Dining alfresco is one of those glorious pleasures you happily enjoy on holiday. I mean, is there anything better than dining out under the stars, with a hearty meal, good wine and impeccable company – it’s the definition of bliss. Thankfully, the majority of our villas offer the amenities for you to enjoy alfresco dining night upon night. It wasn’t an easy task, but we’ve narrowed down our very best European villas for alfresco dining. Bon appetit.
We’re not often floored by the beauty of an exterior, but Villa Shambhala is one of those exceptions to the rule. Unmissable sunsets, swans on the river and wine that conveniently disappears by the bottle – not enough can be said about this outdoor space, it’s just sheer perfection. You can relish your morning coffee sitting in front of the Dordogne river and in the evenings you can kick back with a home-cooked meal underneath the star-filled sky.
Sleeps: 8
Prices from: £48pppn
Just steps away from one of the most charming villages in France, L’Oustal Des Fleurs actually boasts a pretty view of the church from its gorgeous patio area. Enjoy some locally produced wine while you admire the nearby surroundings – does anything sound better?
The home is perfectly decorated inside and out – the owner is actually an interior designer, so no detail has been overlooked when it comes to making L’Oustal Des Fleurs welcoming and beautiful. The covered pool also means that a spot of swimming can be enjoyed whatever the weather in Languedoc – delightful!
Sleeps: 8
Prices from: £60pppn
Guests that choose to stay at Casale Cocca leave with a new admiration for nature. Something we believe stems from the villa’s stunning Tuscany location. The Tuscan hills and the views of the Natural Reserve of Monte Rufeno’s green woods will be with you at every turn. Luckily, you can admire these spellbinding views all day long, thanks to the panoramic swimming pool and the longstanding barn that was converted into an outdoor kitchen with a pizza oven.
Sleeps: 9
Prices from: £33pppn
Villa Artistic is a great escape from our busy modern lives. The villa has so much charm, taste and impeccable style. Families can come together in the common areas at the end of the day and dine under the stars, enjoy the region’s excellent wines and enjoy the views across the lawn. A meal can be prepared using the beautiful produce from the vegetable garden, indeed taking the best of the region’s culinary, cultural and artistic heritage in Puglia.
Sleeps: 8-14
Prices from: £197pppn
Lovingly renovated, Binsenzio Tower in Umbria is our guilty pleasure, and soon to be yours too. Gym bunnies, bookworms and movie buffs will all be happily catered for and once you’ve all enjoyed some recreational time, gather in the outdoor area while the chef of the family whips up some pizzas. While you wait for your feast, you can help prepare the cocktails or cheekily take a dip in the pool.
Sleeps: 16
Prices from: £131pppn
Alfresco dining with a view! Yes, please. Barbati View is awe-inspiring to look at, so imagine calling it home for the week. You’ll be within a 5-minute walk to shops, bars and restaurants (although we’re not sure if you’ll be able to drag yourself away). Bright, airy and comfortable, this villa ticks all the right boxes, and with four bedrooms, it’s a wonderful choice for families wanting to holiday in Corfu. Outside, you’ll find a large infinity pool, the poolside pergola area and a dining table – winning.
Sleeps: 8
Prices from: £109pppn
This pretty pink palace is set within the prestigious gated community of La Zagaleta on the Costa del Sol. Your party of 14 guests will love the manicured grounds and leafy gardens, the stunning pool and views to the Med. As evening comes in, take to one of the many terraces to enjoy dinner parties together, bathed in the glow of sunset over the mountains. Heaven!
Sleeps: 14
Prices from: £481pppn
This villa boasts magnificent ocean views that will have you heading towards the lovely beaches of Mahairida, Tersanas, Stavros and Kalathas – and all just a breezy walk from the home. The terrace is an extremely special spot for creating memories in Crete. During the day you can enjoy a typical fruity Med breakfast together, and in the evening you can reminisce with old stories, or one better – a drunken game of charades. Make sure to film it for a keepsake.
Sleeps: 8
Prices from: £84pppn
With a covered terrace, barbecue area and outdoor dining facilities, Casa Golfinho is built for enjoying al-fresco dining under the rays of the Vilamoura sun. Enjoy a peaceful and tranquil holiday just steps away from the Vila Sol Resort, which also boasts an exceptional golf course.
Sleeps: 8
Prices from: £48pppn
Just 200m from the beach, Villa Athina is a Greek paradise in Corfu. With show-stopping amenities, you’d be a fool to miss out. Lap up the sunshine in the lush gardens, where you’ll find an oval-shaped pool and comfortable sun loungers. There’s also a luxurious dining area right by the sea which makes a loving retreat for special occasions.
Sleeps: 12
Prices from: £62pppn
If that’s got you in the mood for alfresco dining, why not check out our selection of summer villas? And if you need any extras, you can also call our concierge team for any extra requests or enquiries you may have, for instance, if you want a private chef to enjoy on your sun-drenched terrace!
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