Cottages in the Lake District, villas drenched in Italian sunshine, homes with sunset views on all sides — here are some picture-perfect properties that you can book now.
Tonnara Foderà
Alcamo, Italy — From €110/night
Located in the charming and serene surrounds of Alcamo in Sicilia, Italy, this Airbnb is set on the first floor of an ancient tower. The small apartment is made up of a double bedroom with spectacular sea views, an entrance room with a single bed and bathroom, and a private seafront area that opens up onto the beach. There’s also a large, beautiful garden to be explored.
On the ground floor, there’s a private museum with ancient boats, nets, anchors and panels on the history of tuna fishing, which can be visited on request. The apartment’s various windows double as works of art in and of themselves as they frame the sunset to perfection.
Just outside the property, there’s a bus stop for the suburban line, a small railway station that leads to Palermo and Trapani, and plenty of restaurants, pizzerias and seaside bars – ideal places for aperitifs at sunset.
Sunset Beach House
Kea Island, Greece — From €340/night
Located on Xyla beach on the island of Kea (Tzia) in Greece, this seaside home is surrounded on all sides by views stretching across the crystal water, and the sound of waves lapping against the shore. Whether you’re stretched out on a sun lounger squinting into the sky, or perched on the bed staring out the windows in something of a trance, this is the kind of Airbnb where you ought to bring no agenda — no laptop, no real life stressors, just a book and some sun cream.
An hour’s drive from the port of Lavrio in Athens, the house is a 4.5km dirt road drive from the port of Kea and is made up of two buildings connected by a shaded outdoor dining and relaxing area. The main building includes living areas and a fully equipped kitchen, as well as two double bedrooms, one full bathroom and one w/c. The guest house includes two double bedrooms, one bathroom and one kitchenette.
As the house is facing southwest, you can expect majestic views of the sea, and the sunset from this vantage point is just magic. Plus, the beach can be reached in five minutes on foot, what more could you want?
The Volcano Lover
Torre del Greco, Italy — From €110/night
This stunning 18th century apartment is poised in the shadows of the great Mount Vesuvius, between the ancient city of Pompeii and the town of Ercolano. The fully furnished apartment is made up of a kitchen, bathroom, outdoor terrace, a scullery for washing up, two big bedrooms, and an outdoor dining and working space.
High ceilings, hexagonal mosaic floor tiling, window shutters, and a back garden and patio area complete with beautiful planted flowers, the interior design choices in this property are nothing short of incredible.
The major attractions close by include the ancient city of Pompeii and Scavi di Oplontis, made for the wife of Emperor Nero. Nearby, you’ll find direct trains to Napoli and Sorrento.
Tenuta di Verzano
Sant’Oreste, Lazio, Italy — From €110/night
Would it be an Airbnb roundup without the villa from Normal People? Mind you, it is pretty solidly booked up, so if you’re extra keen on staying here, I would recommend saving it on your app or browsing for potential cancellations throughout the year.
This ancient farmhouse with unspoiled charm, immersed in the Roman countryside, has belonged to the same family for over 150 years now and offers incomparable views, a well-kept park and a beautiful swimming pool.
The apartment has its own separate entrance into one of the two farmhouses, and the systems are modern while retaining many period furnishings. The space can accommodate up to six people in two large bedrooms and also comprises a dining room, living room, kitchenette and modern bathroom.
The Old Post Office
Worcestershire, England — From €248/night
A beautifully refurbished apartment in the heart of Broadway, the Old Post Office is a spacious and well equipped property with an open fire and wood-burner. Its private, secluded walled garden includes a modern large garden office, and provides a wonderful spot for a weekend retreat.
The cosy sitting room area is what really draws you in, with its high beamed ceilings, open fireplace, and deep, comfy couches and that same snug feel can be found in every corner of the home, from the bedrooms to the dining area.
Nearby, there’s Snowshill Manor, Broadway Tower and the Lavender Farm and Broadway is the perfect place from which to explore the beautiful countryside of the Cotswolds. There are plenty of famous local museums and art galleries, as well as a gin distillery and an array of restaurants and Cotswold pubs to explore.
Hawkhow Cottage
Glenridding, England — From €749/night
Hawkhow Cottage sleeps up to eight people and is an ideal destination for a family getaway, a couple’s holiday or a relaxing holiday with all your friends. The exteriors of the property are absolutely stunning, and the huge living room complete with a log-burning stove and massive leather couches is just crying out for a games night.
The kitchen has an Aga, the television is rigged up with an Xbox One and there’s even an on-site sauna. As well as having Ullswater on your doorstep for sailing, kayaking and wild swimming, there are a number of fabulous walks and bicycle rides that can be started from the cottage without ever needing to get into your car.
Both the main house and the cottage were built in the 1920s in the Arts and Crafts style of the time. The cottage was originally designed to house the large battery required for storing electricity generated by a pioneering hydroelectric scheme as well as providing accommodation for staff serving in the main house. The cottage has recently been extended and refurbished to provide luxurious holiday accommodation.