Escape to Uncompromising Quiet at Perivolas Oia Santorini

The Greek retreat Perivolas on the island of Santorini is an ultimate escape: high above the Aegean, it’s designed to be a place to let the world “slip away” — even though it’s just a short walk from Oia, a charming village. All around you you’ll see beauty: terraced gardens slope to an infinity pool whose edge seems to slip off the cliff rim right into the azure horizon. Hear the quiet? That’s intentional too; no TVs or DVDs mar the secluded silence of this place, with only tolling church bells or the whistle of a fishing boat to break the spell. As the site attests, “It is easy to linger here all day, watching the changing light until the sun settles into the sea.”

Originally a private home, Perivolas maintains an ambience of intimate space and scale. Built by native craftsmen and out of local materials, it contains airy rooms, flooded with sunshine through skylights. Beds are tucked into alcoves in the white stone walls; your space is adorned with wildflower bouquets. Interiors are meant to be timeless and minimalist in the best possible way — with no distractions or disruptions of your meditative tranquility. As your hosts say, “This is a place to switch off. A place to read, recharge, relax; to sleep, rest, and dream.” Of course, your comfort is assured — your stay includes bathrobes, toiletries, mini-bar and coffee, not to mention gorgeous surroundings and excellent cuisine. So it’s an easy choice: for an escape of uncompromising luxury and peace, Perivolas Oia Santorini awaits.

 

 

 

 

Exquisite Escape: Chalet Carat in Courchevel

You can be forgiven if, at first glance, you think the unofficial “mascot” of Chalet Carat Courchevel by Pure Concept is the polar bear; stuffed bears are everywhere in this magnificent vacation chalet in the Alps. The chalet, an upscale retreat for the discriminating traveler, is located in Courchevel 1850, a renowned ski area; in the midst of the snow season, fully lighted, it glows like a diamond — but a very livable diamond, at that. Spacious enough to sleep up to 10, its three levels offer luxuries and amenities comparable to a 5-star resort within your own four walls. Wood predominates in the interior décor, accented by touches of black and gray leather, velvet, and cashmere. At the heart of the chalet is the staircase leading from one level to the other, a graceful glass structure that plays up the shining wood around it.

Everything’s here: a fully-equipped modern kitchen with stainless steel appliances…a dining room and bar…even a terrace, which in summer months is the perfect outdoor dining space. Bedrooms are elegantly appointed with accents of gold, Mongolian lambskin, and whisper-soft rugs; all have en-suite baths outfitted in white Carrera marble. For indoor enjoyment, avail yourself of the Hollywood-style home cinema, with its deep purple décor and plush gray loungers — or have a dip in the heated marble pool, just off the bar area. When you add in the services of a housekeeper, private chef, and chauffeur, you’ll soon know why those polar bears look happy: they get to stay here all the time!

 

Luxurious Farmhouse: Belvedere Parade by Geschke Group

The ideal meld of “farmhouse” style and Texas hill country home can be seen in this design from Geschke Group of Austin, TX. Inspired by Old World German architecture, the architects set out to convey that same warmth and solidity in contemporary terms; note the rustic look of the brickwork, the ample proportions, and its “sprawling” character. That being said, this certainly isn’t Grandma’s farmhouse — not with an infinity pool, cascading waterfall and “stream” in its back yard! Indoor/outdoor living also isn’t a part of old-fashioned farmhouses, but it’s integral here; wide glass doors enable a seamless transition between indoors and outdoor deck, while rustic wood pillars and roof overhead give you an undeniably old-time feeling.

We suspect Grandma would feel right at home in the kitchen, though, even with modern appliances of cool stainless steel. At first glance, the kitchen island even looks like a farmhouse table, until you see the sink and work area on its other side and measure the height of the chairs! The open plan living/dining/kitchen area is 100 percent contemporary, while employing arched doorways and a high ceiling makes the room feel even more spacious. But certainly, we know Grandma never had a bathroom like this one, with its arched alcove holding a garden tub, granite-topped double vanities, and ceiling “pot” lights — although now, she’d probably choose it in a heartbeat. Who wouldn’t? It’s all part of a house that’s a perfect blend: traditional German “feel” and up-to-date Texas style.