For the first time ever, this stunning property is available for rental. Located in the Girona province, not far from Girona itself, Mas Mateu has undergone an extensive refurbishment led by a hand-picked team of architects, interior designers and landscape planners…and boy! It shows!
If you are looking for a luxury break in spain complete with all the trappings you would expect from one of Spain’s most distinguished families, Mas Mateu has it all. Each bedroom is uniquely decorated in delicate Catalan tones, complemented by locally sourced rugs, unique family heirlooms, and individual fireplaces, some opening on to their own private terraces with far-reaching views of the Costa Brava. For the ultimate in tranquillity, sink into a deliciously deep oval bath, surrounded by glass walls that open onto the surrounding forest.

The house sleeps twenty, with additional staff quarters, making it ideal for a private family getaway, intimate wedding or an informal house party. A graceful arched doorway leads into a series of inviting lounges, with magnificent views over the snow-capped Pyrenees, ideal for relaxing with friends. Cool alabaster walls frame the grand salon’s majestic fireplace, making it the perfect place to curl up with your favourite book.
The property is home to Southern Europe’s leading equestrian facilities which has played host to Spain’s highly regarded national dressage team. One of the world’s finest facilities for training dressage horses, the centre can stable up to ten horses and houses a 70x30 metre all weather covered track, a 70x30 metre outdoor track, a round track for warming up and horse lunging, six paddocks, stands for up to 100 spectators, several acres of fields and living quarters for trainers.
Those who prefer not to ride can take advantage of Mas Mateu’s extensive facilities, including a dedicated swimming pool complex, spa, gym, football field, basketball court, paddle-tennis court, an outdoor barbeque, a summer kitchen housed in an ancient barn, and cinema.
Dining is a truly Catalan experience at Mas Mateu. Enjoy a Spanish banquet, freshly prepared by the in-house chef, under the stars on one of the many open terraces or eat in the elegant dining room. The region is also home to some of the most celebrated restaurants in Spain, including El Bulli and El Celler de Can Roca, ideal for those rare moments you feel like venturing outside the estate.
You really could not ask for more! This fantastic holiday destination can be yours from €40,000 / week. For further information, please visit http://www.masmateu.com or to book a private tour of the property please call +34.629.47.94.41 or email .(JavaScript must be enabled to view this email address)
The idea of a break on an island as picturesque as this is most welcoming. Hamilton Island, on the great barrier reef has everything you could ask for.
Stunning views, pale green blue coral seas, temperature normally over 81’ every day, an exclusive waterfront pool and golf very much on the agenda.

The Hamilton Island Yaught Club has been created by Hamilton Island Owner Bob Oatley and famed yachtsman Iain Murray using the talents of architect Walter Barda. Barda has utilised natural timbers, sweeping lines, and a spacious open floor plan to compliment the beautiful surroundings. The finish is down to leading designers Coco Republic, who have furnished the interiors with an elegant kind of comfortable.

The spacious four-bedroom, four-bathroom stand-alone Hamilton Island Yacht Club Villas boast a wonderfully spectacular and panoramic view of the adjacent Dent Island and Dent Passage, the Hamilton Island Marina, and the surrounding Whitsunday Islands.
I mentioned Golf. Hamilton Island has the only championship island golf course in Australia. You also get to use the villa’s own golf buggy - you are here to take it easy.
A special offer makes this an even more desireable location - Book before may 31st 2010, and you can take advantage of a special introductory rate of AUD $4,050* for one villa including:
· Three-night stay for up to eight people
· $1,000 worth of complimentary activities and dining
· A round of golf for two on the exclusive new Hamilton Island Golf Club course
· 90 minute Mala Mayi massage at Spa qualia
· $400 for dinner at Hamilton Island’s signature restaurant, Boomies
That’s sold it.
If you fancy a billionaires lifestyle this Summer then you may like to consider hiring one of these quite incredible super yachts, all situated in Greece. You’re looking at Edmiston’s elite Greek Fleet, which offers a wide range of sizes, styles and budgets for all luxury tastes.
Trust me, you’ll not see the Ionian or Aegean in a better way. Hop around the islands at your pleasure perhaps stopping for the odd shopping trip, restaurant or beach party when you fancy.
PEGASUS
Size - 52m I 171ft
Sleeps - 12 guests
Costs From - €165,000 per week

Pegasus is arguably one of the finest yachts for charter in Greece. The sun deck has a Jacuzzi and plunge
pool, two dining areas, circular sofas and a glassenclosedbalcony seating area Inside, the classic contemporary style includes parquet floors and a subtle but bold use of colour. She has also been nominated for Superyacht Award for Best Refit 2010.
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There’s something about Jacobean mansions in the country… classic English architecture at its finest, and there’s always a dramatic history surrounding it. We recently reviewed Millers At Glencot House, a perfect, well restored example of fine English heritage nestled at the foot of the Mendip Hills, Somerset.
The property has had all manner of past lives including that of a school… but it’s now firmly in the hands of hotelier and antiques expert Martin Miller who has worked his magic on it. The hotel itself is around 5 miles from Glastonbury (which is well worth a visit, especially if you can make it up to the Tor on a clear day – the view is absolutely stunning). The best way to describe the hotel is ‘good old fashioned English eccentricity’ within a countryside paradise. It’s like nothing we’ve reviewed before, completely unique, individual… and we loved it!


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For a UK based self-catering holiday with a difference check out Beach Retreats. They look after fabulous finished properties on the north coast of Cornwall, including stunning apartments in Watergate Bay, I checked them out last weekend to experience truly 21st century beachside living. They are currently promoting their collaboration with a holiday concierge service – the idea is that visitors have their every need and ‘diva like’ whim catered for. I was impressed upon arrival- after a stressful week at work and a late evening flight it was great to discover a fridge full of local Cornish delicacies and a perfectly chilled bottle of English wine!

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