A luxury villla makes the perfect place to celebrate

Renting A Villa After Lockdown

As we navigate our way through the Covid-19 crisis, it’s widely understood that renting a villa provides a private space, protection and security that a hotel-based vacation simply cannot compare with.

As a family or small group of friends who have been isolating together that makes it a positive and entirely appropriate way to enjoy a holiday in a safe environment. A place that you can call your own.

Only last week, it looked unlikely that UK travellers would be able to enjoy a summer holiday overseas. Today it seems things are changing daily as our government unveils new plans and approaches to travel.

Now more than ever, considering a villa for a relaxing week or two in the sun, makes complete sense.

Here are a few reasons why:

  1. A private villa with your own pool offers a safe space for families and friends isolating in the sun.
  2. All the usual airlines including EasyJet, Jet2, Ryan Air & British Airways are open for bookings.
  3. Currently the cost of flights are very reasonable indeed.
  4. UK Government is now positively considering open skies and no isolation for July & August. More news will be released soon.
  5. The Algarve, parts of Spain and the Islands are ahead of the UK and now safely opening up restaurants, beaches and other facilities.
  6. On per person basis, renting a villa is surprisingly cost effective.

Although, things are moving very quickly, there is still availability in some exceptional villas for July, August, September & October.

If you’d like to discuss options and availability, call us now on 01625 581102

Deia Mallorca

A Brief Guide To Deia, Mallorca

The small village of Deià, on the northwest coast of Mallorca, is one of the most beautiful villages on the island. Nestled at the foot of the Teix mountain, with views across the Mediterranean, Deià has attracted a long list of famous artists, writers and other creative luminaries through the years, including the writer Robert Graves. The critically acclaimed novel, The Lemon Grove (penned by Helen Walsh on 2014) was inspired by, and set in, this naturally inspirational location.  Mallorca’s most treasured mountain village, Deià is also part of an area awarded ‘UNESCO World Heritage Site’ in recognition of its rich blend of nature and culture.

The village’s tranquil, picturesque charm makes it easy to understand why it was chosen as a location for the TV dramatisation of John Le Carré’s novel ‘The Night Manager’.

History & Culture

Early settlers in this area lived in caves in the hillside. In the tenth century, its Arab Rulers created a sophisticated drainage and irrigation system, which is still used today. They also gave the village its name, stemming from ‘ad daia’, meaning hamlet.

Following the crusades, three Roman-Catholic monasteries were built in and around Deià in the early 1200s. One monastery, Miramar was the location of a missionary school founded by famous philosopher Ramón Llull, which aimed to convert North African Muslims to Christianity.

In 1867, the Austrian Archduke Lluis Salvador, arrived in Mallorca, with the intention of producing an encyclopedia on the Balearic islands. Taken by the tranquillity and beauty in the area of Deià and Valldemossa, he bought a large area of land, banned tree felling and hunting within his grounds and began an ongoing process of conservation.

Whilst living at Miramar, Archduke Salvador created many paths, making the area particularly wonderful for walking and hiking. The marks of Salvador and Llull can still be seen today in the remains of the philosopher’s chapel at Miramar, and the palace of Son Marroig, which was restored by the duke.

The English poet and novelist Robert Graves first moved to Deià in the 1930s. To recover from the psychological effects of the Great War.  He left for England at the start of the Spanish Civil War and returned after World War II. Graves kept a family home here until he died in 1985. Famous names who came to visit him include Sir Alec Guinness, Peter Ustinov and Ava Gardner.
Today Robert Graves’ home is a fascinating museum dedicated to preserving his name and his work.

Once relying on growing olives to make a living, today the village of Deià thrives on a new economy based on art, crafts and a relaxed style of tourism.

Things to Do In Deià

The walking and natural beauty in this area is exceptional, as are the striking sea views of the sea and the mountains. There is a small but equally beautiful beach which is well worth a visit.

There are some wonderful bars and restaurants including the Michelin-starred ‘Es Racó d’Es Teix’. Between the restaurants there are several fascinating boutique shops and galleries including a grocery shop that is packed from floor to ceiling with local produce.

Deia mallorca

Walking through the village streets is a sheer delight. It is worth taking some time to admire the charm of the old stone houses and charismatic narrow alleyways.

A walk up to the church will unveil Robert Graves final resting place and you can find out more about him in “La Casa De Robert Graves’ a small museum, in his former house, now dedicated to his life

In about half an hour you can walk down to Cala Deià, a small rocky cove and a fine shingle beach. The Cala has two beach restaurants which are renowned for their seafood.

Events In Deiá

The village plays host to the Deià International Music Festival every summer. The festival runs from the beginning of June right through to the end of September. With a number of concerts take place in Son Marroig, between Deià and Valldemossa. Having grown year on year since it was launched, the festival now attracts an impressive array of international classical orchestras and musicians.

Deia Mallorca Streets

In the autumn the annual Deià Art Festival really brings the village to life. This weekend event features talks and exhibitions which span a wide range of arts, including visual art, literature and music.

The Writers Walk is one of the highlights of the festival, where visitors have the opportunity to listen to ten writers across ten secret locations around the village. Enjoying the beauty of the village and its surroundings as they walk between locations.

Check out our villas in Mallorca

 

Christmas on a villa holiday

Christmas In A Suitcase

Booking a villa holiday over the Christmas period is an excellent way to get the extended family together and to spend valuable relaxing time with children, grandchildren or just a group of old friends.  In this short article, we give you a few tips on how to make you’re your Christmas Day (or New Year’s Eve) celebrations go with a bang on your villa holiday.

Christmas Presents.

If you don’t have children with you, you may like to consider celebrating Christmas and exchanging gifts before you leave for your holiday or after you return. This needn’t limit the fun. With the right approach it can just add another great day, or at very least an evening, to your Christmas festivities.

If the thought of having no gifts to exchange on Christmas day leaves you cold, you could always reduce the collective luggage weight by opting for the ‘Secret Santa’ approach.

Secret Santa is a long-standing festive tradition in which members of a group all pull one name from their group out of a hat (or have name assigned to them any other random method). Their job is then to choose a gift for that person, and only that person. It is best to agree a maximum budget for the gift, which no-one should exceed. Technically, the identity of the gift giver should remain a secret and should never be revealed. However, guessing who selected the gift is often part of the fun.

When unwrapped and unveiled one by one at the dinner table, this can lead to a very enjoyable and entertaining spectacle. Fabulous fun for large groups and extended family holidays.  There are many apps available for organising your Secret Santa. Here’s one example that we came across www.secretsantaorganizer.com.

If you have very young children, you will probably want to take along a few gifts.

Think carefully about the weight, size and fragility of anything you intend to pack in your luggage. Also, think very carefully about any security issues that may arise. It may be difficult to explain that the brightly coloured rocket launcher in your suitcase is simply a child’s toy.

Wrapping Gifts

Airlines recommend that you do not not wrap any gifts before you fly. Airport security staff may unwrap gifts in your hand luggage or checked in bags, causing delays at security. And of course, leaving you with the job of rewrapping them.

Instead, pack wrapping paper in your checked in bags, and wrap your gifts after you arrive at your villa.  Don’t forget to pack a roll of celllotape. But even though your airline may permit you to carry scissors with blades less than 4 inches in length, it’s probably best to leave the scissors at home. Any well-equipped villa is sure to have a pair in the kitchen drawer.

Music

Yes it’s cheesy, but a few Christmas jingles always set the scene on the big day.

Be sure to take along a Christmas CD or two or better still, compile an online playlist.

If you go for the online option be sure to check the box to ‘download’ the tracks in advance just in case you have no WiFi at the crucial moment.

Christmas Outfit

Spread the word before you leave. Make sure that absolutely everyone packs a festive outfit to wear for the big dinner.

You can give this your own spin. Whatever you choose From Christmas ‘Hawaiian’ Shirts and Santa Hats to Red Dresses, White Shirts and Christmas Ties, it is a chance to generate a bit of extra Christmas cheer and get everyone in the mood. A common theme always makes for great photographs in and around your villa too.

Don’t let your plans become too grand, whatever you choose should be light and easy to pack, easy to find and not too expensive.

Decorations

We’re not suggesting that you drape the entire villa with tinsel and glitter. However, if you take a few lengths of tinsel and a handful of sparkly accessories, you will be able to wow everyone in the party with a beautifully decorated dinner table.

It is always an option to ask every member of the party to bring one item of decoration. Unveiling the collection of assorted decorations and arranging them around the villa could become an enjoyable and entertaining part of the celebration.

Games

Nothing is more festive than after dinner games. They are a great way to extend the celebrations and to bridge the age gaps. Why not take a long a few simple games to play after dinner. That doesn’t necessarily mean that you need pack heavy or cumbersome board games. With a little research, you may be able to simply take along a pack of cards, a pen and some paper and a few notes/prompts to remind you of a handful of games and their rules.

Of course, on a villa holiday at Christmas there is always a chance that you will be enjoying dinner outside on the sun terrace, by the pool or even down at the beach, so you may want to adjust your game selection accordingly.

Whether you play wink murder, spoons, charades or name that tune, you’ll have great fun and create many, many memories

If you need a little inspiration, there are countless suggestions for games online but here are a couple of links to get you going:

Table Place Names

Carefully prepared and packed in your luggage, a pile of festive place names for the dinner table will add a special touch to the big event and allow you to carefully adjust the seating plan to ensure harmony or hilarity.

Skype or Facetime

If you have any family members who can’t make it on your trip or friends at home that couldn’t come along with you for any reason, why not gather round an iphone, ipad or latop and call them up live on video with Skpe, Facetime or any alternative.

There are various ways to make video calls these days. But whatever method you choose, it is best to agree a precise time in advance and to be sure everyone in your party knows when it is happening. Make sure you make the call precisely at the agreed time and all should go to plan.

This is a lovely way to share the festive cheer, have some fun and to share a bit of love at the same time.

Cooking

For some, cooking Christmas dinner seems like a military operation and an utterly unrewarding task. Whilst others thoroughly enjoy the hustle and bustle of the kitchen preparation and revel in the role of head chef and host.

If it is your thing, throw yourself headlong into the process and enjoy every minute.  But remember, there are no rules. You don’t have to produce the perfect, traditional Christmas dinner. This dinner is about the people and the connection between them.

Be prepared to break the rules and adjust the menu to make it easier for you to prepare and serve. It doesn’t really matter if you serve up burgers, pasta, seafood, curry or a beach barbecue buffet.

If cooking a big dinner is simply not your bag, why not consider the alternatives?

External catering may be an option in your villa. Whether you have food delivered or have dinner prepared by a visiting chef, it well be worth the additional cost.

Don’t forget that you can always book and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. In which case all the tips above still apply.

Whatever you choose to do, think things through carefully in advance and you will soon be enjoying your best Christmas ever together in a luxury villa in the sun.

Check out our range of ‘Family Party’ villas

 

 

 

mosquitos in the medditeranean

How To Reduce The Risk Of Mosquito-Born Disease On Holiday

Diseases previously found only in the tropics have been discovered in European countries like Greece, France, Italy and Spain. A move that may concern those visiting Mediterranean beaches this summer.

The mosquito-borne disease include ‘Chikunguya’, a fever which causes fever and painful joints and ‘Dengue Fever’, a powerful flu-like virus. Whilst the risk of infection is still relatively low, travellers are being advised of the potential risk of mosquito bites and that they should take precautions to avoid them.

Here are a few simple tips to help you reduce the likelihood of mosquito bites whilst on your next holiday.

Avoidance of mosquito bites should always be considered the first line of defence against mosquito-borne infections.

There isn’t really a safe time

Different mosquitos bite at different times of the day. The mosquitos which spread malaria bite between dusk but the mostquitos which carry other diseases like Chikunguya and Dengue, tend to bite during the day.

Which means that bite-preventive measures are advisable at all times.

Insect Repellents

Although there are various insect repellents available , The NHS strongly recommend DEET N, N-Diethyl-m-tolumide above all others.

There are a few things to note about DEET.

  • A concentration of 20% DEET offers between 1 to 3 hours protection.
  • 30% DEET can offer up to 6 hours protection.
  • 50% DEET can offer up to 12 hours protection
  • Duration of protection DOES NOT increase with concentrations above 50%.
  • Concentrations above 50% should NOT be used on the skin
  • DEET is water soluble, so it must be reapplied after swimming
  • DEET induces a reduction in SPF, so a higher protection sunscreen should be used.
  • DEET should always be applied AFTER
  • DEET may damage man-made fibres, and plastics (watches, sunglasses, clothing).

 

Although they are not recommended above DEET by the NHS, Icaridin (Picaridin) and Lemon Eucalyptus (p-menthane 3,8 diol, or PMD) may be used but their protection is not considered as effective or long-lasting.

Clothing

Mosquitos cannot bite through loose fitting clothing so clothing which covers the skin is highly recommended where appropriate. Longs sleeves, high necklines and long skirts or trousers where possible. Exposed areas of skin should be covered with DEET (20% or above).

It is possible to buy clothing which is pre-treated with an insecticide which may further increase the level of protection. UK Travel Clothing brands Rohan and Craghoppers both have dedicated ranges of anti-insect clothing.

Mosquito Nets

Mostquito nets can offer enhanced protection from bites, particularly whilst sleeping. These can be even more effective if treated with an insecticide. Design and manufacture of nets varies, so it is important to check suitability, practicality and portability before you invest. Most nets are available as single or double bed options.

Remember that whilst mosquitos cannot pass through a net, they can bite through it. So don’t sleep with any part of your skin touching the net.

Room Protection

Check any door and window screens for holes and gaps. Try to keep the doors and screens closed at all times, not just at night.
Air conditioning can be an effective deterrent. Mosquitos are less likely to be attracted to a the room if it is.
Make sure any standing water is removed as it provides that perfect breeding ground for mosquitos.
Citronella Candles and plugin insecticide-emitting devices may have a small effect as an insect deterrent but they should never be relied upon on their own. Great care should be taken using candles indoors and they should never be used anywhere near loose clothing, soft furnishings or a mosquito net.
It should also be noted that candles, coils and plugins maybe trigger the symptoms of Asthma or other breathing conditions.

A Few Myths Busted

Finally, here are a few common fallacies that you should know the truth about:

  • Vitamins B1 and B12: There is no evidence that these vitamins do anything to repel mosquitoes.
  • Tea Tree Oil: There is no evidence that Tea Tree Oil is effective as a mosquito repellent.
  • Garlic and yeast extract: Whether taken orally or rubbed on the skin, there is no scientific evidence to suggest these do anything to repel mosquitos.

High Frequency Buzzers: Devices that emit high frequency sound waves, are completely ineffective against mosquitos. In fact, numerous companies selling these devices have been prosecuted and fined under the trade descriptions act.

Love island villa

Your Invitation To Love Island

With the start of ITV’s hit show Love Island just a few weeks away, the lucky lads and ladies of this year’s series will be wondering what tricks the producers have up their sleeves for them this summer.

Fans of the show will be sure to remember the thrills and spills of the last two seasons when the fabulous rival villa Casa Amor was brought into play, bringing with it some memorable scenes and some of the series’ biggest and most controversial moments.

But this year the contestants might not be the only ones making memories in this exclusive Mallorcan Villa because guess what, Villa Retreats have it on our books for you to rent yourself!

You can stay at Love Island’s Casa Amor! The luxury villa that has been the star attraction on Love Island for the past two seasons is located in the picturesque village of Sant Llorenc des Cardassar and is the ultimate luxury Mallorca hideaway.

The exclusive villa can host up to eight guests, with four large en-suite bedrooms, so you won’t have to sleep next your housemates like they do on Love Island

Love Island Casa Amor villa

The luxury accommodation includes a beautiful swimming pool which you will no doubt recognise from the  TV show.  The exact spot where Jack realised ex-girlfriend Ellie would soon be joining him in the villa. The villa also features a gorgeous outdoor terrace which has been the site of many scandalous Love Island conversations.  The villa is surrounded by beautiful landscaped gardens,  with a BBQ and outdoor dining area.

Whilst you don’t see a great deal of the villa’s interior on the TV show, you will find a bright and airy lounge area with a gas flame fire, perfect if you too are planning to ignite a romantic spark.

The master bedroom has a twin balcony offering a breath-taking view over the of the surrounding  area. The villa is nested in a secluded area but there is easy access of some stunning local beaches.

Casa Amor Villa

To add an additional taste of luxury, you can also add on your own chef, a concierge, and various spa treatments.

This imposing villa makes an ideal choice for an upmarket holiday with friends. But don’t worry we won’t be sending in any unexpected ex-girlfriends or ex-boyfriends.

The villa costs from £4,572 per week and there is still availability for this summer. So if you think Casa Amor is somewhere you’d like to visit, send us an enquiry now

Find out more about Casa Amor

Check out all our villas in Mallorca

Luxury Villa In Mallorca

Finca Son Salas

A beautifully restored 17th century farmhouse situated in the heart of its own 50 acre estate in the beautiful Soller Valley on Mallorca’s spectacular west coast. The house is built around a cobblestone courtyard and has a wealth of original features which have been sympathetically presented and combined with modern comforts. A truly special villa rental retreat to unwind at any time of the year.

Watch the video

Find out more about this unique luxury villa here

 

Casa Amor Terrace

You Can Stay at Love Island’s Famous Casa Amor with Villa Retreats

The Love Island boys have now vacated Casa Amor and guess what, we have it on our books for you to rent.

That’s right, you can stay at Love Island’s Casa Amor with Villa Retreats. The luxury villa in  the Algarve that has been the star of Love Island for the past week is located in the picturesque village of Sant Llorenc des Cardassar in Mallorca.

Love Island Casa Amor villa

The spacious villa can host up to 8 guests, and unlike the sleeping situation on Love Island, there are 4 large en-suite bedrooms throughout the property, so you won’t have to bunk up next to all of your housemates, or sleep outside a la Jack.

The fabulous accommodation includes a sparkling blue pool which you’re sure to recognise from the show, it was after all the spot in which Jack realised his ex-girlfriend Ellie would be joining him in the villa. The property also features a spacious outdoor terrace (which has been privy to many scandalous Love Island chats), beautiful landscaped garden, and a BBQ area for dining al fresco.

While you don’t see much of the villa’s interior on the show, indoors you will find a bright and airy lounge with mood lighting and a gas flame fire, perfect if you too are hoping to ignite a romantic spark in the villa – if only someone had told unlucky in love Dr Alex.

The designer kitchen features all of the cooking amenities you could need, and the property is artistic and modern in its décor throughout.

The master bedroom upstairs also has a twin balcony offering a scenic view over the property and the surrounding greenery. The villa is privately located in a secluded location but is within easy access of the stunning nearby beaches.

Casa Amor Villa

For an extra splash of luxury, you can also add on a private chef, a concierge, and spa treatments, plus plenty of other special touches.

This spectacular property is an ideal choice for an incredible holiday with friends, and don’t worry we won’t be sending in any unexpected visitors to spoil your fun.

And yes, we did change the sheets since that raunchy lot left!

The villa costs from £4,572 per week and we still have availability for this summer. So if you think Casa Amor is your type on paper, you can book your Love Island stay with us by sending an enquiry online.

Come Together & Celebrate in Style with Villa Retreats

So you’ve decided on a location and you’ve finally got everyone to agree on a date (completing that task in itself usually deserves a holiday!), now it’s time to decide how to make your celebratory get -together so spectacular that your fellow celebrators will be celebrating your own organising brilliance for years to come!

 

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