites such as the Leaning Tower of Pisa, it’s a wonderful countryside retreat that gives you a real taste of the Tuscan lifestyle.