Tag: villa holiday

Winter Sun Villa Holidays: Escape to Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, Tenerife, or Madeira!

Winter Sun Villa Holidays: Escape to Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, Tenerife, or Madeira!

As the winter chill settles across the UK, thoughts often turn to warmer climes. For those seeking an escape from the grey skies, a winter sun villa holiday in destinations like Lanzarote, Fuerteventura, Tenerife, or Madeira offers the perfect remedy. Not only do these islands boast pleasant year-round temperatures, but they also offer unique experiences and attractions that make winter the ideal time to visit. Let’s explore why these destinations are perfect for a winter villa getaway, along with what to see and do while you’re there.

Lanzarote: Volcanic Landscapes and Laid-Back Charm

Lanzarote is a dream destination for winter sun seekers, with average daytime temperatures hovering around 20°C. The island’s volcanic landscape is otherworldly, and winter is the perfect time to explore its dramatic beauty without the intense heat of summer.

What to Do:

  • Explore Timanfaya National Park: The surreal, moon-like landscape of Timanfaya is a must-visit. Guided tours take you through this volcanic wonderland, where you can witness geothermal demonstrations and learn about Lanzarote’s unique geology.
  • Surfing and Water Sports: Winter brings bigger swells to the island, making it an excellent time for surfing. Head to Famara Beach for some of the best surf conditions in Europe.
  • Wine Tasting in La Geria: Lanzarote’s unique volcanic soil makes for some distinctive wines. A visit to the La Geria wine region will let you sample local Malvasia wines and learn about the island’s centuries-old wine production techniques.

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Fuerteventura: Sandy Beaches and Relaxed Vibes

Fuerteventura is renowned for its long stretches of golden beaches and crystal-clear waters. The island enjoys balmy weather even in the heart of winter, with temperatures reaching around 22°C. Whether you’re into water sports or simply looking to unwind, this island has something for everyone.

What to Do:

  • Relax on the Beaches: Fuerteventura’s beaches are some of the best in the Canary Islands. Corralejo and Cofete offer vast expanses of sand where you can sunbathe, swim, or enjoy a seaside picnic.
  • Kitesurfing and Windsurfing: Winter brings steady winds to Fuerteventura, making it a hotspot for windsurfing and kitesurfing enthusiasts. Sotavento Beach hosts international championships and is a great spot to either watch the pros or take lessons yourself.
  • Explore Corralejo Natural Park: The vast sand dunes of Corralejo are a spectacular sight. Spend a day walking through this otherworldly landscape or take a dune buggy tour for an adrenaline rush.

View Villas In Fuerteventura

Tenerife: A Blend of Nature and Culture

Tenerife is the largest of the Canary Islands and offers a diverse array of activities for winter visitors. From the lush forests of the north to the sun-drenched beaches of the south, Tenerife is an island of contrasts. Winter temperatures typically hover around 20-22°C, making it ideal for both outdoor adventures and relaxing villa retreats.

What to Do:

  • Visit Mount Teide: At 3,718 metres, Mount Teide is Spain’s highest peak. Take a cable car to the summit for breathtaking views over the island. In winter, the mountain may even be dusted with snow, creating a stunning contrast against the blue skies.
  • Whale and Dolphin Watching: Tenerife is one of the best places in Europe for whale watching. Head out on a boat tour from Los Cristianos or Costa Adeje to spot resident dolphins and whales in their natural habitat.
  • Explore the Historical Town of La Laguna: A UNESCO World Heritage site, La Laguna is full of colonial architecture, charming streets, and traditional Canarian culture. It’s a great place for a relaxed afternoon of sightseeing and café hopping.

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Madeira: A Garden in the Atlantic

Often referred to as the “floating garden,” Madeira is a subtropical paradise located in the Atlantic Ocean. Winter temperatures range from 16°C to 20°C, offering mild weather perfect for exploring the island’s stunning natural scenery.

What to Do:

  • Levada Walks: Madeira is famous for its network of levadas—irrigation channels that double as hiking trails. These walks take you through lush forests, past waterfalls, and along cliff edges, offering some of the best views on the island.
  • Visit Funchal: Madeira’s capital, Funchal, is a vibrant city with plenty to explore. Visit the Mercado dos Lavradores (farmers’ market) for local produce, flowers, and crafts, or take a cable car to the Monte Palace Tropical Garden for panoramic views of the island.

Why Travel in Winter?

Winter is an ideal time to visit these sunny island destinations for several reasons:

  • Fewer Crowds: With fewer tourists, you’ll have more space to enjoy attractions, beaches, and restaurants.
  • Great Value For Money: Winter is considered the low season in these locations, so you can often find villas at much lower prices than during the summer months.
  • Mild Weather: The temperate winter climate makes outdoor activities such as hiking, surfing, and sightseeing more enjoyable without the intense summer heat.

View Villas In Madeira

Whether you choose Lanzarote’s volcanic landscapes, Fuerteventura’s sandy beaches, Tenerife’s diverse ecosystems, or Madeira’s lush gardens, a winter sun villa holiday is the perfect way to recharge and escape the cold. Book your villa today and start dreaming of your winter escape!

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Embrace Spontaneity: Discover the Magic of Last-Minute Villa Holidays

Embrace Spontaneity: Discover the Magic of Last-Minute Villa Holidays

Planning a holiday can be a meticulous process, but sometimes, the best experiences come from spontaneous decisions. If you’re yearning for a quick getaway, consider the allure of a last-minute villa holiday. Imagine basking in the sun by a private pool and exploring stunning destinations. Here’s why a last-minute villa holiday might be just what you need to unwind and recharge.

Unmatched Privacy and Luxury

One of the main draws of a villa holiday is the unparalleled privacy and luxury it offers. Unlike crowded hotels, villas provide a secluded retreat where you can relax without interruptions. All of our villas come equipped with a private pool, many of which are heated free of charge, expansive gardens, and stunning views, allowing you to immerse yourself in comfort and tranquility.

Flexibility in Destinations

Last-minute bookings open up a world of possibilities when it comes to destinations. Whether you dream of a coastal escape, a countryside retreat, or a cultural city adventure, there’s a villa available to suit your desires. This flexibility allows you to discover new places and experiences you might not have considered initially.

Why Last-Minute Villa Holidays Are Perfect for Every Traveler

Ideal for Families

Villas provide ample space for families to spread out and enjoy their holiday without feeling cramped. With multiple bedrooms and communal living areas, villas are perfect for family holidays. Booking last minute can add an element of surprise and excitement for children and adults alike.

Romantic Getaways

For couples seeking a romantic retreat, last-minute villa bookings can lead to some of the most memorable and intimate holidays. Imagine surprising your partner with a spontaneous trip to a secluded villa with breathtaking views, private pools, and luxurious settings…

A last-minute villa holiday is more than just a trip; it’s an adventure waiting to happen. With the benefits of privacy, luxury, flexibility, and potential cost savings, there’s every reason to embrace spontaneity and book that villa you’ve been eyeing up. So pack your bags, grab your sunglasses, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey.

Ready to find your perfect last-minute villa? Start exploring the incredible options available and make your spontaneous getaway a reality today.

Flexible Booking Options For Your Dream Villa Holiday

Flexible Booking Options For Your Dream Villa Holiday

Planning a villa holiday is an exciting endeavor, and when it comes to booking, you want to ensure that the process is not only convenient but also flexible to accommodate your unique needs. That’s why we offer a variety of booking options that allow you to tailor your holiday experience to your liking. There are various ways you can secure your villa holiday with us, including flexible booking options, non-refundable cheaper rates, and the convenience of paying through Direct Debit.

Flexible Bookings: Peace of Mind for Every Step of the Journey

We’re committed to making your villa holiday planning as seamless as possible. That’s why we offer a range of flexible booking options that provide you with peace of mind from the moment you make your booking.

Up to 3 Days After Booking: Cooling Off Period

We understand that sometimes plans change or circumstances require you to reconsider your travel arrangements. So we now offer a three-day ‘cooling off period’ after you’ve made your booking, as long as it’s prior to 12 weeks before your arrival. During this time, you have the option to cancel your booking, and in return, we’ll provide you with a voucher that’s valid for two weeks. This voucher helps protect your deposit until you’re ready to book again, offering you the flexibility you need to make the right decision for your holiday.

Prior to 12 Weeks Before Arrival: Change of Plans? No Problem!

Life is unpredictable, and sometimes you might need to change your travel date, villa, or even your destination. You can modify your booking up to 12 weeks before your arrival. You will be issued a voucher code for the booking value once your balance has been paid. This voucher is valid for two weeks, giving you the freedom to browse and book a new villa online that better suits your needs.

Prior to 48 Hours Before Arrival: Name Changes at No Cost

If, for any reason, a member of your party is unable to travel, we permit name changes free of charge. This added flexibility ensures that you can adjust your booking without incurring additional expenses, making it easier to accommodate last-minute changes.

Flexible Payments: Smoothing Out the Financial Aspect

We’re dedicated to making your villa holiday affordable and as hassle-free as possible. In addition to flexible booking options, we also offer a convenient way to manage your payments, (and a way to save you money!)

Pay by Direct Debit: Spreading the cost

Why not spread the cost of your holiday with our Direct Debit option? Once you’ve paid the initial deposit, you can pay the balance in easy, monthly installments. This option allows you to budget for your villa holiday more effectively, ensuring you can enjoy a fantastic getaway without worrying about a lump sum payment. It’s a stress-free way to make your dream villa holiday a reality!

Non-refundable Bookings: Make the most of your budget

Opting for one of our non-refundable bookings is a savvy choice that can save you a significant amount of money compared to standard booking options. While non-refundable bookings may seem restrictive at first glance, for those who are confident in their travel dates and determined to stick to their plans, non-refundable bookings are a smart way to make the most of your budget while securing your dream villa holiday!

So, why not take advantage of these flexible booking options and choose the method that best suits your needs? Whether you need to adjust your plans or want to spread out your payments, we have you covered, ensuring that your villa holiday is nothing short of exceptional. Start planning your dream getaway today!

Summer Holidays 2022: Villa Holiday Guide/Where to Go

Summer Holidays 2022: Villa Holiday Guide/Where to Go

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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. 

Things to do in Lagos

Things to do in Lagos

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Nestled towards the western corner of Portugal’s south coast, Lagos has a reputation for beautiful beaches with dramatic rock formations and azure waters that are perfect for swimming. It is one of the most popular areas of the Algarve, and was founded in around 2000BC by the Cónios tribe. Its rich history dates back to rulings by the Moors, Romans, Carthaginians and Christians, with some buildings and churches even dating all the way back to the 13th century. Now a bustling hub of activity, this former fishing village boasts plenty of historical sites, romantic town squares, a vibrant marina and plenty of day trips and activities to keep the whole family entertained on your villa holiday. Here’s our guide to popular Lagos things to do. 

Spend the day at the beach

Stunning beaches and rugged cliffs offering fabulous views is the main reason why Lagos is so popular with world travellers. If you feel like spending the day away from your private pool and gardens in your Villa Daisy, why not spend a day at one of the many Blue Flag beaches in the area? All beaches are well-catered, featuring lifeguards and toilets. We recommend Praia Dona Ana, which has been consistently rated as the poster beach for the Algarve. Staggering rock formations and jagged cliffs harmonise with deep turquoise waters for Instagram-worthy snaps. Cave kayaking and diving lessons also operate from this beach. Another good beach for families is Meia Praia – an open stretch of vast white-sand shoreline, warm waters for swimming and a local bar. It’s an ideal place for the whole family to play in the water due to its gentle waves. Also worth visiting is Praia dos Estudantes, which is famous for its dramatic cliffs, rock stacks and natural caves that are popular with travel photographers. These waters are excellent for surfing and paddle boarding. If you’re an experienced surfer, head a little further west to Sagres, where the waves are more energetic.  

Enjoy a boat trip

Sailing along the Algarve in a catamaran is the perfect way to create holiday memories with your loved ones. Many catamaran day trips include stop-offs for swimming, dolphin watching and snorkelling. Children in particular will love spotting dolphins in their natural habitat, and dolphin sightseeing trips can be organised using speed boats to ensure that you have the best chance of seeing these amazingly intelligent creatures. Other boat trips cover the famous Ponta da Piedade caves, which feature luminous waters and epic rock formations.

Visit a theme park

If you have children to keep occupied, one of the best things to do in Lagos is to visit its zoo, where you can learn more about the region’s wildlife, as well as other animals from around the world that are far more endangered, such as the Lynx. If you’d rather get stuck into something adrenaline-filled, Lagos Adventure Park features high ropes and a treetop obstacle course and is fun for both kids and adults. Or why not try Pro Putting Garden – an 18-hole crazy golf circuit that will test the whole family’s putting skills!    

Tour historical ruins

History buffs are well catered for in Lagos, which boasts a very rich and diverse heritage. Explore the Forte Ponta da Bandeira – an ancient 17th century fortress that once defended the harbour and was considered the most advanced structure in the region because of the strength of its walls. You can cross the moat through the drawbridge, which leads to a small chapel containing beautiful tiles. Also worth visiting is the Castelo de Lagos, which looks like something out of Game of Thrones. It is unknown exactly when this castle was constructed, but it has been suggested that it also dates back to the 17th century.  

Now that you know some of the best things to do in Lagos, it’s time to book the holiday villa of your dreams close by. Browse our selection of quality holiday villas in Lagos.

8 winning reasons to book a villa for your next holiday

8 winning reasons to book a villa for your next holiday

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When you’re choosing where to stay for your next holiday, you might think a hotel or cruise ship are your only options. But what about booking a private villa instead? Here are 8 reasons why a villa is the best accommodation choice you can make.

1. Relax in peace and privacy

Want to truly get away from the hustle and bustle? Then book a holiday villa for your next getaway. Many of our properties are in quiet, secluded, and beautiful spots, perfect for some rest and relaxation away from the rest of the world. You can even clear your mind with some outdoor yoga or exercise in the private gardens. Bliss…

Villa Trulli Laguna, Cisternino, Puglia

2. Jump into your own private pool

If you’ve ever imagined what it’d be like to have the swimming pool all to yourself, our holiday villas can make your daydreams come true. Every single one has a private pool, most of which have complimentary heating. So you can step outside and be taking a refreshing dip in a matter of minutes.

3. Bring all your nearest and dearest

Travelling in a large group? Our holiday villas can accommodate up to 12 guests, so you can bring all your friends and family to make wonderful memories together. And because you’ll be in an exclusive setting, you won’t have to share anything with anyone else!

4. Cook up a storm

All our villas come with a fully-equipped kitchen and outdoor BBQ, so you can buy fresh ingredients and whip up whatever delicious meals you like. This is great for fussy eaters or those with dietary requirements. But if you fancy a day off, there’s nothing to stop you booking a table at a great local restaurant.

5. Go at your own pace

Want to have a lazy lie-in? Or spend longer exploring the local area without worrying about missing dinner? That’s no problem when you choose a holiday villa over a hotel or cruise. You’ll have total flexibility and independence to set your own schedule without any constraints.

6. Enjoy the freedom of more space

If you book a holiday villa, you’ll have oodles of space for the kids to run around and let off steam – including your own private garden for outdoor games galore. And separate living and bedroom areas mean the grown-ups can socialise in the evenings when the little ones have (finally) gone to sleep.

Villa Tarraula, Javea, Costa Blanca

7. Keep everyone entertained

Our holiday villas don’t just come with a private pool, they also come with table tennis and pool tables, and some even have their own tennis court! So whether you want to chill in the sun with a good book, or get competitive with a family ping pong tournament, you’ll have no end of ways to stay amused all day long.

Villa Chesnaie, St Cezaire sur Siagne, French Riviera

8. Get an amazing villa whenever you book

As Villa accommodation specialists, we have an expert Travel-Team and local experts who go the extra mile by hand-picking all our villas, ensuring they are in the best locations. That means you’re guaranteed to get a fabulous property in a fantastic location, even if you book at the last minute.

Villa Sorian Kokkino, Lourdas, Kefalonia

Want to find the perfect villa for your next holiday? We have properties in 20 wonderful destinations for you to choose from. Get browsing and booking today.

What are the advantages of holiday villa rentals for groups of friends?

What are the advantages of holiday villa rentals for groups of friends?

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Has the winter series of Love Island got you glued to the TV watching them get up to their cheeky antics in the sun? If the show’s got you dreaming of a villa holiday with your group of friends, then now is the perfect time to start planning one!

Travelling with a group of friends promises plenty of fun, and you’re sure to return home with lots of lost-lasting memories. Self-catering villa rentals are one of the best ways to make the most of your trip. Group holiday villa accommodation saves you money over a hotel, which means you’re able to spend more on exciting activities and going out.

Whichever type of holiday rental villa you choose – from a seafront villa in Tenerife to a poolside apartment in Corfu – there are many advantages of holiday lets for groups. Here are just a few:

You’ll have lots of space to make yourself at home

Villa Potami Nikos, Chania, Crete

The last thing you want on a group holiday is to be crammed into a small hotel room. If you go self-catering, you can choose a villa with spacious bedrooms. This way, you’ll have plenty of room to unpack and store your belongings, so there’s no need to live out of a suitcase.

In addition to being more comfortable, you’ll have space to find a few moments to yourself if you fancy a break from the rest of the group. In a large rental house, you won’t all be living on top of one another, with is particularly good if you’re going on a longer trip with several others.

Enjoy drinks in the lounge or on the terrace

Not only does a holiday villa rental mean more spacious accommodation, but you’ll also have your own lounge and kitchen. Here, you can hang out with your friends without worrying about crossing paths with other guests. Whether you want to put on some music or enjoy a few rounds of post-dinner drinks, you’ll appreciate having some communal space to yourselves. And don’t forget all of that outdoor space and your very own private pool!

You’ll have a kitchen to cook and eat in plus an outdoor BBQ

It doesn’t take long for costs to rise if you’re eating out every night, but in a holiday home, you can save money by making your own meals. Cooking is always a fun group activity, so why not get creative an experiment with some local dishes? You could cook up Canary flavours on Fuerteventura, or make some tapas in Costa Blanca. You will have a fully equipped kitchen and an outdoor BBQ to choose from.

Furthermore, if you can’t all agree on a single dish, that’s not a problem. Self-catering also means you can make your own food individually if you feel like it. Alternatively, if you want a quick and convenient option, you could even order take away to your holiday home. This is perfect if you and your friends feel like having a lazy night in.

You can stay in and unwind

No matter how action-packed your villa holiday is, you’ll still want some down time to recharge and relax. A holiday let means you have a place to stay if you fancy some time off from going out and sightseeing.

You might want to watch a movie, or just spend the day lounging in the sun in your garden. If you opt for a holiday villa with a private pool, you don’t even have to leave to be able to have fun.

View our range of villas for couples and small groups

By Lara Scott. A former executive at a major hotel chain, Lara Scott is a freelance travel writer and journalist. She says her previous career gives her extra insight into both sides of the tourism industry.