Taking each day at your own pace, private pools to play in and plenty of space for all: a villa stay is a sure winner when it comes to a family escape.
For a home-away-from-home experience with all the luxuries of a hotel, a villa stay simply can't be beaten – especially for families seeking a sense of seclusion away from other guests.
There are countless benefits to opting for a villa stay, from starting and ending the day at your own pace, eating in as and when you please after fun-packed days and, often, splashing around in your private pool. These villa stays allow the whole family to kick back, relax and melt into a slice of paradise, whether you're travelling with little ones or planning a much-needed adult reunion.
Bali: AYANA Villas Bali, Jimbaran
Located on 90 hectares of clifftop gardens above Jimbaran and offering private access to the secluded white-sand Kubu Beach Club, AYANA Villas Bali is the epitome of a luxe family hideaway. A collection of one and two-bedroom villas awaits, all offering their own private pool and personal butler – so you don’t even need to venture out into the resort. You’d be missing out, though – cocktails await at the world-famous Rock Bar, complete with jaw-dropping views of the Indian Ocean, while 11 onsite restaurants invite you to sample Balinese, Mexican, Italian, Chinese and Mediterranean flavours. Hop between the private white-sand beach and the 14 shimmering pools or relax and recharge in the aquatonic heated salt-water hydrotherapy pool and AYANA Spa.
QLD, Australia: Essence Peregian Beach, Sunshine Coast
From two-bed apartments to a five-bedroom house with a private pool, Essence Peregian Beach has the perfect villa for groups and families of any size. Located just a short stroll from the pristine Peregian Beach, this brand-new destination flips the traditional self-contained stay on its head: here, you'll find all the luxuries of a resort with two heated pools (one with a bar), a restaurant and more, all showcasing achingly chic, coastal-inspired design. Just under a 20-minute drive from Sunshine Coast airport, Peregian Beach offers a quieter alternative to the hustle and bustle of Noosa while still retaining the restaurants, shopping and seaside charm of its popular neighbour.
Thailand: W Koh Samui, Koh Samui
W Koh Samui, a shining jewel of a resort on one of Thailand's most sought-after paradise islands, provides the ultimate haven for those after an intimate escape –with the option of joining in on resort fun. Settle into your choice of private pool villas with one, two or four bedrooms, all home to W Hotel's signature bold, quirky and stylish interior decor. The pet-friendly policy also means furry family members can join in the fun. While the villas provide a secluded retreat, a state-of-the-art gym, rooftop infinity pool, outdoor cinema, tennis court, dreamy spa and seriously stylish restaurants and bars (as to be expected from the W brand) deliver lively fun.
Bali: Prasana by Arjani Resorts, Uluwatu
Uluwatu is undeniably one of the more popular regions in Bali, with bustling markets and pumping eateries at every corner. Returning home to a private, calm and quiet oasis after a day of dizzying sightseeing is the ultimate way to decompress. Perched above the treetops on the southern tip of the island, staying at Prasana by Arjani Resorts offers a sense of tranquility, with the onsite Menaka Spa and Whim restaurant offering indulgence drawn on ancient techniques: you may never want to leave the comfort of the resort.
Maldives: Pullman Maldives Maamutaa
Travel doesn't get much dreamier than the Maldives, and Pullman Maldives Maamutaa is a top choice for pure indulgence at your own pace. Suspended on turquoise waters, these private villas each include a pool overlooking the Indian Ocean. Wake up, open the blinds and step into the lagoon to make the most of each morning in paradise. For those who prefer the land to the sea, a choice of beach villas – perfect for families with little ones – are on offer. Two and four-bedroom upgrades are available, or for larger groups, an ultra-exclusive residence for up to eight guests.
Greece: Aegea Blue Cycladic Resort, Andros
Live your best Mediterranean life at Aegea Blue Cycladic Resort in Andros, Greece, with a chilled-out stay in the spacious Blue Villa Sea View three-bedroom abode. The spectacular resort has a beachside location above Zorgos Beach and resembles a traditional Cycladic village with traditional stone walls, olive groves and an amphitheatre. Andros is the closest of the Greek Islands to Athens, reached in just under a two-hour boat ride. Start the day with yoga overlooking the shimmering ocean or hike the rolling hills before ending with a meal made from local ingredients at the hotel restaurant. For a cosy night in, light the fireplace and watch it burn all night with the family.
NSW, Australia: Sanctuary in the Pocket, Byron Bay Hinterland
The whole family is invited to find their zen at Sanctuary in the Pocket, a Bali-inspired hideaway in the Byron Bay hinterland. Two spacious two-bedroom villas beckon you to while away the hours cooling off in the private plunge pool, relaxing in the spa, stretching out on the private deck, swinging on the hanging chairs or enjoying the use of fully equipped kitchens and BBQ areas. A mere 15-minute drive from the ocean, Sanctuary in the Pocket offers exotic botanical gardens and rural tranquility, yet easy access to the cafes and restaurants of Brunswick Heads and Mullumbimby, and the spectacular beaches of New Brighton and South Golden.
Caribbean: The Liming Bequia, Bequia
Indulge in the very best kind of barefoot luxury at The Liming Bequia, where pearly, palm-fringed sands and the azure waters of the Caribbean beckon from your private villa. The resort boasts nine beautifully designed villas and suites, each with a private infinity pool or hot tub. Nestled in Saint Vincent and Grenadines, the Eden-like Bequia measures only seven square miles with fewer than 5,000 residents: perfect for a serene, paradisiacal family escape.
Looking for more inspiration? See Bali with Kids: 7 Experiences to Keep the Whole Family Entertained.
Feature image: The Liming Bequia, Caribbean.
