Stay in a villa as seen on TV

July 6, 2022July 6, 2022chiracshah

Where is the villa in the Villa Plus advert? It’s a question many people have asked us when spotting our properties on TV! Here’s where you’ll find some of our Villa Plus TV advert properties and locations, including things you can see and do while enjoying your holiday.

Villa Kerasia House, Corfu

This stunning villa is all about waking up in the morning to incredible views. Imagine enjoying uninterrupted sea vistas from almost every aspect of your property, and falling asleep to calming breezes and lapping waves. All three of this property’s bedrooms face the sea, and you can easily while away the hours in the breathtaking pool, which looks out onto the coastline. All the little luxuries are taken care of, including a large stone BBQ, fully appointed kitchen, private sun terrace, heated pool and WiFi.

When you need to head out, a 15-minute walk along a nearby country lane will take you to the fishing village of Agios Stefanos, which offers several well-regarded tavernas serving local delicacies, and shops. The village is the perfect escape for a tranquil family holiday. Think traditional Greek whitewashed houses, historic churches and monasteries, and unspoiled olive groves.

You’ll witness some fantastic sunsets due to the village’s location on Corfu, and will also be close to the 2km golden sand Agios Stefanos beach – a Blue Flag stretch of sand with safe waters for swimming. Corfu Town is a short drive away, where you will find beautiful Neoclassical buildings, the Museum of Asian Art, the Ionian Academy, and Liston Paved Avenue – where you’ll find lots of restaurants and cafes.

Villa Nenufa, The Algarve

This palatial 4-bedroom villa boasts a grand entrance with marble staircase, spacious gardens, and a large heated pool. With its tranquil charm, you and your family can relax while being surrounded by charming Portuguese decor, epic surrounding views, and all the mod-cons you could ever need.

Kick back and relax on the spacious terrace, or take a refreshing dip in the large, heated swimming pool, surrounded by manicured private gardens. In the evening, after a day of exploring, you can unwind in the shaded terrace and dine alfresco overlooking the sea, after rustling up some delicious cuisine on the brick BBQ. Villa Nenufa’s location in Vale de Parra also offers a great location for local amenities, with plenty of shops and restaurants within walking distance, and Castelo beach just a five-minute drive away.

If you feel like heading out further, the buzzing nightlife, marina, golf courses and family-oriented waterparks of Albufeira are just a short drive away.

Nissaki, Corfu

The resort of Nissaki is known for its quiet atmosphere, slow pace and beautiful pebbled beaches. Its main centre is found in the heart of the village, with lots of shops and traditional Greek housing, surrounded by pine forests. The main beach at Nissaki is small, but has two tavernas where you can pick up snacks and traditional Greek food. There are lots of sun loungers to hand, and crystal clear waters that make it an ideal location for swimming and snorkelling.

Villas on this part of the island are well-known for their outstanding sea views, and Villa Vrysoulla is no exception. Its star attraction is the L-shaped infinity pool that neighbours the spacious sea-facing terrace, giving you exceptional sea and coastal views.

There’s also a private covered terrace where you can dine alfresco, or simply relax with a glass of wine in the evenings. Behind the villa, you’ll have views of Mount Pantokrator, which is the highest point on Corfu island. No doubt about it, this property is all about having a majestic location.

Vilamoura, Algarve, Portugal

Dreaming of a holiday on Portugal’s southern coast? Vilamoura is the place to be. It’s a stylish resort nestled in the heart of the Algarve that is highly popular for its pristine beaches and warm weather. There’s also one of the largest marinas in the whole of Portugal, which is home to over 1000 glamorous boats and yachts. We’ve showcased our TV villas on this part of the island, where you’ll find plenty of glitz and glam with boutiques, clubs, and top-notch cuisine from award-winning restaurants.

Nightlife in Vilamoura is based around the marina, with plenty of bars, clubs and a casino. For day trips, visitors can also take fishing trips, and tours of the island that take tourists to nearby water parks, Roman ruins and attractions. Either side of the marina you’ll find sandy beaches and a surfing school with plenty of watersports – the ideal place for a beach day if you feel like spending time away from your private villa. If you’re considering staying in Vilamoura, we recommend Villa Casa do Mel – a spacious and modern four bedroom property set in the outskirts of the resort. You’ll have your very own home-from-home complete with private heated pool, air conditioning, WiFi and an alfresco dining area.

Paleokastritsa, Corfu

This beautiful, picturesque resort on Corfu’s west side is iconic for featuring in the Villa Plus TV advert, and is arguably one of the most famous resorts for its beauty and lush olive groves. Its name comes from the word ‘Paleokastritsa’, meaning ‘old fortress’.

The village used to have a castle, where you’ll now find the Monastery of the Virgin, which is home to lots of post-Byzantine antiques. The village isn’t too far from Corfu Town, which you can head to for bustling nightlife, tavernas and shopping. Paleokastritsa stretches along the coast, to a harbour where you can pick up an excursion boat for the day – a great adventure for the whole family. The main beach is smaller than other shores on the island, but is quieter, with calm waters and stunning views.

There are many nearby tavernas selling food and refreshments if you feel like spending a day lazing on the sand. Why not try the beautiful Villa Victoras, just a short drive north and boasting manicured gardens, a private swimming pool and incredible sea views.

Inspired to book your next villa holiday in the sun? Take a look at our luxury villas in Corfu and premium properties in the Algarve.

How to make the most of Lanzarote in 72 hours

June 7, 2022June 7, 2022chiracshah

The Canary Islands are an all-year-round destination, offering UK holidaymakers endless winter sun. Jodie and Alex from the Villa Plus team travelled to the island at the end of March 2022 to see what it had to offer, and were not disappointed! Here’s the story of their holiday experience…

After four hours of in-flight chatting, before we knew it, we were descending onto the runway into sunny Lanzarote. There is no better feeling than getting off the aircraft and being greeted by the warm Spanish air hitting your face and filling you with vitamin D.

Lanzarote airport is fairly small, so we were through passport control and baggage collection within just half an hour, which kept things nice and simple. We didn’t have a hire car to pick up, so we left the arrivals hall and jumped into one of the many taxis queued up outside the airport to head to our villa in Matagorda, Villa Kikay. The area of Matagorda is only a short five-minute drive from the airport, and the cab ride cost us around €11.

Our centrally-located villa offered three bedrooms, two bathrooms, a heated pool and a great location in Matagorda – just a five-minute walk from the main shopping centre and beachfront. We arrived at our villa quite late in the evening, so we unpacked our bags, freshened up and headed out to explore the immediate area and get our bearings. We found a lovely restaurant on the beachfront, where we had dinner and a cocktail before heading back to our villa for the night.

Visiting Puerto del Carmen

The next morning, we were up and ready for our first full day of exploring! On went the walking shoes, and off we went with a coffee in hand for a 45-minute walk along the beach front from Matagorda to Puerto del Carmen. There is a long promenade which follows the coastline all the way around from one resort to the other. Here you’ll find great shopping, restaurants and cafes along the walk – perfect for a quick pit stop to admire the views.

Puerto del Carmen is nestled on the coast in the southern central part of the island, and is only a 10-minute drive from the airport. The main Avenida de Las Playas, fondly known as “The Strip”, offers bars, restaurants, shopping, supermarkets, car hire and duty-free shopping. The strip has something to offer everyone – whether you’re travelling as a family, couple, or with friends.

We found Puerto Del Carmen to be the largest resort on the island. It spans four miles across three golden sand beaches. Playa Grande Beach was clearly the heart of the resort – a mile-long stretch backed by many bars and restaurants. At one end of the strip is the Old Town and harbour, where you can enjoy traditional tapas and the catch of the day at the many eateries on offer. At the other end of the strip is a more lively scene, with plenty of bars and restaurants open until the early hours.

Towards the end of our second day in Puerto Del Carmen, we found a beautiful and very picturesque award-winning seafront bar called ‘Café La Ola’, with stunning uninterrupted sunset views, a range of cocktails and delicious dining options. Alex and I shared a jug of the most incredible sangria while playing cards and watching the sun set.

As we had chosen to visit Lanzarote in March, the evenings were a little chilly, so once the sun had gone down, we left to find a taverna where we both enjoyed traditional garlic prawn tapas, along with some paella. After a busy day of exploring, we found a taxi along the strip and were back at our home from home in just 15 minutes.

Touring Playa Blanca

On our final day, we met up with our very friendly and helpful resort manager Lyn, who kindly drove us from Matagorda to Playa Blanca, which takes around 30 minutes. If you’re in Lanzarote, then Playa Blanca is definitely worth a visit. If you do not have car hire, don’t worry, as you’re able to take a local bus, with travel times of just an hour.

Our overall impression of Playa Blanca was that it seemed more upmarket, with luxury bars and hotels overlooking the fantastic sandy beaches. We found the main bars and restaurants to be busier than Matagorda, but quieter than Puerto Del Carmen. For us, it really was the perfect mix of the two resorts! If you wanted to, you can actually get a ferry from Playa Blanca to Fuerteventura and do a bit of island hopping for the day! It only takes around 30 minutes, and costs approximately €40.

One of the absolute highlights of Playa Blanca was the Marina Rubicon. This luxurious leisure hub is a great place to try some water sports or simply wander around in the evenings.

Overall, both Alex and I had an amazing three days in Lanzarote, and fell in love with Playa Blanca in particular! We will certainly be visiting again.

Have Alex and Jodie inspired you to take a trip to this gorgeous island? Explore our range of quality villas in Lanzarote, and start planning your next dream getaway today!

How to plan a last minute bank holiday break

May 24, 2022chiracshah

This year, the Queen’s jubilee bank holiday means that we all get an extra day off – cheers to that! What better way to celebrate than to start searching for a last minute bank holiday escape, so that you and your family can escape to warm sunshine, golden sands and azure waters in Europe. If you’re wondering where to go for the may bank holiday, we’re here to give you some inspiration. Booking a last minute bank holiday break doesn’t mean that you have a lack of choice, though. There are plenty of luxury last minute villas to choose from – all it takes is a bit of decisiveness and quick planning.

Keep an open mind with your destination

Beautiful sandy beach in Seixal, Madeira Island, Portugal.

Not sure where to go for your May bank holiday? Keep an open mind! When it comes to grabbing a great last minute bank holiday break, don’t restrict your search to just one destination. If you don’t have a particular country in mind, you have more chance of picking an amazing holiday. Just by searching for the dates you need, you can receive an extensive list of available destinations. Then picking one at the right price is all you need to do!

Pick property rentals instead of hotels

This point is especially important if you are travelling as a family with children. Renting a villa is much easier than staying at hotels, and there is likely to be more availability than with hotel rooms. Plus, your property will always have a kitchen, so you can sample delicious fare from local markets in your country of choice. Book through us, and you’ll also have an entire pool to yourself, many of which are heated – whether you’re soaking up the Italian sunshine in a villa among olive groves, or enjoying your villa garden in the Balearics.

Set your budget

Family summer vacation. European holiday and car travel concept

Before you select a place to stay, take a look at your overall budget. Will you need to hire a car to get around during your trip? Will you be eating dinner al fresco by the pool in your villa’s garden, or will you be opting for local restaurants every night? You might also want to take a credit card with you, in the unlikely even that you should need access to emergency funds.

Book activities in advance

Where you can, try to book any outdoor activities or attractions once you have made your accommodation booking. This way you’ll skip the queues, and you may be able to get better prices on tickets. If you haven’t had much time to plan, there are usually plenty of local experiences that you can enjoy in the area you’ve chosen to stay in. Low cost activities like heading to the beach, taking walks in national parks, and free days at local museums and galleries are great options for daily activities to enjoy during your last minute May bank holiday. Keep an eye out for posts on social media, posters in the local area, or even ask a local what’s on. You never know what kind of unique experience you’ll end up discovering!

Ready to book your last minute may bank holiday? Take a look at our selection of May villa holidays.

Luxury Spanish villas fit for a Queen

May 24, 2022May 24, 2022chiracshah

This late May bank holiday we will be celebrating the Queen’s Jubilee. With villas fit for royalty in mind, here’s our round-up of luxury Spanish villas for rent that we think even her royal highness wouldn’t say no to!

Villa Barco Sea View

If you’re looking for a luxury Spanish villa to rent that truly splashes out on style and extravagance, this is the one. Unwind among chic and contemporary open plan living and a stand-out seafront location. This opulent villa boasts five large bedrooms, all with built-in wardrobes to store even the largest and most regal of wardrobes. You’ll also have luxurious walk-in showers, a fully-fitted kitchen with all the mod-cons, and an infinity saltwater pool that you can relax in while enjoying the incredible coastal views.

There’s also a roof terrace with Bali bed overlooking the pool, where you can relax and unwind in the evenings. Shopping, restaurants and bars are just a short 20 minute drive away, while the Blue Flag Penoncillo Beach is just a five minute walk away – it’s as close as you can get to having a private beach of your own.

Villa Tarraula

Villa Tarraula certainly has the royal feeling! From the moment you enter the private driveway, you’ll be blown away by its large private pool and lawn, stunning grounds with exotic palms and the view towards Montgo Mountain and Javea seafront in the distance.

The villa is well-equipped, ideal for lazy days in the sunshine, but if you do want to venture into Javea, it’s only a 15 minute drive to the centre and a choice of great beaches.

Villa Rafalet

If a spectacular mountain backdrop, a fantastic outdoor space and a large pool, is what you are after, then this 4 bedroom villa is for you. With a beautiful blend of traditional and high quality furnishings, this attractive villa offers the perfect Royal escape.

There is a country style BBQ area with a fabulous kitchen which is perfect for cool evenings dining alfresco. What’s more, less than a 15 minutes’ drive will take you to the Old Town of Pollensa. Wander around the winding cobbled streets with a number boutique, coffee and delicacy shops.

Villa Torreon Faro

For a true Royal experience, why not stay in a castle for you next villa holiday? Villa Torreon Faro offers just that! A great choice for beach lovers, it has fantastic views over El Charcon Beach, only 5 minutes away on foot. The villa is positioned between La Cala and Fuengirola with the shops and restaurants of both areas all within a short drive. This spacious 5 bedroom villa has a private swimming pool and a traditional interior – a true taste of Spain!

Thinking of your next holiday in the sun? Why not take a look at some of our luxury Spanish holiday villas?

Castles to visit in Rhodes

May 24, 2022May 24, 2022chiracshah

If you’re planning a holiday to the beautiful Greek island of Rhodes, get ready to sample plenty of rich culture and history, with ruins that date back hundreds of years to ancient civilisations and worlds gone by. History lovers will enjoy discovering the many places of historical importance that the island has to offer, and the stories behind the many ancient relics that are left behind. There are a few castles in Rhodes that offer a fascinating glimpse into what life was like on the isle in the Byzantine era. Why not visit them all during your villa holiday? Here’s our guide to the best must-see castles in Rhodes.

Monolithos Castle

The castle of Monolithos in Rhodes, Greece

In the village of Monolithos, is the grand Monolithos castle. In ancient times, the castle had three entrances – one for troops, one for supplies and service goods, and one secret entrance via steep steps carved into rock. Monolithos castle is a must-see when visiting Rhodes, as it offers incredible views that make for beautiful photos in your holiday album. Climbing the rocky steps from the village below to the castle is all part of the experience. On your way up, you’ll pass piles of rocks that previous visitors have placed as mementos across the centuries. It’s a bit of a climb, but definitely worth it.

The castle was reconstructed in around 1476, when D’ Aubusson was Grand Master of the Order. You’ll notice his shield carved into the gate upon entry – a symbol of strength and the castle’s status as one of the strongest fortresses of the Ionnite period. You can take tours that provide insight and talks on the historical significance of Monolithos castle.

Lindos Castle

The ancient site of Lindos castle in Rhodes is arguably the most impressive on the island. Surrounded by dramatic landscape, and perched on a cliff that’s 116m high, Lindos castle boasts incredible sea views, and well-preserved fortress walls and columns that make it one of the most-visited historical attractions on Rhodes. As you tour the Acropolis walls, you’ll come across the Medieval castle, the Governor’s Palace, and a Doric temple dating back to the 4^th century, devoted to Athena Lindia.

This temple is where ancient civilians used to offer their patron goddess sacrifices and offerings. Near the castle, you’ll find the ancient town of Lindos, which dates back to the 10^th century, and was an important shipping and trading centre because of the island’s close ties to the Middle East. If you’re looking for a fun family day out from your luxury Rhodes villa and pool, Lindos castle and the surrounding archaeological ruins are worth a visit.

Castle of Kritinia

Known as Kastello castle by the locals, the Castle of Kritinia dates back to the Venetian era, and was constructed in the 16^th century. It lies on a hill positioned 131 metres above the village of Kritinia. Climb up the hill to the castle and you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the nearby islands of Chalki, Strogyli and Makri, as well as the azure waters of the Aegean Sea. Unfortunately, the castle’s shell is all that remains, but look closely while wandering around, and you’ll notice the coats of arms of two of the Grand Masters of the Medieval Era, that are close to the entrance gates.

There’s also a chapel with rather well-preserved 16^th century paintings on the walls. To get to the castle, a car is ideally needed. You’ll need to make a one hour drive from Rhodes Town, before heading up a dirt path that leads right up to the castle. Remember to wear sensible closed-toe shoes for walking around the site.

Searching for your dream home from home on the island of Rhodes? Why not browse our selection of Rhodes holiday villas.

2022 Villa Kikay Giveaway

February 16, 2022February 18, 2022chiracshah

Terms and Conditions:

1. Each promotion is open to anyone aged 18 years and over, excluding employees of the Promoter, their families, agents and any other person professionally connected with this promotion.

2. No purchase necessary to enter.

3. The promotion will start and end on the following dates: 20/02/2022 – 27/02/2022

4. Entry instructions relating to the promotions (including the closing date/time) will be shared via email from Villa Plus as well as on Villa Plus social media channels. To submit a valid entry, participants must complete the competition form.

5. The prize is a 7 night “villa only” stay at Villa Kikay, Matagorda, Lanzarote. Stay must be completed by the end of April 2022. Date restrictions may apply.

6. Travel to and from the villa such as flights, transfers, or car hire are not included.

7. The winner will be selected at random by Villa Plus, within 7 calendar days of the closing date specified in the competition form. The judge’s decision will be final.

8. Unless otherwise agreed in writing by the Promoter, a prize will only be awarded directly to the entrant responsible for the email account against which a winning entry was registered. Unsuccessful entries in any promotion will not be carried over to subsequent promotions.

9. The Promoter reserves the right to verify the eligibility of entrants. The Promoter may require such information as it considers reasonably necessary for this purpose and a prize may be withheld unless and until the Promoter is satisfied with the verification.

10. The prizes are as stated for each promotion, are non-transferable and there is no cash alternative. The Promoter reserves the right to award alternative prizes of equal or greater value should the advertised prizes become unavailable for any reason.

11. The Promoter is not responsible or liable for any entries that fail to be registered or are delayed due to faulty or failed electronic data transmissions.

12. The Promoter will disqualify entrants it reasonably believes are acting in breach of these terms and conditions.

13. Automated/bulk entries and entries from third parties will be disqualified. No incomplete or corrupted entries will be accepted. Entries will only be accepted if they comply with all entry instructions. Only one entry per person.

14. Entry to this promotion is via the entry form and no other entry method will be accepted.

15. Incomplete entries or those not submitted in accordance with the entry instructions are invalid and will not be entered in the draw.

16. It is a condition of entry that all content created to showcase the prize may be used for publicity that may arise as a result of this promotion, such as inclusion within online and offline news articles, published on the brand’s website or blog, or used in the brand’s Facebook, Instagram and Twitter posts. By submitting their details, the entrants agree to the Promoter publicising the promotion and their names as well as using their personal data for the above purposes and fulfilment of prizes. Any personal data shared will be held by Villa Plus, and neither will pass on data to a third party other than for prize fulfillment purposes. By agreeing to these terms, entrants agree to their personal data being used as set out in these terms and as set out in the Promoter’s privacy policy. Prize fulfilment will be handled by Villa Plus.

17. All entrants must consent to the Promoter(s) using any text, photo or video content supplied as part of their entry in future marketing activity for an indefinite period of time.

18. The Promoter is bound by applicable data protection legislation and will act in accordance with data protection legislation.

19. Entrants can request access to the personal information the Promoter holds about them by contacting Villa Plus, Drover House, 16 Adelaide St, St Albans AL3 5BH

20. The Promoter’s decisions regarding all promotional matters will be final, and no correspondence will be entered into.

21. The Promoter is unable to advise entrants if they have not been successful.

22. The Promoter reserves the right at any time to cancel, modify or supersede the promotion (including altering prizes) if, in the sole discretion of the Promoter, the promotion is not capable of being conducted as specified.

23. These terms and conditions shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of England and Wales and any disputes shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the English courts, unless you live in another part of the UK, in which case your local courts will have jurisdiction.

24. The Promoter: Villa Plus, Drover House, 16 Adelaide St, St Albans AL3 5BH.

How to Make the Most out of the Bank Holidays in 2022

October 7, 2021October 7, 2021chiracshah

People living in England can expect nine bank holidays this year rather than the usual eight. This is because an extra bank holiday has been added to celebrate the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. The spring bank holiday has therefore been moved to Thursday 2^nd June 2022. With an extra day off, it’s time to think about how you can best spend your 2022 bank holidays, and make the most out of them – to the point where you can book a holiday abroad! All it takes is careful planning and booking your trip around certain dates.

Easter holidays 2022

By booking nine days off after Easter and before early May day bank holiday 2022, you can have a total of 18 days off work, giving you a lovely long break to enjoy on a villa holiday with your family.

Why not book Villa Ninho da Aguia in the stunning Algarve countryside? Not only does it have a large private pool and spacious outdoor terrace, it’s only a 10 minutes’ drive to the beach, a choice of places to eat, shops and attractions. Grown-ups can enjoy wine tasting, sampling local Peri-Peri chicken and the laid-back pace of this region. For the kids, there’s the nearby Zoomarine Park featuring dolphin and bird shows, as well as the Fiesa San Sculpture Park, which features some incredible sculptures of celebrities and cartoon characters ingeniously made from sand.

Villa Ninho da Aguia | Sao Rafael, Algarve

Another recommendation is Villa Krini Myth – a stylish and modern property in Lindos with stunning sea views, private pool, and fantastic outside space. Spend your long holiday relaxing in the sunshine, playing with the kids in the pool, or visit the popular resort of Lardos with its old-fashioned feel, charming square with a picturesque church and Italian fountain. Nearby, there’s a working monastery and the remains of a Byzantine castle, only a 10 minutes’ drive from the villa.

June bank holidays 2022

This is the extra holiday that has been given to us in honour of the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee. We’ll be getting a long four-day weekend from Thursday to Sunday, in which the late May Bank Holiday will be moved to Thursday 2^nd June. An additional Bank Holiday will come after this on Friday 3^rd June. If you book off the 30^th May – 1^st June 2022, then with the additional Bank Holidays and the weekend put together, you can take a full week off of work to go on a villa holiday in the sunshine, while only taking three days out of your annual allowance.

Why not spend a relaxing week on the laid-back sunny island of Kefalonia? In early June, days usually reach around 25 Celsius, with balmy evenings. We recommend staying in Villa Melissani – nestled in tranquil hilly countryside, with incredible views of the sea from its pool terrace. It’s also just a short walk from Melissani Lake, which is one of Kefalonia’s most popular natural attractions. When you want to head out for the day, just a short drive away is the town of Sami, which features plenty of historical ruins to explore such as Roman baths and the Agrilia Monastery. If you feel like eating out one evening, the town offers plenty of tavernas and restaurants serving a wealth of Greek and international cuisine.

Another option that’s more for couples is the quiet and romantic destination of Puglia, Italy. Why not book an authentic one-bedroom villa in the Pugliese countryside that’s cosy enough for two? We recommend Villa Trullo Didi, featuring an outdoor dining area, private pool and plenty of privacy. The town of Ceglie Messapica is just a short drive away, where you can stroll hand in hand around the cobbled streets and explore the castle and various churches in the area, before stopping off for a hearty bowl of pasta and tomato and olive focaccia.

Villa Trullo Didi | Ceglie Messapica, Puglia

Now we’ve inspired you, it’s time to get planning and booking your dream holiday villa in the sunshine for the 2022 bank holidays.

Summer Holidays 2022: Villa Holiday Guide/Where to Go

September 30, 2021August 1, 2022chiracshah

We’re sure you’ve been dreaming of your next getaway and summer 2022 holidays! So why not browse our collection of quality villa properties that make for a great sunshine escape with your loved ones? From Portugal’s dramatic Algarve coast to tranquil Greek islands and even the glitz and glam of the French Riviera – we’ve got the perfect villa for you. Getting your holiday booked early means that there’s plenty of time to prepare and plan your itinerary. With that in mind, here are recommendations of places to go and things to see and do in our ultimate summer 2022 holidays guide.

The Algarve

Expect dramatic cliffs and rock stacks, azure waters and an intriguing culture when you visit the south of Portugal for a villa holiday. The Algarve offers tourists 125 miles of coastline, with stunning sandy beaches to enjoy (many of which boast Blue Flag status). Find your dream holiday villa in the Algarve from our collection of over 200 properties. Whether you want a villa that’s tucked away in the olive groves more in-land, or right near the beach, you can find family-friendly properties in Albufeira, Guia and Praia D’Oura.

The Algarve offers visitors a wealth of attractions to discover. Take a leisurely stroll around Faro Old Town and take in the historical buildings and architecture, play golf on one of the area’s luxurious and world-famous courses, sample Peri-Peri chicken in Guia, take a dolphin safari or boat trip around the coast from Lagos, or put on your walking boots and hike the Serra de Monchique for stunning views of the coastline.

Kefalonia

In need of a villa holiday with a tranquil pace, where you can just lose track of time? Booking a property in the largest of the Ionian islands may be just the ticket. The island of Kefalonia has long been a must-visit destination on many travellers’ lists, thanks to some of the best beaches in the world, warm waters for swimming, fabulous fresh food and a warm welcome from locals. If you’re hiring a villa here for your 2022 holidays, getting a car is recommended so that you and your family can explore the entire island with ease and have all the attractions at your fingertips.

While enjoying your holiday in Kefalonia, take time from your Villa Kristola to visit the popular resort of Lassi, where you’ll find plenty of restaurants, shops, bars and mini markets where you can pick up souvenirs and food for your villa if you are having a family BBQ in your garden. Lassi also offers plenty of day trips to the Blue Caves, Shipwreck Bay and the Island of Ithaca should you want to exercise your sea legs. If you want to delve into the island’s history, visit the historical sites in Sami, including Roman baths and the Agrilia Monastery. Feeling like heading to a remote corner of the island? Drive to Assos, which is mainly habited by locals and untouched by tourism, taking in the scenic beaches and beautiful cobbled streets once you’re there.

Croatia

Croatia is one of the newest destinations on the European holiday scene and has become popular with visitors from all over the world thanks to its rich heritage and culture, fabulous beaches, laid-back lifestyle and evening entertainment. With an extensive coastline that is 1800 kilometres long, you have plenty of beaches to choose from during your summer 2022 holiday with your nearest and dearest. That’s when you’re not splashing about in your villa’s own large private pool, of course!

Soak up some rays on the one of the many beaches on offer along the Dalmatian Coast, which also offers boating trips, snorkelling and water sports. If you’d rather head to the city, Pula, Split and Dubrovnik are all worth exploring. Pula in particular boasts plenty of Roman ruins and even has an amphitheatre that was constructed around the same time as the Roman colosseum (and was built in the same style). During the evenings, both Pula and Zagreb are filled with plenty of restaurants, bars, clubs and live music venues, leaving you spoiled for choice for night-time entertainment.

If you’re thinking of holidays abroad in 2022, why not browse our range of summer destinations, and get planning your next trip with your loved ones.

Best Places to Visit in Italy

September 6, 2021September 6, 2021chiracshah

Known for its bustling cosmopolitan cities, delicious food and wine, vibrant artistic culture and traditional towns with so much character, Italy remains a firm favourite with holidaymakers from all across Europe and beyond. Spend your days wandering around whitewashed towns with cobbled streets, visit authentic Roman ruins, or relax by the picturesque coastline while enjoying the stunning views. Here’s our round-up of the best places to visit in Italy.

Sicily

Arguably one of the top places to visit in Italy – Sicily is a rugged island steeped in history. A mix of stony beaches, epic landscapes, historical architecture and delicious food and drink, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to activities. If you feel like venturing outside of your private Villa Plutos, you have 6 incredible UNESCO World Heritage sites to explore, including Mount Etna, which dominates the island’s skyline, and is Europe’s largest active volcano. Begin by exploring Siracusa, where food tasting tours are in abundance. Enjoy sampling local wines, olive oils, cold meats, cheeses and pastries, before heading to the pedestrianised Piazza del Duomo, where you’ll find a number of notable landmarks including the town hall and cathedral of Syracuse. If you have a car, head to the Valley of the Temples for an enjoyable day out, where you’ll find plenty of architecture and art to discover.

Ostuni

One of the top places to visit in Southern Italy and otherwise known as Italy’s dazzling white city, Ostuni, which is located in the Apulia region, is well known for its hot climate and sunny days, and old town featuring Roman, Byzantine and Gothic architecture. Spend some time wandering around this ornate town, taking in the stunning arches connecting buildings and narrow alleyways. Stop at a cafe for some Italian coffee, before heading to La Piazzetta Cattedrale, with an ornate facade dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. Next, explore the Piazza della Liberta – an authentic plaza where you’ll find a range of shops, landmarks and cafes with a true Italian feel. As evening approaches, watch the sun set from the town’s defensive walls, offering epic views of the surrounding landscape while making memorable snaps for your holiday photo album. Have dinner in a local pasta restaurant before heading back to your traditional Villa Trullo Oro Verde.

Lecce

Travellers heading to the Puglia region should head to Lecce for a day trip, as it’s one of the best places to go in Italy. Otherwise referred to as ‘the new Florence’, the city’s old town boasts some incredible baroque architecture, and you may also spot la pietra leccese as you wander around – a kind of limestone that is used for sculpture in the region thanks to its soft and workable nature. As you wander the streets, if you encounter a bakery selling pasticciotto leccese, it’s a must-try for those with a sweet tooth. A shortcrust pastry filled with custard, it’s the regional sweet treat for Lecce, and comes in many different flavours. The city is also home to a Roman Amphitheatre that dates all the way back to 2 AD, and was discovered in 1901. Part of the structure is actually underground, while the Oronzo Square in which it sits is a favourite among locals.

Noci

A must for foodies, Noci is once of the best places to go in Italy if you love Italian food and wine, with a wealth of tours and food experiences on offer. Tracing back to Norman times, with around 20,000 inhabitants, this city is an ideal place to spend an afternoon wandering around to discover local architecture and to learn more about how Italians cook. Visit the ancient church of Barsento, or the monastery of Abbazia Madonna della Scala, before taking a tour to learn how to make real Apulian mozzarella using cow’s milk. You’ll be invited to make your own cheese and taste it afterwards, and will also learn about the different varieties of mozzarella and their origins. Olive oil tasting tours are also available, as are wine tours, which include wine tasting in a local bistro. No visit to Noci is complete without trying Panzerotto – an Italian street food that has the similar half-moon shape of a calzone. Made with fried pizza dough that is filled with mozzarella and sauce, you can learn how to make this popular dish before trying it for yourself on yet another food tour. Our top tip? Head to Noci when you’re hungry!

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The Best Time to Visit Crete

September 6, 2021September 6, 2021chiracshah

When is the best time to visit Crete?

This is the land of long sandy beaches, epic mountain ranges, palm tree forests and vibrant bustling cities that share their home with ancient monuments. Architecture from the Venetians, Minoans and Ottomans lies at every turn, pointing to Crete’s fascinating history. So, when is the best time to book flights to Crete and take your dream villa holiday? It all depends on the types of activities your family will be doing, and how high you’d like the mercury. Here’s our guide to the best time to visit Crete.

Summer (May – August)

The summer season is the best time to visit Crete. The mercury starts to climb up to 24-25ºC in June, with mild and balmy evenings. By July-August, the island sees daily temperatures between 28ºC-31ºC, and it is the time of year when visitors and locals alike head to the beaches to make the most of the glorious weather and sea temperatures of 24ºC. But although the temperatures rise, so do the numbers of people visiting attractions, so be prepared for slightly longer waiting times and queues. July can be a windy month as the sirocco winds from Africa heat up the island. If you’re a wine lover, the Rethymnon Wine Festival takes place in June, and is an absolute must.

Autumn (September – October)

If you’ve come to Crete to hit the glorious beaches of Marathi, Krios and Plakias (among others), the months of September and October are the best time of year to visit. Expect fewer crowds, less people in eateries and resorts, and glorious beach weather. Temperatures still continue to hit the mid-twenties, making the weather ideal for topping up your tan, swimming in the sea and sightseeing. The climate is still very warm around this time of year, but without inflicting scorching heat, which some may find more comfortable if they’re exploring the Palace of Knossos, touring Rethimno’s Venetian Harbour, or taking a dip in their private pool in their Villa Elounda Pelagos. With an average of six hours of sunshine per day, there’s still plenty of warmth to experience this stunning island. October is also when the island’s Chestnut Festival is held, marking the beginning of the autumn. Locals descend on the town of Elos to celebrate food made with chestnuts. Expect live music, plenty of drinking, dancing and fabulous street food.

Spring (March – April)

Spring can be the best time to visit Crete if you want a quieter, more laid-back holiday that is free of crowded resorts. March can be a bit unpredictable for weather, so do pack accordingly. That said, temperatures often float around 15-17°C as April begins, offering up ideal weather for exploring historical ruins and nature parks, without the queues. Average sea temperatures in spring peak at 16°C, and in fact the sea tends to be warmer than the outdoor air if you want to enjoy a refreshing dip! In March, the 1821 Memorial Parade takes place, while the Burning of Judas festivities take place in April.

Winter (November-February)

While lying on the beach may not be on the cards, this doesn’t mean that there isn’t plenty to do and explore on this island. This is when the locals enjoy boisterous and exuberant festivals. Accommodation can get booked up, as visitors want to enjoy a more authentic and quieter experience on their Cretan holiday, so it is best to plan early. The St. Minas Parade, celebrating the patron saint of Heraklion, takes place in November, while the Rethymnon Carnival usually takes place in either January or February – expect partying, dancing and vehicles made out of styrofoam! As the island comes into November, evenings do get a little chilly, so you’ll need a coat and some warm trousers, as the mercury can dip to 13°C (but achieve peaks of 21°C during the day).

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