Ibiza - A Mediterranean pearl

Villa Turquesa Ibiza

Our inspection trip to Ibiza and its beautiful Villas

Spring is finally here for most of us in the Northern Hemisphere! This is about the time when most of us start dreaming of the warmer sun filled days ahead. I know I am fondly remembering our inspection trip to Ibiza this past summer and want to share some inspiration with you. Ibiza is one of the islands in what is knows as the Balearic Islands just to the East of Valencia, Spain. Ibiza is often thought of as a party island for the young and Jetset.

Villa Blanca Ibiza

Small  villages and beaches: Ibiza is ideal for families

I want you to know that there is a completely different side to this charming little island. The small villages and beaches on the island allow for many types of holidays. I think that Ibiza has some of the best family beaches that I have seen on the the Mediterranean. The town of Ibiza is very charming and is also where you can take boats and ferries to the other islands of Mallorca, Formenterra and Minorca. ⁠

Villa Palmeras Ibiza

Villa rentals with seaviews

Because many of the villas on the Island of Ibiza are near the water or high up in the hills, there is often the bonus of sitting back in the evenings and enjoying the sunsets. Many of our villas have a nice big terrace with pool area or jacuzzi and stunning views out onto the Med or into the hillside. Sunset time is a great time to come together with the family or friends after a day of exploring and talk about all of the new discoveries! ⁠

Villa piedras Ibiza

Villa Piedras: A vacation rental paradise in Ibiza

Villa Piedras is set in lush gardens of palms and tropical plants, with the house and pool offering a family-friendly combination of generous outside spaces and cool, spacious interiors. Low stone walls and gnarled olive trees lead to the sparkling turquoise pool and wide sun terrace lined with sun loungers. There are five ensuite bedrooms to welcome 10 guests for a holiday they will long remember. We know that this is the kind of place that memories are made! ⁠

Ibiza dream

Travel: the Art of creating memories

Travel: the Art of creating memories

We have been visiting properties for the last 20 years and there is one destination that will always remain dear in our hearts; Provence, France! When much of France is still gray and rainy, a trip to Provence is sure to put a smile on your face. With picture perfect countrysides, blue skies, early blossoms and charming villages, you really can't go wrong! One of newest favorites is Chateau les Vignes near the town of Sorgues. ⁠If you are thinking about a family gathering or time with friends, Chateau Les Vignes is waiting for you with warm open arms and doors! Come with me to Provence and let me show you a very special place!

  Chateau les vignes

Château les Vignes

Sorgues, Vaucluse, Provence - Southern France, France

Sleeps 16/17      Bedrooms 8      Baths 8.5         
A/C       Pool       Internet       View       Walk to town 

Chateau les vignes Provence

Not just a Villa: Also an experience

One of the advantages of staying in a lovely villa in Provence is that many of them  are also working farms or vineyards. At Chateau Les Vignes, the specialty is wine  and olive oil. While you enjoy the beautiful property, you can take advantage of  tasting the bounty of the fertile grounds that produce some excellent wines. You can taste Chateauneuf du Pape, Cote de Rhone Village and Cote de Rhones that all  come from the hectares that surround the property. In a world where so many are searching for an experience, I invite you to Chateau les Vignes for a true taste of Provence! ⁠

Villa provence

Le Chapon

Gordes, Vaucluse, Provence - Southern France, France

Sleeps 12      Bedrooms 6      Baths 5           

Pool       Internet       View    

 

 

Villa Sorrento

Spring is in the air

When spring is in the air, one of the first places I think about is Sorrento, Italy. A perfect month to be there is April which is right around the corner. The sky is blue, the sun is warming everything up and creeping wisteria adorn the trellis in towns like Sorrento and other villages. along the coast. Sorrento is a small city of about 16,500 that is located in Campania. With easy access to Naples and Pompeii, this a wonderful destination to get away from it all and enjoy the views and the Dolce Vita! This week we will dream together in this wonderful part of Italy! ⁠

 

luxury villa sorrento

Villa Lubrense

Massa Lubrense, Napoli, Amalfi coast - Campania - Villa Rentals, Italy

Sleeps 12/15      Bedrooms 6      Baths 5      
A/C       Pool       Internet       View       Walk to town   

 

 

 

 

Sicilia - A Mediterranean pearl

Italy Sicily Beach Holiday Travel Villa Rentals Villa Tellus

Villa Tellus - Siracus

Sicily Cultural Bounty

With Sicily’s beaches, mountains, parks, and sister islands you could stay busy for a week without even touching on its cultural bounty. That said, you just can’t miss out on the incredibly rich historical record written with stone on this island. By the way, renting a villa is a wonderful way to explore the regions an dlive as a local. There are too many archaeological sites to mention here, but consider one of these as a starting point, then move on to the cathedrals before you relax on the beach:

 Siracusa Ortigia

Ortigia - Siracusa

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Incredible Archaelogical sites

  • Teatro Greco-Romano—Built in 4 BC by the Greeks and renovated as an amphitheatre under Roman rule, this Corinthian-columned space continues to host opera and theatrical performances with a magnificent Mediterranean view in the background. Be sure check out the Festival Taormina Arte, set on this historic stage, which runs from May to August with dance, music, and theatrical shows.
  • Tempio & Teatro Greco di Segesta—This limestone beauty is comprised of 36 columns, which are all excellently preserved though the temple was inexplicably never completed around them. The restored theatre stands nearby and also draws the eye with its expansive view.
  • Parco Archeologico della Neapolis—In Syracuse, you’ll find the largest Greek Theater on the island, which summons visions of the powerful culture that once thrived here and rivaled Athens in its heyday. Classical plays are still performed in this stunning historical setting.
  • Villa Romana del Casale—The most impressive parts of this sprawling villa are its 37,700 sq. ft. of intricate mosaics that illustrate the hunting and athletic practices in the Roman way of life over two millennia ago.

Villa Bianco Sicily

Villa Bianco - Trapani

Splendid Cathedrals to visit from your Villa rental

  • Oratorio del Rosario di San Domenico—This Palermo cathedral is adorned with sculptures and elaborate biblical scenes depicted with inlaid marble and mother-of-pearl in the Rococo style
  • Monreale Duomo—Monreale’s 12th century church has both Arabic and Norman characteristics and with 21,000 sq. ft. of mosaics, it is described as one of the loveliest churches in all of Italy.

Italy Sicily Beach View Holiday Rental

Wonderful beaches

  • Lido Mazzaro—To reach this beach you’ll take the funicular from the arty village of Taormina and descend the 15 minute stretch to the beach. This area has a resort atmosphere with bars, restaurants, and umbrellas, chaise lounges, and water sports equipment for rent. Picturesque Isola Bella, “the pearl of the Ionian Sea”, is a tiny island and nature reserve off this beach which is connected at low tide by a small strip of sand. There’s good snorkeling around it too.
  • Giardini-Naxos,—Here’s a spot near Taormina between Capo Taormina and Capo Schisò for great swimming and water sports, and nice little restaurants along the beach.
  • Mondello Lido—Soft white sand and wonderful seafood restaurants await you at this beach which is just 9 km outside Palermo.
  • Spiaggia Sabbie Nere—For something different, head out by boat to Vulcano, one of the Aeolian Islands, where you’ll find the striking black sand beach of Spiaggia Sabbie Nere.

Villa Scicli Sicily

Villa Scicli - Ragusa

Sicilian Delicacies you must try

Seafood is an important and primary staple here, as is the case on many islands. However, since pork and beef are raised on inland farms, you’ll also see them listed as menu choices as well. Like in the rest of Italy, pasta is king and durum wheat represents a good percentage of Sicily’s crops.

With its diverse cultural history, it isn’t surprising that many foods that are served throughout Sicily have roots in foreign lands. Legend has it that Arabs fetched down snow from Mt. Etna, flavored it with sugarcane and jasmine, and presented it as the first granita! Consider these imports:

  • Arabian sugarcane, raisins, oranges, and lemons
  • Greek olives and grapes, along with pruning and wine-making techniques
  • Spanish tomatoes and figs

Sicilian coastline fishermen

Some of our favorite Sicilian specialties

In Sicilian restaurants, here are several dishes you are likely to see:

  • Caponata—an antipasto dip made with eggplant, olive, tomato, and garlic
  • Arancini—a mixture of rice and a variety of fillings including cheese,prosciutto, and vegetables, which is formed into balls and deep fried
  • Spaghetti alle Seppie—spaghetti with a sauce of black cuttlefish ink
  • Insalata di Mare—a seafood salad of squid, octopus, clams, and carrots

Villa Viagrande catania

Villa Viagrande - Catania

Wine and other drinks

Sicily is also a large producer of wine, of which up to 70% is white. Probably the best known beverage here is a regional liqueur called Amaro Averna, which continues to delight locals with its characteristic bittersweet taste, and still made from its original 19th century recipe. Citrus peels, herbs, and caramel comprise its ingredients. You can try it served on the rocks and you may see it as a cocktail component.

Well, fellow travelers, this concludes our whirlwind tour of Sicily. I hope these descriptions have enticed you and that Sicily has earned a spot on your list of places to visit!

Book your Sicily Villa rental today!!

 

Sicily - Mi Amore

Ionian Riviera Apartment Taormina

Ionian Riviera - Taormina

Sicily is a multi-cultural Island

For many, Sicily is synonymous with Mafia movie characters and real-life mobsters too, so it may not be a place you’ve ever considered visiting. However, we’d like you to know that it’s really a gorgeous Mediterranean island with a fantastic blend of multi-cultural influences.

Italy Sicily Roman Theatre View Villa Rental
Ancient Theater - Taormina

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 Sicily is rich in historical places and natural wonders

Here, you’ll find ancient Greek and Roman temples, elaborate Baroque cathedrals, cerulean seas set against white and black sand beaches, dramatic shoreline cliffs, and Europe’s largest active volcano, Mt. Etna. And of course there’s also the legendary cuisine, wine, and exuberance of its proud people. You’re going to love it here!

Villa serafino Modica Ragusa
Villa Safino, Modica

The largest Italian Island

Sicily is the largest region in Italy and the most massive of its islands. It rises out of the Mediterranean Sea across the Strait of Messina at the toe-end of Italy’s boot, and spans nearly 10,000 square miles.

It was colonized around 750 BC by the Greeks and wrested away by the Romans about 300 years later. Arabs, Normans, and Spaniards also established themselves here and their influences (as well as the Greeks’ and Romans’) abound in the ancient ruins, architecture, mosaics, religious buildings, towers, fountains, sculptures, crops, festivals, and cuisine of Sicily.

Italy Sicily View Mountain 5

Snow-capped Mount Etna

Palermo is the capitol city

Its capitol city, Palermo, is said to be where the western world’s first parliament originated. In the Valle dei Templi in Agrigento—where seven of the world’s most intact Greek temples are located, and thus designated a UNESCO world heritage site—you can feel the power of this region’s glory days as the center of political vitality some 2,500 years ago.

The best preserved Greek Doric temple (Concordia) is here and rivals only Athens’ Parthenon in size. There are more than a dozen other astounding sites of antiquity (temples, amphitheatres, baths, and villas) dotted throughout the island and many continue as venues for theatrical performances you can experience today.

Villa Rosolini Sicilia

Villa Rosolini - Siracusa

A diverse and rich Geography

Geographically, Sicily is also surprisingly complex. In addition to the inlets, coves and grottos along the coastline, there are deep river gorges and spectacularly steep shoreline cliffs reminiscent of the Amalfi Coast.

Sicily’s interior is pastoral with areas of grazing livestock, and vineyards, olive, almond, and citrus groves that may make you think you’re in Tuscany. And its resident celebrity, volcanic Mt. Etna, punctuates the landscape rising 10,925 feet,and gives fiery shows frequently as it has for nearly half a million years.

Villa La Palma Sicilia
Villa la Palma - Agrigento

Astonishing Northern region

Along its northeastern edge, a diminutive archipelago (the Aeolians) add to Sicily’s beautiful coastline and lure divers and underwater photographers with its dazzling marine flora and fauna. And finally, Sicily rounds out its diverse natural bounty with an ice cave (Grotto del Gelo), that is frozen year-round and wholly unique for this latitude.

Book your Sicily Villa Rental today!!

 

 

 

Pools, Pools and more Pools

At RentAVilla we have always been proud of the excellent selection of amazing villa rentals we have to offer to our clients. On every inspection trip we take we are always amazed at the variety and elegance of the stunning pools we see. Here's a sample of a few of the many beautiful pools and settings that you might have the privilege to experience in the future. Our journey begins on the beautiful French Riviera

Villa Eze Big Blue, Èze-sur-Mer, French Riviera

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Luxury, Unobstructed views of the Sea, Infinity pool, AC

Villa Eze Big Blue is what dreams are made of! We absolutely fell in love with the view! If you are looking for pure luxury on the French Riviera, look no further! This villa was built by a world renowned architect. The villa offers approximately 4,000 Square feet of living space. This contemporary villa is beautifully appointed and laid out on two levels with an infinity pool offering unobstructed views of the Mediterranean Sea. For those wishing to cool off in the Big Blue, the beach is only a 7 minute walk from the villa.

Elegant Chateau Estate - Villers-Bocage, Normandy, France

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 Luxury, Chef, Maid service, Handicap accessible

 If you are looking for a unique luxury experience, Elegant Chateau Estate has everything you could ever dream of! Our only regret was to not be able to stay longer than a day in this royal setting!! Elegant Chateau Estate is bathed in history as its beginning was in 1637. This 2,000m2 chateau sits on a 125 acres park with woods, garden, pond and teaming wildlife. The chateau is ready to welcome 33 guests in 15 beautifully appointed suites. Guests will be private guests in the Chateau with the service of a 5 star hotel. Whether you would like a Michelin star chef to come in and prepare meals for you or organize a masked ball for 150, we can organize whatever you would like and make sure your stay at the chateau is more than memorable!

 Find your dream pool villa rental now!

  Chateau Vela, Lans, Burgundy

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 A charming 19th century chateau

 Chateau Vela is a charming 19th century chateau located in the heart of southern Burgundy, just a few minutes from Châlon-sur-Saône. What a great base to explore the wine region of Bourgogne. The owner is very kind and hospitable, and will love to share his passion for Burgundy wines with you. The property is situated in a beautiful wooded parkland, boasting numerous ancient trees, a delightful orchard and a heated pool. The chateau offers seven luxury bedrooms (each with an en suite bathroom), a gym, a cozy lounge with fireplace, a dining room, and fully equipped kitchen. The living areas all open out onto the terrace and pool area, providing a convenient gathering space for all to enjoy.

 Villa Tourlos I

Agia Sophia, Tourlos, Mykonos, Greece

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Large Luxury villa, AC throughout, Infinity Pool, Views

Oh my God!! Cori and I were speechless at the beauty and serenity of this beautiful Mykonos villa retreat! Mykonos Villa Tourlos I is a 7 bedroom villa with private pool, in a lovely panoramic position at Agia Sofia, Tourlos overlooking Mykonos Town & Aegean sea, close to its sister villa Villa Tourlos II* and a short distance from Mykonos Town. The villa has been made to the highest standards with all the luxury, comfort and facilities even for the most discerning guests.

 Villa Argent, St. Tropez, French Riviera

 Blog-Pool-Villa-Argent.jpg

Walking distance to the beach

Villa Argent is a stunning contemporary and stylish villa located in Les Salins area of St Tropez. No wonder why St Tropez attarcts people from around the world. This magical place holds a special place in our heart as we spent quite some time there in our youth: Its climate, its rich vegetation with pine trees that look like mushrooms, the cicadas, the beautiful blue sea and its generous people.

The accommodation offers seven bedrooms with additional staff quarters. It is within walking distance to the beach and easy access to Saint Tropez center. The garden is beautifully designed and landscaped with an intriguing Eastern flavor and peaceful water features. This lovely property boasts a large, heated swimming pool, a refreshing plunge pool, a pool house with comfortable outdoor living furniture, a spectacular ancient tree, and a fully equipped kitchen underneath.

 Villa Amiata, Siena, Tuscany

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 Pool, Views, Contemporary, Wifi, AC

We felt like we were at the top of the world as we gazed at the amazing surrounding hills that can be found nowhere else but in Tuscany!

Situated in a quiet pastoral setting, and just to the south of Siena, stands Villa Amiata. Newly restored, and surrounded by almost 50 acres of wooded hills, this secluded, old stone farmhouse dates back to the 1870's. It has been carefully restored by the new English-speaking owner with taste, using local materials. There are handmade cotto tiles on the floor, original wooden beams on the ceilings and clean, white walls - lending harmony and creating a relaxed atmosphere. Surrounded by mature oak trees, in a panoramic position, there is an amazing swimming pool

 Chateau Provence Elegance - Estate, Sarrians, Provence

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 Large grounds, Weddings, Pool, Tennis, AC, WiFi

If you are looking for a special place for a very special event with the people you love, look no further, Chateau Provence Elegance will fill all of your needs and beyond. This beautiful Chateau was originally built in the 1600's and in 1760 it became the chateau it is today. The main chateau can accommodate up to 15 guests in 8 ensuite bedrooms.