Goa and Kerala are best known for some of the country's finest beaches. The Dutch and Portuguese both left their mark on these coastal towns, which means you will find charming properties from simple, private houses right on the beach that one takes over exclusively, to sumptuous villas. Sri Lanka has a wealth of beautiful, colonial style villas on the coast and beautiful houses in the tea plantation regions. Bhutan offers gorgeous villas in Paro and Punakha.
Where? India (Kerala and Goa), Sri Lanka, Bhutan
If you ever wanted to explore the subcontinent but were keen to end the day at a private villa we now have various private houses dotted around the region. These are well suited for a family or group of friends looking for comfort with authenticity. For someone looking for luxury with extensive spa facilities, you will find these in South Goa and Kerala – they create all of the romance of a luxury boutique hotel, whilst having the amenities and vibrant attractions of a resort.
If you start your journey in Fort Cochin there is a beautiful, design inspired house in Cochin which has just three rooms which one could take over. Formally the Indian headquarters of the Dutch East India Company, it has been sensitively decorated with contemporary Indian artwork and antiques. Perfectly located within walking distance of the Fort, you can explore the charming town in your own time or with one of our knowledgeable guides.
Stay in a villa tucked away on the edge of the backwaters. The delightful 2-villas can be taken exclusively or as 2 separate houses. Complete with private pool and serene landscaping there is no better way to enjoy the beautiful surroundings and the gentle charm of South India. Fully staffed with a fantastic chef and your own rice barge to explore the peaceful backwaters.
Or drive up into the famous scenery of the Western Ghats with soaring, mist-covered mountains, dense jungle and an abundance of rubber, tea and spice plantations. Your stay would be in a privately owned and built in a style unique to Kerala. The grand, 18th-century Keralan-style house seems to glow in the evening light. It feels less like a hotel than the carefullymanaged home of a very cultured friend
Sri Lanka has an amazing range of private villas and hidden retreats. These places are always fully staffed and often very luxurious so they can feel in many ways like a private version of your own hotel. However, the personal touch and privacy afforded makes them a fantastic option. We have handpicked some stunning luxury villas in Sri Lanka, from glorious beaches villas from Bentota to Hambantota, to more tranquil inland bungalows and estates in the tea country.
The Kingdom of Bhutan is a fairytale land of emerald alpine ranges, misty valleys, prayer flags, fortress-like dzongs, chanting monks and gentle, deeply spiritual people. It has an intimate resort that features some of the most private villas available in Bhutan's beautiful Paro Valley. A quiet, wooded mountainside retreat, the property combines local craftsmanship with modern touches, including an award-winning restaurant, spa, pool and yoga studio.
Not all private villas in Bhutan offer such large living areas and expansive terraces as those found Paro or Punakha. With a separate living room, dressing room and bathroom, these elegant standalone houses have French windows opening up to the valley views from the bedroom. Outside, the villas have their own glade, where rhododendrons and hydrangeas frame the view from your terrace. From the bathtub, there are more dramatic valley views.
By Marcela Kunova - 20th April 2017
Nicola Shepherd, founder and CEO of The Exploration Company, organises unusual trips for HNW and UHNW clients ranging from birthday parties at an Indian Maharajah's palace to reliving Sir Vivian Fuchs's 1950s expedition to the South Pole. Citywealth caught ...
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