“I shall wear white flannel trousers and walk upon the beach,” T.S. Eliot wrote in a wistful ode to life by the sea. Surely the best way to appreciate it is from the comfort of your own villa—ideally with a cocktail in hand.
There is something unspeakably calming about the sea gently rousing you from slumber. In a world of deadlines, meetings and noise, to be lulled awake by nature is the most soothing way to begin your day. When the world is an uncertain place and events are out of our control, there’s one thing we can rely on. The rise and fall of the tide, delineating our days with a comforting, rhythmic regularity.
Seaside vacations remain the most popular holiday choice, which is unsurprising considering their versatility. The best beach villas are endlessly adaptable to every wanderlust-filled traveller. So let’s respond to the call of life by the sea — from your luxury vacation rental, the world is your oyster.
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A kaleidoscopic array of blue — turquoise, azure, cerulean, sapphire — greets you at Cap Juluca, A Belmond Hotel, Anguilla. First there’s the Caribbean sea, sparkling and stretching as far as the eye can see. Then, moments away, there’s your private pool, rippling serenely by your palatial beachfront villa.
Famous worldwide for its serene beaches, it’s only right to spend your time in Anguilla by the shore, steps away from soft white sand and swaying palm trees. The very definition of exclusivity and luxury.
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Sheltered by lush jungle and edged with turquoise sea, Maroma effortlessly reflects why it's one of the finest 5 star resorts in Mexico. Skip the crowds in touristy Playa del Carmen and find your slice of perfect privacy on the shores of the Riviera Maya at Maroma.
These ultra-luxurious villas sit on the beachfront with stunning views of the ocean. Beautifully re-designed to honor Mexican artisanal traditions and authentic craftsmanship, enjoy your own private pool and spacious, furnished rooftop terrace, before heading inside to relax in your separate living areas, kitchenette, and two king-size beds.
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The lush island of Koh Samui may have a growing reputation as a party island, but life at Napasai, A Belmond Hotel, Koh Samui is perfectly serene. It’s rather fitting that the word ‘samui’ derives from the Malay word saboey, meaning ‘safe haven’. Miles of sandy coastline await, lined with palm trees that sway gently in the breeze.
Now picture stepping seamlessly from the beach to a private oceanfront villa, just a polished pebble’s throw from sparkling sea. Private balconies with uninterrupted views of the sea lead into polished wood interiors, teak furnishings and spacious bathrooms.
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Presiding over a captivating emerald beachfront and verdant gardens, Romazzino has long been an icon of Costa Smeralda in Sardinia. The property's six beautifully appointed villas offer the ultimate in family luxury; sweeping, open-plan spaces spill out onto terraces with private pools.
For a the pinnacle of luxury, a full household staff can be arranged, including expertly trained chefs, nannies and butlers who blend seamlessly into the family unit. The spirit of sixties glamour beckons.
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When the only thing separating you from long stretches of shoreline is a private pool, you’re doing St Martin right. The paradise island is a treasure trove awaiting exploration, from art tours to water sports. But you could be forgiven for whiling away your days in the sublime seclusion of your private villa by the beach.
The recently refreshed villas at La Samanna, A Belmond Hotel, St Martin, exude opulence, with panoramic terraces, rain showers, floor-to-ceiling windows and Italian marble flooring.
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An island of contrasts, Bali is a paradise known for its forests, mountains, beaches and coral reefs. Luckily for travellers wanting to see it all, the deluxe pool villas at Jimbaran Puri, A Belmond Hotel, Bali, have the best of both worlds.
Surrounded by lush greenery, they’re also just a short stroll from Jimbaran beach, considered by many as the best beach in Bali. With a private terrace and pool you can choose to spend your day in serene seclusion. Or if the waves in the distance sound too tempting, a short meander to the shoreline allows you to feel sand between your toes.
ExploreWith palm-fringed beaches, luxurious hotels and an impressive array of restaurants, the Caribbean island of Anguilla is a sun-seekers dream realised. Travel writer and ‘Carivangelist’ Sarah Graves-Gabbadon gives you the low-down on the perfect high-end getaway.
A place for gastronomic greatness, Le Manoir has gathered the culinary curious for the past 40 years. Join us to learn more about our iconic hotel and restaurant’s garden-to-table philosophy.
Ever since a young Cornish engineer pioneered the first-ever train journey in South Wales in 1804, the world has been enamoured with the possibilities of the rail travel. Journalist, trains aficionado and author of 'Around the World in 80 Trains', Monisha Rajesh, leads us full steam ahead through Britain’s railway history – and explores how a new luxury train signals that slow travel is back on track.
Finding the perfect luxury hotel that is dog-friendly can be a ruff task. Discover the Belmond hotels that allow pets and their stylish globetrotting owners, from pet-friendly hotels in Italy to luxurious doggy havens in the English countryside.
More than ever, travellers are picking travel spots featured on their favourite TV shows and films. We investigate the trend and look ahead to the stop set-jetting spots for 2025, from palm-fringed Koh Samui to the plains of Peru.
Join photographer Nick Ballón on a photographic journey through the vibrancy of modern Peru, while tracing a complex family history deep into the ancient Incan Empire.
The best hotel swimming pools offer iconic views, impeccable poolside service and something a little special – and with Belmond, you are spoilt for choice. From a pool party atmosphere under the sun in Rio de Janeiro to spots you can swim while watching the waves crash on white sand in the Caribbean, let us introduce you to the best of the best.