Vintage Travel’s portfolio of holiday villas in Provence and the Cote d’Azur is intensifying in quantity, quality and grandeur, with the arrival of yet two more stunning villas.

The latest of our holiday villas in Provence is the villa Mas des Oliviers nestled within the pastel hillside village of Speracedes, 7 km from Grasse and 25 km from Cannes, blossoms under a superb Mediterranean environment, surrounded by cypresses and olive trees, hence the property’s well-chosen name ‘Mas des Oliviers’.

This stunning villa has 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and can sleep up to six people. Its isolated spot equidistant between the ocean and the mountains means Mas des Oliviers sports to-die-for panoramic views.

Beautifully restored to maintain an exterior typical of the Provencal style, this breath-taking house combines traditional décor with a contemporary, bright and airy style, and the results are simply divine. This eclectic mix of the modern and traditional means that there is cosiness and warmth attached to Mas des Oliviers that is not present in many modern villas.

Outside the villa is equally as absorbing, with a spacious terrace that extends the whole length of the house and a tiered garden providing guests with an outdoor rapture of magnificent views, a dip in the beautiful private pool, taking a walk through the cascading gardens, amidst a Mediterranean landscape at its most privileged.

For prices, availability and photographs of Mas des Oliviers, our newest addition to our holiday villas in Provence, click on the link.

Equally as extraordinary is Passiflore, situated close to the medieval fortified village of St. Cezaire, which sits proudly on a mountain ledge, overlooking the Siagne River and a densely forested valley.

This magnificent villa has 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and can accommodate up to six guests. Possessing a subtle Oriental theme, Passiflore oozes exoticness, spaciousness and style. Its blend of pastel shades and natural tones creates a sense of friendliness, an affability that continues into the property’s extensive exterior.

Children and adults alike just love to explore these extensive grounds, which comprise of an inviting pool infringed with indigenous palm trees and exotic shrubs. Whilst a nearby summer kitchen means that guests never have to travel far for an ice-cold drink to refresh themselves!

With a Costa de la Luz holiday, you can explore the intricate streets of mediaeval villages, enjoy freshly-caught fish in seaside restaurants, marvel at the wildlife in the protected natural parks, visit the beautiful and historic cities of Cádiz, Jerez and Seville, which are all within easy reach. And, of course, relax in your holiday villa with its own private pool.

Those in the know return to this Coast of Light year after year, but you don’t have to take our word for it. Our clients’ comments explain why you’ll fall in love with a Costa de la Luz holiday in this delightful area of Andalucía.

“Tim loved the day trip to Tangiers; Kerrie loved the flamingos on the boat trip to the Doñana nature reserve; Flo loved having a beach 5 minutes away; Uncle Richard loved the fish and wine; Stephy loved going on a horse and cart in Jerez; George loved going on the train at the Tio Pepe bodega in Jerez. And we all loved swimming in the pool every day!”

The Grant Family (and Uncle Richard) stayed in Casa Almendro, El Colorado, Conil (pictured).

“We had a magical time and I can’t begin to describe how perfect everything was. The swimming pool and surroundings were stunning and protected by the most amazing climbing plants and fruit trees. At night we could hear owls hooting. I actually cried when I had to leave.”

Ms. S. Roberts stayed in Casa de la Fuente, Vejer de la Frontera

“We had a wonderful week. Fuente del Gallo is a great location – a single, palm tree lined road that leads to a quiet beach. The garden is a great size, the boys kicking a ball around – and safe.1 minute from the house is a neighbourhood restaurant that has good food. Cadiz is only a 30 minute drive away, the Torre Tavira and its Camera Obscura was loved by the boys.

The Woodard family stayed in El Chozo, Conil de la Frontera

“Great house and great pool! Fab barbecue and amazing chameleons on the poolside fence. We loved El Palmar and Caños de Meca beaches. Don’t really want to go home…..”

The Jacobs and Woods families stayed at Finca Cigüeña, Hozalejos, Chiclana

“The cove at Roche was our favourite with rocks for shade and great swimming. Bolonia was a great day out, the beach and Roman ruins of Baelo Claudia were impressive and lunch at the bar on the beach was friendly and tasty.”

The Sharman family stayed at Casa Olivo, El Colorado, Conil de la Frontera

“A beautiful place to stay in quality accommodation. We loved the house, the grounds and the luxury of a decent-sized pool. Thank you for your generosity, Jean Pierre.”

Lyn and Jo stayed at La Olivilla, Vejer de la Frontera.

“Our highlights were Gibraltar – take the cable car to the top of the Rock for amazing views (including the mountains of Morocco) and of course the apes – Vejer, which is a lovely town (we thoroughly recommend the Jardín de Califa restaurant) and Jerez, where we visited the Tio Pepe sherry bodega which was very interesting.”

Fiona, Julian, Katherine and Lexie stayed at Casa Abeto, El Colorado, Conil de la Frontera

“We had a lovely stay and managed to relax as well as see some of the lovely places nearby: Cádiz, Jerez, El Puerto de Santa María. We also had a lovely drive along the coast to Cape Trafalgar and on to Vejer. Everyone has been very friendly and helpful. We hope to be back soon, perhaps for a wedding anniversary as we got engaged at Casa Manue on this trip!”

Charlie and Andy stayed at Casa Manue, El Colorado, Conil de la Frontera.

Having been described as a “haven of tranquillity”, one would expect something spectacular of ‘Lou Calvel’. And one would not be disappointed, as this two bedroom, three bathroom villa, situated amongst private woodland in the exceptionally pretty Lot region of south west France, really does take the concept of idyllic isolation to new heights.

Renovated to an exceptionally high standard, this beautiful country house is flanked by woodland from every direction, ensuring its large pool, flawless lawns and covered terrace, are well and truly ‘private’. On the inside, Lou Calvel is equally as stunning. With its heavy wooden doors, reclaimed stone basin sink set into the wall of the living area, beamed wooden ceilings and open tread staircase, Lou Calvel is a magnificent, grand and inspirational country house.

This stunning villa is located five kilometres from the village of Cazals and 30km from the large town of Cahors. Apart from exploring the beautiful countryside, bounteous of bluebells, posies and orchids, by either on foot or on bike, the area is full of places to explore which caters for all the family.

‘Le Musee Art du Chocolate’ in Lisle sur Tarn is a particularly popular place to visit, especially with children. This small museum displays the unique sculptures of Michael Thomaso-Defos, whose passion for chocolate resulted in some inspirational works of art, which have been said to be “the answer to the chocolate lover’s wildest dreams”.

Chateau Cenevieres is another ‘must see’ site of the Lot region of south west France. This magnificent chateau is one of the most beautiful Renaissance castles of Quercy, and, with its records dating back to as early a 767, the castle clings on to a wonderfully rich and colourful past.

Chateau Cenevieres is located six kilometres from Saint-Cirq Lapopie and offers a fantastic family day out, particularly in the summer months when art exhibitions and medieval days with re-enacted battles and musical performances are regularly held in the castle.

Alternatively you could just potter around Lou Calvel for the whole duration of your holiday. Either way a trip to the region of Lot and Lou Calvel promises to be a fascinating holiday.

Availability in Lou Calvel begins at the end of June, when a week’s rental costs £795, rising to £1695 in peak season.

Vintage Travel’s ‘Discover’ brochures 2011

To provide you with an even greater understanding of the location you have chosen to take your holiday, the accommodation you will be staying in and the many treasures you are likely to uncover, Vintage Travel has composed three glossy, glamorous and ‘brimming with information’ brochures, new to 2011.

Aptly titled ‘Discover’, the brochures have been designed to deepen our clients’ comprehension of the journey they will soon be embarking on. Or to help indecisive travellers make their final destination choice, Vintage Travel’s “Discover”, will act as a definitive decision-maker.

The three brochures cover the vast and diverse European locations our extensive profile of villas are located in – One being dedicated to Spain, Lanzarote, Balearics and Portugal, another to France, Italy, Gozo and Croatia, and the third covering Greece and Turkey.

As all our properties are personally visited by our team of travel experts, descriptions of the locations and properties are a personal and honest account, accompanied with the most stunning and visually transparent of photographs.

These carbon neutral publications provide a comprehensive overview of each of the countries and islands featured by Vintage Travel, which includes answers to the vital questions travellers often have prior to their trip. First-hand experiences about climate, local cuisine and local festivals are featured frequently in these highly informative yet entertaining magazines.  Important travel information is also included, such as information about sea crossings, flights, train travel, car hire, travel insurance and other information considered essential to the modern traveller.

Comprehensive details about each individual property are provided in our brochures, including testimonies by previous visitors, prices, availability and a booking form.

Staying in private accommodation gives you the freedom, privacy and the ‘own space’ you deserve on holiday. Vintage Travel supplies only the very best this unique freedom offers. Our highly readable, riveting and photographically stunning ‘Discover’ brochures, enables our clients to leisurely muse over which of our extended quality properties especially catches their eye.

Click here to view ‘Discover’ online or to order a hard copy by post.

There's lots to explore around the Algarve

Portugal has a lot to offer – culture, romance, stunning scenery, history, adventure and of course an enviable climate of year-round sun. Traversing with rich, hilly valleys and bound by golden sun-kissed sandy beaches, the Algarve, the most southernmost region of mainland Portugal, is a particularly fascinating place to visit. Vintage Travel, with its uncanny knack at locating the most splendid of villas in the most striking of surroundings, has added six new properties to its Algarve portfolio for 2011.

Gazeio, a grand and stunning detached house, situated less than five kilometres from the vibrant town of Lago, is included in Vintage Travel’s exclusive Algarve portfolio, and, like all the properties we feature, guests will be not be disappointed by this beautiful and unique house. Resonant of the whole of the Algarve, there is an emphasis on spending time outdoor s at Gazeio. This family-friendly villa has as private pool with a poolside studio, containing a kitchenette, dining area and shower room. The property’s immaculately groomed lawns include a built-in barbeque area and a children’s play area.

Rental prices for Gazeio, which sleeps four, begin at £950 a week in April rising to £1695 in peak season.

Gazeio is fantastic for families and sleeps 4

Situated in the tranquil hamlet of Azinheiro, a 20 minute drive from Faro, the five-bedroom, five bathroom, Casa Nova da Eira, is the perfect property for larger parties wanting to escape to peace amidst perfection. This simply stunning, colonial style house welcomes its guests with a cobbled courtyard. Internally the house comprises of some hugely impressive features and artwork, including a vaulted Portuguese ceiling, model boats in glass enclosures and many imposing paintings.

Casa Nova da Eira sleeps up to 11 with its generous accommodation

Possessing balconies boasting views of the Atlantic Ocean, the double bedroom with its imperial en-suite bathroom and dressing room, takes up the whole of the first floor. Externally, Casa Nova da Eira, is equally as grand. The property’s extensive grounds and gardens have been landscaped by Jose Meixa, one pf Portugal’s most influential and famous landscape gardeners. Amongst the delightful gardens guest will stumble upon a beautiful private pool, surrounded by open and covered terraces.

Rental prices for Casa Nova da Eira, which sleeps 11, start at £1350 a week in May and rise to £3195 in peak season, which includes a maid service for five days a week.

Check out our latest villas in Kefalonia

Looking for a villa holiday in Kefalonia? Look no further, these are the hottest properties on the island.

With an air of sweet smelling citrus fruits circling jagged and rocky peaks and floating across long, sandy beaches, it is hardly surprising that the Greek island of Kefalonia remains a popular holiday destination. Intent on finding you the highest-quality of properties off the beaten track, we’ve introduced a new portfolio of properties for Kefalonia 2011.

Surrounded by rolling verdure hillsides clad with pine trees, fir trees and olive groves, at the bottom of a private road, the house of Hlazeika, will guarantee to satisfy yearnings for breathtaking scenery, tranquillity, stunning sunsets and accommodation exuding quality and character. This stunning villa sleeps eight and is made out of locally hewn granite which enhances its charm, uniqueness and exquisiteness endlessly. The captivating views and mesmerizing sunsets can be enjoyed by the property’s impressive private pool, which can be heated in the ‘brisker’ months, or accompanied with a barbeque in the built-in barbeque area.

Hlazeika, a very family friendly villa in Kefalonia

Hlazeika is just four kilometres from the lively town of Scala, sheathed by a 3km Blue Flagged beautiful sandy beach.This magnificent property which perfectly blends tradition with modernity costs £950 a week in May rising to £2895 in peak season.

For travellers seeking a ‘cottage’ accommodation with a Greek twist, Katelios Bay View is the property you are looking for. This two bedroom, two bathroom country cottage has retained many traditional features, such as wood beamed ceilings and exposed brickwork and stone and oozes with character and charm. Step outside Katelios Bay View and sunbath next to the private infinity pool, dine on some of the delicious local produce in the built-in barbeque area, or simply breath in the fresh and sweet smelling Kefalonia air.

Katelios Bay View has two bedrooms and 2 bathrooms and some rather breathtaking views

This delightful property is located just one kilometre from the small and laid back fishing village of Katelios, which, with its heavenly seafood restaurants, intriguing mini markets, attractive little harbour and beautiful beach, is a highly pleasurable place to experience this truly magnificent Greek island.

A week’s rental at Katelios Bay View costs £750 in May rising to £1995 in peak season.

The impressive Manoir Atlantique sleeps up to 18

With a name like ‘Manoir Atlantique’, one can only excitedly muse that this property is magnificently impressive and someway related with the Atlantic Ocean. Such optimistically grand speculations are not only fulfilled but even surpassed for those fortunate enough to have visited Manoir Atlantique.

Situated to the north of the glam and the glitz of stylish Biarritz, and just 10 minutes from the south west of France’s attractive beaches, with the blustery Atlantic Ocean thrashing across the shores, lies this flawlessly restored, lavish villa, still traditionally French but with a contemporary weave woven throughout.

The house is equally as stunning on the inside as it is on the outside. All nine of the invitingly spacious bedrooms have a television, DVD and en-suite facilities, some with a Jacuzzi or sauna. Most bedrooms boast a four poster bed and private balcony overlooking the manor’s immaculate gardens and woodlands. On the ground floor there is kitchen with all modern appliances, which has access to the grand living room. A billiard room, TV room and dining room with access to a dining terrace, a marble fireplace, oak stairway and original parquet floors, enhance the manor’s lavishly opulent interior.

Manoir Atlantique's impressive pool

Once you have finally managed to absorb the impeccable quality, elegance and unique character of Manoir Atlantique’s interior, a walk through its six acres of grounds and woods is an equally delightful experience.  These extensive grounds include unblemished lawns, a tennis court, table tennis, badminton, boules, croquet, dining terraces, a barbeque area, a summer outside kitchen and a fenced off heated swimming pool with a separate shower room with a hot tub. For those wanting to explore the beautiful countryside that surrounds Manoir Atlantique, including the lakeside town Soustons and investigate the protruding and exciting Cote d’Argent coastline, mountain bikes are available for guests.

Manoir Atlantique offers a unique catering experience by applying a catered chalet in a ski resort principle to a summer vacation property. From May 28 – September 24, Vintage Travel offers the property on a solely Catered Basis. This includes a week’s stay with breakfast, afternoon tea and dinner. In-keeping with the manor’s commitment to high quality and taste, and French cuisine in general, the food and wine served at Manoir Atlantique is of the highest-quality and can rival the even most reputable of French chefs.

Naturally Vintage Travel is extremely delighted and honoured to have such a unique and refined property on our books, and we can guarantee visitors to Manoir Atlantique will be share our excitement.

Finca Romera, La Gerla

Vintage Travel, with its uncanny knack in seeking out the most exclusive accommodation in the most heavenly of locations, really have excelled in its meticulously selected Lanzarote collection, new for 2011. As ever, attention to detail is paramount, although on the island of Lanzarote attention to detail is a dominant feature in all walks of life. Lie back, visualize and imagine what soon could be a reality…

Finca Romera, La Gerla

Spawning spectacular views across Lanzarote’s uniquely varied landscapes, Finca Romera lies deep in the heat of the wine growing region in the verdurous valley of La Gerla. Wine dominates the scene here with many beautiful bodegas lining the road running through the valley, proudly displaying the finest local produce.

In keeping with the local style, the dazzling whitewashed Finca Romera contrasts stunningly with the azure and cloudless sky above and the deep emerald valleys framed by the magnificent distant mountains of the Timanfaya National Park. A large patio area with terraces and a crystal clear pool with Roman steps, alluringly beckons for a bottle of the local ‘vino’ to be opened and savoured whilst taking in the sublime views. This spacious and traditional property sleeps up to six, having three bedrooms and two bathrooms.

Casa Mariola, Las Brenas

Situated in the southwest corner of Lanzarote, Casa Mariola, being just minutes from golden sandy beaches amidst rolling hillsides, grand gorges and quaint pretty villages, satisfies for every scenic taste.

This stylish, light and airy cortijo sleeps six and although it indulges in some tastefully modern furnishings, its whitewashed walls stylishly comply with the features seen in the nearby white village of Brenas. A garden of cacti eases the walk from this delightfully appealing property to the fenced patio and pool area.

Casa Mariola, Las Brenas

Cited by many as being ‘Lanzarote’s most beautiful village’, the pueblo of Yaiza is just 7 kilometres from the house and with its sea of brightly coloured flowers lining the window frames, is well worthy of a visit. Exploring the unspoilt beaches and tranquil coves in the area provides for fascinating journeying of one of Lanzoraote’s prettiest regions.

Casa La Graciosa, Isla Graciosa

Time seems to have conveniently overlooked Isla Graciosa, which lies a mile across the water from Lanzarote’s northern shores. While other regions and resorts are often described as being the epitome of solitude and tranquillity, the island of Graciosa, free from the pollution of any vehicles, really is an embodiment of peace.

Given its dedication to tracking down the most secluded of accommodation, Vintage Travel is proud to have added Casa la Graciosa to its books. Gazing out across the ocean just yards from the waters edge, this beautiful and spacious villa sleeps eight and its heated pool is the only known swimming pool on the island.

Casa La Graciosa, Isla Graciosa

Situated in the town of Caleta del Sebo visitors can enjoy meandering through the many charming shops, restaurants and bars the town possesses.

Cortijo de Cabreron, Costa Teguise

Costa Tequise, with its palm lined beaches is one of Lanzarote’s more sophisticated shorelines that is bustling with both life and tradition. Located in an idyllically rural setting, Cortijo de Cabreron enjoys panoramic views of sweeping picturesque countryside.

Cortijo de Cabreron, Costa Teguise

Having been lovingly restored, Cortijo de Cabreron has retained much of its original character, and its stone walls, colourful ceramics, intricate paint work, rustic stone terrace and vibrant garden, a cocktail of cacti and flowers, guarantees to enchant visitors and leave them begging to return.

There's no better way to welcome Autumn than attending 'Le festival des Soupes'

Like pop star wannabies battling it out on X Factor, aspiring cooks from Vaison la Romaine and 13 surrounding villages compete over three weeks to produce the best tasting soup. Visitors can sample over 200 different types of soups, with the final showdown being on the last night when the winner of the Grand Final is chosen.

If you are debating where to stay to see this particularly ‘French’ festival, which produces the very finest of French cuisine, during an exceptional beautiful time of the year in France, we recommend Le Gustave, in the heart of the lovely Luberon.

Le Gustave - Provencial charm at its best

Retaining the traditional building materials and ancient features of the area, this pretty two bedroom stone cottage boasts its own stone borie – an ancient cone shaped shelter and an emblem of the area’s bucolic history.

Le Gustave, which has the capacity to sleep four, is situated upon extensive grounds comprising of an abundance of olive groves, covered terraces, table tennis and a barbeque. For those visiting Provence when the weather is cooler, under floor heating is available throughout the property.

Le Gustave offers a wealth of charm and original character

Whilst Le Gustave may cater for the activity tastes of all its guests, a visit to the nearby hilltop village of Gordes is a must, if not only to capture some of the most stunning views in Provence. Likewise, if you are visiting in October, a trip to the Soup Festival to sample some of the local cuisine at its most celestial is a must.

A week’s stay in Le Gustave starting 2, 9 and 16 October costs £995. Flight and car hire is not included in the price but can be arranged on request. Click here for more information on Le Gustave.

A luxutious villa in Andalucia for up to 7 people

If peace, privacy, tranquillity and harmony, away from the obtrusive reach of any telephone signals, ensuring your phone cannot possibly disturb you sounds like heaven, than Huerta de las Vegas in the hills of the Grazalema Natural Park, Andalucia, Spain is the place to go to satisfy yearnings of serenity.

Situated amidst the woodlands on an acre of Grazalema Natural Park, one of Spain’s most ecologically gifted and aesthetically outstanding natural parks lies the irrefutably impressive house known as Huerta de las Vegas.

This spacious and airy three-bedroom, two bathroom property has the capacity to sleep seven. Within its extensive grounds visitors can enjoy relaxing and shading from the warm Spanish sun under shaded terraces. Or for the more action-seeking guests, Huerta de las Vegas’s grounds have mini-golf, table tennis and of course a pool to cool down in.

Enjoy your own mini-golf course

With all this activity and beauty on the villa’s doorstep, it would be understandable if you never wanted to leave the Huerta de las Vegas premises. Although exploring the nearby area is advised, if not just to experience the leather produced at Pueblo Blanco de Ubrique. Lying at the foot of a sheer cliff face, this picturesque town has made its mark on the world with the proficiency of its leather products, and is well worth a visit.

The whitewashed hilltop town of El Bosque, is also nearby and as its name ‘El Bosque’ – Spanish for ‘the forest’ – suggests is enclosed by the dense and pretty woodlands the Grazalema Natural Park is blessed with.

Prices to stay at Huerta de las Vegas vary, but typically a week’s stay in September or October costs, £695. Prices exclude flights and car hire, but can be arranged on request. Book Huerta de las Vegas here.