5 European villa escapes with Oliver’s Travels

Italian villas surrounded by countryside and coast

Italy’s villas often reflect the landscape around them. In regions like Tuscany, restored farmhouses sit among vineyards and olive groves, with large kitchens, shaded terraces, and private pools designed for slow afternoons outdoors. Many properties sleep between ten and 14 guests, giving groups plenty of room to spread out. In Puglia, white stone homes and traditional trulli offer a different architectural style, while along the Amalfi Coast, you’ll find villas positioned above the sea with sweeping terraces.

Spanish villas made for outdoor living

The best of Spain’s villas tend to centre around outdoor living. On the Balearic Islands – particularly Mallorca and Ibiza – traditional fincas sit on spacious plots with generous pool areas, outdoor kitchens, and shaded terraces for dining. On the mainland, the Costa del Sol offers contemporary homes close to beaches and lively coastal towns, so it’s easy to balance quiet time at the villa with days out exploring local restaurants, markets, and marinas.

French villas set in historic countryside

In France, many villas are found in rural regions where historic homes have been carefully restored into spacious holiday properties. In places such as Provence and Dordogne, villas often come with large gardens, private pools, and interiors that blend traditional features with modern comforts. It’s common to find properties sleeping ten or more guests, making them perfect for extended family trips or celebrations.

Croatian villas along the Adriatic Coast

Croatia’s villa scene is closely tied to its coastline. Along the Dalmatian Coast and islands like Hvar, many villas are modern in design, with clean lines, large windows, and terraces facing the Adriatic. Most sleep between eight and 12 guests and often include infinity pools and outdoor lounges built for sea views. From these locations, it’s easy to explore historic harbour towns, take boat trips between islands, or spend the day swimming in clear waters just minutes from your villa.

Portuguese villas near beaches and vineyards

Portugal offers a mix of coastal retreats and quieter countryside stays. In the Algarve, villas typically sleep eight to 12 guests and are often located close to sandy beaches, golf courses, and relaxed seaside towns. Their large terraces and private pools make them well-suited to long days in the sun. Further north, the Douro Valley offers a very different setting, where villas overlook vineyards and the winding river below. It’s a great base for exploring local wineries and the food traditions that make this region so well known.

To escape to your next villa getaway, speak to your personal Travel Counsellor today.