Holidays offering the beauty of the mediterranean at your doorstep

The birthplace of modern western civilisation, with vestiges of storied archaeological and architectural wonders, perfect weather, diverse cuisine that is as healthy as it is delicious, friendly outgoing locals, spectacular natural scenery, including some of the finest beaches in the world and the overwhelming sense that this is how life should be lived... it's little wonder the countries of the Mediterranean have captured our imaginations for so long, and why so many of us fantasize about enjoying the regenerative qualities of this fabulous region on our next holiday. 

In Spain alone you can experience a Mediterranean coastline which, having wound its way around the little Catalan villages, pine forests and coves of the magical Costa Brava, extends out past Barcelona and Sitges, down the endless stretches of sand that make up the Costa Dorada, all the way to the Costa Blanca, passing splendid sleepy pueblos blancos en route to the Costa del Sol, where the historic city of Malaga welcomes you to the sultry southern region of Andalucia, where you are greeted with the sound of flamencos, the scent of freshly made tapas and the sight of the deep blue sea. That's not forgetting the rustic island paradises of the Ibiza, Mallorca and Menorca, where rocky inlets and pine topped hills meet some of the clearest, most pleasant waters you could hope to find anywhere. While the oft-overlooked Balearic island of Formentera lends its paradisiacal beaches and unspoiled beauty for those who wish to live out their castaway fantasies. 

Then there is the rightly romanticised lands of Italy, where the laid back pace of life mingles with perhaps the most celebrated gastronomy in the world, a lively, passionate culture, breathtaking natural scenery and ancient monuments that are the envy of almost every country the world over. All of this coupled with the warm glistening waters of the Mediterranean sea. 

Onward to the countless islands and regal elegance of Croatia's Dalmatian coast, where white sun-drenched villas look out over the cobalt blue sea, and the endlessly fascinating city of Dubrovnik sits like a pearl offered up buy the very same sea. 

Then there is the glitzy Cote d'Azur and the rugged beauty of Corsica, an island of such wild contrasts that it seems to encapsulate everything so beloved of the Med in one almost primordial island paradise. 

Finally, in Greece you can visit the sites from which are drawn so many of the myths and fables that make up Western civilization, surrounded by chains of storied isles and olive treed hills, cosy tavernas, stunning ancient ruins, delicious, colourful dishes of sun-ripened fruits and vegetables alongside the catch of the day. This is the life we dream about and for a short time we are able to sample it. 

The very best luxury villas and country houses with private pools

At Villanovo we are as in love with these magnificent holiday destinations as you are. That is why we have been so careful to select the finest luxury villas for your holidays, incorporating the inherent charm of these glorious locations with our own keen eye for villas of the highest quality. Whether you're looking for a private villa with a pool, panoramic sea views or terraces nestled among lush greenery, our exclusive selection of prestigious villas has something for every taste and requirement.

Many of our Mediterranean beachfront villas come with the option of house staff, including private chefs, as well as the availability of our local concierge, to help take the stress out of arranging a holiday, leaving you more time to enjoy the break you deserve.