Give the gift of luxury with one of these 5 stunning stays
This holiday season, wrap a bow around the ultimate gift: a magnificent holiday home in one of these prime European destinations. When we say magnificent, we don’t just mean big. We mean exquisite, jaw-dropping, and rock-star worthy. You’ll want to soak up the sights in these hotspots, but after you take in the cathedrals, beaches, museums, and historic treasures, you can relax, dine, and entertain in a palace fit for a king or queen.
Farmhouse fantastique in Saint-Remy-de-Provence
Say the word “Provence” and your senses light up. You picture fields of sunflowers, charming cobblestone streets, exclusive beaches with yachts floating nearby, and elegant dinners under the stars. What better way to experience this beautiful region than in an equally spectacular home—a five-bedroom “farmhouse” with all the amenities. A state-of-the-art kitchen and wine cellar invite you to entertain, as do indoor and outdoor dining areas, a terrace overlooking the grounds, and an open living room next to the pool. There’s even a “relaxation room” with spa and sauna.
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Beachfront beauty on the Island of Crete
Even the gods on Mt. Olympus need some down time, and if they were searching for a holiday retreat, they might pick this spot—a stunning villa on the edge of the sea. Serenity will be yours as you float in the infinity pool, soak in the heated hot-tub, stroll the pristine two-acre grounds, or peer at a sunset from your private veranda. With easy access to some of the best beaches on the Greek Isles—including Elafonisi, Falassarna, and Bolas—this tranquil home is your gateway to activities like deep-sea fishing, sailing, and snorkeling. A short walk or drive will also get you to charming tavernas and open-air markets.
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Tempting Tuscan villa near Siena
You dream of Tuscany—the world-famous art, mouth-watering dishes, picturesque vineyards, and historic cities. But your Tuscan dreams will really come true if you step through the doors of this 15th-century villa. Nestled on a slope above rolling wheat fields, this enchanting five-bedroom rental features an outdoor fire pit, swimming pool and hot tub, and ample space for activities like badminton and bocce. Your first evening comes with gourmet dinner included, and from there the luxury continues. You may feel so pampered that you forget you’re ten miles from Siena and a day trip to Florence and Pisa.
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An elegant London townhouse
When you arrive at this stately Victorian townhouse, you might expect a Beefeater guard or two out front. But no, you haven’t stumbled upon a royal residence—only one that will make you feel like a prince or princess. Dubbed the “White House” for its exquisitely furnished white rooms, this seven-bedroom mansion comes with all the accents to make your holiday complete—a state-of-the-art kitchen, spacious master suite and bathroom, formal dining room, and large living room with two fireplaces and a library. It’s also adjacent to one of London’s largest parks and a short tube ride from the city’s key attractions.
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Architectural gem in Berlin
Berlin is known for its stunning modern architecture, so it’s only fitting that this architect-designed treasure awaits visitors to Germany’s capital city. From its large living spaces to its small details, this seven-bedroom villa has it all—comfort, luxury, and ingenious surprises like the glass roof on the first floor and the rustic dining table and cosy fireplace. This meticulously designed property also features a heated pool, a wooden sauna for six, a hot tub that seats five, and a terrace with tables and chairs for up to 16 guests. And for the little ones who need to move, it even has an in-ground trampoline.