A serene oasis amidst the frenzy of Dubai; an adult playground with a private beach in St Barth’s; a charming Lake Como escape with a royal history…The best hotel villas provide space and privacy in some of our favorite destinations around the world. And in a year of reconnection, when bonding with family and friends is at the top of many travelers’ list of priorities, hotel villas make for an ideal group getaway, each with top-of-the-line amenities and excellent service. Read on for our favorite hotel villas around the world.
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Villa One, One&Only Mandarina, Mexico
Atop a hill in the jungles of Mexico’s Riviera Nayarit, about an hour north of Puerto Vallarta, the largest of One&Only Mandarina’s Grand Villas is a sanctuary for nature lovers, adventurists and sun-seekers alike. Enjoy views over the rainforest and Pacific Ocean from the suspended outdoor living room and expansive terrace, where days can be spent soaking in the private swimming pool, lounging on king-sized daybeds or enjoying a delicious BBQ. The three-bedroom villa comes with a dedicated chef, butler service and buggy driver, as well as two private Jacuzzis, a gym, game room, full-screen cinema and spacious living and dining rooms. Meanwhile, over at the resort’s public areas, Villa One guests are treated to their own cabana at the Jetty Beach Club, along with daily activities at the spa, and prime access to a plethora of hiking trails and equestrian activities. (A fully stocked complimentary wine bar adds to the celebratory mood.)
Related: Spotlight: One&Only Mandarina Grand Villas
Riverside Villa, Four Seasons Hotel Prague, Prague
Prague’s historic, lantern lined Charles Bridge and the spires of Prague Castle have a distinctly fairytale quality to them. And at Four Seasons Hotel Prague’s new Riverside Villa, you can enjoy that view unimpeded from your breakfast table. On the edge of the Vltava River, this villa immerses guests in the sights and sounds of the Czech capital. This baroque-style retreat is an ideal place to relax after a day hitting the city’s cobblestoned streets. There are four luxurious bedrooms, an elegant dining room and, perfect for musical guests, a piano. Stays here come with a 50-minute massage at the hotel’s spa, a private boat ride down the river, a dedicated hour of private pool access and a daily selection of seasonal fruits, cheeses and cookies—plus limousine transfers to and from the airport.
Casita Grande, Islas Secas, Panama
Thatched roofs, azure and emerald waters and tropical gardens await on the private island of Islas Secas. Here, the eight-person Casita Grande reigns superior, with the best of private luxury embodying the castaway experience. The subtle earth tones and natural materials, like wood and wicker, make it easy to fall into the slow island way of life, where days are spent sipping cocktails by the private plunge pool, snorkeling or diving amongst marine life or experiencing raw nature through whale watching, birding and nature walks. The four separate casitas allow guests to spread out and enjoy their privacy, while the wide terrace in between is the perfect spot for relaxing in one another’s company and reconnecting.
Africa House, Royal Malewane, South Africa
Take eleven of your closest friends—or favorite family members—on a South African escape, and live out your safari dreams in an eclectic and self-contained villa. Royal Malewane’s Africa House feels both worldly and deeply connected to its roots, with antique furniture from Mombasa complimented by Persian rugs and Victorian-style tubs. Opulence drips from every intricately embroidered pillow and artfully carved table, while the bright colors and tribal paintings lend a more relaxed feel. In addition to the six main guest bedrooms (each with their own outdoor shower and deck) an extra room is available for a nanny, pilot or photographer. A stay at Africa House comes with a private chef and a dedicated game ranger, tracker and private game drive vehicle, allowing you to truly experience safari in seclusion amongst only your chosen company (and some excellent guides).
Villa Cima, Villa d’Este, Lake Como
A royal Italian villa escape, Villa Cima was built in 1815 by Carolina of Brunswick, then Princess of Wales and future Queen of England. The white-and creamsicle-hued gem rimmed with brilliant green hedges was fully renovated in 2019, and is the only Villa d’Este private villa located right on the shores of Lake Como. Its three stories contain four bedrooms (each with a balcony from which to take in the stunning lake views), a lounge with a terrace, a dining room and a fully equipped kitchen, all reflecting classic design and bright tones like robin’s egg blue, scarlet and seafoam. A stay here is not complete without dining on the private stone terrace, the surface of the lake only steps away and the lush pre-Alpine mountains rising around you.
Raja Mandaka Estate, Nihi Sumba, Indonesia
Why settle for one villa when you could have six? At Nihi Sumba’s Raja Mandaka Estate (also known as the Owner’s Estate) luxury is at its peak, with ocean views stretching to the horizon and no shortage of space to spread out in. The main house is comprised of a library, living room, indoor dining room, fully equipped kitchen and a massive outdoor space, as well as a bedroom. The freestanding master bedroom has all the benefits of being in the main house while still maintaining its privacy, with its own lap pool and cold plunge pool. Three bedrooms are in their own individual two-story villas, each reflecting Sumbanese architecture, with the distinctive pointed thatched roofs and geometric wooden designs; from the upstairs bedroom, guests can access a treetop platform immersed in nature. The final bedroom is the epitome of privacy, a cottage-like villa overlooking Nihi’s surf wave with a private path offering access to all the resort’s water activities, dining and a lovely sunset.
The Bulgari Villa, Bulgari Resort Dubai, Dubai
Perched on the Persian Gulf, The Bulgari Villa exudes a much-needed sense of peace and privacy amidst a city known for its brightly-lit skyscrapers and lively nightlife. While a stone wall and the odd date palm separate you from any neighbors, these dividers break for a view of the ocean, best experienced from the lantern-lined, spherical swimming pool that forms the centerpiece of the villa. The terrace pathway is lined with small pools of its own, dotted with steppingstones to take you to an outdoor dining area on one side and a lounge area on the other. And though the outdoor pool terrace and garden are easily the highlight of a stay at The Bulgari Villa, the cinema, hydromassage and hammam are fabulous extra touches.
Malilangwe House, Singita Pamushana, Zimbabwe
Perched up in the trees, this five-bedroom villa maximizes the views from each bedroom’s private decks, as well as from the outdoor lounge space, infinity pool and terrace dining area. The residential-chic interiors showcase curving lines, with rich brown tones in the leather seating and wooden outdoor canopy, plus blue accent pillows. Meals and beverages are included at Malilangwe House (courtesy the private chef), as are private game drives, walking safaris, boat cruises, fishing and excursions to ancient rock art sites—all in the company expert guides. A serene hideaway, this villa offers a private safari experience for families and larger groups in Zimbabwe, one of the few destinations to see the endangered black rhinos.
Related: A Rhino Success Story: Singita Pamushana & the Malilangwe Trust
Ty Warner Mansion, Las Ventanas, Los Cabos
All 28,000 square feet of the oceanfront Ty Warner Mansion at Las Ventanas al Paraiso, A Rosewood Resort reflects the artistry of Mexican and Indian cultures through art and textiles chosen by billionaire-turned-hotelier Ty Warner himself. Think hand carved Alebrije sculpture and Indian silk sari furniture. Massive glass doors mean the Pacific is nearly always in view. They open on the 328-foot beachfront infinity pool (which includes a sunken living room). In addition to the wealth of dining and lounge areas, the mansion has a tequila library, media room, steam room and sauna, kitchen with a built-in pizza oven and 360-degree garden; plus, the master bedroom has its own rooftop terrace and lap pool with a glass bottom, making it visible from the master bath. For a true wow experience, guests can request a personal firework show.
Warner Cottage, San Ysidro Ranch, Santa Barbara
An opulent European-inspired retreat surrounded by storybook gardens and views of the Pacific Ocean and Channel Islands, it’s no surprise San Ysidro Ranch considers Warner Cottage its crown jewel. Gilded antiques, dark polished wood wardrobes and crimson accents evoke a sense of luxury, while wooden roofs and large stone fireplaces ground the home in its natural setting. The master bedrooms both have a dreamy canopy bed, a 65-inch TV and a fireplace, with heated floors in the master bath and Italian linens. French doors in the living area open out on the terrace with a heated swimming pool, sunken spa and barbecue area, all with vistas of Santa Barbara and the “American Riviera.”
Five-Bedroom Estate at Prieta Bay, Four Seasons Costa Rica at Peninsula Papagayo, Costa Rica
Sunsets may never be the same after a stay at this Four Seasons villa—the nightly show of pink and orange skies as the sun descends over the ocean is visible from nearly every room and most importantly, from the infinity pool. Each bedroom has high ceilings and expansive windows designed to invite the outside in, as well as their own bathroom, with a deep soaking tub and outdoor shower in the three master bathrooms. Stock the European kitchen ahead of time with the provided $500 stocking credit and enjoy complimentary evening snacks and beverages delivered every other day. A stay here also comes with a personal concierge service, 24-hour In-Room Dining, a roundtrip airport transfer and a private yoga or meditation session. Plus add in a private chef, private bar service or personal training classes for the full luxe Costa Rican experience.
Villa 31, Amanzoe, Greece
At Amanzoe’s Villa 31, what is reminiscent of a Greek temple on the outside is sleek and modern on the inside. Much of this villa is done in light grays and creams, but the design star is James Turrel’s “Sky Space,” a striking black marble cubic space with an aperture from which to enjoy Greece’s always-cobalt skies. And though the 22-meter infinity pool, large outdoor living area, full dedicated staff and breakfast bar might suggest this is a getaway for groups and families, the one airy master bedroom proves it is really an ultra-luxe, spacious retreat for a couple looking to live out their romantic Grecian dreams, with panoramic views of the Aegean.
Related: The 17 Most Luxurious Hotel Suites in the World
Kataza House, Rwanda
Kataza House is shaped by the natural surroundings of Rwanda, its stone fireplace and ample caramel accents blending effortlessly with the rolling plains and mountains, while the ebony dining table calls to mind the black volcanic rock hiding beneath greenery in nearby Volcanoes National Park. The overall design is decidedly modern, and guests here will find themselves immersed in the destination, with farm-to-table meals inspired by the flavors of Africa and prepared with produce from the onsite garden. This four-bedroom villa offers easy access to some of the world’s best gorilla trekking, a life-changing experience for those hoping to view human’s closest animal relative. Spend your downtime during the day in the massage treatment room or getting in that extra workout in the fitness center. Come sunset, curl up with a movie in the media room or regale tales of the jungle by the fire pit.
Villa Smeralda, Hotel Romazzino, Sardinia
A villa of white and aqua, Hotel Romazzino’s Villa Smeralda is at once classic Sardinia and a bit eclectic in architectural design. The exterior resembles something out of a futuristic cartoon: rounded edges and protruding supports all the more noticeable in piercing white. But the classic wicker furniture and bright blue accents make it easy to lean into the experience—and the gorgeous views of Romazzino bay don’t hurt either. Each of the spacious living areas open out onto the terrace with lounge seating and an expansive pool, while inside, the five bedrooms and their private verandas allow guests to fully embrace the beauty of this charming Italian isle.
Nine-Bedroom Ocean Villa, Amanpuri, Phuket
A three-story villa lined with white and pink flowers and surrounded by Thailand’s lush greenery, this chic retreat is the perfect getaway for large groups. No wood was spared in the making of this nine-bedroom property, with artfully done polished wood walls, sleek columns and cut-out dividers that blend effortlessly with the palm trees and sweeping views of the Andaman Sea, easily enjoyed from bed as the walls slide away to access stone balconies. There is a wealth of space in which to languish in one another’s company, be it in daybeds by the expansive outdoor pool, on the sleek gray couches of the covered outdoor living area, or in one of several indoor living spaces, including a golden cinema room. This villa also comes with a private chef to prepare fresh Thai cuisine, as well as a live in housekeeper, fitness room, personal bar, indoor and outdoor dining sala and a telescope for dreamy night sky viewings.
Casa Alborada, Cuixmala, Mexico
Invite nature in at Casa Alborada, where flowers brighten living spaces and open archways offer panoramic views of the rolling coastal greenery and the deep blue Pacific Ocean. While each of the four bedrooms optimizes the jaw-dropping vistas, the master bedroom is the crown jewel, with its own private rooftop terrace perfect for soaking in the sun. The design here is simple and vibrant, with bedrooms done in blinding white, complimented by bright pink pillows and carved peacock-blue window frames and shutters, while the warm orange exteriors are reminiscent of the sunset—which is easily viewed from the terrace and private pool. Guests of Casa Alborada enjoy the services of the live-in chef and butler as well as the bar, restaurant, tennis court and basketball court at the nearby Casa Gomez.
Singita Serengeti House, Tanzania
Picture this: Just off the edge of your infinity pool, a small elephant herd meanders by as you sip your morning coffee on the terrace, with the sun rising over the Serengeti plains. That is the type of morning you might expect during a stay at Singita Serengeti House. A four-bedroom villa, Serengeti House provides a modern safari experience with access not only to the 3,500-acre Grumeti Reserve (right on the wildebeest migration route) but also a full staff to tend to your every need. This villa comes with a media room, fitness center, tented massage treatment suite and tennis pavilion. Plus, each bedroom has its own outdoor shower and private terrace. But the true highlight is the expansive terrace, with a fire pit surrounded by lounge chairs, a sleek dining area and daybeds by the long infinity pool looking on the nature and wildlife of the Serengeti.
Related: Indagare Matchmaker: Best Safaris in Africa
Villa Rockstar, Eden Rock, St. Barth’s
White sand beaches, turquoise waters and top-notch amenities and service…that is what awaits at Eden Rock’s Villa Rockstar in St. Barth’s. With six luxurious king bedrooms (one of which has a gold tile bathroom), private beach access, massive pillow lined couches and a downstairs featuring a pool table, bar, piano and more, this is the type of villa you might expect to find in a reality show—except here it can be yours. Delicious cuisine is whipped up all day long by the dedicated chef, with a butler service to tend to all your whims. Design choices are all intended to foster conversation amongst the guests, like the massive round dining table and parallel couches. The 20-meter private pool and surrounding lounge space offers the ultimate getaway for a destination bachelor or bachelorette party, family reunion or just an indulgent group trip.
Royal Villa Erato, Elounda Beach Hotel & Villas, Crete
It’s all about the water at Elounda Beach’s Royal Villa Erato, with beautiful views of the Mediterranean from the outdoor terrace, aqua and royal blue pillows and accents and not one, but two heated swimming pools, each with a whirlpool feature. Stepping into the indoor pool room off the mosaic master bathroom is like stepping underwater, the deep blue hue coloring the stone tiles and the abstract outline of fish dotting the clear glass windows, walls and the bottom of the pool. And when you’re not enjoying the water, you can spend your time lounging in a day bed or curled up in the white wicker chairs surrounded by your private gardens. Plus, this beachfront villa has access to all the best resort amenities, including spa and fitness classes and seven unique restaurants, each optimizing on the myth, history and scenery of Crete.
The Owner’s Villa, Cheval Blanc Randheli, Maldives
Set on its own island, a short dhoni ride away from the resort, the 23,700 square foot Owners Villa is a private marvel in the Maldives. All rooms open on a deck, terrace or balcony where palm trees offer patches of shade from which to view the smooth beaches on the shoreline. The décor is sleek and modern with oceanic touches and pale wooden floors inviting in the daylight. There is even a guest villa with its own bedroom, living area and terrace. Spend your time here lounging in the ample living spaces, dining on the delicious creation of the chef and soaking in the infinity pool with the horizon at your fingertips.
South Coast House, Post Ranch Inn, Big Sur
Enjoy the dramatic cliffsides of Big Sur from your very own private house. A getaway best for two couples looking for a romantic California getaway, South Coast House comes with a spacious outdoor patio with a BBQ, hot tub and lounge chairs as well as an outdoor fire pit. And while the views and nature of Big Sur are one of the main draws, back inside the house, guests can enjoy curling up before the wood-burning fireplace or flat screen TV, hanging out in the fully equipped kitchen or large living room or lounging in the privacy of their spacious master bedroom, with floor to ceiling windows from which to take in the sea views. The house is close enough in proximity to Post Ranch that guests can easily reach the amenities of the resort as well, like the two heated infinity spas and the cuisine at Sierra Mar.
Related: Our Favorite U.S. Hotels with Private Cottages or Villas
BONUS: Cheetah Plains Private Villas, South Africa
The tranquil nature of African safari meets a modern oasis at Cheetah Plains’ three exclusive private villas. Here sleek lines and stonework are complimented by African artwork and, of course, by the villas’ surroundings, as each one has indigenous gardens and views into the woodlands and marsh of Sabi Sand. The layout of the villas is intended to provide each guest with both their privacy and a communal space to enjoy their chosen company. All guests in one villa stay in one of four private guest suites next to the main living space—each villa houses up to eight guests, so Cheetah Plains never has more than 24 guests to attend to at a time. The designated living space is comprised of the entertainment lounge, living and dining space, swimming pool, outdoor dining area, fine wine gallery and a chef’s kitchen. Since a stay here is all about exclusivity, Cheetah Plains guests have their own expert field guide and tracker to take you out in search of the big five, with guided day and night game drives, sundowners, bush dining and more!
