Glamping

Glamping, often defined as ‘luxury camping’, is very much the new thing, and it is not hard to see why. For decades there has been a huge divide between people who like to get back to nature in a tent and holiday makers who would rather stay in a luxury cottage with all the mod cons, but now there is a very happy middle ground. Glamping is the city dweller’s best friend - sometimes all you want is to get out of the rat race and the smog, back to a simpler life with fresh air and open, green space. But to those who are accustomed to a life of comfort, ease and extravagance, the idea of sleeping under canvas with no bed and no hot water can be horrifying. And this is why the concept of glamping has become so popular - because it offers all the joys of camping (the freedom, the simplicity, the chance to get back to nature) without depriving you of any of your home comforts (baths, mirrors, hot food).

Glamping nowadays comes in many forms. At one end of the scale you have tents, tipis and yurts - all the fun of camping without any of the discomfort! At the other end you have the weird and wonderful glamping concepts - how about a unique geodesic dome? Or a traditional gypsy caravan? Or an airstream caravan? Or even a tree house? The experience of staying in a safari camp or a wigwam is unforgettable - that’s certainly not your average hotel room or run-of-the-mill villa. Glamping is likely to be cheaper too - and in today’s economic climate, an inexpensive holiday where you cut costs without cutting quality is like gold dust.

When you think about it, glamping really offers something for everyone. Children love it. The great outdoors, the proximity to wildlife but they can still cuddle up in a safe, cosy bed. Glamping is the idyllic format for a family holiday with something for everyone. On the other hand, could there be anything more romantic than taking your loved one to a deluxe getaway where you can bathe by candlelight, gaze at unpolluted, starry skies, and enjoy the novelty of having absolutely nothing to distract you from cherishing each other’s company? That is just one of the many wonderful side effects of a glamping trip. One of the great joys of glamping is its international appeal. Once upon a time, a British camping holiday was a wet and dreary affair. Nowadays you have everything on offer from canvas cottages in the English countryside to tipis in Andalucia and sumptuous safari tents in Goa. Yes, glamping has become a worldwide phenomenon so there are certainly no restrictions on your destination. Whatever your budget or your climate preferences, there is bound to be the perfect glamping retreat to suit you. From bell tents to roulottes, gers to camper vans, a glamping holiday is a no-brainer for your next adventure.

Romantic Weekend Away

Pay attention boys – romantic weekends away are the way to a woman’s heart. Guaranteed there is no easier way to get into the good books than to walk through the door and announce that you have booked 48 hours in a spa retreat or a seaside hideaway. But really, all jokes aside, romantic weekends away are a wonderful treat for both halves of every couple, for so many reasons.

For a start, it is the perfect length of time. Romantic weekends away have the benefit of being long enough to feel like a proper escape without the cost and hassle of a week long holiday, which inevitably involves greater expense and the juggling of annual leave. Instead you can roll out of work on a Friday afternoon, safe in the knowledge that you have 2 whole days of fun and relaxation ahead of you, but no lengthy packing and planning. Sometimes all you need is a little window of time out and romantic weekends away provide you with just this. When you’re immersed in your day to day life it can be hard to switch off from the pressures of the daily grind. What better way to restore wellbeing than to run away with someone special and have nothing to think about except enjoying a change of scenery and some real time one on one, sharing experiences. The positive effects of romantic weekends away will last a lot longer than the weekends themselves!

Secondly, romantic weekends away are the ultimate opportunity to reconnect with the person you love. In today’s busy world, we often realise that a week has gone by and we have not had a single sensible or intimate conversation with the person we treasure more than anyone. Even when you live with someone, you may pass like ships in the night and it is a sad fact of modern life that there is never enough time to do everything and see everyone. Romantic weekends away are the perfect antidote – they provide the time, the location and the emotional space to spend quality time with our loved ones, in whatever capacity that might be. Thirdly, there is no formula, no boundaries. Romantic weekends away can take any form – just think about what you both enjoy and plan an idyllic weekend around it. If you’re a city dweller who longs for fresh air and peace and quiet you could snuggle up in a yurt in a remote field somewhere. If, on the other hand, your idea of romantic weekends away consists of massages and champagne, book yourself into a spa for a few days of pampering. You could spend the weekend on a city break, taking in the buzz and sampling museums and restaurants; alternatively you could head for a cottage by a Scottish loch and spend the entire time watching wildlife, hiking the hills and getting cosy in front of a crackling log fire. Whatever the concept of ‘romantic weekends away’ means to you, you can find exactly the right place for you.

Villa in Greece / Holiday on Hydra

Greece is often hailed as the birthplace of Western civilisation and you don’t have to be here long to see why. The entire country is bursting with sites of cultural, historical and archaeological importance, so if you want to see where it all really began then a villa in Greece is a wonderful choice. Visit the oracle at Delphi (once believed to be the centre of the world), the Temple of Zeus at Olympia, the remains at Knossos, or the archaeological sites at Epidavros and Mycenae, to name but a few. Take an island holiday – perhaps a holiday on Hydra? Or get a villa in Greece near the capital and visit the Acropolis in Athens. You never forget the first time you see the Parthenon, the Erechtheion and the Temple of Athena Nike. This incredible site, which looks over the whole of Athens, is breath-taking in every sense and just being here is a moving and unforgettable experience, when you think of all the great things that were once achieved under your feet. For anyone with an interest in world heritage sites, museums, monuments with a story and the roots of our own society and arts, a villa in Greece will be paradise!

Of course, a villa in Greece is paradise in many more ways than that. If you’re looking for golden, sandy beaches, a shimmering blue sea and spectacular vistas, look no further than the Greek Islands. Throughout the Aegean and Ionian Seas are 6,000 islands and islets, only a fraction of which are inhabited but all of which are simply enchanting – a holiday in Hydra perhaps everyone’s favourite. The possibilities for a villa in Greece are endless when you take to the islands – you could head to the Cyclades and jet off to the glamour of Mykonos, discover the traditional villages of Paros, savour the picture-perfect whitewashed beauty of the cubic houses on Santorini or explore the churches and monasteries of Naxos. Alternatively, the Ionian Islands are a fabulous setting for a villa in Greece. Relax on pristine Corfiot beaches, visit the home of Odysseus on Ithaca, or enjoy the splendid natural beauty of Kefalonia, where the film ‘Captain Corelli’s Mandolin’ was filmed. A holiday on Hydra allows you to experience a car free island – where if you need transport, you go by donkey.

As you would expect from the homeland of the Olympic Games, a villa in Greece is always a good base for sports and activities. The enormous stretches of coastline and the thousands of islands mean that water sports are extremely popular here and no holiday to a villa in Greece would be complete without some sailing, diving, windsurfing or water skiing. There are also lots of land-based sports on offer – from hiking, biking and horse-riding to canyoning and rounds of golf. You can even ski! And once you’ve thoroughly exhausted yourself you can do the thing that the Greeks love best – eating and drinking. The gastronomy of this country is utterly mouth-watering and you must make sure that your villa in Greece is well stocked with locally produced cheeses, olive oil, wines and honey. Wherever you find yourself – whether it be a holiday on Hydra, the bustling metropolis of Athens or the remote island of Folegandros – and whether you’re shopping, sightseeing or sunbathing, a villa in Greece is always a remarkable place to spend memorable holidays.

Treehouse Holidays

If you’re bored of the usual cottages and villas and want to stay somewhere completely unique, then a holiday in a treehouse is the solution. There’s literally nothing like it! As children we are obsessed with the concept – what better way to get away from everyone and escape into your own world? Then when we grow up we begin to feel we are too sensible to stay in something made of canvas or wood. But there’s no reason why, as adults, we can’t enjoy a treehouse holiday with the same carefree, childlike spirit. When the pressures of a busy life and a crowded city get too much, there is nothing more therapeutic than fleeing to the trees, where the air is clear, the surroundings are peaceful and nothing can touch you. A holiday in a treehouse is the ultimate escapism!

Of course, treehouses have come a long way since the days of our youth. A modern treehouse holiday comes equipped with luxury furnishings and all the mod cons. As you would expect they vary hugely, depending on their style and location. If you want the English countryside idyll, then a treehouse holiday in Somerset will offer you sumptuous, spacious interiors, sensational countryside and more modern technology than you could shake a stick at. If, on the other hand, you would prefer your holiday in a treehouse to have a bit more rugged wilderness, head for Kenya or Australia where your treehouse holiday takes you into the depths of rainforests or safari landscapes. That’s the beauty of a treehouse – as long as you’ve got trees you can build one anywhere!  Nowadays, ‘glamping’ is all the rage and if you’re someone who likes a bit of comfort with their countryside, a holiday in a treehouse is for you. You can enjoy the proximity to nature and all the joys of the outdoors, yet still have a cosy bed and a hot bath to come back to.

Family Villa Holiday

What better way to get everyone together in one place for some proper quality time than on a family villa holiday? With everyone leading busy separate lives, it can seem almost impossible to get all your loved ones in the same place at the same time. School, jobs and social lives are just a few of the things in a long list of commitments which prevent us from being free to see the people we care about as much as we would like. And that’s where the family villa holiday comes in. It’s a chance to have a decent chunk of time with the whole gang – children, parents, grandparents, cousins, partners and anyone else who gets an invite. p>

The beauty of a family villa holiday is that you can have one almost anywhere. You just have to decide things like how hot do you want it to be? How far do you want to go? And what sort of thing would you like to do when you get there? If you want a beach break then the world’s your oyster! On the one hand, you might decide that the beautiful coastline of Britain is the ideal setting for a family villa holiday. There is nothing quite like the English seaside, the coastal walks of Wales, the deserted shores of Scotland or the rugged rocks of Ireland. On the other hand, you might decide that a traditional family villa holiday should always take place somewhere in Europe. The resorts of Spain and Greece or the clean shores of France are always popular with everyone and it isn’t hard to see why people return to them year after year.

If you’re feeling more adventurous, you could whisk everyone off to somewhere exotic – perhaps Bali or India or even Australia. It’s safe to say that a family villa holiday in Asia or South America would be the experience of a lifetime for everyone involved. That would really give the children something to boast about when they go back to school! And then of course there’s always the option of a family villa holiday in the USA – how about Disneyland or a road trip to the Grand Canyon? The great thing about a family villa holiday is that wherever you go there will be something to entertain everyone. For the children, you can pick somewhere with a pool, or gardens with lots of hiding places. For the older members of the party you might want somewhere with quiet, shady spots for reading and enjoying the views. If you’re based inland you might find yourself somewhere you can all go out for a long walk, watching wildlife and exploring historic places and natural wonders. Alternatively, if your family villa holiday is based on the coast you will have a whole host of activities available to you – whether that is leisurely sunbathing or energetic water sports. Take everyone on a family villa holiday next year – it will be a bonding experience that none of you will ever forget.

Villa in Italy

It is not hard to see why so many people spend their holidays at a villa in Italy. In fact the reasons are almost endless, from the breathtaking landscapes, golden shores and turquoise waters to the wonderful history, sensational architecture and cutting edge fashion. This is a country that exudes style and culture from every pore – and an Italian villa is your little slice of it.

There is truly something for everyone here. A villa in Italy holds just as much appeal for a family with small children as it does for a honeymoon couple. Whether you’re a winter sports enthusiast, an artist, a food and wine lover or anything in between, you will be mesmerised by the breadth and quality of what this great country has to offer. Base your Italian villa on the coastline and enjoy some of Europe’s most beautiful stretches of sea and sand. Alternatively, head inland to find your villa in Italy and discover enchanting medieval hill towns where you can escape the hustle and bustle while still experiencing lively local lifestyles and traditions. At one end of the scale you have the snow-covered slopes of the mountains, and at the other, an Italian villa in one of the country’s famous cities, where you can enjoy everything from works of art to buzzing trattorias. When you think of a villa in Italy you may immediately think of Rome, Venice, Florence, or Milan. The cities buzz with an indefinable energy and the regions that surround them are ideal locations for an Italian villa. Soak up the urban culture, enjoy the nightlife and bear witness to the country’s extraordinary cultural heritage. The original works of artists such as Fra Angelico, Raphael, Botticelli, Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci all take pride of place in Italy’s galleries. There is nothing quite like the first time you see the Colosseum in Rome, or the gondola-filled canals of Venice.

As you head deeper into the countryside, there are limitless places for a villa in Italy. For many holiday-makers, the country is not epitomised by the cities but by the image of an Italian villa in Tuscany or Le Marche. The picturesque regions are perfect for a villa in Italy – these are places where you can while away the hours marvelling at the views, dipping in and out of the swimming pool and forgetting about the stresses of daily life. Savour the lush, unspoiled landscape of Umbria, the hillside villages of Liguria, the mountains and coast of Abruzzo or the flavours of Puglia. An Italian villa in Piedmont offers Alpine scenery and chic, historic towns; on the other hand the islands of Sicily and Sardinia are stunning settings for a villa in Italy. Whether you want to bathe in Mediterranean waters, explore lakes and mountains, discover ancient historical monuments or soak up the atmosphere in a town square with a glass of local wine and a bowl of pasta, a villa in Italy is a no-brainer if you want to guarantee the holiday of a lifetime.

Holiday House in Scotland

Without a doubt one of the best ways to get away is to rent a holiday house in Scotland. One of the world’s great tourist destinations, Scotland has a huge amount to offer its visitors, from the world-famous city of Edinburgh to the mountainous highlands and the rugged isolation of the islands. A holiday house in Scotland could be anywhere - all you have to decide is would you prefer a chic urban apartment or a remote croft overlooking a loch? A townhouse or a shepherd’s hut? This is the joy of finding a holiday house in Scotland - you could be looking for a castle where you can live like a laird for a few days, or you might be hoping for a tiny cottage on the shores of an icy lake. The choice is yours! Despite its erratic climate, a holiday house in Scotland is always a popular choice, not least because the country is so accessible. Whether you fly in, take the train, drive across the border or arrive by boat, it is rare to find somewhere that in many ways feels so remote, while managing to remain so easy to get to. And the great beauty of it is that although it is an incredibly popular destination, it is very easy to lose yourself and everyone else! If you’re in search of privacy and seclusion, a holiday house in Scotland is the ideal choice. Just a few turns down the winding rural roads and you will feel very far away from the noise and the crowds.

If you are going for a city break then your first port of call for a holiday house in Scotland should be Edinburgh. Famous for its annual summer arts festival, Edinburgh is a city full of beautiful architecture and brimming with character. Visit the legendary castle, enjoy the plentiful shops and restaurants, and soak up the atmosphere of a place with so much life and history. The cities of Scotland, from Glasgow to Aberdeen, all have something unique to offer their visitors. But for many, the thought of a holiday house in Scotland immediately conjures up images of the stunning countryside. In many places wild and uninhabited, Scotland is home to some of the most spectacular scenery you are ever likely to see, from the thistle-covered craggy peaks to the silent, shimmering lochs. The walking and hiking opportunities are second to none, whether you’re after a gentle stroll or a challenging hike. As you would imagine, this countryside is also a haven for wildlife and bird watching. You might even catch a glimpse of the rare Golden Eagle if you’re very lucky.

For a holiday house in Scotland in complete seclusion, visit one of the islands. From Skye to Orkney, these enchanting islands are as mysterious as they are beautiful - imagine a log cabin directly overlooking the ever-changing sea? Wherever you stay, a holiday house in Scotland is likely to put you within a short distance of a golf course. With 500 world-class courses at your fingertips golfing enthusiasts will be spoilt for choice! Scotland is a great destination for a group with differing interests - there really is something for everyone here.

Stay in a Windmill

There are few retreats quite as special and unique as a holiday in a windmill. By their very nature windmill properties have a huge amount of history and knowing that the very place in which you are eating and sleeping was once a working mill – producing flour to feed local inhabitants, is a magical feeling. They are also few and far between and so many of them are graded or listed properties, brimming with character and antiquity. In fact you would be hard pressed to find self-catering accommodation anywhere with more personality and atmosphere than a stay in a windmill! Usually these renovated buildings house many of their original features – from the charming wooden beams on the inside to the original windmill blades on the outside. A holiday in a windmill is the ideal way to do something totally original for your holiday and to totally immerse yourself in a little piece of history; a place where you can relish quiet surroundings, while also enjoying newly renovated home comforts and quirky luxury.

One of the most common factors between your stay in a windmill is that the chances are it will stand deep within serene countryside. This means that whether you’re a couple seeking a romantic hideaway or whether you’re going with the whole family you will get a sense of peace and seclusion – something a holiday in a windmill will give you which you may not find in a seaside resort or a city apartment. Instead you may find yourself in the midst of a picturesque chocolate box village with nothing other than a few country houses and lots of fields to keep you company. Of course, with this in mind, probably the best thing about a stay in a windmill is the views. Windmills are tall! And tall buildings mean outstanding panoramas. Very few holiday houses can boast five floors unless you’re sharing with somebody else. But a holiday in a windmill can just keep taking you higher and higher until you can see the surrounding countryside for literally tens of miles around. The views are not just breathtaking but are also 360 degrees!

Windmills come in all shapes and sizes, and you can holiday in a windmill all over the globe. You may choose a huge windmill in England which can play host to family gatherings, groups of friends or club get togethers. Buildings like these have so much character that they are perfect for massive family gatherings. A stay in a windmill of this size also lends itself extremely well to parties which require a specific kind of mood – perhaps a murder mystery game between friends or a full on banquet! Alternatively you can holiday in a windmill which is tiny and secluded – perhaps in rural France, where the interiors have been renovated to perfection; an ideal choice for a cosy and dreamy few days away with the one you love. If you’re looking for an anniversary destination or an idyllic honeymoon where it’s just you two and the sounds of church bells chiming and sheep bleating, then a holiday in a windmill is the kind of impressive destination that stands out from the crowd and will never be forgotten.

Villa in Portugal

A holiday villa in Portugal provides you with infinite options for your holiday house – from mingling with tourist crowds in the beach resorts, a golf holiday with friends or exploring the more rugged and remote parts of this diverse country. Although Portugal is perhaps best known and one of Europe’s premier golf destinations, it is also home to stunning beaches, beautiful towns, and a landscape which is brimming with vineyards, olive groves and citrus plantations. You can be sure that from your villa in Portugal you will have access to world heritage sites and cultural excursions. If a holiday house in Portugal is your thing, then your first problem will be choosing where to go – from beachfront villas to rural farmhouses and urban apartments. You can find a villa in Portugal which won’t cost the earth, but will still provide the basic amenities, or you can really push the boat out and go for something a little more luxurious with private swimming pool and beautiful vistas.

If it is activity you’re after, then you can choose your holiday house in Portugal based on the range of activities nearby – you’ll never be far from a golf course, but if you go for a villa in Portugal near the beach, then you can have access to endless watersports as well. There are also excellent tennis schools, horse riding and hiking, to name but a few. It’s a great country for a holiday if you are a group of different ages with differing interests. For people who are after a holiday with a slower pace, then you can seek out a villa in Portugal which is hidden along a rugged coastline, or in a tapestry of olive groves. There you can while away your days doing very little in your holiday house in Portugal – laze by the pool, find authentic restaurants to eat in and wander the streets of the charming fishing villages. For anyone who’s interested in culture, then there’s an endless array of castles and monasteries, festivals, museums and events to get involved in. Your villa in Portugal is more than likely to be near to a number of these attractions. Lisbon, the capital, is the place to find your holiday house in Portugal if you’re after the bright lights. It’s known as a relaxed and fascinating capital, and the Costa de Lisboa is a popular destination for those in search of a holiday villa in Portugal. This part of the coastline is well known for its protected beaches perfect for families, as well as having some world famous surfing beaches.

Better known than any other area in Portugal is the Algarve and this is where the majority of visitors find their villa in Portugal. And with good reason: the Algarve boasts 200km of sandy beaches. Sometimes given a bad name by the sheer numbers of tourists, it’s perfectly possible to find a more secluded villa in Portugal in the Algarve, if you just search a little harder and it is well worth it, as the region has lots to offer apart from the beaches. For those in search of true seclusion, then a villa in Portugal in the centre or north of the country is to be recommended. Virtually untouched by tourism, here you can see traditional Portuguese life – people going about the business without tourism getting in the way. And a holiday house in Portugal’s Alentejo will offer you a bit of both worlds. It’s a mainly agricultural region, best known for its wide horizons and undulating hills. And of course, let us not forget the islands – a villa in Portugal on either the Azores or Madeira will offer you a whole different experience again....a villa in Portugal is a must, but which part you go to depends on who you are – it’s pretty much a given that you’ll love it though!

Riad in Morocco

Morocco is a well kept secret. Many tourists still regard staying in a riad in Morocco as an exotic destination beyond their travel horizons, and retreat to the safety of holiday rentals on the Costa del Sol in Spain – just across the water - to top up their tans. They're correct on one point: Morocco is exotic. But they've got the rest terribly wrong.

If you're seeking a taste of the exotic not too far from home, then a hotel or riad in Morocco is the perfect place. You can choose from a variety of self catering holiday rental properties here – from old fashioned riads in the old cities, to beachfront houses by the coast and mountain hideaways. You can escape the crowds, or choose to be a part of them. The likes of Marrakech and Fez have increased in popularity in recent years. In amongst the minarets and donkey carts, and through the narrow streets, you'll find your perfect riad in Morocco tucked away, a peaceful haven from the hustle and bustle of life within the old city walls. In these cities you can savour Morocco's world renowned cuisine, bargain in the souks and relax in the local hammams (steam baths). You will find that many a riad in Morocco will rent by the room, but if you want exclusive use of your Moroccan hideaway, then you will be able to find that too.

A riad is a traditional Moroccan house with an interior garden that provides a tranquil retreat from the bustle of the larger cities. Your riad in Morocco will often be located within the historic, older parts of the city and come with its own unique history – some dating back to the eighteenth century. These holiday riads often come equipped with plunge pools in their flower-filled courtyards and with authentic Moroccan furnishings. The beauty of a riad in Morocco is in its location – often within walking distance of the main historic city sites, and, in places like Marrakech, only a short drive away from the Atlas mountains and other natural attractions.

Riads are a unique way of experiencing the real Morocco and getting to know some of the secrets of this country steeped in history. But if you're not a city person, there are still options to be had along the country's coastline. If you're after a riad in Morocco which is on the coast, then there's over 1500km of Mediterranean coastline to choose from. Renting a villa or house on the coast gives you the chance to explore the fishing villages, and try your hand at the variety of watersports on offer. For the more active, the Atlas mountains have stunning trekking opportunities – mountain panoramas and hillsides dotted with traditional Berber villages. A holiday house in the mountains can give you a real feel for rural life. Further south, the Sahara desert stretches out before you, joining Morocco with sub-saharan Africa. You can go desert driving or camel trekking and camp out under the African stars to experience the desert silences. Finding a riad in Morocco is a must – you'll never forget it.

Stay in a Yurt

A stay in a yurt is the perfect way to get away from it all without having to downgrade too much! Essentially a yurt is a tent, but if the word ‘tent' conjures up images of muddy fields, a soggy sleeping bag and the most basic living conditions then think again. Yurts offer comfort, sophistication and luxury – not qualities you normally associate with camping! At the top of the range you can find yurts that have carpets, king size beds and hot tubs under the stars. Not bad for a tent!

Having said all that, the true beauty of a holiday where youstay in a yurt is that you can enjoy all the best things about camping without all the worst. The reason so many people enjoy sleeping outdoors is because it offers a truly back to basics lifestyle. What better air to breathe than the clean fresh air of the countryside, the sort of which you are unlikely to find in any city? What lovelier sound to wake up to than a chorus of birdsong instead of the sounds of traffic and commuters? And there is no better feeling than snuggling into the canvas after an evening of good food and conversation.

Nowadays you will find that you can stay in a yurt anywhere. Cornwall is a yurt hotspot, as are Devon and many other idyllic countryside locations in England and Wales. Outside the UK you will also find yurt companies everywhere – particularly in places like rural France and Spain. So if you want to camp somewhere where there is less of a chance of rain, then stay in a yurt in Europe to give yourself a better chance. Yurt holidays are rapidly growing in popularity so your destination choice is only going to grow.

Yurts come in all shapes, sizes and styles, and the great thing about them is that they are totally moveable. So you are just as likely to find one on a hillside or in a forest as you are in a field or by the sea. They are also suitable for every sort of occasion or group. A stay in a yurt is an unusual and romantic choice for a weekend break for two but it is also a superb destination for a family holiday where the children can play safely in the countryside and you can escape from the daily grind. Whether you want to stay in a yurt in total seclusion or on a sociable campsite feel there will definitely be a single yurt or a yurt camp to suit you.

Also of course, a stay in a yurt is a much cheaper option than your villa or apartment stay. In the recession a lot of people are tightening their purse strings and holidays can be the first luxury to go. But if you are desperate not to sacrifice your precious time away then a stay in a yurt would be ideal. Yurts themselves are much cheaper than a hotel or a villa and on top of that all you are paying for are the costs of getting there and of feeding and watering yourself. Treat yourself on your next holiday and stay in a yurt – bet you'd never thought you'd find yourself saying that!

Villa in Tuscany

There's something very special about Tuscany. Not only does the region abound with incredible history, delicious local produce and no less than six UNESCO World Heritage Sites, but it also exudes a very special charm. A sort of intangible elixir - a sense of well-being. One deep breath of Tuscan air and it feels like you've arrived home. Avilla in Tuscany is the real deal.

There's a very good reason why Tuscany is one of the most-visited regions in Italy – it's breathtaking. There is high demand for a villa in Tuscany, and it is easy to see why. One day in this beautiful area will have you enchanted. Inland the classic landscapes of medieval hill towns, vineyards, olive groves and ancient farmhouses draw the eye. Tuscany is, in many ways, the essence of Italy. And it is true that the area has had a huge influence on Italian history. It was the seat of the renaissance, an extraordinarily creative era.

That feeling pervades in the historical cities themselves – Florence, Siena and Pisa. It's difficult not to get caught up in the architecture of the region – from the austerity of the Duomo di Siena with its chastising papal gargoyles, to the Gothic lines of Florence's central edifices. It is living history – find an apartment or a villa in Tuscany in the depths of the cities and you will get a true taste.

Your villa in Tuscany could be in Pisa - much sought-after due to the city's famous landmark, the leaning tower. If you need a breather, escape from the cities to the more relaxed town of Siena – although if it's tranquillity you are seeking you may not want to arrive while the Palio is on. This is a breakneck horserace around the central square featuring bareback riders and a carnival of colourful flags. A villa in Tuscany doesn't come much more frenetic or exciting. Tuscany is responsible for many of the staple Italian foods we know and love. Olive oil is produced prolifically here and classic antipasti of bruschetta and crostini are typical of the region. But the wines really are the area's pieces de resistance, chianti being perhaps the most famous. A villa in Tuscany offers a real taste of Italy and a feast for all the senses.

Hordes of visitors flock to Florence every year to drink in its historic charms. A villa in Tuscany located in the nearby countryside will enable travellers to experience the bustle of the city while enjoying a quieter hideaway. The city has an unrivalled collection of churches, galleries and museums, as well as the spectacular ponte vecchio across the river Arno.

For the real magic to work, you need to leave the bustling centres for the tranquillity of the Tuscan countryside. It's here that you'll find the pearls of the region such as San Gimignano and the Val D'orcia. It's here that you'll stumble across Tuscan villas in secluded olive groves and abandoned monasteries. It's here that, ensconced in your villa in Tuscany, you'll forget about the real world.

And it's not that difficult to discover this little bit of Eden for yourself. There are many holiday rentals available to hire in the region – whether you want a hilltop olive farm with stunning views across Tuscan countryside or a romantic stone cottage backing onto fields of sunflowers – you can find your perfect villa in Tuscany. Once you've found it though, you just might not want to come back…

Villa in Spain

Renting a villa in Spain is a holiday choice that can’t really go wrong. Spain is a vast and beautiful country with a huge amount to offer its visitors so where better to spend a few weeks of your time off? The beauty of a villa in Spain, aside from the fact that it’s a good safe bet, is that it presents you with an enormous and varied selection.

Will you head for one of the vibrant metropolises? A villa in Spain could take the form of a house in Barcelona or Madrid, and you could never be bored in cities like this, with their churches and museums, their wonderful cafes and restaurants and their buzzing shops and squares. On the other hand, why not choose a villa in Spain nearer to the coast? This is a country which enjoys long stretches of coastline, not least the Costa Blanca region, which gets more than 315 days of sunshine every year. It isn’t hard to see why people go there again and again. If you want a villa in Spain that is a little further off the tourist trail but that still provides sparkling sea and beaches, head for theCosta Calida – 250km of coastline which offers everything from seaside resorts to fishing villages.

Staying in a villa in Spain could also be an opportunity to immerse yourself in a rural community, of which the country has many. Andalucia is one of Spain’s most beautiful and well-known regions. An area rich in history and dotted with fascinating world heritage sites, this is a place of sensational architecture, delicious local food and magnificent towns like Seville and Granada. Extremadura is another area where you can really get off the beaten track and escape from the modern world. Its Roman monuments, spectacular monasteries and incredible bird life make it an ideal destination for a villa in Spain. Stay here for a couple of weeks, hiking through the untouched countryside and exploring ancient towns, and you will feel like you have been away for years.

Another beautiful and unspoilt region is Aragon. This is a delightful place to rent a villa in Spain, not least because it is an area of extreme natural contrasts. From dry plains and hills to green valleys and snow-capped peaks, Aragon has a bit of everything, so whether you’re a skier or a nature-lover, there will be something here to satisfy you. Asturias and Cantabria also have lots of rugged mountains which are just made for activities like climbing and caving. The Asturian coastline is varied and beautiful, and the Cantabrian mountains are full of national parks and ancient villages – either would be a lovely choice for your villa in Spain.

FromGalicia and Catalonia to Andalucia and Valencia, there is a holiday to suit everyone in this stunning country. Why not book a villa in Spain for your next getaway?

Villa in Croatia / Holiday in Croatia

Despite its reputation being deeply affected by the troubles of the 90s, Croatia has been seen as one of the most stunning coastlines in Europe for a long time, and recently it has seen a huge growth in visitors as people come on holiday in Croatia in search of a villa in Croatia and to experience the culture close up. You won’t have to spend long on holiday in Croatia to work out why it’s so popular – clear blue, sparkling water, beaches and coves, and enough that they provide ample space for everyone who chooses to take a villa in Croatia.

The country’s interior offers the visitor a very different perspective; here you can discover ancient history, Roman ruins and medieval villages on your holiday in Croatia. Croatia is home to seven World Heritage sights and eight national parks – depending on the location of your villa in Croatia you are sure to be close enough to some of them to pay them a visit during your holiday in Croatia. Sport it pretty popular here too – for a small country Croatia’s footballers punch above their weight, its handball team were world champions back in 2003 and tennis player Goran Ivanisevic is a national icon. The country is in the shape of a horseshoe and staying in a holiday villa in Croatia’s western region offers you access to its stunning coastline and no less than 1700 islands for you to explore! Nobody can tell you that a holiday in Croatia will be anything other than relaxing! Sit on the terrace of your villa in Croatia and look at sea, beach, mountains or a variety of other landscapes; the choice is yours. If you fancy a bit of everything you could combine islands and cities on your holiday in Croatia and end up with a fabulous multi location holiday – staying in a beautiful island villa one week, and a chic city apartment the next....

Fans of city breaks will not be disappointed either – a long weekend in an apartment in Dubrovnik for your holiday in Croatia will provide you with a fantastic insight into one of Europe’s most fascinating cities. Throughout the year you will be spoilt with galleries, concerts and festivals, and being blessed with a Mediterranean climate, even in winter your holiday in Croatia will be mild. For the outdoors types, find yourself a villa in Croatia in amongst its beautiful landscapes and you can spend your days hiking, biking, horseriding and exploring hidden villages and mountain pathways. And if all this doesn’t make you want to choose a villa in Croatia for your next holiday, then nothing will!

Villa in Andalucia

Andalucia is full to the brim with interesting places to visit, World Heritage sites to marvel at and flavours to sample and enjoy. The region has had a lively past with many invaders passing through on their way to the rest of Europe. As a result, a holiday villa in Andalucia will give you a chance to experience the many traditions have been passed on and the area is now rich in history and boasts many different types of cuisine. However, the biggest influence can be found in the Moorish architecture of the region. A holiday villa in Andalucia, particularly somewhere like Granada or Cordoba will allow you plenty of opportunity to marvel at the Alhambra or the Mezquita as well as the other countless sites and ruins that are scattered about the Andalucian countryside.

Another popular holiday villa in Andalucia destination is Seville. Here you will be able to soak up the history of this beautiful city, catch a flamenco performance and perhaps take a Spanish class or two while you're at it. For the adventurous, a holiday villa in Andalucia could mean a stay in the Sierra Nevada mountains, whose lofty peaks are some of the highest in Spain. or perhaps you might try your hand at a holiday in a yurt; a true 'glamping' experience. Stunning vistas combined with challenging trekking routes and hearty local mountain produce will keep the keenest outdoor adventurer happy. If that all sounds a bit too energetic, then your holiday villa in Andalucia – in the form of accommodation - are in abundance along the glittering Mediterranean coast – from Almeria to Cadiz. Alternatively, your holiday villa in Andalucia can be found in the Alpujarra foothills. Here you'll maybe find yourself a little olive farm to rent or perhaps a cortijo backing onto a field of sunflowers.

For those coming from the UK, one great advantage of a villa in Andalucia is the relatively short journey time. Just a couple of hours by plane – and if you book early enough you can find some fabulous deals. If you ever tire of lying by the pool in your villa in Andalucia, then you might even be near enough to the coast to hop across to Morocco for a day or two. Due to its popularity, you will find the region teeming with choice, and shouldn't have any problem finding a villa in Andalucia to suit your needs, whether you are a large group looking for a party house or a couple looking for a romantic bolthole.

Wherever you choose to stay, you'll soon discover that the delights of a holiday villa in Andalucia are endless and you'll be planning your return trip!

Holiday House in South Africa

There’s one word which very aptly describes the experience of staying in a holiday house in South Africa: unforgettable. This is a magical country – full of once-in-a-lifetime sights, and the best thing about it is that there’s literally something for everyone. Want to take a walk on the wild side and go on safari? You’re in luck. No holiday house in South Africa is ever far from one of the numerous game parks, which isn’t surprising considering the country boasts 21 National Parks in total. The cream of the crop is Kruger where you are certain to find big game, but you will also find incredible natural beauty and fascinating history. And if you’re more interested in the water side of things, leave your holiday house in South Africa and head for the Maloti-Drakensberg Transfrontier Project, a ‘water factory’ full to bursting with mountains, bogs and diverse flora and fauna. There’s no doubt about it – whether you’re crouched by a waterhole, watching an elephant lumber past, or diving with sharks in the Aliwal Shoal Marine Protected Area – a holiday house in South Africa is the place to be if you want to see wildlife.

This is very much a country which encourages you to enjoy the great outdoors, and the natural attractions are incredible. If you’re looking for rest and relaxation on a beautiful beach, then a holiday house in Africa is a great choice. The beaches are numerous and varied so whether you want to chill out in Camps Bay or surf in Llandudno, there’s a stretch of sand with your name on it. If you want to get away from the tourist centres and further off the beaten track, the Wild Coast is a rugged stretch of coastline which offers sheltered rocky bays, satisfying hiking trails, and shipwrecks which you can snorkel and dive around. Your holiday house in South Africa may well be near the coast, but if you’re looking for more strenuous activity, the Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve is absolutely worth making time for. Situated in Mpumalanga and boasting the title of the third largest canyon on Earth, this is the place to go when you want awe-inspiring views, waterfalls and remarkable rock formations.

Of course, renting a holiday house in South Africa is not just about wildlife and scenery (although that’s not a bad start!). There is much more to this vibrant country, from the buzz of Johannesburg to the beauty of Cape Town and everything in between. Drive down the Garden Route, sample the produce of the wineries in the Western Cape, learn about ancient civilisations in the Mapungubwe National Park, and go cave diving in Wondergat. When you stay in a holiday house in South Africa the possibilities are endless! If you’re looking for year-round sunshine, a captivating history of struggle and survival, diverse cultures, friendly people, jaw-dropping wildlife, endless photo opportunities and cities with heart, then a holiday house in Africa is the perfect choice.

Big House to Rent / Venue for House Parties

While there’s something wonderfully cosy and romantic about boutique cottages for two, there is also nothing quite as impressive as a palatial pad which can sleep all your friends and family under the same roof. If you want to get absolutely everyone together then you need to find a big house to rent – somewhere with lots of bedrooms, just as many bathrooms, plenty of sofas, a massive dining table and an industrial kitchen! Big houses like this make the perfect venue for house parties. Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary, a birthday or somebody’s last weekend of freedom, a big house to rent is a no-brainer. It’s the perfect way to keep a group together so you feel like you’re all really sharing the same experience, and there’s nothing quite like it. That said, although you are all staying in the same place, these sorts of big properties are usually well-equipped as a venue for house parties and you’re unlikely to feel like you’re all living on top of each other. These days a big house to rent will come complete with spacious rooms, extensive gardens and numerous living spaces, so although everyone is technically in the same place you can still escape to a quiet spot when you need one.

If you’re looking for a venue for house parties, don’t feel restricted to the UK. Of course, England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland have an impressive selection of spacious country houses. There are manor houses in the Cotswolds, ancient estates in the Highlands, mansions in the Brecon Beacons and castles in Tipperary. But you will also find a big house to rent in other countries all over the world. You could take over a whole riad in Marrakech, relax in an ancient relais in Italy, live it up in a French chateau (now there’s an impressive venue for house parties!), or retreat to a sprawling cortijo in Spain. So, whether you want to play croquet, cook gourmet banquets or lie by a pool, there’s a big house to rent to suit you.

These sorts of properties vary hugely in style too. Some will be cool and contemporary, furnished with the mod cons and all the up to date technology you could possibly require when you’re trying to find a venue for house parties. If you want iPod docks, cinema-size screens, DVD players and high speed WiFi then this is the kind of place you’ll be looking for. On the other hand, you might want something a bit more rustic. If you’re a family group with ranging ages and tastes then you might prefer an old Spanish farmhouse with an enormous pool, rugged gardens, airy rooms and views to die for. Whatever your preferences when you’re looking for a big house to rent, you’re sure to find what you want, either near to home or further afield.

Villa in Montenegro

If you’re looking for something a little different for your next holiday, a villa in Montenegro could be the answer. It’s a small country with a huge amount to offer, whether you want to laze on a beautiful beach, explore stunning natural scenery or wander round historic walled towns. Unspoiled by mass market tourism, this place is bursting with potential and you’d be mad not to come and experience its many charms. A villa in Montenegro is an excellent choice if you’re looking for photo opportunities. From sandy beaches and coastal towns to snow-capped mountains and pine forests, breathtaking views are all around you. Wander round lakes, hike through canyons, or raft the rapids – the choice is yours. You can even ski at the highest points. This may be one of the newest countries in the world but it is overflowing with wonderful sights and experiences. One of the most famous places in the country is Durmitor National Park and this would be a wonderful setting for a villa in Montenegro. It is one of four national parks in the country, but it is undoubtedly the most well-known, for its natural beauty and its outdoor possibilities. Whether you’re swimming in the clear waters or mountaineering on the face of rocky peaks, you would be hard pressed to find anywhere with more invigorating air and a more awe-inspiring setting for a villa in Montenegro.

The coastline holds its own attractions and dotted along it are the walled towns of Kotor, Budva, Stari Bar and Herceg Novi, to name but a few. Stari Bar in particular has a long and fascinating history which dates back to Roman and Byzantine times and beyond. Surrounded by steep cliffs it is quite a sight, both from the water and on land, and it has much to offer in terms of archaeology. If you want a glamorous setting for your villa in Montenegro then look no further than the island resort of Sveti Stefan, a place known for being a chic and elite holiday destination. Alternatively why not head to the Bay of Kotor for your villa in Montenegro? Berth your luxury yacht in Tivat and enjoy the lifestyle of the rich and famous for a few days.

If you want to stay on the coast you could base your villa in Montenegro near Boka Bay and the delightful little town of Perast. Here you can take a boat to the Church of Our Lady of the Rocks, which sits on a unique artificial islet just off the coast. On the other hand, you could head further inland and choose the Skadar Lake region for your villa in Montenegro. This enormous lake is perfect for both cruising and bird-watching so it has something for everyone. It may not be serviced by lots of charter flights and it may not be as well-known as Spain or Greece, but Montenegro is a very special country just waiting to be explored. Choose a villa in Montenegro this summer.

Ski Chalet in Switzerland

Sometimes you don’t feel like lying on a sun lounger for a week. You want to do something a bit more active, something invigorating. If this is the case then choose a ski chalet in Switzerland for your next holiday. The Swiss Alps are home to around 200 ski resorts so there is certainly no shortage of places to stay! The resorts vary hugely but they all offer a fantastic selection of winter sports and a ski chalet in Switzerland is perfect whether you want an adrenalin rush or something a bit more gentle. Obviously, a lot of people will choose a ski chalet in Switzerland because they want to do just that: ski! And the mountains out here provide sensational conditions for skiing and snowboarding. But you don’t have to strap yourself to a pair of skis to enjoy being here. A ski chalet in Switzerland is a great choice if you’re a keen hiker, for example. The scenery is, needless to say, pretty breathtaking, and what better way to take in the mountainscape and breathe in some crisp, clear air than to explore one of the thousands of walking routes in the area. There are around 50,000km of walking trails in the Swiss Alps alone so you really will be spoilt for choice! You could even try a spot of snow-shoeing. Another popular sport in this region is climbing, and whatever your ability (or fearlessness!) level, there is a mountain face to suit you.

And a ski chalet in Switzerland is not exclusively a winter destination. Although obviously this part of the world is known for its cold weather activities, it is also a lovely place to be during the warmer months, when the mountains are green, the forests are lush and the fields are full of flowers. You won’t be able to ski but you will still be able to enjoy the dramatic landscape and the alpine air. Of course, lots of people don’t choose a ski chalet in Switzerland for the sport or the scenery. It is a well-known fact that a holiday like this is a chance to play hard and everyone here just wants to have a good time. If you’re not familiar with the term ‘apres-ski’ then you soon will be – high altitude resorts have a buzz about them which is hard to define and even harder to resist! Chances are, you may not go home feeling relaxed but you will certainly go home with a smile on your face and stories to tell.

It doesn’t matter whether you want to be lazy or energetic, a ski chalet in Switzerland is a brilliant choice with something for everyone. Children will love playing in the snow and tobogganing down the slopes, the more elderly will be enchanted by the stunning setting, and winter sports enthusiasts will be in heaven. From bird watching to partying, a ski chalet in Switzerland would be the ideal choice this winter.

Holiday House in Canada

If you want to visit a country which has a little bit of just about everything, then a holiday house in Canada would be an excellent choice. From cool, cosmopolitan cities to stunning natural surroundings, this is a place that works equally well as both a summer and a winter destination. It’s a vast country which varies hugely from North to South and East to West. On the Northern side you are almost entering the Arctic Circle, but then on another side you will find beaches and another is covered in evergreen forests! A holiday house in Canada works as a destination whatever the season and whatever you want from your break. There’s no question that this part of the world is renowned for its stunning natural scenery and the wealth of outdoor pursuits on offer. One of the most popular choices for a holiday house in Canada is British Columbia, and it isn’t hard to see why. Blessed with mild weather, it is a place of sensational beauty, full of forests, mountains and world heritage sites. You would be hard pressed to find better walking and cycling countryside, the fishing is excellent, and whale-watching opportunities abound. And if you want to go skiing then this is the perfect region for a holiday house in Canada because it is home to the famous resort of Whistler. Never mind the Alps, this is the place to be for snowboarding and hiking over glaciers.

As wonderful as the great outdoors is here, the buzzing cities are unforgettable. Vancouver, on the Western coast, is consistently listed as one of the best places to live in the world and there is no doubt that it has a magical quality about it and would be a fantastic setting for a holiday house in Canada. The city is vibrant and upbeat, full of restaurants, shops and fascinating culture and architecture. But it is also home to some outstandingly beautiful outdoor attractions, like Stanley Park, Grouse Mountain and the Capilano Suspension Bridge. Furthermore it is just a stone’s throw from Vancouver Island where you can lie on a beach and visit wineries. What more could you want from a holiday house in Canada? Montreal is a cultural hub with a distinctly French flavour. Chic and stylish it is full of popular attractions, from the Notre-Dame Basilica to the Jardin Botanique. Quebec is another city with European influences and lots of history, or you could travel to energetic Toronto or to Halifax, which is known for its art, music and festivals.

If you do nothing else when you rent a holiday house in Canada, visit Niagara Falls. Whether you walk, take a boat or fly over by helicopter, nothing compares to the sight and sound of this magnificent phenomenon. Whichever region you choose for your holiday house in Canada, you will be struck by the sheer scale and splendour of the country. It’s hard not to fall in love with this place.