According the online magazine luxurydefined by Christie’s International Real Estate top travel operators across the world are seeing a trend for travelers opting to prioritize privacy and well-being in the vacations they choose. And when it comes to private villas, and the heightened control of their surroundings they provide, you’re not only guaranteed safety but high levels of seclusion and luxury, too.

“We’ve seen an 80 percent increase in bookings for private villas,” says Pete Brudenell, head of marketing at CV Villas, a bespoke travel company that operates throughout the Mediterranean. “A lot of first-time villa holiday goers are moving over from high-end hotels. By booking a villa, travelers are guaranteed the space and privacy they are looking for, with protocols ensuring a safe getaway.”

So, if you’ve ever dreamed of having an uninterrupted view of the Santorini seafront or an ultra-exclusive slice of the Côte dAzur, these recently debuted private villas according to luxurydefined are the very best way to vacation in Europe:

Ultima Corfu, Greece

Image: Henry Woide

Villa with a view: Hop on a boat and arrive at this authentic Greek villa, where you’ll find deep blue waters, views of the Greek and Albanian coasts, and Mediterranean-inspired dishes fresh from the sea. Image: Henry Woide

Ultima Corfu is a ultra-luxury villa, with its own private dock on rugged coastline overlooking the Adriatic Sea is fusing five-star luxury with the privacy of a home. The six-suite villa comes with amenities such as a spa, a cinema, and a two-level infinity-edge pool, as well as Ultima Collection’s signature service, which includes concierge, a chauffeur, a private chef and housekeeping.

Santorini Sky, Greece

Image: George Fakaros

Situated on Prophet Elias mountain—the highest point on the Greek island of Santorini—this eco-conscious retreat boasts an infinity-edge pool, a jacuzzi, and spectacular views for miles. Image: George Fakaros

Santorini Sky is an eight-villa retreat hosting guests at the highest point of Santorini. It looks out across the island from its position atop Prophet Elias mountain, which rises up to 2,000 feet. In this remote location, guests stay in villas that were designed by the renowned architect Vassilis Zorzos, using local materials that blend into their surroundings.

Ca’n Esmeralda, Spain

Ca'n Esmeralda, Spain

Island dreams: On the northern side of Mallorca, Ca’n Esmeralda is the perfect destination for those seeking peace and privacy amidst its palm trees.

Ca’n Esmeralda is a private retreat that places guests on the northern side of Mallorca, within easy reach of Pollença town. The modern villa comes fully staffed and features luxury amenities, including a cinema, playroom, and gym, in addition to its extensive living space and four bedrooms.

Villa La Lavandaia, Italy

Villa La Lavanderia

Head into the heart of the Tuscan countryside with a stay at Villa La Lavandaia on the estate of Borgo Pignano, and you’ll find incredible views of olive groves, vineyards, fields, and woods.

The brand-new, two-bedroom Villa La Lavandaia hosts guests staying at luxury Tuscan estate Borgo Pignano. Situated at the top of the hill, with a terrace providing far-reaching views over the Tuscan countryside, the renovated villa takes over a historic and thoughtfully restored building, and boasts a fully equipped kitchen and private heated pool.

Villa Sainte-Anne, France

Villa Sainte-Anne, Cannes

The ultra-exclusive five-bedroom Villa Sainte-Anne is the latest villa to be introduced by the iconic Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc in France, featuring sophisticated living spaces and luxurious spa rooms.

The ultra-exclusive, five-bedroom Villa Sainte-Anne is a historic building renovated in 2019 by the Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc. The villa now comprises five bedrooms, all with a dressing room and bath, along with stylish living and dining areas, and a spa with a sauna, steam room, hammam, and gym.

Waterfront Villa in Dubrovnik, Croatia

Bask in the beauty of the Dubrovnik Riviera with this contemporary villa that offers endless views over the archipelago, a private beach, and a heated infinity-edge swimming pool.

Complementing these luxury rental properties, luxurydefined also proposes three exclusive private villas for sale. These are a waterfront villa in Dubrovnik, Croatia, a sea-view mansion in Cannes, France or a modern eco-villa in Marbella, Spain. Exclusive properties in exclusive locations should not be a bad investment given the growing demand and the uncertain times.