As the winter frosts melt and the first flowers start to bloom, nature in Europe truly comes alive. From rolling green hills to purple lavender fields, and vibrant wildflowers in all shades, a whole new palette of colours is exposed in spring.
The sunshine is pleasant without the fierce heat of summer and crowds are fewer, making it the perfect time to hike in the hills or cycle through pretty villages and country lanes.
Though travel may be restricted this spring, we can still daydream about the blossoming landscapes and the luxurious properties from which to enjoy them. Below are our picks of the bunch.
Hamlet Rosumarinu
Corsica, FranceCorsica may bring to mind beautiful beaches and sparkling waters but the island also boasts a lush inland between the mountains and the sea. In this region lies the exclusive Domaine de Murtoli estate where guests can play a round of golf on the private course, harvest fruit and vegetables from the organic gardens, and enjoy wine tasting sessions to name but a few activities.
Hamlet Rosumarinu is a pretty property within the estate, comprising four traditional shepherds’ houses. With a swimming pool, a petanque pitch beneath olive trees, and a well-equipped outdoor kitchen and terrace for al fresco dining, it’s the perfect choice for enjoying the spring sunshine.
7 bedrooms, up to 16 guests
Villa Llenaire
Mallorca, SpainMallorca is the perfect spring destination for nature lovers. The island’s Pollenca peninsula Mallorca is the perfect spring destination for nature lovers. The island’s Pollenca peninsula features pine forests, rocky bays, sandy beaches, and cliffs jutting out into the sea, which provide homes for nesting seabirds. The climate is ideal for hiking, and visitors can head to the top of Cap de Formentor to enjoy panoramic views, stretching all the way to Menorca on a clear day.
The perfect choice for families, Villa Llenaire features spacious gardens with a swimming pool, a table tennis set, an in-ground sandpit and a swing set. There’s also an outdoor kitchen ideal for family barbecues, whilst indoors there’s a well-equipped gym, a playroom, and a TV room perfect for movie nights.
4 bedrooms, up to 8 guests
Villa Borghese
Florence Area, ItalyTuscany is stunning at any time of year but in spring, it has an extra special magic. The hillsides are lush and green, the flowers are blossoming, and the temperatures are mild, perfect for enjoying the great outdoors.
In the countryside between Tuscan capital Florence and historic Lucca lies Villa Borghese, a beautifully-restored 16th century mansion. Built on a hillside of olive trees and vineyards, the villa offers spectacular views overlooking the surrounding valley. It boasts beautifully-landscaped gardens and a private swimming pool, plus it’s within easy driving distance of excellent golf courses.
7 bedrooms, up to 12 guests
The Lodge Chalet
Verbier, SwitzerlandAs the snow melts away, the slopes of Verbier come alive with vibrant wildflowers and lush, green grasses. Visitors can enjoy mountain hikes and scenic golf sessions, or get their adrenaline pumping with paragliding, rock climbing, and canyoning.
At the end of an action-packed day, The Lodge is the ideal place to retreat to and relax and unwind in style. The chalet’s garden boasts a Jacuzzi, a lounge and barbecue area, a table tennis set, and plenty of sun loungers and hammocks for lying back and soaking up the spring sunshine. Indoors, there’s a heated swimming pool, spa facilities, and a bar and games room to keep all ages entertained. Who needs snow?
9 bedrooms, up to 18 guests
