“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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Cap Juluca, A Belmond Hotel, Anguilla
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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Maroma, A Belmond Hotel, Riviera Maya
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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Napasai, A Belmond Hotel, Koh Samui
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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Romazzino, A Belmond Hotel, Costa Smeralda
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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La Samanna, A Belmond Hotel, St Martin
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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Jimbaran Puri, A Belmond Hotel, Bali
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.
ExploreOnce a collection of sleepy fishing villages, the staggering beauty of the Cinque Terre now brings in a wealth of visitors, making it one of Italy’s most photographic sights – and up-and-coming wine regions.
Departing from historic Edinburgh, journey with us to the heart of the Scottish countryside. Suitcases at the ready: these are the best places to visit in the breathtaking Highlands.
There’s barely been a food story in the past decade that doesn’t relate in some way to Mexico’s jungle larder. On a corn-popping road trip across the Yucatan Peninsula, Javier Arredondo celebrates the mamas who are paving the way forward.
The carriages that make up our train have held a distinguished role in the art of continental travel for over 100 years. With grand interiors and flowing champagne, we pioneered the most magnificent mode of transport to tour Europe and her finest cities. Now, it’s time for you to be part of our story.
If walls could talk, The Cadogan’s would have more than two centuries of intriguing tales to tell. To hear all about the glamorous stories, head this way.
There’s a new level of luxury aboard the world’s most famous train. Join us as we discover how the beautiful details of the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express’ Grand Suites were created.
An icon of art deco design and an enduring symbol of luxury, the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express is a true classic. Step on board for a singularly elegant adventure.