Meeting THIRDHOME Members’ expectations is an ongoing pursuit, and that’s where Episode 2 of Millionaire Holiday Home Swap comes into play. In this episode, THIRDHOME’s Director of Strategy, Giles Adams, is looking to make amends with one family after a less-than-stellar trip to Mexico. Which means he needs to impress them with their next one. But that’s not all he’s up to; he’s also been tasked with finding extra weeks at one of the most sought-after properties, Leobo Private Reserve in South Africa.
Château d’Isle-sur-Marne in Champagne-Ardenne, France
Overview
Set in the heart of the historic Champagne region, Château d’Isle-Sur-Marne is a stunning, fully restored castle where time stands still. The eight-bedroom, five-bathroom château dates back to 1732, and the façades, the dovecote, the iron gate, the roofing, and the statues of the park are all protected as historical monuments. It extends over 34 acres of landscaped parklands and forest and is surrounded by water on all sides, accessible by a stone bridge, passing the moats surrounding the château.
Leobo Private Reserve in Vaalwater, South Africa
Overview
Leobo Private Reserve is a completely private 20,000-acre estate based in the beautiful malaria-free Waterberg mountains, a 3-hour drive north of Johannesburg, and home to the award-winning Observatory Bush Villa. Designed by Silvio Rech and Lesley Carstens, it is probably the most stunning safari house in Africa from an architectural and style perspective and is a fantastic home for families and small groups. Guests of this spectacular four-bedroom, three-bathroom retreat enjoy a wealth of amenities and luxuries, including a renowned gourmet chef and attending butler. Additionally, Leobo offers thermal imaging for night-time game viewing, quad bikes, racing quad bikes, a Polaris cross-country buggy, kayaks, fishing, horses, and game drive vehicles.
Streaming now!
Watch Episode 2 of Millionaire Holiday Home Swap, now streaming exclusively on Paramount+ in the UK and Ireland.
Paramount+ includes a mountain of quality entertainment for everyone to enjoy. UK-based readers can subscribe here: https://www.paramountplus.com/gb/.
Paramount+ costs just £6.99/month or £69.90/year in the UK (€7.99 per month or €79.90 per year in Ireland) with a free 7-day trial available to everyone.
Sky Cinema subscribers get the bonus of Paramount+ included at no extra cost.
In the season finale of Millionaire Holiday Home Swap, we are once again spanning the globe, from South Africa to Italy. We meet new families and members who are looking for the perfect trip south of London or are on their honeymoon in Italy and befriend a local mayor. And once again, Giles is on the move alongside it all.
Caidominici Villa in Pietralunga, Italy
Overview
Caidominici is a recently restored large Umbrian farmhouse… perfect for families and friends searching for a relaxing break in the truly remarkable “green heart” of Italy. The home has many original and traditional features combined with modern design and luxury finishings that will enchant you upon arrival. With six graciously sized bedrooms, this 15-key property sleeps up to 12 guests, offers a stunning 20m heated infinity pool, tennis court, bocce pitch, table tennis, and is surrounded by miles and miles of official “tracks” for mountain biking or walking. Other nearby activities include horse riding, truffle-hunting (seasonal), golf, and some of the most notable wineries in the world that you can tour at your leisure. The quintessential Italian countryside adventure awaits at Caidominici!
Penhill Estate in Cape Town, South Africa
Overview
The gorgeous Penhill Estate oozes countryside charm and history. A scenic 90-minute drive away from Cape Town, you’ll spot its towering twin palms long before the outcrop of white-washed buildings set against endless emerald lawns comes into view. It’s rare to find a country retreat as unique and authentic. Built in 1840, the manor is an outstanding example of Cape Dutch architecture. Prior to becoming a Reserve property, it was split into six different cottages one could book through the club. It’s easy to imagine this wonderfully historic place as it was some 300 years ago when it was first built as a refreshment station on the busy route to Stellenbosch, Swellendam, and Graaf Reinet.
The Lost Orangery at Euridge Manor in Chippenham, England
Overview
Nestled in the rolling hills of the Cotswolds, just outside the quintessentially English village of Castle Combe, lies The Lost Orangery at Euridge Manor. With its own roof terrace, croquet lawn, pretty boating lake, boat house, and a man-made mound with a walkable path that circumvents the slope, the property offers guests incredible views of the local countryside and comfortably accommodates up to four guests. The Lost Orangery owners are gracious and want guests to enjoy their entire estate, from the Folly Mound to the tennis court and boating pond. With idyllic walks on the doorstep, and easy access to the city of Bath, the Castle Combe Circuit, and the Cotswolds, this is an exceptional location for your next getaway.
Chalet Bellevue in Méribel, France
Overview
Chalet Bellevue is a quiet private residence ideally situated in the Morel/1600 area of Méribel. This recently renovated sunny, spacious and luxurious property is perfectly positioned for easy access to the ski slopes via the free Morel chair lift (three minutes walk away). You can ski back virtually to the door via the Morel Piste. Les Trois Vallees is considered to be the most significant skiing area in the world, with over 600km of interconnected ski slopes and 180 fast, modern ski lifts in the resorts of Courchevel, Les Manures, Val Thorens, St, Martin de Belleville, and Orelle.
The Méribel Valley is one of the most popular destinations consisting of picture-postcard chalets and chalet-style apartments. Méribel has retained all the charm of a traditional mountain village with its wood and stone buildings and forest setting. It’s the largest of several villages in the valley and is home to the main shopping area and a great selection of restaurants and bars.
Maison Mala in Selca, Croatia
Overview
Situated on a quiet headland of exclusive villas, Maison Mala offers guests a quiet retreat to relax, swim in crystal-clear waters, and enjoy the beauty of this gorgeous corner of Croatia. Maison Mala blends with the waterfront’s natural rock formations built from the same stone as the US White House. Sitting on the same latitude as Tuscany, Maison Mala’s Mediterranean gardens are planted with olives, cypress, fig, and lavender to add a thoroughly civilized yet laid-back experience. If you are looking for a Croatian waterfront home, it does not get much better than Maison Mala!
Turin Castle in Forfar, Scotland
Overview
Turin Castle is a stunning 17th Century property that sits on twenty acres of sweeping lawns with majestic views of the rolling Scottish countryside between Aberdeen and Edinburgh. As well as the glorious surroundings, this exclusive castle has everything you need to experience the very best of Scottish country living. With a wealth of activities available for guests staying at Turin Castle, you will be delighted to enjoy the myriad of activities to do, from relaxing walks in rolling gardens for your exclusive use, an on-site six-hole mini golf course, pétanque, croquet and table tennis – to a host of country pursuits and outdoor activities nearby, including walking, mountain-biking, hunting, stalking and fishing.
Among the architectural and historical elements the town offers, the castle, the historic university, the medieval streets, and the gorgeous traditional buildings are masterpieces that will inspire your wonder. To make your stay a memorable and unique experience, let your every need be catered for with the exclusive butler service available on request. Also, concierge services are provided by the owner herself!
Other Featured Properties in Episode Six:
Le Riad de l’Esperance in Gordons Bay, South Africa
Baan Saleah in Phuket, Thailand
Streaming Now!
Watch Episode 6 of Millionaire Holiday Home Swap, now streaming exclusively on Paramount+ in the UK and Ireland.
Paramount+ includes a mountain of quality entertainment for everyone to enjoy. UK-based readers can subscribe here: https://www.paramountplus.com/gb/.
Paramount+ costs just £6.99/month or £69.90/year in the UK (€7.99 per month or €79.90 per year in Ireland) with a free 7-day trial available to everyone.
Sky Cinema subscribers get the bonus of Paramount+ included at no extra cost.
What do you do if you get bored of forever having to return to your second home? Join a club of like-minded and similarly property-endowed people and go and stay in theirs!
Welcome to Millionaire Holiday Home Swap—a 6-part Paramount+ original series that explores the homes and lifestyles of some of THIRDHOME’s Exchange members. In this awe-inspiring show, viewers get to know the Club’s founder and CEO, Wade Shealy, and Director of Strategy, Giles Adams. Wade explains how the Club began—a simple swap pool between him and his friends who own second homes. Now, 12 years later, the Club features over 14,000 properties across 100 countries. Millionaire Holiday Home Swap takes us inside these extravagant homes, including THIRDHOME’s Reserve properties, an exclusive program for even higher-worth properties.
If you haven’t seen the show yet, what are you waiting for? In the meantime, let’s uncover the details behind the fantastic properties in Episode 1.
Cottar’s Mara Bush Villa in Masai Mara, Kenya
Overview
Cottar’s Mara Bush Villa is located on the award-winning Cottar’s Safari Camp in Kenya, bordering the world-famous Maasai Mara National Reserve. Cottar’s Bush Villa won the World Travel Award for Africa’s Leading Luxury Private Villa in 2016 and is Global Eco-Sphere Retreat accredited. Located next to the Savannah Plains, the luxury villa sleeps up to 12, and guests can enjoy privately guided game drives, night game drives, bush walks, swimming, and fishing and can even witness the Great Wildebeest Migration known over the world.
Cottars History
Cottar’s Safaris Services was established in 1919 and was one of the first registered safari companies offering superior game hunting and film safaris throughout Africa, India, and Indochina. Among the Cottar’s long list of achievements, many were firsts. They were the first to import American safari vehicles, the first to reach new areas like Lake Paradise, and the first service to obtain rare safari footage. The Cottars were even the first safari company to establish a tented photography camp in the 60s.
Property Look
The Bush Villa has five bedrooms and six bathrooms and offers complete privacy, with a secure and secluded road leading to the house, which makes it a perfect immersion into nature.
The villa comes with a dedicated staff of eight (one waiter, one housekeeper, two security guards, a guide, and a wildlife spotter). And if you were worried you wouldn’t have access to modern amenities, you can rest assured that the villa has internet access throughout, satellite TV and DVD, and is powered with electric and solar energy.
Trail’s End in Whistler, Canada
Overview
This six-bedroom, eight-bathroom chalet is known around Whistler as the most luxurious getaway in the entire community. Located in the in-demand Kadenwood neighborhood, this ski-in/ski-out retreat sits on 7,500 square feet on a private slope. Trail’s End bursts with luxuries, such as heated floors throughout the home, an espresso bar, a sparkling water dispenser, and a covered, heated entertainment deck.
About Whistler
Whistler Blackcomb is one of the best and most well-known ski resort areas in all of North America. Ranked by USA Today as one of the top 11 resorts this side of the Atlantic. Not only does it offer some of the best skiing for all levels, but it’s also got one of the top villages for après-ski activities, rivaling those famous Austrian ski villages you always hear about.
Seascape Escape in Koh Samui, Thailand
Overview
This four-bedroom, four-bathroom villa is nestled within the grounds of the W Koh Samui Luxury Resort, located on the popular Koh Samui Island—the second-largest island in Thailand. Seascape Escape overlooks the Gulf of Thailand, which is world-famous for its scuba diving and deep-sea fishing.
Accessible via the Koh Samui airport, which is only 15 minutes by car, this tropical getaway boasts ocean views, an infinity pool, loungers, and a sun bed to enjoy. Visitors can enjoy maid service and all of the benefits that the W Hotel has to offer. If you are interested in airport transfers, private chefs, or other services, those can be provided for extra fees.
Streaming Now!
Watch Episode 1 of Millionaire Holiday Home Swap, now streaming exclusively on Paramount+ in the UK and Ireland.
Paramount+ includes a mountain of quality entertainment for everyone to enjoy. UK-based readers can subscribe here: https://www.paramountplus.com/gb/.
Paramount+ costs just £6.99/month or £69.90/year in the UK (€7.99 per month or €79.90 per year in Ireland) with a free 7-day trial available to everyone.
Sky Cinema subscribers get the bonus of Paramount+ included at no extra cost.
Episode 5 of Millionaire Holiday Home Swap takes viewers across the globe to see some of the most magnificent properties THIRDHOME has to offer, from the shores of Southern Norway to the plains of South Africa. With that being said, let’s check out the luxury and beauty of three THIRDHOME Reserve properties featured in this episode.
Kampedalen Estate in Kristiansand, Norway
Overview
Are you looking for the perfect Norwegian escape? Look no further than the Kampdelan Estate. Located along the Kampedalsfjord, this Southern Norway paradise has six bedrooms and five baths and can house up to 16 guests. So it’s perfect for a large family or the former Oil Minister of Saudi Arabia—No, we’re serious; he stayed here, and rightfully so, as this home has everything: a private beach, a boathouse, and its own park. Additionally, if you want to explore off-property, Norway’s southernmost town, Kristiansand, is only a 30-minute drive. Those who stay here can enjoy golf, the arts, hiking, ice skating, and even one of Norway’s oldest traditions—ice fishing!
Chalet Les Brames in Méribel, France
Overview
Chalet Les Brames is the quintessential french ski escape nestled under the George Mauduit piste, which drops down from the summit of Saulire to the main lift station at the Chaudanne. The chalet is also just a couple of minutes from the villages of Méribel Les Allues and Mottaret, right in the heart of the 3 Valleys—one of the most famous ski areas in the world. This seven-bedroom, seven-bathroom dwelling boasts a combination of woody Alpine charm with plenty of modern luxury to create the perfect ski getaway. When it’s time to put the skis to rest, this slope-side stay has steam and massage rooms, a pool, a gym, a billiard room, and a cinema for guests to enjoy.
Tsheshepe Lodge in Vaalwater, South Africa
Overview
Imagine waking up, grabbing your morning coffee, and walking outside to the back porch to come across a family of elephants. Well, at Tsheshepe Lodge, you might just experience that! This five-bedroom, five-bathroom lodge is located within the 75,000-acre Welgevonden Game Reserve, about a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Johannesburg. Tsheshepe offers you the opportunity to witness a myriad of animals, from the Big 5—lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and buffalo—to smaller indigenous wildlife species such as impala, waterbuck, klipspringer, duiker, wildebeest, and warthogs. After cruising the safari on 4x4s, you can relax by the lodge’s pool for the perfect ending to your holiday!
Streaming now!
Watch Episode 5 of Millionaire Holiday Home Swap, now streaming exclusively on Paramount+ in the UK and Ireland.
Paramount+ includes a mountain of quality entertainment for everyone to enjoy. UK-based readers can subscribe here: https://www.paramountplus.com/gb/.
Paramount+ costs just £6.99/month or £69.90/year in the UK (€7.99 per month or €79.90 per year in Ireland) with a free 7-day trial available to everyone.
Sky Cinema subscribers get the bonus of Paramount+ included at no extra cost.
“THIRDHOME is just the perfect answer for people like me that travel constantly and have friends located everywhere.”
– Yvonne Corbett, owner of turin castle, thirdhome member since 2020
From left to right: Turin Castle in Forfar Scotland; THIRDHOME member and owner of Turin Castle, Yvonne Corbett
From expat to 17th-century Scottish castle owner and now a featured star in the Paramount+ original series Millionaire Holiday Home Swap, Yvonne Corbett has quite the story to tell! We were fortunate enough to sit down with Yvonne as she recounts the filming of Millionaire Holiday Home Swap and learn the fascinating inside scoop behind Turin Castle, including what exciting surprises guests can come to expect.
Read our interview with Yvonne below to learn more about Turin Castle and her life as a THIRDHOME member:
What made you choose Scotland for your second home?
I was an expat and lived abroad with my husband for 23 years. He wanted to come back to Scotland, so we bought Turin Castle 8 years ago. I was either going to go for the whisky trail or the golf trail—I knew that I needed to be in the middle of one of them, and Turin came up. I did try for a couple of other castles, but everything happens for a reason. In Scotland, you bid to get one, and I wasn’t successful twice. But it always means that the right thing is waiting for you, and Turin has been the right thing. It’s been really hard work but a lot of lovely surprises. I really believe in fate; I’m not that kind of person, but there were many that I wanted and didn’t get, and now I know better. I didn’t get them for a reason.
When you bought Turin Castle, did you have to renovate a lot, or was it in pretty good shape?
It was neglected badly for 2 years; it was definitely unloved, so we rolled our sleeves up. It’s a bit of a funny story—my husband had never seen the property. I flew up for one day to look at Turin from Cape Town, which is a 12-hour flight, and turned around and went back, and I said to my husband, “I think that’s interesting. You should go look at it.” But he was so busy that he didn’t have time. That was on a Thursday. We’ve got this system in Scotland where you note your intent to offer—so I did that on Friday, and about an hour later, they said, “It’s closing; you have to bid on Monday at noon.” And because we were in South Africa, my husband had no time to get up and look at it. But as you can see, lucky, lucky me, we bought it, and my husband liked it.
How did you become involved with THIRDHOME?
I heard about THIRDHOME from another member and thought it was really interesting because I’m a traveler myself. We were expats; We lived in Asia, Dubai, and South Africa. And so we’ve got friends all over the world, and THIRDHOME is just the perfect answer for people like me that travel constantly and have friends located everywhere. It was a win-win. We were always invited to weddings abroad and just to go see people, but now, not having to stay with them because you’ve got your own property, it’s just a dream.
You’re a featured member in Millionaire Holiday Home Swap; Do you have any funny stories? What was your favorite part of the experience?
It just seemed to go past really quickly. Well, I think actually the funny part was that we had gin for breakfast. Neither of us meant to, but Giles and I were filming at the bar, and I didn’t expect to drink it, but I had to because I would’ve looked really bizarre on film if I hadn’t tasted it too. But it’s Scotland; we’re supporting the local economy by drinking alcohol.
Do you have a room inside Turin Castle that you love the most or are most excited for people to see?
I love the conservatory; it’s just pure glass and surrounded by greenery in the garden. Sometimes deer walk past on warm nights. We have hedgehogs, we have red squirrels, we have hawks that come down—it’s beautiful. But also, the library is kind of special. It’s very peaceful. We’ve had a couple of people who’ve just said, “We don’t want to do any excursions with our friends. We’re just going to sit in the library,” because it’s full of historical books.
So the excursion is kind of the castle itself?
Yeah. In fact, that’s what people forget. We say, “Scotland in 20 minutes is what we are” because we’re beside the highlands, we’re beside the beach, we’re beside the golf, and now we’ve got two whisky distilleries close to us. So everything you want from Scotland is close to Turin—We call it “The Turin Twenty.” So if you want to be up in the highlands hunting or just hiking, which a lot of people do, the scenery is stunning. Yet, twenty minutes in the other direction, they’re on a beach that’s seven kilometers long, and there are caves on one end that you can wander through, and on the other end, there’s a fort from the 13th century.
It’s kind of crazy, and people always underestimate how much there is to do. The biggest complaint we get from people is—and I mean it—“I wish we’d stayed longer.” Our last guest said, “Next time, I’m just gonna stay at Turin, and I’m gonna travel from there. I want to be here and know that I’m coming home every night.” Because it feels like home to everyone because it is home, it is a home; it’s not a hotel; it’s not meant to feel like it’s commercial.
From left to right: Bagpiper outside Turin Castle; Formal dinner setting at Turin Castle
People can tell that there are extra touches and quirky bits—there’s always something changing. We’re constantly looking for things to surprise people with. Just today, I found a company that’s a charity that works with adults with special needs, and they make chocolate bars and soap bars, and we just ordered them for pillow gifts because, you know, it’s just a nice story, and everyone can put chocolate on a pillow, but this one’s got a story. And we’ll do that maybe for a month or so, and then we’ll find something else so that when people come back, it’s always a surprise.
We love to surprise people. They don’t know what we’ve got, so we like to not show it all on the first night. So we say, “Oh, here’s the castle, and on the second night, the dinner could possibly be in the event space, and we’ve dressed it up with a theme, and a bagpiper will come in, etc.” It’s not about upselling; you’ve paid all this money to come, you’ve paid for the castle; now we’ll make it even better, without a cost.
So it sounds like you have a lot of repeat visitors that come back?
Yes, in fact, we’ve got some from Nashville that come, they’ve been 4 times, and they’re fabulous. We’re really close to championship golf, so we’re busy with golfing groups. We had a group from California that stayed with us for 28 days. You arrive as strangers and definitely depart as friends.
Can guests stay in the entire castle?
It’s everything—They’ve got their own wine cellar, they’ve got their own whisky cellar, we’ve got a games room. There is a swimming pool, but we covered it this summer so people can dance. We’ve got lots of cèilidh dancing because it’s Scotland, and we have whisky to make you dance. We had a fabulous group celebrating an anniversary, and they wanted Scottish country dancing, so we made everyone wear kilts.
Was Giles in a kilt while filming Millionaire Holiday Home Swap?
Okay, so that’s the funny part. He had on the wrong socks. We were laughing so hard because it wasn’t a full outfit. I think Giles actually secretly loved his kilt because he wore it a lot longer than he needed to.
Was this the same day that you had gin for breakfast?
Yes, yes. So that could have had something to do with it.
Are there any other fun facts we should know about Turin Castle?
I forgot to tell Giles that Turin Castle was the #1 gift in this year’s Oscar bag. We gifted a three-night stay for two guests.
Be on the lookout for Turin Castle in Millionaire Holiday Home Swap, now streaming exclusively on Paramount+ in the UK and Ireland.
Paramount+ includes a mountain of quality entertainment for everyone to enjoy. UK-based readers can subscribe here: https://www.paramountplus.com/gb/.
Paramount+ costs just £6.99/month or £69.90/year in the UK (€7.99 per month or €79.90 per year in Ireland) with a free 7-day trial available to everyone.
Sky Cinema subscribers get the bonus of Paramount+ included at no extra cost.
From the southernmost tip of Africa to the countryside of Scotland, Giles Adams has been traveling from gorgeous home to gorgeous home in the Paramount+ original series, Millionaire Holiday Home Swap—a new show about the THIRDHOME lifestyle. Not only did Giles explore some extraordinary places for the first time, but he was also surprised by some unforgettable experiences along the way. He’s here to tell us all about his top five most memorable moments while filming Millionaire Holiday Home Swap!
Read Giles’ full testimonial below:
1. Feeding a Crocodile at Leobo, South Africa (Featured in Episode 2)
There are several lakes and watering holes on the Leobo estate, which are teeming with wildlife. One has a large herd of hippos you do not want to get too close to, and there is also a resident crocodile. He is not huge, but he likes impala meat. So the team at Leobo feeds him by attaching a large chunk of it to a long rope, and it’s then tossed into the lake. You wait until the crocodile bites it, and then you can have a little tug-of-war with him. He is surprisingly strong, and he feels as though he has earned his supper. You don’t want to slip while being on the other end of the rope, though!
2. Delivering an Aston Martin Rapide to our member’s home in Norway (Featured in Episode 5)
Having never been to Norway, I was particularly excited to visit. Kristiansand is a little over four hours south of Oslo, and I picked up our member’s Aston Martin halfway through the journey. The rest of the trip down the gorgeous Norwegian coastline was unforgettable, and the salubrious comfort of the car made it even more special.
3. Getting a taste of the Penhill Estate, Cape Town (Featured in Episode 6)
Penhill Estate is one of the locations I wish we had more time at; More time to spend with the new owner/member, Elo, and more time to shoot the properties on site. Just two hours outside of Cape Town, the drive was magical, and the setting was breathtaking. I hope as many of our members as possible get the opportunity to go.
4. The additional renovations at Château De Vézins (Featured in Episode 3)
We took a press trip to Château De Vézins a few years ago, and as such, I was excited to return to see Gaelle and Marc again. They have been busy and have completely renovated and extended the kitchen, added a gym/studio, and started renovating the top floor. But, the plans for the screening room in the semi-circular space above the main entrance would be something special. I hope to get a third invite back to see that when it is done.
5. The attention to detail at Turin Castle (Featured in Episode 6)
Yvonne is Turin Castle, and Turin Castle is Yvonne. She is an incredibly warm force of nature and the definitive host, but the team behind the scenes makes this property so special. Very professional but equally comfortable with either serving tea in one of the many reception rooms or having a casual cup of coffee with you just perched on the stools in the kitchen. A special atmosphere. The split cellar with a signpost at the bottom of the stairs indicating either “Grain” or “Grape” was particularly memorable.
Owner Yvonne Corbett and butler Chris at Turin Castle in Forfar, Scotland
Watch Giles’ favorite moments and more on Millionaire Holiday Home Swap, now streaming exclusively on Paramount+ in the UK and Ireland.
Paramount+ includes a mountain of quality entertainment for everyone to enjoy. UK-based readers can subscribe here: https://www.paramountplus.com/gb/.
Paramount+ costs just £6.99/month or £69.90/year in the UK (€7.99 per month or €79.90 per year in Ireland) with a free 7-day trial available to everyone.
Sky Cinema subscribers get the bonus of Paramount+ included at no extra cost.
Whether a visiting quiet English country house, a modern tropical hideaway in Thailand, or even a seaside villa in Italy, home swapping provides travelers the opportunity to experience new places like never before. Here are some of the brilliant destinations that THIRDHOME members explore in the fourth episode of the new Paramount + original series, Millionaire Holiday Home Swap.
The Copes in Oxfordshire, England
Overview
The Copes is a gorgeous seven-bedroom, five-bathroom, 7000 square-foot home, located in a peaceful “Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.” With a classic design and beautiful decor, this Oxfordshire countryside oasis includes a big terrace, glorious garden, and marvelous valley views from every window – providing guests with tranquillity and space to wander inside and out.
Additionally, The Copse has unique on-site amenities, including a hot tub that can accommodate up to five people and a cinema that seats up to 15 people. The property was added to THIRDHOME’s exchange portfolio in 2018. As of September 2022, six members have been lucky enough to spend a week at this tranquil paradise (with another reservation in the books for 2023).
About The Area
There are many fun things for visitors to do in this region of England, including shopping in the quaint boutiques of Marlow or Henley. Guests can attend summer evening races at Royal Windsor Racecourse, or even watch plays at the little theatre at Sonning or the excellent Newbury theatre. Plus, London Paddington is 25 minutes by train from Reading. This destination is the perfect spot for a tranquil vacation in the English countryside!
Baan Saleah in Kata Beach, Thailand
Overview
Baan Saleah is a modern designer villa, offering four luxury suites complete with hand-crafted terrazzo baths. This exclusive private oasis is situated within a secure waterfront enclave. The amazing villa sits on the headland between Kata Beach and Kata Noi Beach, and has a 100 square-meter infinity pool, enabling visitors to enjoy their holiday in total privacy.
With four en-suite bedrooms on each of the left and right wings, this villa includes plenty of room for guests and their loved ones. Plus, the modern layout includes a living space at the center with a spacious entertainment room. Baan Saleah was added to THIRDHOME’s property portfolio in 2016. Since then, 16 members have visited this tropical paradise (with one more reservation upcoming in 2023).
About the Experience
Sip a cappuccino or complimentary cocktail (fully complimentary bar available), and listen to the waves crashing on the rocks. Baan Saleah’s loosely-uniformed staff will quietly run the villa for you while you can sit back and relax. They will do all the shopping for you, and cook some of the best Thai food ever tasted. Baan Saleah offers total peace and serenity, but guests can still easily access day-trips to other destinations in Thailand throughout their stay.
Villa La Belle Etoile in Sardinia, Italy
Overview
This stunning seafront villa is located in the southern portion of Sardinia (near Cagliari) in an area of outstanding natural beauty. The property features an impressive eight-bedroom en-suite, comfortably sleeping up to 16 people. The villa is ideal for families and large groups of friends, as each bedroom is designed to a theme and includes an en-suite bathroom. Plus, Villa Belle Etoile is exchanged on a full-service basis, and includes seven full-time staff members. This gorgeous, one-of-a-kind getaway was added to THIRDHOME’s portfolio in 2016, and since then, 12 members have made a reservation.
Outside the Villa
Villa La Belle Etoile’s pool gets the sun all day, and maintains its privacy due to the slightly elevated position over the beach. Outdoors, guests can enjoy comfortable sun beds, a hammock, a table tennis table, and a barbecue. Plus, the property resides near a prime beach location. The shallow sea provides a safe oasis for children and long swims. Villa La Belle Etoile is in an unrivaled spot in Italy, and guests are ensured to have a truly memorable trip to Sardinia.
Streaming Now!
Watch Episode 4 of Millionaire Holiday Home Swap, now streaming exclusively on Paramount+ in the UK and Ireland.
Paramount+ includes a mountain of quality entertainment for everyone to enjoy. UK-based readers can subscribe here: https://www.paramountplus.com/gb/.
Paramount+ costs just £6.99/month or £69.90/year in the UK (€7.99 per month or €79.90 per year in Ireland) with a free 7-day trial available to everyone.
Sky Cinema subscribers get the bonus of Paramount+ included at no extra cost.
From island paradises in Spain to the countryside and capital of France, home swappers have the opportunity to visit gorgeous luxury vacation homes across Europe. Here are some of the brilliant destinations THIRDHOME members explore in the third episode of the new Paramount + original series, Millionaire Holiday Home Swap.
Can Oso in Ibiza, Spain
Overview
Can Oso is a beautifully designed, brand-new villa completed in June 2020. The property was added to THIRDHOME’s portfolio the very same year. Located just outside San Agustin (a mere five minutes from San Josep), Can Oso is set in natural gardens with nearby hillside woodland to explore. Plus, guests enjoy both countryside and coastal/sunset vistas around the villa itself. As of September 2022, there have been a total of four reservations at this gorgeous island escape.
About Can Oso
The villa has a modern, chic design with a focus on the traditional buildings of Ibiza. The use of stone and wood gives the villa a tranquil and natural feel, while containing the modern features you would expect from a property of this quality. This four-bedroom, three-bathroom house was built with a strong focus on the environmental impact. It uses solar energy, the pool uses minimal chemicals, and the property is very water-efficient. In addition to the gorgeous interior and comfortable bedrooms, the villa includes a terrace of 100+ sqm with multiple seating areas, an outside kitchen, and wonderful 360-degree views of Spain‘s surrounding beauty.
Château De Vézins in Cholet, France
Overview
Château De Vézins is an 18th-century château equipped with 21st-century pleasures! You will immediately feel like you have been transported into an age gone by, an age where kings and queens entertained. With 1000m2 of living space, more than seven reception rooms, and nine luxurious bedrooms, the Château has been redecorated and furnished with period flair and taste. Château De Vézins is surrounded by over seven acres of manicured private gardens with a 40ft heated swimming pool, a seven-seater Jacuzzi, magnificent French gardens with fountains, Japanese gardens with a pond, a 14th-century moat, barbecue, and outdoor dining in the conservatory.
This countryside oasis is set in the heart of a Loire Valley village, making it the perfect base to explore the famous vineyards, châteaux, and even the Atlantic beaches. Château De Vézins has been in THIRDHOME’s portfolio since 2013. By the end of 2022, there will be a total of 21 reservations at this beautiful property.
History of Château De Vézins
The origin of Château De Vézins dates all the way back to the 12th century. Between 1200 and 1400, the family of Hardy de la Porte, the original Baron de Vézins, built a red stone fort that would later become the château seen in Millionaire Holiday Home Swap. However, the story is not that simple. Learn more about this property’s incredible history in this interview with THIRDHOME member Barrett Masso.
In a review of his stay Château De Vézins, THIRDHOME member Bob M. states, “The property is nothing short of extraordinary. It would take a book to describe it.” Between the chateau’s interesting history and stellar reviews, this is a great destination to add to your France bucket list.
Chic Family Home in Paris, France
Overview
With the luxury and glamor to make a once-in-a-lifetime Parisian experience, this three-floor stand-alone residence is a rare gem in the center of it all. The inside of this chic Parisian family home is superbly decorated with interesting color combinations, as well as a great collection of paints, sculptures, and fine modern furniture and antiques.
The home features five bedrooms, elegant common spaces, a fully-equipped family-style kitchen, and a gorgeous dining room. Plus, there’s an outdoor terrace for those who prefer an al fresco meal, dinner parties, or after-dinner drinks outdoors! This romantic Parisian oasis was added to THIRDHOME’s property portfolio in 2022, and already hosted ten reservations (along with another two upcoming in the books).
About the Neighborhood
Paris is a destination like no other. Guests often find themselves enjoying iconic city sites, including the Seine, romantic gardens, Monet’s best work, designer shopping, and so much more. After a long day of wandering Paris, you won’t have any problems finding different options to drink and or dine near this chic family home. There are plenty of bars and restaurants just minutes away, and most of which are within walking distance.
Streaming Now!
Watch Episode 3 of Millionaire Holiday Home Swap, now streaming exclusively on Paramount+ in the UK and Ireland.
Paramount+ includes a mountain of quality entertainment for everyone to enjoy. UK-based readers can subscribe here: https://www.paramountplus.com/gb/.
Paramount+ costs just £6.99/month or £69.90/year in the UK (€7.99 per month or €79.90 per year in Ireland) with a free 7-day trial available to everyone.
Sky Cinema subscribers get the bonus of Paramount+ included at no extra cost.
“THIRDHOME gives us the opportunity to travel the world ‘as locals’ by staying in homes owned by people like ourselves.”
– Luís Molina, father of thirdhome member diana Molina Ostos
Ah, Caidominici Villa. What’s better than spending a holiday in this expansive Umbrian farmhouse in the Italian countryside? Answer: Sharing it with your loved ones. This is the story of the Molina family.
The Paramount+ original series, Millionaire Holiday Home Swap, takes viewers on a journey inside the homes and holidays of THIRDHOME members. Diana, who joined THIRDHOME in 2017, spent her most recent holiday with her family (and film crew) in Pietralunga, Italy. Her father, Luís Molina, recounts their home swap experience, including his not-so-successful attempt at becoming a pizzaiolo:
Do you have any funny stories from when the Millionaire Holiday Home Swap film crew was there?
On our second day in Italy, we had planned to have pizzas and cook them in the pizza oven—a very Italian night. We prepared the wooden oven, following instructions from our chefs. The day before, they asked to turn on the fire at 1 pm and take care of it so it would be at the right temperature for dinner at 8 pm. And so, we did!
We would take turns to check on the over and add wood accordingly for hours. Simonetta and Luccia, our lovely chefs, arrived on time with the ingredients to give us a full pizza class. Each one of our family members took a stab at their own pizza with our chefs grading us! I got a “one” out of ten (1/10) rating!!!! After hours of preparing for the pizza night, I terribly failed at it! I was not able to spread the dough evenly, leaving holes all over and getting myself the worst grade possible, lol.
What was your favorite part of shooting Millionaire Holiday Home Swap?
After our truffle hunting experience, the mayor of Pietralunga surprised us with an invitation to give us a tour around the city. We were not expecting it! We learned about the history and day-to-day activities of the city through the mayor himself. We experienced the city very differently than if we had gone by ourselves and explored it. The shooting team was constantly engaging with the mayor and the people in the city, which made our tour a lot more fun and lively.
What do you like the most about THIRDHOME?
THIRDHOME gives us the opportunity to travel the world “as locals” by staying in homes owned by people like ourselves. It also offers us the opportunity to offer our home to people that we know will take good care of it because they understand what it is to entrust it to others in the network.
Who do you usually travel with, and what is the reason for your choice? (Alone or group? Friends or family?)
We enjoy both family trips and trips with friends. I am 70 years old, and I, fortunately, have more time to travel, and while healthy, I have to make the most of it! I try to travel locally in Mexico with my family, including my grandchildren, and abroad with my adult children and their partners at least once a year. With friends, we usually mix it around doing a year local trip and the following abroad.
What is the best travel advice you have received?
Two recommendations that never fail! Always choose travel companion(s) that are non-confrontational and enjoy the tiny moments. People that are easy to hang out with. Also, a good tour guide makes a huge difference when appreciating and enjoying a trip—a good tour guide is not an expense; it is an investment.
What is your most prized travel possession? What is the reason or sentiment behind this?
I love buying table books of the places I visit. These books have a special place at home. They help me [relive] again each one of the moments I had over my trips.
So who exactly is Caidominici Villa? Let’s take a look:
Caidominici Villa in Pietralunga, Italy
Caidominici is a tastefully restored six-bedroom, seven-bathroom villa located in the Green Heart of Italy. The villa, which joined THIRDHOME’s portfolio in 2010, has a perfect 5-star rating across all bookings. Caidominici offers peaceful seclusion and a wealth of amenities to keep guests entertained while on holiday. Some of the villa’s highlights include:
- Outdoor wood-fired pizza oven (better luck next time, Luís)
- Cinema room, library, bar, and game room
- 20m heated infinity pool
- Tennis court, bocce pitch, and table tennis
“The staff is wonderful; the amenities are like being in the finest hotel … Worth every key!”
– Douglas S., THIRDHOME member since 2016.
“One of the most beautiful places we have ever stayed in the world.”
– Elizabeth L., THIRDHOME member since 2017.
See more of Caidominici Villa by watching Millionaire Holiday Home Swap, now streaming exclusively on Paramount+ in the UK and Ireland.
Paramount+ includes a mountain of quality entertainment for everyone to enjoy. UK-based readers can subscribe here: https://www.paramountplus.com/gb/.
Paramount+ costs just £6.99/month or £69.90/year in the UK (€7.99 per month or €79.90 per year in Ireland) with a free 7-day trial available to everyone.
Sky Cinema subscribers get the bonus of Paramount+ included at no extra cost.
Explore THIRDHOME’s tips on how to choose the best holiday destinations in Spain. From iconic bucket list items to our best hack on finding affordable luxury accommodations, keep reading to discover why a home swap in Spain might be the perfect trip for you! And don’t forget to catch this can’t-miss destination in the Paramount+ original series, Millionaire Holiday Home Swap.
Destinations to consider when you tour Spain
Spain’s cities, beaches, history, entertainment, cuisine, and culture are like no other. As you tour Spain, consider exploring any of the following unique holiday destinations!
- Barcelona: As Spain’s “Culture Capital,” explore one-of-a-kind museums, architecture, art, dining, and even beaches
- Madrid: Full of vibrant neighborhoods, gorgeous parks, and endless opportunities either relax or experience nightlife
- Seville: The site of cobblestone streets and horse-drawn carriages, this city will take you back to historic Europe
- Ibiza: An island paradise, perfect for incredible parties and nightlife
- Marbella: Resorts, golf courses, and beaches – oh my! This is the perfect destination for a relaxing week in the sun
Plus, there are so many more unique and iconic destinations all across Spain!
The weather on your Spain holiday
As you plan your luxury Spain holiday, consider the weather when deciding where you want to go. Do you want to head to the mountains for a ski trip? Or are you interested in relaxing by the coast during warmer months? Unlike most of Europe, Spain’s winters are pretty mild. Thus, as you choose your desired holiday destination in Spain, you can explore this beautiful country at any time of the year. Southern Spain gets quite a bit of sun in December, which is perfect if you want a mild Christmas or winter holiday in Europe. Summer months get quite hot, but that’s nothing that a trip to the beach cannot fix.
Our best Spain travel advice? Look into home swapping
If you are hoping to travel Spain like a local, house swapping is one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the country, culture, and local customs. When deciding on various holiday destinations in Spain, consider locations with home exchange opportunities. That way, you can experience the country as an insider. With a home exchange, your host can introduce you to the natural and cultural wonders of the country while ensuring you experience the most incredible holiday destinations in Spain.
Additionally, exchanging homes in Spain is an affordable way to see and do as much as possible. When you trade homes with another person, you can save thousands by not paying rental rates. In turn, you can use that money on excursions and experiences for a more memorable trip! And if you are holidaying with family or a larger group in Spain, a home exchange can be a great alternative to a cramped hotel.
How to swap homes in Spain
Have you considered booking your accommodations in Spain via a home exchange site? If you have never done a home swap before, look into home exchange clubs like THIRDHOME. Home swapping provides a unique experience for travelers. As a private home exchange network, it’s our goal to help you find unique accommodations that fit your needs. THIRDHOME will truly help you enrich your unique holiday in Spain.
Get ideas for your next holiday in Spain by watching Millionaire Holiday Home Swap, now streaming exclusively on Paramount+ in the UK and Ireland.
Paramount+ includes a mountain of quality entertainment for everyone to enjoy. UK-based readers can subscribe here: https://www.paramountplus.com/gb/.
Paramount+ costs just £6.99/month or £69.90/year in the UK (€7.99 per month or €79.90 per year in Ireland) with a free 7-day trial available to everyone.
Sky Cinema subscribers get the bonus of Paramount+ included at no extra cost.
Adele Hetherington, owner of Maison Mala, gives her take on the ins and outs of traveling and life as a THIRDHOME member.
Since joining THIRDHOME in 2016, Adele Hetherington has been an avid traveler, taking 41 trips to 12 countries. In 2022, Adele added her newly renovated Croatian villa—Maison Mala—to the Club, which in the same year, became one of the stars in the Paramount+ original series, Millionaire Holiday Home Swap. As a frequent jetsetter, Adele has plenty to tell, and we can’t wait to share it with you!
What is your favorite thing about THIRDHOME?
Going to places I may never have thought of going to before.
What is your favorite memory from a past THIRDHOME trip?
Amazing service at the Ritz Carlton Aspen — we loved it.
If you had the opportunity to experience a past trip again, what activities/attractions would you see or do that you never got the chance to?
Ski in Aspen when there was snow (we had the worst snow since 1974).
Who do you usually travel with, and what’s the reasoning behind your choice? (Solo or group? Friends or family?)
Always with family or friends, but fancy solo someday.
What made/inspired you to choose Croatia for your second home?
We have lots of them, Japan, Croatia, Thailand, England — maybe we are crazy — we just love owning houses in different countries and the massive challenges that are involved in that.
What is your favorite aspect of traveling?
Learning new things, smelling new smells, meeting new people, and eating new food.
Who is your dream travel companion, and why? Where would you like to go with them?
My husband; he is level-headed and kind and always keen to see more.
What characteristics make for a great/ideal travel partner?
Calmness and interest in learning new things.
What destination is top of your bucket list, and what would you like to do/see there?
Patagonia and South America.
What is the best piece of travel advice you’ve received?
Keep your passport close to your chest and open your eyes.
What is your top travel tip?
Try everything (within reason, of course) — step out of your comfort zone.
What item can’t you travel without, and what are its benefits?
Vitamins and a hydrating flight mask [that has a filter] keep me well and hydrated ([for example] long flights from Australia).
What is your most prized travel possession? What is the reason or sentiment behind it?
My “wheelie” bag — it is almost worn out — it is always packed and ready to go.
What is the most exotic food you’ve tried while traveling? Did you enjoy it? How would you describe it to someone who hasn’t tasted it?
Cockroaches in Cambodia (yuck, but that is in my head, really) crunchy and salty.
Who is the most interesting person you’ve met so far during your travels? What did you learn or experience from them?
I met a man on a Nile cruise many years ago wearing a Stetson — he had glued $1 bills together to tear off and hand to folks on his trip as tips — hilarious.
What is the most interesting thing you’ve learned on a trip?
Oh gosh, too many to tell — Jordan, Morocco, Egypt, Italy, France, England, Scandinavia, Asia — all give history history history, the human condition is amazing and mother nature too.
Do you travel with a fixed itinerary, or do you choose to go with the flow? Why?
Always free and easy — I always put the itinerary together but more recently have enjoyed package trips — rather nice having someone else do all the work (need a holiday after organising a holiday).
Do you prefer to travel to popular destinations or off-the-beaten-track spots? Why?
Both — everything is interesting — we can’t get enough of this world.
Do you prefer adventure-driven experiences or a chilled-out relaxed vacation? Why?
Both — it is great to experience everything as each will offer something special.
See more of Maison Mala by watching Millionaire Holiday Home Swap, now streaming exclusively on Paramount+ in the UK and Ireland.
Paramount+ includes a mountain of quality entertainment for everyone to enjoy. UK-based readers can subscribe here: https://www.paramountplus.com/gb/.
Paramount+ costs just £6.99/month or £69.90/year in the UK (€7.99 per month or €79.90 per year in Ireland) with a free 7-day trial available to everyone.
Sky Cinema subscribers get the bonus of Paramount+ included at no extra cost.
“Having the ability to leverage my properties through THIRDHOME has enabled me to travel more often and enjoy nicer accommodations.”
– THirdhome member barrett masso
In the Paramount+ original series, Millionaire Holiday Home Swap, THIRDHOME member Barrett Masso jets off to Château De Vézins in Loire Valley, France. Join us as we uncover more about the 18th-century château and learn what he has to say about traveling with THIRDHOME.
Barrett has been a member of THIRDHOME since 2018 and has enjoyed stays across the globe, all the way from Aspen to Mexico. He shares with us a few tidbits about traveling and his membership with THIRDHOME:
What is your favorite thing about THIRDHOME?
Access to unique homes all over the world.
How has THIRDHOME changed the way you travel?
Having the ability to leverage my properties through THIRDHOME has enabled me to travel more often and enjoy nicer accommodations.
What is your favorite aspect of traveling?
Living in the moment and experiencing new cultures.
What is your top travel tip?
Embrace the unexpected.
What was your favorite part about filming Millionaire Holiday Home Swap?
Knowing the content may inspire others to travel, and sharing the experience with my loved ones.
In Episode 3 of Millionaire Holiday Home Swap, we get an inside look at Barrett’s time at Château De Vézins—but the château has more to tell:
The origin of Château De Vézins dates all the way back to the 12th century. Between 1200 and 1400, the family of Hardy de la Porte, the original Baron de Vézins, built a redstone fort that would later become the château seen in Millionaire Holiday Home Swap. However, the story is not that simple.
The family married into a high-ranking Protestant line during the Reformation in the 16th century, which eventually led to the fort’s destruction as ordered by Louis XIII. Fortunately, years later, in 1708, the family reclaimed their land and began constructing a new château, which currently forms the house’s core. Be that as it may, most of the property was destroyed during the French Revolution—although it was ultimately restored in the mid-19th century.
But the story doesn’t quite end there; Around 1929, the last Baron died, and in turn, the château lay abandoned until 2006. A year later, the Deschamps and Rozon families purchased the home and began extensive renovations for nearly a decade. In doing so, the families honored the château’s history by using genuine antique furnishings and sourcing several fabrics and paint colors to recreate period interiors while also adding modern touches, including a heated pool, Jacuzzi, gym and sauna, WiFi, and a Sonos sound system.
Today, Château De Vézins is highly adored by THIRDHOME members with over 20 reservations having taken place and near-perfect reviews.
“The property is nothing short of extraordinary. It would take a book to describe it. My 25-year-old son said it was the best trip of his life, and he has taken a lot.”
– Bob M., THIRDHOME member since 2016.
“This property was absolutely spectacular! The grounds were beautiful and staying here will make you feel as if you have woken into a vision from the past.”
– Robert P., THIRDHOME member since 2012.
See more of Château De Vézins by watching Millionaire Holiday Home Swap, now streaming exclusively on Paramount+ in the UK and Ireland.
Paramount+ includes a mountain of quality entertainment for everyone to enjoy. UK-based readers can subscribe here: https://www.paramountplus.com/gb/.
Paramount+ costs just £6.99/month or £69.90/year in the UK (€7.99 per month or €79.90 per year in Ireland) with a free 7-day trial available to everyone.
Sky Cinema subscribers get the bonus of Paramount+ included at no extra cost.