For most of us, a quick getaway involves a weekend in Blackpool riding the rollercoaster and gorging on ice cream while strolling along the pier. The rich and famous, however, can afford to do things a little differently. Infinity pools, personal butlers and glass floors that gaze down into the sea are just a few of the incredible features that the wealthy can enjoy when relaxing on vacation, and private helicopters and gourmet chefs are included as standard. The following vacation properties are among the most expensive rentals in the world, and each one offers guests a decadent experience that will make real life seem boring by comparison.
La Danse des Etoiles – St Barts
St Barts has long been known as the playground of the wealthy, and the La Danse des Etoiles villa will impress even the most discerning billionaire. This jaw-dropping five bedroom property looks out onto a beautifully landscaped garden and offers panoramic views of the clear blue ocean and surrounding islands. Guests can stay in one of five bedrooms and swim in the 70-foot infinity pool while watching the sunset with a glass of champagne.
A night at the La Danse des Etoiles villa will cost £6,420 per night, and guests can expect to pay double price during the Christmas period. For more luxury rental properties situated a little closer to home, you can visit www.GPees.co.uk.
Private Island – Porto Frado, Brazil
Porto Frado is a tiny island resort that belongs to the municipality of Angra Dos Reis located in the southern part of Rio de Janeiro. Those that desire a bit of peace and quiet can stay in one of four bungalows on the largest resort on the island that boasts in-house chefs, private pools and climate controlled wine cellars. The island is only accessible by boat and is a favourite haunt of celebrities that wish to escape from the paparazzi.
Guests can stay in one of seven bedrooms spread out over four bungalows which are built on stilts hovering over the sea. Each hut has a small section of the floor carved out and replaced with thick glass to give guests the opportunity to watch the tropical fish swimming by under their feet. As long as you can manage the £6,192 per night price tag, the stunning resort of Porto Frado can be all yours.
Megeve Chalet – France
If you’re planning a skiing holiday this winter, then consider the opulent Megeve Chalet in Mont Blanc, France. This sprawling holiday home is divided into one huge chalet for the hosts and a smaller guest chalet to offer plenty of privacy for guests. For just £17,143 per night, you and eleven others can stay in unrivalled luxury in this seven-bedroomed paradise that features its own helipad for those dramatic entrances.
The chalet is situated atop a piste offering guests the chance to ski in and out. After a hard day’s skiing, you can relax in the heated infinity pool, watch a movie in the home cinema or sit down to a sumptuous menu prepared by your very own chef. If you’re still feeling stressed, a trip to the indoor pool and spa completed with massage room and hammam should do the trick. A heated outdoor lounge area is also provided so guests can sip cocktails while marvelling at the stunning mountain scenery.
Norton House – England
Those that enjoy a truly British vacation can stay at the magnificent Norton house in Cheltenham, England. This regal manor house boasts a 2000 acre estate complete with lakes, woodlands and springs and even a private church. There is plenty of entertainment available including croquet, tennis, horse riding and an outdoor pool. For £3,143 per night, you and your guests can enjoy a very civilised vacation in the heart of the English countryside. Norton House is a popular destination for weddings and can comfortably house a bridal party of up to 20 people in its seven bedrooms.
If snow-topped mountains and tropical islands are not your style, then there are plenty of other options available. Destinations such as Bahrain and Dubai offer some truly amazing hotel accommodations in ultra-modern surroundings. There are also a number of underwater hotels to choose from in scenic destinations such as Fiji and the Maldives. Guests can sleep with the fishes in luxury before resurfacing to explore some of the most beautiful beaches the world has to offer.
John Blackburn works in luxury travel planning and enjoys being able to offer his suggestions on where to head for a memorable getaway. He writes on a regular basis for a number of travel websites.
