As 2013 winds to a close, we’re looking back on our favorite villas of the year. Narrowing down our options was no easy feat – in the course of a year, our team travels across the globe and inspects hundreds of fantastic properties. In the end, the three villas featured here stood out in our minds as the crème de la crème for their picture-perfect locations, luxurious interiors and unexpected amenities.

Read on to say what our team had to say about this year’s standouts.

1.     Le Bleu in Little Harbor, Anguilla

A 10-bedroom complex on 2.5 acres of tropical gardens, Le Bleu was consistently praised by all of our Villa Specialists as the epitome of luxury. Featuring two swimming pools, two private natural beaches, a beach pavilion, tennis court, gym, home theater and water garden, Le Bleu has more than enough space and amenities to accommodate special events like weddings, corporate retreats or reunions. You can even rent Le Bleu’s sister property next door, Villa Indigo, for a combined total of 18 bedrooms.

What stands out about Le Bleu?

“Le Bleu, in my opinion is luxury at its best. It has the feel to me of a true estate in a country-club-like setting. Set on 2.5 acres, it is perfectly manicured with an English garden appeal to it, yet also has a ‘homey’ comfortable feel that I love.” – Rob, Villa Specialist

“The main villa is exquisite with stunning views and modern décor.  I had one of the upper master suites and it was insanely spacious with "his" and "her" baths, including a soaking tub and enormous shower.  You can drift off to sleep to the sound of the sea on one of the most comfortable beds I’ve ever slept on!” – Sue, Villa Specialist

"Le Bleu has an exceptional staff, including a private chef, assistant chef, butler, housekeeper, food service staff and estate manager. The staff was amazing– they were incredibly attentive and go out of their way to create unique, memorable experiences for guests.” – Rachel, Villa Marketing

 2.     Coral House in Grace Bay, Turks & Caicos

Coral House is a 5-bedroom home set directly on gorgeous Grace Bay Beach, consistently voted one of the best beaches in the world. Constructed from Barbados coral stone, the villa features an innovative indoor/outdoor layout with a library, covered terrace, gourmet kitchen, gym/yoga studio, and heated pool with an outdoor dining area and large deck. Hammocks and daybeds on the beach provide places for quiet relaxation, and fun extras – like a glass-bottom canoe, outdoor ping-pong table and volleyball court – ensure that everyone has a blast.

What stands out about Coral House?

“The location – it is set directly on the very best part of Grace Bay Beach. You have privacy, but are still just a few minutes’ walk from the town’s restaurants and shopping. It’s the perfect location for everyone.” – Kim, Senior Villa Specialist

“The live-in staff members at Coral House (chef, butlers/servers and housekeeper) are exceptional.  They are unobtrusive, yet the guest always feels cared for and important.  From the moment the guest arrives at Coral House, the staff are dedicated to making their experience fun, relaxing and memorable.” – Tracy, Villa Specialist

3.     Casa Biondi in Montalcino, Tuscany

5-bedroom Casa Biondi is the definition of“ Tuscan luxury:” a blend of traditional Tuscan materials and color schemes with modern, state-of-the-art amenities. In addition to a private heated pool, pool house, and traditional wood-burning pizza oven, Casa Biondi offers postcard-perfect views of the rolling hills, vineyards and olive groves that make up the surrounding Val d’Orcia region. Casa Biondi lies within the historic Castiglion del Bosco estate, which boasts a Daniel Steiner spa, fitness center, two restaurants, organic garden, culinary school, winery and an 18-hole golf course designed by Tom Weiskopf. 

What stands out about Casa Biondi?

“The home itself is beautiful, but the Castiglion del Bosco estate as a whole is very impressive. The estate encompasses 45 acres, almost 75% of which are blanketed in vineyards and forests. Il Borgo, the heart of the complex, was an old village that fell into disrepair before it was refashioned into a luxury resort – you can still see the remains of the castle walls built in the early 13th century. It's private, too, tucked away on a hill 10-15 minutes down a winding pathway. I can't imagine a better place for an all-inclusive Tuscan getaway.” – Jennifer, Villa Marketing

“During my 3 days at Castiglione del Bosco, I was completely spoiled and treated like family from the staff. We all ate dinner, shared stories, laughed and drank the best wine I’ve ever tasted in my life. I can’t wait to go back!” – Yvette, Villa Concierge

Are you interested in a renting a private luxury villa? Contact us at 800.289.0900 where a qualified villa expert will help you explore which luxury villa best suits you.