If you’re looking for a reason to escape to a luxurious tropical paradise in the next few months (or, say…tomorrow), the frigid Arctic vortex presently pummeling much of the U.S. is a compelling one—assuming the promise of warm sands, cool seas, breathtaking views and island breezes isn’t motivation enough. This winter, why not do as the glitterati do and rent a private villa with your family and friends? Besides exclusive locales and countless amenities, they offer unparalleled privacy and solitude, those most elusive of charms. Whether you’re looking for inspiration or ready to book a truly great escape, here are five extraordinary options for the ultimate destination house party.
My Way, St. Barth
Named for Frank Sinatra’s signature anthem, this uber-cool contemporary stunner—newly built and on the market for just a month—is located in Colombier, with sweeping views of Flamands Beach and the Caribbean Sea. The expansive outdoor living space, which includes a Jacuzzi that spills over into one of two heated infinity pools, will have you belting out a happy tune yourself, while a bright yellow Lego dining table on the covered terrace seats 18, perfect for a not-so-intimate dinner party.
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New to the villa rental market, My Way in St. Barth offers incomparable views of the Caribbean Sea.... [+]
The five en suite bedrooms, whimsically named for Ol' Blue Eyes himself, Sammy Davis Jr., Elvis Presley, Paul Anka and Nina Simone, feature king-size beds and his-and-hers dressing rooms. There’s a Sonos sound system for blasting the house collection of LPs in true audiophile style, while a grand piano in the living room lends a dramatic touch. Other perks include a professional-grade kitchen and an underground garage that accommodates 11 cars.
A palapa-style great room is a gorgeous gathering spot for margaritas and more at Casa Aramara.... [+]
Casa Aramara, Punta Mita, Mexico
Speaking of singing, if this five-star beachfront gem doesn’t leave you crooning James Taylor’s “Mexico,” chances are nothing will. Nestled amidst lush tropical gardens, the sprawling property, which recently hosted Kim Kardashian (but don't hold that against it), accommodates 20 and is comprised of three buildings, each of which houses four deluxe guest suites equipped with Wifi, Apple TV and a deluxe mini-bar. Amenities include a private white-sand beach that runs along the compound’s entire length, as well as two heated pools, three whirlpool spas, private tennis and basketball courts, and a 3-D movie theater for the rare rainy day. A member of the bilingual staff of 15 will be more than happy to make you an ice-cold margarita for sipping in the stylish palapa-style great room while you gaze out upon the Pacific Ocean, pondering your good fortune. And if you’re feeling peckish later, gather with your guests in the formal dining room for a world-class meal whipped up by two on-site gourmet chefs.
Cove Spring House in Barbados brings the outside in in unforgettable ways. (Photo courtesy of Luxury... [+]
Cove Spring House, Barbados
This 10-bedroom estate, perched on coral stone cliffs with panoramic views, is one of the grandest villas in Barbados and a study in sophisticated seclusion, having played host to a range of celebrities and titans of industry. While away the days frolicking in the clear turquoise waters of the private beach, sunbathing around the pool or exploring the landscaped gardens before retiring to the home’s 10 individually decorated bedrooms outfitted with king-size beds, walk-in closets, and satellite TV. In the evening, spacious verandas offer a spectacular setting for a tantalizing al fresco feast prepared by the on-site staff. There's also a tricked-out gym and a home theater, as well as three championship golf courses, two spas, and a tennis club just minutes away.
Guests can choose from five different homes on Musha Cay, David Copperfield's over-the-top island... [+]
Musha Cay at Copperfield Bay, Exuma, Bahamas
Located in the pristine Exuma Cays on Copperfield Bay (as in David, master illusionist and owner), Musha Cay is arguably the most luxurious private island in the world. With five separate homes decorated in a mix of English colonial-style architecture and laid-back tropical flair—including a 10,000-square-foot hilltop mansion and a charming guest villa—it’s the ideal set-up for a group getaway without too much togetherness (the best kind). Take the speedboat or Nautilus Rib catamaran for a spin, play tennis, paddleboard or decompress in the steam room during the day, or just veg out on one of the many expansive, handcrafted mahogany terraces in your chosen abode. In the evening, make your way to “The Landing,” the island’s main activity center, complete with a central dining room, bar and lounge, billiard room, and a viewing dock for taking in the spectacular sunsets.
White-sand beaches and five-star service are just two prime perks of The Sanctuary in Turks and... [+]
The Sanctuary, Turks and Caicos
A quiet stretch of powder-white sand on the ultra-exclusive island of Parrot Cay in Turks and Caicos is home to this singular property owned by fashion designer Donna Karan. The three-bedroom main house has an outdoor pool uniquely located on the first floor, while two four-bedroom guesthouses boast infinity pools and 360-degree water views from the second-floor master bedroom/living area. The décor includes cedar-paneled walls, teak furniture, walnut floors and limestone bathrooms, as well as eclectic antiques from Karan’s exotic sojourns. There’s also a screened-in guest pavilion flanked by a main pool where you can eat and watch movies, and plenty of outside terracing for relaxing under the Caribbean sun. Another formal dining area indoors seats up to 20 people, and personalized butler service provided by the award-winning Parrot Cay resort will leave you wanting for nothing.
