The European Villas Collection

Exclusive Resorts specializes in luxury European holidays with a curated collection of one-of-a-kind luxury private villas and apartments that come with a personal local host for a true insider experience. Our diverse portfolio of exclusive holiday homes features multi-bedroom residences across Europe. Every one of our residences is scouted and handpicked by The Experience Collection Team for its uniqueness and sense of place in every destination. Additionally, Members are in the best hands with seasoned local hosts who meticulously curate each getaway based on specific interests and preferences. Explore our team's recommendations and not-to-be-missed experiences within The European Villas Collection.

ALGARVE, PORTUGAL

The Algarve hits differently in summer — less about hidden beaches (everyone’s found them) and more about long, rosé-soaked lunches, tee times with Atlantic views, and a rising culinary scene that goes well beyond bacalhau. Score a table at Ocean (two Michelin stars and a view that steals the show), or slip into Barbosa for a modern Iberian menu that whispers Lisbon cool. Golfers can chase bragging rights at Quinta do Lago South or Monte Rei, where Jack Nicklaus left his golden touch. Dive the EDP Art Reef, a submerged sculpture garden by artist Vhils that’s redefining underwater cool. Catch the Arrifana Sunset Fest, where DJs, seafood, and golden hour collide on a cliffside beach. Hike the Seven Hanging Valleys Trail for heart-shaped rock vistas and Instagram’s favorite coastline. Tip: arrive hungry and with a healthy respect for sunset. They last forever here — and demand toasts accordingly.

AMALFI COAST, ITALY

The Amalfi Coast isn’t about checking sights off a list — it’s about slipping into a lemon-scented haze of dolce far niente and doing it well. Charter a vintage Riva to Capri for a long lunch at Da Paolino under the lemon trees, or skip the crowds and head to Anacapri, where chic is subtler and the sandals are custom-made. For history that hits hard, we’ll get you past the lines at Pompeii and straight to the marble-clad treasures at Naples’ Museo Archeologico. Hike the Sentiero dei Limoni from Minori to Maiori, a citrus-scented path with sweeping sea views. Catch a jazz set in Amalfi’s Piazza Duomo during the Summer Fest. Swim beneath the arched bridge at Fiordo di Furore, a natural fjord with cinematic appeal. Sip limoncello at Villa Cimbrone’s Terrace of Infinity in Ravello, where marble busts guard the cliff’s edge. And if you’re smart, you’ll end the day with a pizza from L’Antica Pizzeria da Michele — yes, that one.

THE COTSWOLDS, ENGLAND

Forget the “Tuscany of England” comparison — The Cotswolds is its own brand of countryside chic, where Soho Farmhouse sets the tone and the royals holiday just down the lane. Start your morning with a cruffin at Daylesford Organic, then wander the shops in Burford and Stow-on-the-Wold for antiques and high-thread-count homewares. Swing by the Bamford Spa for a detox that feels anything but rustic. Catch a play at the Barn Theatre in Cirencester or lose an afternoon in the gardens at Hidcote. Design your own signature scent at the Cotswold Perfumery in Bourton-on-the-Water, where bespoke fragrance workshops are the new luxury souvenir. Unwind at Scenic Sauna Northleach, an outdoor woodland sauna and ice bath spa alternative nestled in nature, offering a tranquil escape in the heart of The Cotswolds. And for a touch of the unexpected, explore the nuclear bunker hidden beneath Broadway Tower, a Cold War relic offering a unique glimpse into history.

COURCHEVEL, FRANCE

Courchevel doesn’t just raise the bar for ski destinations — it sets a new standard for winter luxury. Set within Les Trois Vallées — the world’s largest linked ski area — this French resort town delivers powder perfection and polished indulgence.

Mornings are for carving corduroy across 370 miles of terrain; afternoons call for long lunches of bubbling fondue, boutique browsing in Courchevel 1650, or a restorative massage.

The Club’s ski-in/ski-out residences offer a front-row seat to it all, seamlessly blending the comfort of a private chalet with access to the resort’s most refined experiences. It’s winter at its most effortless and elevated. Not to mention, it's on the Epic Pass.

CORFU, GREECE

Corfu’s Old Town, about an hour from your villa, is a knot of streets and alleys that wind through Venetian and Neoclassical houses painted pale yellow and orange — it’s a beautiful walk. Feeling the call of the ocean? Book a sailing or speed boat to spend the day swimming (float in the saltwater of the Ionian Sea), snorkeling, fishing, or enjoying a meal in one of the quiet bays of Koloura or Agni.

Speaking of food, Corfiot cuisine is famous for its Mediterranean character with Venetian influence. Try Sofritos, a trademark dish, which consists of fried thin slices of beef cooked with white sauce, garlic, pepper, white wine, vinegar, and parsley.

Crete, Greece

Crete’s culinary scene is a love letter to its land. Begin with Peskesi, where every ingredient tells a story. Their slow-roasted lamb, cooked in a clay pot, is a revelation. Merastri, set in a charming location with views of the sea, celebrates traditional Cretan recipes. Wood-fired bread, freshly caught fish, and local graviera cheese paired with thyme honey offer a simple yet heavenly bite, capturing the essence of the island.

DUBROVNIK, CROATIA

Walk the perimeter of the city walls to take in Dubrovnik’s unique architecture and the clear Adriatic Sea. Game of Thrones fan? Much of the series was filmed in Dubrovnik, and Members can visit sites from specific scenes or hire a Game of Thrones guide for all the insider details.

For the most mesmerizing view of the Dalmatian Coast, embark on a private boat tour and cruise among the Elaphiti Isles, which have been home to captains and sailors since the Dubrovnik Republic. Don't hesitate to jump in and explore the crystal-clear seas on a stop in a hidden bay (you can even dive into underwater caves).

And when you’ve worked up an appetite, dive into some oysters. In the peninsula towns of Ston and Mali Ston, famed for their 14th-century city walls and Roman-era saltpans, you can accompany a local fisherman on an oyster harvest, followed by a lunch prepared before your very eyes.

FLORENCE, ITALY

One of the most cultural and historic cities in the world, Florence is packed with many must-sees. Here’s our shortlist: the Florence Cathedral (Duomo), Palazzo Vecchio, Ponte Vecchio, Uffizi Palace and Gallery, and Galleria dell'Accademia di Firenze — the home of Michelangelo’s David sculpture.

For a great view, visit San Miniato al Monte, located on a hill on the far side of the Arno River (for those more energetic, you can rent a bike and cycle two miles up). Florence is renowned for its leather markets, so be sure to visit Santa Croce and the market near San Ambrogio for a variety of leather goods, including jackets, purses, bags, and gifts.

Need a snack? All’Antico Vinaio, a two-minute walk from the Palazzo Vecchio, is the go-to place for an epic sandwich.

LAKE COMO, ITALY

The best way to settle into lake life? A private boat tour, of course. You’ll pass many attractions, including Bellagio, Varenna, Tremezzo with the splendid gardens of Villa Carlotta, the Villa del Balbianello (which you’ll recognize from Casino Royale and Star Wars 2), and Isola Comacina, the only Island on the lake (it has a charming restaurant, too).

Of course, a trip to Lake Como isn’t complete without a visit to Como itself, Italy’s silk capital and the birthplace of Alessandro Volta, inventor of the battery (you can visit museums for both). The charming village of Bellagio, the 'Pearl' of Lake Como, is home to silk and leather shops if you feel like shopping.

Swing by Villa Serbelloni and the Roccafella Centre, and take in the stunning lakeside gardens at Villa Melzi, which was beloved by Napoleon. If you go to Bellagio by private boat, you can stay for the evening and enjoy the live music in any of the many bars and restaurants.

LISBON, PORTUGAL

Lisbon’s family-friendly Tram 28 is the perfect way to explore the city’s iconic architecture and give your feet a break from cobblestone streets and endless hills. For a history lesson, head to Belém, and fuel up with a pastel de nata from the Pastéis de Belém bakery. Then make your way to Belém Tower on the Tagus River — a monument to Portugal’s power in the 1500s.

Climb up to the top for amazing views before heading to Jerónimos Monastery, a place known for spiritual protection for sailors and explorers during the Portuguese Age of Discovery. (Take note of the mix of nautical, religious, and royal symbols sculpted into the stonework.)

Up for a day trip? Sintra, located half an hour away, is set amidst the mythical Mountains of the Moon and home to baroque churches, colorful mansions, and the grand palaces of former Portuguese kings and queens. Check out Pena Palace and its lush, surrounding grounds — even the drive through the windy, wooded roads to get there is an experience.

MARBELLA, SPAIN

Marbella, Spain’s sun-drenched gem on the Costa del Sol, is where Mediterranean glamour meets Andalusian spirit. Backed by the Sierra Blanca mountains and fringed with golden beaches, this coastal escape blends high style with deep-rooted charm. Moorish history lingers in cobblestone alleys, while world-class chefs reimagine tapas in palm-shaded courtyards.

Designer boutiques and buzzy beach clubs bring energy to every afternoon, while tucked-away plazas promise slower pleasures — sangria, sea breezes, and the rhythm of Spanish guitars.

From the superyachts of Puerto Banús to the whitewashed elegance of the Casco Antiguo, Marbella balances indulgence with authenticity.

PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC

Prague is a beautiful, walkable city right on the Vltava River. Many relate it to having beauty equal to Paris, for its quaint streets and natural beauty are hard to miss.

Nicknamed “the City of a Hundred Spires,” it's known for its Old Town Square, the heart of its historic core, with colorful baroque buildings, Gothic churches, and the medieval Astronomical Clock, which gives an animated hourly show.

With its gorgeous architecture, cobblestone streets, and fairytale features, Prague is perfect for beach-weary travelers who want to immerse themselves and get lost in its history.

PROVENCE, FRANCE

Start your day in Provence (we recommend Wednesday!) with a trip to the St. Remy market to stock up on some fine French delicacies, beautiful souvenirs (soaps, baskets, and fabrics), and gourmet items. Stay a little longer and explore the village. The old town, with its winding streets, fountains, archways, and intriguing mix of traditional shops and upscale boutiques, is certainly St. Rémy's main attraction.

You may also wish to discover Les Antiques (the Roman ruins of Glanum), and for art lovers, explore the views which inspired some of Van Gogh's most famous works when he was a patient at the clinic of the Cloître St. Paul le Mausolée is a must. We suggest bringing some delicacies home with you for a light dinner or a barbecue on your terrace. 

Another must — venture west of the Rhone to embark on a pleasant country hike culminating at the 2,000-year-old Pont du Gard, a stunning (and photogenic) ancient Roman aqueduct that spans the Gard River. A short transfer takes you into nearby Uzés, a delightful Provencale village, for lunch and some shopfront browsing.

PUGLIA, ITALY

Take a day trip to the vibrant town of Monopoli, where basilicas, piazzas, and museums await amidst a breathtaking coastal setting. Stroll along the Lungamore Promenade, which hugs the Adriatic Sea, before indulging in delicious pizza at Piazzetta 10 and heavenly gelato at Caruso in Piazza Garibaldi.

For beach enthusiasts, the park's impressive 86-mile coastline offers endless summer days. Brave explorers can embark on the thrilling 13-mile Trail of the Four Beaches, connecting the town's best attractions.

Delve into Monopoli's captivating history, wandering through ancient Greek-built streets, admiring whitewashed architecture, and relishing local vino at the charming Vinarìa bar. In Lecce, a Baroque gem, marvel at architectural wonders like the Basilica of Santa Croce, the Church of St. Irene, and Sant'Oronzo Square, where cream-filled pasticciotto beckons. Discover the essence of Puglian countryside at Masseria Potenti's Working Farm, a farmhouse hotel-restaurant surrounded by olive groves, vineyards, and aromatic herbs — a menu-less dining experience in the open air.

Lastly, embark on a scenic road trip from Otranto to Santa Maria di Leuca, tracing the enchanting heel of Italy's boot. This two-hour drive unveils breathtaking vistas, including the iconic Punta Palascia Lighthouse, the captivating Zinzulusa Cave, and the historic Torre Minervino watchtower from the 16th century.

SAN SEBASTIAN, SPAIN

Rooted in Basque tradition and known as the Pearl of the Cantabrian Sea, San Sebastian possesses a unique beach-mountain magic. Explore your surroundings with a stroll along La Concha Beach’s promenade for views from Mount Urgul, Igeldo, or Ulia.

Got a pirate enthusiast in your life? Work up an appetite discovering picturesque pirate villages via St. James Way. And now for the food: gastronomy is both an art and identity for San Sebastian (in fact, it’s the second city with the most Michelin stars in the world).

Take a Pintxo (tapas) tour to get a taste for it on a more local level and discover the city’s greatest culinary secrets. Toast with 'Txakoli', which is a sparkling white wine from coastal vineyards, a cider from traditional apple trees, or a glass of red from the famous region of La Rioja.

If you have time, travel The Corniche Route, only 15 minutes from San Sebastian, into France. It’s a historic and sensorial journey — think Belle Époque, pirates, 1950s Hollywood surfers, markets, pintxos, oysters, wine, cheese, and chocolate.

SEVILLE, SPAIN

Seville isn’t just the soul of Andalusia — it’s a city that seduces the senses. Flamenco rhythms spill into the streets, the scent of orange blossoms drifts through sun-warmed courtyards, and Moorish arches whisper centuries-old stories.

Mornings begin with crispy tostadas and café con leche; afternoons call for wandering the winding alleys of Santa Cruz or lingering by the Guadalquivir. By night, tapas bars hum with life, and spontaneous guitar strums echo through hidden plazas.

The Club’s four-bedroom residences offer a peaceful retreat in the heart of it all, just steps from the Alcázar and the Cathedral. Whether it’s your first time or your fifth, Seville invites you to slow down, stay awhile, and fall in love all over again.

SICILY, ITALY

A stay in Sicily has so much to offer, from the historic to the aquatic to the culinary. One sight (in fact, a UNESCO World Heritage Site) you won’t want to miss: the Hellenic ruins of the Valley of The Temples, one of the best-preserved archaeological sites of the ancient world which stands on a breezy hilltop overlooking the Ionian Sea. Glimpse the famous Doric temples, bathed in the Sicilian sun and surrounded by ancient, gnarled olive trees, and you’ll understand why this is arguably the most significant Greek ruin outside of Greece.

Other must-sees include the ancient Greek temple and Roman amphitheater at Segesta, along with the historic Erice, a 40-minute drive from Segesta. It’s a wonderfully preserved Medieval town that towers 751m above sea level and offers breathtaking views and a palpable sense of history. Feeling nautical? Take a half-day boat trip to La Scala dei Turchi, an incredible white marble cliff into which centuries of rain and wind have carved a natural staircase.

Framing the clear blue of the sea, it’s nearly impossible to describe its beauty. And every meal counts in Sicily, of course, but what if you could eat that way all the time? Perhaps you can — as an Exclusive Resorts Member, you’ll experience a Sicilian cooking class as part of your villa stay where you’ll learn how to make some of Verdura’s most popular dishes with the freshest local ingredients, often including Sciacca’s catch of the day, greens hand-picked from our vegetable garden, and oranges and olives plucked from our trees.