The Best Private Villas Around the World

Our favourite private villa resorts combine seclusion with cultural immersion, and Pa Sak Tong is a prime example. Located in Chiang Rai at the northern tip of Thailand, it has two vast villas – one with six bedrooms and the other with nine. The property is only available for exclusive use, so you’ll have the whole estate to yourself.

Although it might be tempting to stay put and enjoy the on-site gardens, pavilions and spas, we highly suggest exploring the surrounding mountains, visiting local hill tribes and perhaps even taking a day trip to Laos.

If you’re looking for the best beach villas in the world, head to the quiet coastline north of Phuket. You’ll find Iniala Beach House right on the sandy shores of Natai Beach, offering all the benefits of a luxury beach resort with an extra layer of privacy.

The three-bedroom villas have space for up to six adults and two children, while the one-bedroom pool residences are great for couples or smaller families. The signature Villa Bianca even includes a private spa area.

Escape to the mountains of rural Japan with a stay at Sasayuri-Ann. This remote property boasts two traditional villas and tranquil gardens. It’s a fantastic choice if you’re interested in Japanese culture; you can enjoy an authentic tea ceremony, a shakuhachi (bamboo flute) lesson and kaiseki cuisine prepared by a Michelin-starred chef.

Sasayuri-Ann is conveniently close to Osaka (Japan’s culinary capital), Nara (famous for its friendly deer) and Iga and Koka (where the art of the ninja originated).

Åmot is a family-owned estate transformed into luxury accommodation, with a 19th-century villa and cottage that together can host up to 14 guests. Its location amid the pristine peaks, valleys, glaciers and waterways of the Norwegian fjords lends it a singular sense of calm.

Spend your days here exploring the unspoilt wilderness around you on foot, by bicycle or by boat, then curl up by the fireplace in the cosy lounge area or soak your sore muscles in the outdoor hot tub.

If you’ve ever dreamed of living in a rustic village in the hills of Tuscany, Borgo Pignano should be your next destination. This charming estate offers eight private villas, each with its own swimming pool, an electric buggy for exploring the grounds and personal concierge service.

The villas are complemented by various maisonettes, rooms and suites, making the property feel like its own little community. Guests of all ages will be thoroughly entertained with horse riding, biking, painting classes, artisanal workshops, wine tasting, truffle hunting and more.

Set in the heart of the Alentejo region, the two private villas at Herdade da Malhadinha Nova invite you to slow down and savour each moment of your stay. Casa da Ribeira has three spacious suites, each with its own balcony, while the two-bedroom Casa das Artes e Ofícios is an homage to artisanal craftsmanship.

Herdade da Malhadinha Nova’s efforts to preserve local cultural heritage and protect the surrounding ecosystems have earned it a spot in our Positive Impact Collection as well.

Every detail at Montemar reflects its ethos of sustainability, which is fitting considering its setting: the territory of the famous Galápagos giant tortoises on the island of Santa Cruz. Its two private villas are environmentally friendly and exquisitely luxurious, built from local materials in a minimalist style that prioritises natural light and outdoor space. 

Montemar has its own coffee plantation and organic farm, and offers a long list of nature-focused activities, wellness experiences and family-friendly fun for all generations.

Casa Oropéndola is among the best villas in the world for nature lovers. It encourages you to go off the grid; instead of staring at a screen, gaze out at the mist-shrouded slopes of Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta from a swaying hammock, or take in ocean views as you dine on local delicacies prepared by your personal chef.

Speaking of cuisine, you can pass the time with private cooking lessons and coffee harvesting. And if you’re feeling adventurous, head out on guided nature walks, go birdwatching or try a yoga session.

We can’t imagine a more dazzling desert-island destination than Islas Secas, a volcanic archipelago off the coast of Panama. Only one of the islands is developed, and just barely; there’s only a handful of intimate casitas and the stunning private villa of Casa Cavada.

Casa Cavada is truly immense, with four bedrooms, a large infinity pool, a private beach and phenomenal service from a dedicated house manager, private chef and full staff. It’s not hard to see why this is one of our travel designers’ favourite private island resorts.

Lengishu House promises all the magic of a classic safari plus the comforting embrace of a family home. Its four separate cottages include six bedrooms, making it a great option for friends or extended families who want a bit of extra privacy for each part of the group. 

Its location in Kenya’s malaria-free Borana Conservancy also makes Lengishu a particularly good choice for families with small children – not to mention anyone who’s hoping to spot the Big Five and endangered species like the black rhino and Grevy’s zebra.

Family safaris in the Serengeti are made simple at Mkombe’s House. With space for up to four adults and six children, it’s the only self-contained private villa in the national park. Here you can craft your own itinerary each day depending on your family members’ interests and moods, eliminating any potential stress.

Experiences include private game drives, bush walks for teenagers and adults and age-appropriate adventures for younger guests. Thoughtful touches like a kiddie pool and securely enclosed children’s rooms promise both fun and peace of mind for everyone.

One thing we love about safari camps is how they fully immerse you in the natural world. Chongwe River House captures that feeling while also providing the privacy and comfort of a luxury villa. It’s designed to blend into the beauty of the Lower Zambezi; the decor includes river pebbles and tree branches, while open-air bathtubs allow you to relax and enjoy nature at once.

Children of all ages are welcome at Chongwe River House. WiFi is limited and there’s no phone service – which can be an unexpected benefit if you feel like truly disconnecting for a while.