10 Rural Retreats To Hide Out in This Summer

Craveiral, Costa Vincentina, Portugal

Craveiral is an agro-turismo farmhouse that mixes the authenticity of rural traditions with the comfort of modern city living. It lies between luxury and simplicity. It is perfect for families who want to reconnect with nature, enjoying the farmyard and organic gardens, and explore Portugal’s hidden Costa Vicentina. There are 38 houses of differing sizes, each complete with a kitchenette, and outdoor terraces, whilst the location itself also has a wonderful farm to table restaurant, a yoga area and nine hectares of flourishing agricultural land.

Exclusive Resort & Spa, Sylt, Germany

Sylt has long attracted a long list of famous faces, from Thomas Mann and Marlene Dietrich in the 1920s, to Gunter Sachs and his wife Brigitte Bardot who brought the jetset in the 1960s. A sense of that old-school glamour lingers, although in a welcoming low-key, barefoot way. You can stay at a wonderful luxury resort, perfectly built with thatched roofs and the elegant yet cosy interior to meet the highest standards. The resort has a wide range of family suites, apartments and villas, a large indoor pool and a kids’ club with a variety of activities and all-day care it is a haven for parents and children alike

Sustainable Island Retreat, Andros, The Cyclades, Greece

Andros is all about peace and quiet – the gorgeous isolated beaches are only two hours away from the hustle and bustle of Athens. The second largest island of the Cyclades, has kept its remote charm and is still far away from the tourist boom. This settlement of 14 individual stone cottages is hidden in a beautiful, secluded cove on the east cove of Andros. It is perfect for explorers, families and couple who will enjoy the calming atmosphere of this dreamy location. Wander through the Mediterranean flora, while the sun, the sea, and the delicious fresh food, reinvigorates your body and soul. The views from each cottage’s outdoor sitting area are of the valley and the river below and if you’ve had enough of admiring the scene, you can try yoga, snorkelling, fishing, hiking, a jeep excursion or wild swimming in a waterfall-fed spring.

Villa Al Castello, Lake Como

Located directly on the western shore of Lake Como, this is the perfect way to visit this beautiful lake as a family. The villa was fully renovated in 2020 and now combines the charm of a classical Italian home with modern, refined interiors. Every single room has exceptional views over the lake. The house sleeps up 13 guests, including four double en-suites. The private garden has a swimming pool and it is only 100m to a safe, shallow beach perfect for children. The house comes equipped with everything families need, as well as useful extras such a night light and monitor, toys and books so families can travel light! On the lake, you can swim, windsurf, kitesurf, sail, hike, mountain bike or take out a boat…the options are endless for all ages.

A historical lodge, Allgau, Germany

Go slow and connect with nature at this beautiful four-apartment property located on the ridge between West and Upper Allgau. All apartments have been designed in a modern, sustainable style that is befitting the alpine location, including lovely fireplaces, fully equipped kitchen dining areas, high end bedding, and outdoor barbeque areas. There is a spa with a sauna, hiking backpacks and maps available, guided alpaca and llama walks, a football field, table tennis and indoor games in case of bad weather.

Bethlen Estates, Transylvania

Many call the great forests of Transylvania’s Carpathian Mounains the last great wilderness in Europe, with their vast forests and spectacular UNESCO world heritage sites. They are among the best-preserved ecosystems in Europe and provide endless possibilities to roam and explore the dense forests, glacial lakes and wonderful wildlife. Go riding, take a cycling tour or picnic in the wild. Try wine tasting  or explore the medieval fortified churches and the Saxon built heritage and unspoilt medieval villages. While outdoor activities are taken care of, make yourself at home in beautiful 300-year-old buildings, restored beautifully to revive the authenticity of the region.

Image: Philip Vile

A sustainable luxury hotel in the Noto Valley, Sicily

Stay in this inviting hotel, part of a historic 19th-century estate, filled with antique frescoes, original vaults and combined with beautiful contemporary design throughout. The hotel’s 11 rooms (from 25 – 45sqm) are surrounded by gorgeously restored courtyards, ancient walls and private terraces that overlook the nearby hilly landscape of the Noto Valley. This is the ideal place to get in touch with nature as a family, while staying in a deeply comfortable, sophisticated environment. The property has a saltwater swimming pool, a lemon orchard, and a beautiful bar and restaurant, as well as its own vegetable and herb gardens.

Artist’s Residence, Pantelleria, Italy

This is the largest private property in Pantelleria and a great spot for laid-back luxury, accommodating up to 22 guests.  Just 200m from the coast, the property has spectacular views of the sea and beautiful terraces for sundowners. There is a beautiful pool, a lounge area, a huge deck set amongst nature as well as an outdoor kitchen and dining areas.  The property works with selected local organic farms and fishermen to supply homegrown fruits, vegetables, herbs and fish as well as organic Passito wine, capperi and extra virgin oil. Wander through volcanic landscapes and up to Montagna Grande, go canoeing or simply relax in the hot springs of Lago Specchio di Venere.

Lighthouse Hideaway, La Palma, Canary Islands

Play lighthouse keeper at this 150-year-old, active lighthouse, in a truly unforgettable family holiday experience. The lighthouse, which sleeps eight, has been lovingly restored and now features chic interiors, a breathtaking infinity pool and extraordinary Atlantic Ocean views – with La Palma’s famous banana plantations and wild coastline on your doorstep.  Three stylish rooms, as well as a variety of activities in the area, will keep everyone happy, while the remoteness of the location offers excellent bonding time. A must-do activity a series of yoga sessions in the garden platform, which has incredible views of the wild waves breaking against jagged cliffs.  Ideal for multigenerational holidays.

Sustainable Cabana Hideout, Comporta, Portugal

Experience pure nature and architecture that pays tribute to sustainability and modern design. These ultra-innovative cabanas are located in an unspoilt 7,600sqm reserve filled with wild pine trees, views of the neighbouring rice fields, sandy tracks, a pool and the endless beach, within walking distance. With an innovative energy concept and well-chosen natural materials, the cabanas are true sustainability role models.