There’s no shortage of stellar hotels across the globe that are designed to make guests feel at home. But for those seeking somewhere particularly private or a little unconventional to spend a holiday, luxury-home rental is becoming an increasingly popular alternative.
It was with this in mind that, at the end of 2015, French entrepreneurs Olivier Cahané, Eliott Cohen-Skalli and Max Aniort launched Le Collectionist in the UK. The discreet home-rental service offers access to a specially chosen selection of premier properties ranging from chalets and castles to private islands, with the added benefit of a hotel-style concierge.
The company’s extensive online portfolio lists more than 1,500 private homes for rent in destinations including the French Riviera and Provence, Sardinia and Sicily, Thailand, the Caribbean, Indonesia and the Maldives, to name a few. Many of Le Collectionist’s properties are the second or holiday homes of high-profile individuals – so there are plenty with the ‘wow’ factor – and some are located on the world’s most spectacular coastlines.
Palais Bulles (the ‘Bubble Palace’), for example – arguably one of the quirkiest residences on the French Riviera – is currently owned by couturier Pierre Cardin. Situated in the town of Théoule-sur-Mer, near Cannes, the surrealist labyrinth of baked-clay domes overlooks the Gulf of La Napoule and comprises 10 unique suites, each decorated by a different artist and decked out with eccentric furniture ranging from moulded armchairs to circular beds. There’s also a 500-seat amphitheatre on site, which makes an impressive venue for a party or meeting.
(Image credit: Luca Sola)
Villa Giulia, on southern Italy’s Amalfi Coast.
More understated but equally extraordinary, Villa Oleden is located in the Caribbean-island group of Guadeloupe, minutes from the town of Sainte-Anne. Surrounded by a verdant 2500sq m garden, the contemporary U-shaped house is built around a large infinity pool with an enchanting view that seemingly disappears into Canot Cove. The villa sleeps up to 18 people – ideal for families or a large group of friends – and the interior features a spacious open-plan living area that leads to the central terrace and pool.
Those who favour classic over modern design should take a look at the listing for Villa Giulia, perched high on the Sorrentine Peninsula on southern Italy’s Amalfi Coast. The property’s interior is every bit as magnificent as its locale – its six en-suite bedrooms feature grand marquetry floors and ornate, coffered ceilings – and is studded with antique sculptures throughout. It also has a vast garden, which leads to a naturally formed private pool and a secret cave with direct access to the beach. From Villa Giulia’s imposing promontory, the view stretches from the Gulf of Naples to Mount Vesuvius. Guests need not settle for observing the latter from afar, though, as Le Collectionist’s expert concierge can arrange trips to climb the volcano and visit the historical city of Pompeii.
Villa Bilelmin, on the Greek island of Kea.
Another property steeped in history is Villa Bilelmin, located on the Greek island of Kea, a 20-minute drive from the ancient port of Korissia. Though the villa was built by architect and developer Christos Vlachos in 2011, the surrounding landscape has inspired authors since the 5th century BC, notably Simonides of Ceos, a lyric poet born on Kea island in 556BC, when it was named Coes. The villa is linked to the Aegean Sea by steps that lead to Kambi beach, and the building itself is designed to complement its beautiful yet rugged natural surrounds. Rough stone from the island has been used to construct the exposed walls, and sweeping floor-to-ceiling windows open on to dining and lounge terraces and two outdoor swimming pools that overlook the ocean.
Whatever your idea of an idyllic retreat may be, Le Collectionist has a property that will fit the bill.
