A villa is often the best way to spend Christmas and New Year together: your own space, your own chef and no restaurant bookings to fight for. It is also the most competitive time of year to book. Here is how we approach it for clients.
When to book
For the most popular destinations, such as St Barts, the Alps and Cape Town, the best villas for the festive weeks are often reserved a year ahead, sometimes by returning guests. If you have not booked by early autumn, flexibility on location or villa size becomes important.
Minimum stays and fixed dates
Many villas set a minimum stay over the festive period, often a week or more, and some only accept bookings that start and end on set days. Ask early, because this can rule out a villa before you fall in love with it.
Questions to ask before you commit
- What staff are included: housekeeping, chef, butler, driver, nanny?
- How are food, wine and extras charged: at cost, with a handling fee or by package?
- What is the deposit, the payment schedule and the cancellation policy?
- How many bedrooms are true doubles, and which are suitable for children?
- Is there a security deposit, and how is it returned?
- What are the house rules for parties and guests on New Year's Eve?
The details that make the holiday
The best festive villa stays are planned well before arrival. We arrange pre-stocking so the house is ready when you walk in, a Christmas tree and decorations, the menu for Christmas lunch and New Year's Eve, transfers and childcare. We also book restaurants, beach clubs and New Year's Eve tables for the nights you want to go out.
Where we suggest looking
For winter sun, see our summer in winter guide. For snow, Lapland offers private villas and lodges with the Northern Lights, and our Lapland comparison sets out three options with prices.
Frequently asked questions
How far ahead should I book a Christmas villa?
For the most popular destinations, the best villas are often reserved a year ahead. If you are booking in autumn, be flexible on location or size.
Do festive villas have minimum stays?
Often, yes. Many villas set a minimum stay of a week or more over Christmas and New Year, sometimes with fixed start and end days.
