Summer holiday homes you should book now

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The sky is grey, the wind is harsh and the streets are spilling with rain water. Winter in Blighty isn’t all that great. So, although summer is a good few months away, there’s nothing wrong with dreaming about your next holiday and doing some recon on what destinations you want to jet to – so for those sat at the office desk thinking of shores afar and sipping on a cocktail complete with umbrella, we’ve got the thing for you. From a lakeside Italian flat to a jungle villa in Bali, these are the ultimate summer hangouts to book right now, courtesy of AirBnb.

Via Alberto Cadlolo, Rome

If understated decadence is what you seek, then you’re sure to find it in this nook of Rome, as this sleek and slick three bedroom apartment is drenched in shades of white and cream. A minimalists’ dream, Via Alberto Cadlolo offers a much-needed respite from the bustle and chaos of the Italian capital and comes complete with a commodious living room area, an eight-seat dining table, and tucked away in one part of the abode is a stripped-back kitchen finished in marble and chrome – perfect for when you feel like cooking up some classic cucina casalina. But the best part? The terrace which offers sweeping vistas over the city’s terracotta and yellow rooftops.

Sleeps: 5

Blythe Road, London

London reigns supreme when it comes to sharp and stylish stays and hotels, but quite often they can feel sterile and without character. However, this urban manor, with its flowing curved walls, expansive entrance hall, eclectic collection of art, wide windows and blonde wood floors, is an exception. For ease of moving from floor to floor, there’s a fireman’s pole that connects to the kitchen (but this is also accessible by more conventional means), and you’ll also have access to a blue-tiled swimming pool where you can relax after a hard day of traversing around Soho and the like. Perhaps the most striking feature of this place is the half-moon room with a smart ensuite – a feature that makes Blythe Road an architectural gem.

Sleeps: 8-12

Buff and Hensman House, Greater Hollywood

What was once a house full of inconvenient beams and misplaced skylights, is now a opulent getaway near Hollywood Hills. Blending the great outdoors with contemporary functions, this peaceful and secluded hideout is the only place you should stay in Tinseltown. Why? Because whether it’s the reclaimed wooden panels, the interior’s mid-century aesthetic or the furnishings in hues of tan and caramel, everything inside feels stylish, modern and homely. In terms of amenities, it comes complete with retractable walls, remote-operated blackout shades (perfect after a night out), lights in the master bedroom and a heated aqua-blue pool. And though you might find it hard, we suggest going out to the nearby bars and fine-dining joints to indulge in a carafe or two.

Sleeps: 4-6

Jungle Villa, Ubud

Looking to go off the grid? We’ve got the thing for you. Located in the river valley of the Indonesian town of Ubud, this open-air-designed palace is the ideal way to escape the fast-paced, digital-dominated world we live in. Inside you’ll find terrazzo counters and a wood bar, Javanese-style furnishings, two open air shower spaces, plunge pool and even a room which can be transformed in a bijou-sized yoga studio (great for when you feel like connecting with your inner zen). However, it’s the wrap-around floor to ceiling glass windows that you really come here for, as it offers the chance to peruse the tropical birds that soar through the jungle ahead. Better still, the house is looked after by housekeepers, a gardener, security guard, manager and cook – so the only thing you need to do is book your reservation.

Sleeps: 6

Lake flat, Riva

Perhaps one of the most impressive properties in Italy, this charming, rustic-style residence overlooks the lakes and gargantuan mountains of River di Solto, Lombardy. Although the impressive panorama is enough of a reason to check-in here, there’s also a tennis court, bowling alley and summer pool from which you can take in the views. For the restless traveller, you’ll be pleased to know that the medieval town centre is only 150 metres down the road and a nearby ferry will cart you to Montisola, the largest lakeside island in Europe. Camonica Valley – with its ancient villages, ski resorts, thermal baths and UNESCO World Heritage Sites – is also just a few kilometres away.

Sleeps: 6

For more, visit AirBnb.co.uk

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