Ottawa is filled with Insta-worthy spots that capture its unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From iconic landmarks like Parliament Hill and the Rideau Canal to hidden gems like Major’s Hill Park and ByWard Market, this guide takes you through the most photogenic places in Canada’s capital.
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Discover the 18 most Instagrammable places in Montreal! From iconic landmarks like St. Joseph’s Oratory and the Biosphere to hidden gems like Carré Saint-Louis and Rue Crescent, this guide captures Montreal’s vibrant culture, architecture, and natural beauty. Perfect for anyone looking to fill their feed with the best photo spots the city has to offer.
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It’s summertime, and the living is easy… well, almost. The days are growing longer and so is the list of things to do and places to see. Southwest Ontario transforms in the warm weather to a lively, beautiful slice of natural beauty and an enhanced sense of community.
From Windsor to London and everywhere in between, there are hidden gems everywhere. Cute, quaint towns, charming historical buildings, nature reserves and vintage markets have made summer road trips in Ontario a nostalgic and treasured memory for all. Whether you’re visiting from overseas, or living just down the road, put these 12 places on your list of places to see.
We’ve scoured the web and racked our minds to create an Instagram-worthy, grid-gorgeous list of the very best Southwest Ontario has to offer.
This charming little ice cream stand is home to delicious ice cream that has been keeping Londoners cool since 1957. Check out the flavour-packed menu and snap a few photos with your bestie in the vintage decor, classic typeface and vibrant colours.
Grand Bend is the top summer road trip beach destination for southwest Ontarians. Charming shops, a happening nightlife and the friendliest boating community you may ever encounter. World-class people watching, and a busy events calendar make this place a photography dream.
This iconic lighthouse stands alone facing off with storms on Lake Erie. Whether you visit in fine or fierce weather is up to you, but in either case, this iconic shot is worth the drive to Erieau. Pack a jacket.
The Canada Southern Railway Station is a former working station in St. Thomas, Ontario. The station was built by the Canada Southern Railway in 1871, and is now home to the North America Railway Hall of Fame, and one epic birckwork backdrop. Pop inside and learn a little more about Canada’s storied railway history.
A popular trail that receives the most visitors at Point Pelee National Park, the Marsh Boardwalk allows you to gain insight into the marsh ecosystem that is often overlooked and requires protection. From two large towers, you can take in fantastic views of the ponds and cattail marsh. The moodier the sky, the better.
Photo by @railwaycitytourism
A peice of melt in your mouth nostalgia, Shaw’s Dairy Bar has been a frequent stop for so many of us from childhood to parenthood. En route to Port Stanley, this roadside stop is a perfect detour and rest stop to take a little time to soak up the simple life.
Photo by @kendiddle
An immense lake as beautiful as it is tranquil, each visit to this great lake offers a new face and canvass on which to paint. Light, water, wind and reflection create a ruggedly beautiful background for your dream long weekend city escape.
Nothing quite encapsulates Ontario summer like weekend flea markets. The Pinery has been opening it’s doors every Sunday for over 50 years to locals and visitors looking for something unique or casually browsing the many handicraft and food vendors while taking in live performances. Bring your camera and snap away at the many antiques you’ll find in this authentic Grand Bend tradition.
Photo by @ontsouthwest
Summertime in the Forest City and the living is…. action packed! Boler Mountain ski hill transforms to an epic outdoor activity zone. The Tree Top Adventure Park is the perfect place for a birds eye view of the forest city. Quite possibly the bet views in London, this spot is a must.
The second oldest provincial park is home to all kinds of wildlife, including adorable and inquisitive deer. Be patient, and steady your shot for the perfect snap.
Photo by @julesrandomnessbeauty
Sarnia has nice beaches? They sure do! The sandy beach located within Sarnia’s Canatara Park stretches nearly a kilometer along Lake Huron’s pristine coastline. The sun setting on the horizon offers a broad palettte of colours that will liven up the most vibrant of Instagram accounts.
Photo by @five.on.the.farm
Housed in a former poorhouse that dates back to 1877, this museum and cultural centre is a National Historic Site that tells the stories of the people and places of Wellington County through curated exhibits. The expansive grounds of the museum also offer an impactful backdrop for arts and history buffs to take lust-worthy Instagram pitcures.
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Scrolling through Instagram, people often find themselves stricken with a serious case of wanderlust—trekking to exotic destinations around the globe, travel influencers and enthusiasts alike are constantly capturing mesmerizing shots and sharing captivating candids that are sure to make their followers jealous.
Instagram may have you daydreaming about being whisked away, but luckily you do not have to travel far to snag the perfect selfie. Just outside of Toronto, the villages of Elora and Fergus have been drawing in crowds who are looking to travel off the beaten path and up their social media game with Instagram-worthy photos tagged #EloraFergus.
Here are the top places in Elora and Fergus heating up on Instagram.
Photo by @elorafergus
With carved stone archways, parapet walls and tiered landscape gardens that lead down to the Grand River, this historic landmark offers an original backdrop for those looking to capture a covetable Instagram shot.
Photo by @_tannis_
Found just outside Victoria Park in Elora, this lookout provides photographers natural lighting and a stunning view where the Grand and Irvine Gorges converge.
Photo by @jess_scott_
Photo by @dizzzy.bees
If you are looking for an incredible photo that will rack up plenty of likes, you need to check out the Tall Man. Titled “Who’s in Charge”, this finger-pointing fixture in downtown Elora is one of many notable art features within the village and is perfect for taking personal poses.
Photo by @stuminous
Photo by @carly_hodge
Visible from Victoria Park in Elora, David Street Bridge is one of the most popular views within the city and one of the most photographed from the river below. An engineering masterpiece surrounded by trees and limestone cliffs, photos of this bridge are sure to garner plenty of attention on Instagram.
Photo by @helina___
A photo of this hidden gem is sure to make your followers jealous! Located on Metcalf Street in downtown Elora, the Seven Doors provide a pop of colour and an eclectic feel for a next-level Instagram selfie.
(For all things travel from Sarah and Rob adventures, check out the blog)
Photo by @james_x_horne
Photo by @matthewandsamantha
Probably the most popular spot on this list, the Elora Quarry is the perfect place for people looking to cool off and take plenty of nature-inspired selfies.
Photo by @aarondoinie
There is no better way to capture the beauty of Elora and Fergus than directly on the water! For those adventure-seekers looking to go the extra mile and have a GoPro at-the-ready, water tubing is available between the two cities throughout the summer months.
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Explore the 31 most Instagrammable places in Vancouver! From scenic spots like Stanley Park and Grouse Mountain to hidden gems in Gastown, capture the city’s breathtaking beauty. Perfect for travelers and photographers—start your Vancouver photo journey today!
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As global travel slowly resumes we’re all searching for somewhere special for our long awaited trip. Perhaps more than ever, accommodations that are spacious and offer a level of privacy are now higher on the list. With that in mind, we’ve searched high and low to find the the top 15 best villas in the world for that perfect, safe vacation getaway. From New Zealand to Sri Lanka, each villa is completely unique in design and in experience. Get inspired, grab a pen, and start planning your dream family vacation with this epic list of the best villas in the world.
Karpe Diem, Koh Samui
Koh Samui, Thailand
High in the hills of Koh Samui island sits Karpe Diem Villa. Astutely named, this is the perfect place to seize the day. Open air living at it’s finest, Karpe Diem boasts contemporary architecture and design while maintaining a comfortable, home-like ambience perfect for bringing together loved ones for the holiday of a lifetime. Whether your ideal holiday is based around rest and relaxation, or keeping fit and active, there’s few places we’ve seen that cover all areas so thoroughly. Incredible views around every corner, a fully equipped gym and two infinity pools are mere steps from the bed or sofa. This place will leave you speechless. The villa is staffed by an attentive and caring team, ensuring that you’ll be in good hands and able to put your mind at ease. With a dedicated focus and commitment to being a valuable employer and member of the local community, the Karpe Diem team has done a fantastic job of creating an unforgettable holiday experience.These are just a few of the reasons we included Karpe Diem on our best villas in the world list.
• Panoramic ocean view
• Twin infinity swimming pools
• 950 sqm of internal and external living space
• Spa and treatment room
• Gym with a view
• High-speed internet
• Air conditioning
• 5-Star award-winning service
• Highly professional staff
• 4 ensuite bedrooms accommodating up to 8 adults and 2 children
• 2 additional bathrooms
• Airport within 15 minutes drive
• 3 minutes away from the Royal Samui Golf Club
• Direct beach access 5 minutes drive
• Sea view restaurant and convenience store only 5 minutes walk
Villa Wambatu, Galle
Galle, Sri Lanka
Located in the hills just minutes away from the popular coastal town of Galle, Villa Wambatu is the tropical, luxury holiday you’ve been looking for. A spectacular private villa surrounded by luscious gardens, the property itself is simply inspirational. Open spaces and vaulted ceilings combine with tasteful, elegant design. Flashes of bright colour highlight feature walls, whilst neutral tones used throughout create a sense of calm and peace. Manicured lawns, flowers and plants in abundance brings life to the property. An inviting infinity pool spans the length of the villa and offers spectacular views down the hillside and off into the distance. The incredible in-house team go the extra mile to make your stay memorable. Chef Anthony prepares the most delightful cuisine you’ve ever tasted. It’s the type of place that feels like home from the moment you arrive. This nature infused experience was a no-brainer for our best villas in the world list.
• A private villa located in the hills above Galle
• Spacious, open concept design
• Fully staffed, including a talented chef
• 5 unique bedrooms, all with en suite bathrooms
• Sleeps up to 14 people
• Family friendly
• 15m swimming pool with adjoining jacuzzi/children’s pool
• Incredible jungle views
• In-room massage available
• TV room with 52in screen smart TV, complete with Netflix
• Table tennis and board games
• Beach nearby
Ambalama, Canggu
Bali
Another entry to our best villas in the world list comes from the same privately owned and operated business as Ambalama Sri Lanka. This beautiful villa in Canggu is luxurious yet comfortable and has an ambience of total relaxation. Designed by Ernesto Bedmar – one of South-east Asia’s leading architects for private homes, Ambalama Bali is comprised of a main pavilion, a two storey master villa with a private pool, and multiple guest villas. The property is set in a lush and green landscape, with lovely views over the surrounding rice fields. Ambalama’s uniquely designed pavilion offers a contemporary open plan dining area, a feature spiral staircase, and an upper level living area with an open air concept ideal for catching magical sunsets. Beat the heat in the 25 metre infinity pool. Entertain friends and family in large open spaces. Enjoy exquisite cuisine prepared by an in-house chef. This stunning villa is perfect for every occasion.
• Sleep up to 14 people in the master and guest villas
• 1500m² villa is set on 5,900m² of beautifully landscaped land
• 25m infinity pool
• 170m² Master villa duplex has a vast living area and private 9m infinity pool
• Complimentary high speed wifi
• Fully staffed
• Private chef
• In-house massage & yoga
• Childcare & kid’s pool
• Luxury mattresses, mosquito nets, 4 poster beds, and toiletries
• Air conditioning
• Bluetooth enabled speakers
• Safe deposit boxes
El Carligto, Andalucia
Spain
Escape to the country and savour the sights, sounds and tastes of Andalucia in one of the top villas in the world. El Carligto is made up of two beautiful private villas perched on the hilltops, set on 10 acres of land. Stunning views over the Andalucian countryside, Mediterranean, and the Moroccan coast are just the beginning of what this villa has to offer. El Carligto oozes with charm and taste. Although you may want to kick back, relax and watch the day go by, there is a distinct focus on experiential travel at El Carligto. The team are on hand to arrange cooking classes, spa treatments, excursions and more. Just let them know you’re what you’d like to try, and they’ll take care of the rest. With the possibility of renting one or both of the properties, or the entire private estate, El Carligto is ideal for tranquil getaways, group vacations, or unforgettable weddings and events, making it one of the best villas in the world for intimate time spent with loved ones.
• Views of the mountains, valley & Mediterranean sea
• El Carligto villa sleeps 8 guests
• Hunting lodge sleeps 6 guests
• Entire estate sleeps up to 14 guests
• Privacy and exclusivity
• 10 acres of private land
• Luxury concierge service
• In house chefs
• Reservations & bookings
• Personal fitness trainer
• Poolside massage and spa treatments
• Private Flamenco performances
• Exclusive access to some of the top cultural and culinary destinations in Andalucía
• Weddings and events for 40+ guests
• Long term lettings currently available
Villa Aye, Phuket
Phuket, Thailand
Easily passing the eye test for the best villas in the world list is, Villa Aye. Villa Aye is an incredibly luxurious property, nestled within the palatial gated community of Cape Amarin on Phuket’s “Millionaire’s Mile”. Located on a secluded hillside, this impressive villa was designed by a leading Thai architect. It is surrounded by lush foliage and boasts unobstructed panoramic views over the Andaman Sea. To say Villa Aye is spacious would be an understatement, and there’s no shortage of activities for your family to enjoy. Relax in the wellness area with a yoga room and fully equipped gym. Feeling playful? Hang out in the games room complete with entertainment system, Bose surround sound, and a full sized pool table. Outside, the immaculately maintained gardens and pool are an absolute delight. Sit back, relax, and soak up the good life at one of the world’s top villas, Villa Aye.
• Eight bedrooms, sleeps up to 16 people
• Swimming pool, including children’s area
• Extensive sunbathing area
• Fully equipped gym & yoga room
• In-house spa treatments upon request
• Full sized pool table, table tennis, large children’s trampoline
• Bar & BBQ
• Full-time chef (Western and Thai specialities)
• Thai cooking classes upon request
• Complimentary Wi-Fi
• Villa-wide Bose surround-sound system
• Home entertainment room
• Fully wheelchair accessible with elevator
• 35 minutes from Phuket Airport
• 15 minutes from the shopping and entertainment of Patong
Talalla House, Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka
Another Sri Lankan addition to our best villas in the world list is Tall House. Prepare to be seduced by Sri Lanka. Talalla House is perfectly situated to make the most of your dream holiday in the tropics. Boasting ocean views from every room and spacious gathering areas. The green space on the rooftop is perfect for soaking in the sun and catching sunsets. Talalla House invites you to come together with friends and family and to make yourself at home. With room for up to 14 people, you can easily host extravagant dinner parties that last long into the night while the sounds of the waves crash in the background. Safari in the morning, and whale watching in the afternoon, you can truly do it all from this perfect home base by the sea.
• 7 double bedrooms, 5 in the main villa + 2 garden suites
• Sleeps up to 14 people
• Private balconies and ocean view
• Bathtubs with ocean view
• Air-conditioning and fans
• Spacious living & dining area
• Large pool and deck
• Rooftop garden
• Yoga studio
• Ayurvedic treatments, massage and meditation
• Great location for day trips
• ‘Build your own’ yoga surf retreat
Villa Savasana, Canggu
Bali
‘Savasana – the practice of gradually relaxing your entire body one muscle at a time, to reach a state of complete relaxation’. Aptly named Villa Savasana is the ultimate Balinese retreat. This welcome addition to the best villas in the world list is run by a warm and attentive team that will receive you like family and ensure that every aspect of your stay goes above and beyond expectations. Villa Savasana offers 4 stunning bedrooms, an open plan living and dining area, and a rooftop space with sunset views to die for. Neutral colours and subtle textures add a light and refreshing feel to the open-plan contemporary design of this 3 story villa. The pool is relaxing and lined with greenery. Private and tranquil, yet within walking distance to beach clubs and restaurants, Villa Savasana offers guests the best of both worlds.
• 3 king-sized bedrooms with pool and garden views
• All bedrooms have en-suite bathrooms
• Additional ‘penthouse’ bedroom available for larger groups
• Swimming pool with sun loungers
• Rooftop space with incredible sunset view
• In-house staff to ensure you have a pleasant stay
• Massage and spa treatments available
• BBQ
• Air conditioning
• Complimentary WiFi
• Located between Canggu and Seminyak “the hot spot of Bali” with chic cafes, beach bars and rice fields
• Echo Beach is a short walk north (half a km)
• Seminyak is an easy stroll south (1 km beach walk)
Raiwasa, Fiji
Fiji
If privacy in paradise is what you are looking for, then look no further than Raiwasa Private Resort. Located on the beautiful island of Taveuni, Raiwasa offers a luxurious getaway ideal for getting active in the day and winding down at dusk. Plan a day out fishing, snorkeling and paddle boarding. Feeling like taking your relaxation to another level? Book a massage while the refreshing ocean breeze keeps you cool and comfortable. However you wish to spend your day, the team at Raiwasa can help make it happen. With views as far as the eye can see, this top villa is set up for you to sip a cold cocktail while watching the sun sink below the horizon in nearly every colour imaginable. It is no wonder how a place like this could make any list of the best villas in the world.
• Located on a private 3-acre retreat
• Two rooms with king beds, open ceiling design, one with ocean view, one with garden view
• Both rooms have luxurious full bathrooms
• Sleeps up to 6 guests
• 8 unique dining locations
• Large veranda / wrap around decking
• Private mirror edged pool
• Dining/observation deck
• Access to the ocean though a series of steps
• Breakfast, lunch and 5 course dinners
• Complimentary all day room service
• Free cooking class
• Complimentary resort activities including kayaks, paddle boards, bikes, snorkeling gear
• TRX Home Gym
• Mini office / TV room
• Bose portable sound system
Villa Akatsuki, Koh Samui
Koh Samui, Thailand
As far as the best villas in the world goes, Thailand has it’s fair share. Villa Akatsuki invites guests to indulge in the dreamy tropical paradise that is Koh Samui. Pure white sand beaches and sky high palm trees surround this luxurious seafront villa, bringing it to our list of the best villas in the world. The open plan design brings the outside in, allowing you to make the most of the beautiful views and sunshine no matter where you are on the property. Each suite is inspired by the elements, offering unique interiors and a tranquil ambience. Remarkable three-tier swimming pools cascade into one another, while the serenely designed spa area comes complete with tropical garden and cooling plunge pool. Fine dining will be a highlight of your stay at Villa Akatsuki, with chef Yada creating incredible food from Thailand and around the world.
• Atrium with high ceiling and impeccable design
• 5 unique suites featuring king sized beds and spacious en-suite bathrooms
• Three feature swimming pools running through the centre of the property
• State-of-the-art home theatre system
• Alfresco dining
• Thai cooking class & food market tour
• Full spa with massage, treatments, and plunge pool
• Yoga
• Fitness studio facilities
• Muay Thai
• Golf course nearby
Villa Sungai, Bali
Bali
Villa Sungai is a slice of paradise in Bali, and one of the best villas in the world. With a main flagship villa and a smaller sister villa available to rent together or separately, the villas are each a private sanctuary surrounded by nature. The elegantly designed properties boast neutral tones and natural materials, for the ultimate barefoot environment. Incredible in-house hospitality adds another layer to the story, with delicious cuisine cooked by local talented chefs. Each villa is home to 3 king sized bedrooms, a relaxing private pool, and a beautiful dining area. The main villa comes complete with a spa room and bar, for an extra special getaway for families and friends.
• Two beautiful private villas sleeping 6 people in each + additional beds if required
• Both villas can be rented separately or together depending on party size
• Set in lush green gardens
• Peaceful infinity pools
• Large dining area
• Delectable cuisine from talented local chefs
• Outdoor freestanding bathtubs in master en-suites
• Massages, therapeutic skin care, traditional Balinese healing therapies, and spa experiences
• Balinese baths, scrubs and wraps with natural ingredients
Villa Coral Flora, Gili Trawangan
Gili Trawangan, Indonesia
Villa Coral Flora Resort has to be the best villas on Gili Trawangan. Two cosy private villas each have their own private swimming pool, and a private beach set up with sunbeds and umbrellas. The main villa is a spacious 400msq, with 4 double bedrooms, a spacious kitchen, and a bright living room that leads out onto the pool deck with an ocean view. The second villa is perfect for smaller groups, with 2 bedrooms that lead out to the intimate private pool. Located on the small picturesque island of Gili Trawangan, there are plenty of activities to enjoy, from yoga to scuba diving. Complimentary bikes are available at Villa Coral Flora so that you can easily explore the island.
• 2 private villas, available to book separately or together
• Villa 1 – 4 bedrooms, ocean view
• Villa 2 – 2 bedrooms, pool view
• Each villa has a private swimming pool
• Private beach with sunbeds and umbrellas
• Daily breakfast prepared to order, at a time that suits you
• Complimentary bikes
• Staff team to help arrange activities
• Yoga
• Snorkelling
• Scuba diving
• Water sports
• Cooking classes
• Local excursions
Ambalama, Galle
Galle, Sri Lanka
With its spectacular ocean side location just minutes from Galle, Ambalama is one of the leading private luxury villas along Sri Lanka’s south coast. Ambalama has a spectacular way of bringing the outside environment inside, allowing you to bask in the fresh sea breeze from any room in the villa. All four of the bedrooms offer ocean views, with large patio doors that open out to the beautiful garden and a refreshing infinity pool. Walk a few steps further and find your feet in the sand of one of the best beaches on the island. Rolling waves and the chance to spot a sea turtle, what more could you ask for? What makes Ambalama truly special is the renowned hospitality and excellent cuisine. The team will cater to your every need from serving you drinks by the pool to helping plan local activities. Ambalama prides themselves on offering the service of a luxury hotel, while maintaining total privacy and comfort which creates a relaxing and enjoyable experience for guests.
• Three suites with king sized beds
• One twin suite
• Each room has an en suite bathroom
• Two suites include outside showers
• Beachfront location
• Infinity pool
• Private chef
• Complimentary high speed WiFi
• In-house massage & yoga
• Fully staffed
• Wedding venue for up to 70 people
• Close to attractions including Galle Fort, spice plantations and national parks
• Local activities including surfing, diving and whale watching
Turquoise Beach Villa, Zanzibar
Zanzibar
Does escaping to Zanzibar with 14 of your friends and family sound like a good time? Then Villa Turquoise is the best villa for you. Located away from the crowds on the north east coast, the aptly named villa overlooks panoramic views of the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean that lap along the shore. Luxurious and fully staffed, the only thing left for you to do is relax and soak up the chilled out island vibes. Five bedrooms, six bathrooms and a grand private pool and library, what more could you ask for? This is everything a luxury Zanzibar getaway should be.
• Fully serviced with housekeepers and private chef
• Sleeps up to 14 people
• Direct ocean access
• Large tropical garden
• Roof terrace
• 4 dining areas
• Library
• Games room & pool table
• Satellite TV & DVD
• WiFi
• Massage
• Cooking classes
• Snorkelling
• Bike hire
• A skipper to take you out for boat trips, in and beyond the lagoon in a sailing boat or powerboat
Villa Hin, Koh Samui
Koh Samui, Thailand
Incorporating an incredible natural geological formation as the basis of its design, Villa Hin in Koh Samui is sometimes known as “The Rock House.” With panoramic sea views and an open air design, this is a truly luxurious tropical retreat. Villa Hin comprises 5 uniquely designed and decorated bedrooms, each with its own charm but all with large and comfortable beds as the centrepiece. As one of Koh Samui’s top villas, Villa Hin also comes complete with open concept living and dining areas, and an air conditioned theatre room offering the perfect way to cool down and unwind after a day in the sun. Catch a beautiful sunset from the comfortable rooftop lounge, as you listen to the sound of the ocean and the gentle rustling of the trees in the breeze. Looking for paradise? Look no further than this Thai property that is a favourite on our best villas in the world list.
• 5 unique bedrooms with en suite bathrooms
• Panoramic sea views
• L-shaped infinity pool
• Open air living room
• Roof top terrace
• Home cinema with air conditioning
• Access to the beach
• Tennis court within the estate
• Four staff members including Private Chef
• Bar and lounge area with BBQ
• Wine Menu
Wijaya Giri, Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka
Offering a unique insight into Sri Lankan village life, Wijaya Giri is a village house in a coastal town, located just off the beaten track. Recently renovated and refurbished, Wijaya Giri sleeps up to 12 people. There are two buildings located either side of the private pool. The main villa houses four bedrooms, as well as a large open plan living area, cosy sitting room, spacious kitchen and a large veranda. Two additional double en suite bedrooms are located in the pool house, which has a high ceiling kitchen and an open plan sitting room and dining space. The villa chef prepares fresh and nutritious breakfasts, as well as local curry and rice dishes in the evenings. Wijaya Giri is located nearby a number of beaches with great surf breaks, making this the ideal villa for a luxurious surf holiday.
• Located in a small coastal village
• Sleeps up to 12 people
• 6 bedrooms – 4 located in the main villa, 2 in a separate building on the other side of the pool
• Private chef to prepare breakfast and dinner
• 4 ft deep pool
• Elevated sunbathing platform, which doubles as a projector screen backdrop for outdoor movies
• Six teak sunbeds
• Small yoga deck or meditation space
• Large veranda with dining table
• Small, well kept garden with Frangipani trees and tropical flowers
• Close to beaches
• Great base for surfing trips
At a Glance
Seize the day, book your trip
Ready for a dream getaway?
Looking for luxury in Bali?
Prepared to be blown away?
Need to experience it for yourself?
Surf & Yoga in Sri Lanka
Planning a family holiday?
Ready to indulge?
Luxury on the beach in Thailand
Looking for luxury in Bali?
An idyllic island escape
5 star service in a private villa
A tropical retreat
Luxury in nature
Beauty in simplicity
Are you one of those people that feel like you’ve been there and done that already? Then this list is for you. We’ve put together a list of the best villas around the world to help you get inspired. Explore new places, or revisit familiar places in a new and exciting way with our list of the 5 most unique vacation rentals around the world.
Amazing things can happen when a vision comes to life, and these 5 properties are a testament to that. Each one embodies creativity, design and luxury, set in some of the world’s most beautiful and inspiring travel destinations. From mountain lodges overlooking the Andes, to tropical getaways in Southeast Asia, each of these properties are more than a place to stay, they are an experience unto themselves.
Whether you like to get out and seek adventures, or simply are looking for a place to relax with loved ones, this list has something to suit your needs. Luxurious, private and with all the comforts and modern conveniences you could desire, here are the 5 best villas for your next escape.
Dar El Sadaka – Marrakach
Marrakech
If you’re rubbing your eyes in disbelief, you’re not alone. It’s rare to see something completely new that stops you dead in your tracks. Dar El Sadaka is a feast for the senses, and one of the main reasons it’s on our best villas list.
Available exclusively for private parties and intimate events, Dar El Sadaka is a passion project launched by french artist Jean-François Fourtou. Originally the villa was built as a vacation home for family and close friends to come together and be inspired. As demand grew and word of mouth spread, Fourtou decided to open the doors and share his vision on a limited basis with the world. As you explore the property, Fourtou’s playful animal themed artwork appears in truly magical and unexpected ways. An experience unlike any other, guests are invited to daydream and allow their imaginations to run wild.
Celebrate life with your loved ones in Morocco.
• 25 acres in the heart of the Palmeraie of Marrakech
• Available for private hire only
• 600m square indoor space, fully air-conditioned
• Stunning interiors and artwork from Jean-François Fourtou
• Nine individually themed suites and bedrooms for up to 20 guests
• Fully staffed
• High-speed internet
• Living room with fireplace
• Dining room with lounge area & fireplace
• Library with TV (satellite channels)
• Home cinema room / meeting room
• Rooftop sun terraces and squishy sofas under olive trees
• Daily fine dining and creative family-style meals
• Organic vegetable and herb garden
• 170m square outdoor swimming pool
• Traditional hammam & spa treatment room
• Tennis court, ping-pong table, and French bowls court
• Fitness room & private running track
• Languages spoken: Moroccan Arabic, French & English
Awasi – Patagonia
Patagonia
Strictly for the adventurous, Awasi Patagonia is a spectacular experience from start to finish. You’ll be hard pressed to find a more enchanting setting anywhere on earth. Situated on the doorstep of Torres del Paine National Park, each of the 14 villas and 1 main villa overlook dense forests, mystical lakes, and imposing mountains. To make the most of this otherworldly setting, each villa is accompanied by a 4×4 and driver so that you can explore at your own pace on your own timeline. Return from a day of adventure and rest your bones in your hot tub, enjoy a drink by the fire and patiently await your meal prepared in the world class kitchen. This is simply one of the most incredible places on earth and we can’t think of a better way to enjoy it.
Ready for the adventure of a lifetime?
• Situated in a private reserve overlooking Torres del Paine National Park
• 14 villas and a main lodge inspired by old Patagonian shelters and ranching outposts
• One Private Guide and a 4WD are assigned to each Villa
• Views over the Torres del Paine Mountain Range, the Patagonian Steppe and Lake Sarmiento
• Incredible gastronomy at the Relais & Chateaux restaurant
• Wood burning stove and your very own hot tub
• Craft your own adventure
• Carbon neutral
• Access to off-the-beaten-path hiking trails
• Perfect digital detox: wifi available in the main lodge only
The Riverhouse – Bali
Bali
When you think of tropical paradise, it’s probably not long before Bali comes to mind. A popular destination with idyllic beaches and a rich and vibrant culture, Bali brings people back again and again. Whether you’ve been to Bali, or are thinking about making your first trip, there may be no better way to experience it than staying at one of the best villas, and private getaways at the Riverhouse. A luxury oasis in the rice fields of Perenenan, The Riverhouse is a peaceful escape allowing you to recharge and get inspired by your surroundings. Large bedrooms, floor to ceiling windows and outdoor dining are just a few of the luxuries you’ll enjoy in this cool and chic space. Every aspect of the property has been thoughtfully considered, from the architectural design to the furnishings and art collection. Whilst the main house is perfect for groups, the Riverhouse Studio offers a smaller but equally stunning option for couples.
Looking for a little luxury in Bali?
• Main villa has 5 bedrooms (sleeps 10-12)
• Sleeps 14 people w/ the studio
• 7 bathrooms
• 2 kitchens
• Double height living area
• Open plan kitchen, dining room and living room
• Outside dining area
• 25m pool
• Daily staff – butlers and cleaners and a chef on request
• Massage room with 2 beds
• Fine finishing details
• Designer furniture and art throughout
• Rice field and river views
Ataahua Lodge – New Zealand
New Zealand
A sprawling property with seemingly unlimited possibilities, this holiday home is the stuff of dreams. Contemporary design with playful accents invite you to be free and enjoy life to the fullest. Decorated with artwork, antiques and venetian furniture, this luxurious property is nothing short of a masterpiece. Perfect for a family getaway or to celebrate a special occasion with those close to you, there is more than enough to keep you busy. Tantalise your taste-buds with a visit to the wine cellar, or relax and unwind in the cinema room. Fancy something more active? The swimming pool, tennis courts and and basketball courts are ideal for group activities, all surrounded with lush greenery. Work up a sweat in the hot yoga studio and adjoining gym, or take a stroll in the fresh air with soothing sea views. There’s a world of adventures waiting for you at Ataahua Lodge. It’s easy to see why Ataahua Lodge is one of the best villas in the world.
Prepare to be blown away.
• Italian inspired: Family, food and beauty form the heart of the home
• Five bedrooms in the main house, and one bedroom in the guest pavilion
• Fully equipped gym and yoga room
• Extensive wine selection
• Cinema
• 25 metre lap pool
• Two spacious dining rooms
• In-house chef preparing breakfast, lunch, pre-dinner drinks, canapes and dinner
• Champagne & cheese platter upon arrival
• Premium bathroom amenities
• Impeccable landscaping & outdoor spaces
• Outdoor pizza ovens and gas & charcoal BBQ
• Underground man cave & fully equipped bar
Treehotel – Sweden
Sweden
This collection of fun and unique treehouses has been aptly described as “a childhood dream with a touch of luxury and flair”. The Treehotel is the brainchild of Kent and Britta, who combined their love of their beloved home village in Northern Sweden with their intense desire to create something special. They happened to be friends with three of Sweden’s foremost architects – Bertil Harström, Thomas Sandell and Mårten Cyrén, and when Kent mentioned the idea of building unique designer hotel rooms they were keen to get involved. This spontaneous collaboration led to something spectacular. It resulted in a UFO, a bird’s nest, a cabin, a mirror cube and a blue cone which changed colour to orange. A large Dragonfly conference building and The 7th room were added later. It’s a truly unique experience to live among pine forest, surrounded by nature in such a thoughtfully designed, contemporary space. Definitely one for the bucket list!
Experience it for yourself.
• 7 totally unique rooms set among the pine forest of Northern Sweden
• Inspired by the surroundings and experiences of the local area
• Activities are designed to reflect the time of year, and capture the beauty of nature in this part of the world
• A highly-skilled chef preparing delicious meals with local produce
• Offering Swedish delicacies from the northern pantry, from wild game to hand-picked berries
• Day hikes and picnics
• Kayaking and fishing
• Northern lights natural phenomena
5 best villas in the world at a glance
Planning a group trip to Morocco?
Ready for the adventure of a lifetime?
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Need to experience it for yourself?
