Give the big brands a miss this summer and follow your instinct, not the crowd
Holidays are all about indulgence, so why compromise on the aesthetics? Step forward Simpson Travel, specialists in statement villas and stylishly intimate hotels aimed at travellers with an eye for design and appreciation of stellar service.
Villa Favorita, Puglia, Italy
Audacious and a touch irreverent, this is the villa that Instagram was made for. The former home of the Baron of Monopoli pulls off that tricky mix of glamour and good taste with true Italian sprezattura: the subtle art of making everything look effortless. Click here for more information on Villa Favorita.
Kipos House, Paxos, Greece
From the cool curved pool to the tastefully neutral interiors, Kipos is a masterclass in elegant design and a clever counterpoint to the jewel-coloured sea that laps within earshot below. With six bedrooms, it’s the perfect retreat for an intimate house party. Click here for more information on Kipos House.
Purple Apricot, Paxos, Greece
Intriguing name, intriguing place. Reborn, phoenix-like, from a handful of unloved apartments, Purple Apricot’s designers ripped up the rule book on typical Greek island style to create seven individually-styled hotel suites. Our pick: Purple Rain, rich and moody in the traditional colours of royalty, or Safari, rugged yet romantic, with a nod to Redford in Out of Africa days. Click here for more information on Purple Apricot Hotel.
Vue Mer, Cote d’Azur, France
From the view to the pool, this house is effortlessly cool, lording it over the surrounding countryside with terraces on three levels. Come here to kick back before a night out in nearby Grimaud or fill the fridge and enjoy a week of perfect privacy. Click here for more information on Vue Mer.
Ca Na Fustera, Nr Pollença, Mallorca
At first glance this grand Mallorquin homestead looks like just another finca, albeit one embellished with huge terraces for both sun worshipping and shady dining. Step inside however and you’ll find five opulent bedrooms, inspired by the rich colours, natural materials and elegant precision of the East. Click here for more information on Ca na Fustera.
Up the ante on the VIP treatment
Simpson Travel are offering Gay Times’ readers a complimentary airport parking service with every June booking, so you can let someone else navigate the car park while you get on with the very important business of relaxing. Visit simpsontravel.com/gay-times for details.
