Perched on the edge of a rocky cliff on the stunning island of San Miguel, the converted manor has been beautifully transformed into 9 suites and a villa, featuring breathtaking views of the lush green hills and deep blue sea. Preserving the Azorean vernacular architecture of the renowned private wine estate, WHITE Boutique Hotel features original basalt stone walls and arches mixed harmoniously with whitewashed walls and natural elements of wood, fibrous cotton and rope, volcanic stone and plants. Together, these elements, with the expansive terraces and heated saltwater infinity pool, allows the luxurious hotel to be seamlessly integrated into nature.
Villa Son Font \ Mallorca \ Spain
Located in the Tramuntana Mountains near Calvia, this luxurious 4 bedroom villa is the perfect mix of traditional Mallorcan design and stylish Ibiza accents of white built-in furniture, beautiful lighting and a relaxed environment. With stunning forested views extending to the sea, Villa Son Font is the ultimate Mediterranean hideaway, where you can slow down, enjoy nature and relax in a calm and comfortable environment with family and friends.
Skinopi Lodge \ Milos \ Greece
Located in the heart of the Cyclades, Skinopi Lodge sits on a bluff on the unspoiled island of Milos overlooking the deep blue Aegean Sea. Designed to blend into the landscape and reflect Cycladic culture, the secluded villas are made primarily of stone, similar to the traditional fishermen houses, adding the feature of floor to ceiling glass windows which highlights the spectacular surrounding environment. The minimal and airy villas of whitewashed walls and traditional cement floors are set within 9 acres of pristine sea front private land, creating the ultimate retreat with your own private front-row view of the sunset.
Casa Angelina \ Praiano \ Italy
Nestled atop the Amalfi Coast in the quaint town of Praiano, Casa Angelina offers a tribute to modern minimalism. Settle into quiet luxury with white-on-white decor paired with eclectic pieces of colorful, contemporary art and stunning views of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Take a moonlight sail, relax poolside under the lemon trees, or enjoy world class cuisine on the rooftop at sunset. Soaking in their peaceful, meditative atmosphere, you'll never want to leave this heavenly coastal abode!
*images by Sarah Ellefson and some provided by the property
Santa Barbara Eco-Beach Resort \ Azores \ Portugal
Located on the north coast of Sao Miguel, the largest of the Azore Islands, sits Santa Barbara Eco-Beach Resort, a contemporary Beach Resort with private villas that enjoy spectacular views of both the mountains and the sea. The 14 villas are modern in design, incorporating dark polished concrete and natural elements such as driftwood, ranging from single rooms with kitchenettes to 2 bedroom villas with private outdoor Jacuzzis. The large outdoor infinity pool disappears into the dark azul waters with private access to the renowned Santa Barabara beach that stretches over 1/2 mile of sand. Whether you are coming for relaxation or adventure, Santa Barbara Eco-Beach Resort is the perfect place to enjoy the spectacular "green island" of the Azores archipeligo.
*Images courtesy of Jarusha Brown and the property
Villa CP \ Girona \ Spain
Situated in the mountains among unspoiled nature with 180 degree views of Gavarres National Park, this beautifully restored farmhouse (Masia) was completely rebuilt by an acclaimed Barcelona architect as a sustainable modern eco-villa, featuring a natural water pool, uber modern kitchen appliances, and chic decor throughout. The owners have taken great care in making every aspect of the home intuitive and comfortable, perfectly blending the spacious and sleek design of a modern home with rural charm. With 6 bedrooms, it is the ideal vacation home for friends and families, with a balance of contemporary design, sustainable architecture, and that feeling of "getting away from it all". Located just a 20min drive from Girona, it is easily accessible to restaurants and shops, however once you arrive, I don't think you'll be wanting to leave!
*Images and review by Jocelyn Mandryk
Furnas Lake Villas \ Azores \ Portugal
Based on the owners' love for nature and adventure, the family-owned land graduated from a cattle farm into something much more sustainable, a chic eco-resort comprised of 10 modern villas, set in the stunning volcanic Furnas basin. Inspired by the local rustic granaries that were purposely raised above the humid ground, the rectangle shaped villas are set on a series of low concrete pillars above a tranquil pond with beautiful views of the lush surroundings. The 103 acres of property includes carefully tended gardens, dense woodland, hiking trails, a saltwater pool and stables. Considered one of the boldest tourist and architectural projects on the Island of Sao Miguel, it is more than just a place to stay, but a feast for the eyes, and an experience that will last a lifetime.
*images via contributor Jarusha Brown