It’s that time of year again, the end-of-the-year holiday season, leaving you to decide between braving masses at favourite spots across the globe – or enjoying a more private environment where your celebrations are intimate and one-of-a-kind. For those that like tailor-made luxury, made-to-measure experiences and the pure pleasure of having an entire home to themselves – a villa rental is just the ticket.
Mountain Charm and Lakeside Retreats
The hills and lakes provide untamed settings for those traveling with a white Christmas or quiet, contemplative New Year’s Eve in mind. These villas offer a natural retreat that doesn’t mean sacrificing modern conveniences-o-love.
1. The Clairmont Cottage, Mukteshwar, Uttarakhand
If your idea of a perfect holiday is warming cup hot cocoa in front of the roaring fireplace as snowflakes flit past the window, The Clairmont Cottage may just be for you. Hidden amidst the Kumaon hills, this delightful and cosy cottage also commands spectacular views of the Himalayan peaks. Its size is perfect for a small family and close group of friends (about 6-7) people who prefer to stay at ease. Here, the focus is simplicity, fresh mountain air and the undisturbed togetherness. Consider hosting your own private, small Christmas dinner party featuring farm to table local produce followed by stargazing without the city noise.
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2. Eldora by the Lake, Karjat in Maharashtra
A short drive away from Mumbai and Pune, Karjat provides getaway vibes that are remarkably remote. Eldora by the Lake showcases this prescious mix, providing a beautiful waterfront property. This big (10-15 people) Italian villa boasts modern decor, wide lawns, and that all-important private pool (for the brave you can even have a festive dip in December!). With lush gardens overlooking the lake, it is the perfect spot for the new year’s eve spent with a barbecue and fires along with tranquil days and natural back drop to ring in New Year at night.
3. Serenity Shores, Alibaug, Maharashtra
Alibaug, just a short ferry ride away from Mumbai and easily accessible, continues to be popular for a weekend getaway. As the name indicates, Serenity Shores is a contemporary luxury villa made for easy living. This villa is ideal for a group of up to nine guests with its stylish interiors, pristine private pool and large green gardens. It’s the perfect space for that long, lazy Christmas brunch or a grown up pool party before December 31st. And, it is located near the beach enabling guests to enjoy time in private as well feel close enough to jump into the sea.
4. Tudor Rose, Panchgani, Maharashtra
Sitting proudly on the verdant valleys in Panchgani, Tudor Rose’s colonial era ambience is nothing short of stately. With five bedrooms, it’s spacious enough for a very large group—with 10-12 guests in your party—making it the ideal option for a multi-family blowout. The villa’s frills often feature a dedicated caretaker, acres of outside space and (in some instances) a pet-friendly policy – no man gets left behind. Here, you really can re-enact a traditional, over-indulgent family holiday: there are board games and cooking sessions together Ashok Kumar Hamlet The Washington Post views from the water tanks (a short walk away).
5. Estate de Escobar, Goa
Goa No round-up of year-end getaways can be without Goa. And for the ultimate New Year’s bash, Estate de Escobar offers a luxury-party environment. Nestled in the countryside but also conveniently close to North Goa’s lively districts, this sprawling villa (up to 10 guests) comes with a sizeable private pool, devoted media or games room and access to the best beaches, bars and eateries that region has to offer. Perfect for the discerning guest that wants to partake in Goa’s world famous festive spirit but enjoy a deliciously peaceful rest when the party is over. There are more personal scenarios: It’s for having a private base camp to return to from all of your holiday adventures.
Opting for a private villa means that Christmas and New Year are on your terms, in your comfort and with who you want—in short, it’s what holidays should be like all the time.
