What are ThirdHome members saying about their luxury home exchange trips to Jaco, Costa Rica and Méribel Village, France?
ThirdHome Exchange members recently returned from Jaco, Costa Rica and Méribel Village, France. Keep reading to learn about their ThirdHome travel experiences!
The Ocean House | Jaco, Costa Rica
This spectacular 6-bedroom home is the best in the Jaco area! It is located just steps away from the beach inside the gated community of Hermosa Palms. Enjoy the ocean views through the floor-to-ceiling windows in the massive living room and in the beautiful bedroom suites that overlook the beach. The whole house has been beautifully decorated with new elegant contemporary furniture and tropical details. The Ocean House is the perfect beach getaway for family and friends!
ThirdHome member Charles says, “Our group of twelve family members thoroughly enjoyed our stay at The Ocean House. The house is located in a private gated community in Playa Hermosa six miles south of Jaco, and is large and spacious with a wonderful pool and easy beach access. There is a rooftop terrace for viewing the gorgeous sunsets. ” Click here to read more of Charles’ review.
Roc de Fer | Méribel Village, France
This breathtaking Chalet is situated at the center of Méribel Village in the beautiful Les Allues valley. It has maintained a true mountain village character, while still giving access to the biggest ski resort in the world. This newly built chalet welcomes guests from all over the world warmly and offers 4 luxurious bedrooms. This stunning home is a ski lover’s paradise!
ThirdHome member Jane says, “Roc de Fer was simply amazing. Snuggled into the beautiful area of Méribel Village with fabulous views and close to the chair lift. The chalet is fantastic with all the latest technology and perfectly planned. The spa, gym was top notch and Timo and Erwin could not have been more helpful in any way. ” Click here to read more of Jane’s review.
Members, click here to view all available weeks and plan your next ThirdHome Exchange trip. Remember, you must be logged in to your account to see availability.
Want more information about our Exchange Club? Click here to learn more about
What are ThirdHome members saying about their luxury home exchange trips to France and Portugal this week?
Chateau de Vezins | Cholet, France
Chateau de Vezins is an 18th-century historic marvel with the amenities and comfort of a royal palace! The Chateau is designed to provide the most spectacular forms of entertainment for all guests. Each bedroom and bathroom is decorated diligently and with exquisite detail. No matter which room you walk into, you’ll feel like royalty! Chateau de Vezins is surrounded by over 7 acres of manicured French gardens with a 40 foot heated swimming pool, 7 person Jacuzzi, numerous fountains, a 14th-century moat, barbecue and outdoor dining in the conservatory. The chalet alone is reason enough to travel to the beautiful western countryside of France.
ThirdHome member Bob says, “The property is nothing short of extraordinary- it would take a book to describe it. The owners and staff were very gracious and accommodating. My 25-year-old son said it was the best trip of his life and he has taken a lot.” Click here to read more of Bob’s review.
Casa Wadma | Dunas Douradas, Portugal
Located between the renowned resorts of Vale do Lobo and Quinta do Lago, Dunas Douradas is set in acres of pine woods and was designed to resemble a Roman village. Casa Wadma is a lovely getaway located within Dunas Douradas with 6 bedrooms for guests to enjoy. In addition to the fascinating interior, amenities also include delicately treated gardens with a beach entrance, a private pool, waterfall, slide and an outdoor entertainment area. Casa Wadma is welcoming to all visitors!
Members, click here to view all available weeks and plan your next THIRHOME Exchange trip. Remember, you must be logged in to your account to see availability.
Want more information about our Exchange Club? Click here to learn more about
Imagine spending a week or two at a beautiful home while walking the steps of history. There are plenty of magnificent properties within the ThirdHome portfolio, and quite a few have a historical background that will make your stay awe-worthy.
Keep reading to discover the intriguing and historic homes within the ThirdHome Rentals and Exchange portfolio!
Eastry Court | Eastry, United Kingdom
Step inside one of England’s oldest palaces! Eastry Court claims to be the first recorded house in English history. It’s thought to have been the palace of King Egbert of Kent beginning in 665 AD. Ever since then, the palace has been inhabited by many English aristocrats. Eastry Court was passed from the kings of Kent to the religious establishment at Canterbury in the Anglo-Saxon period. In 1164 AD, Archbishop Thomas Becket hid within the walls of the palace from King Henry II. Only about 70 miles from bustling London, this English getaway is sure to captivate any traveler’s mind.
Click here to view on ThirdHome Exchange.
King Edward VIII’s Beach Estate | Nassau, Bahamas
A former king’s island residence could be your next holiday destination. This beautiful estate in Nassau, Bahamas belonged to King Edward VIII while he served as governor of the Bahamas. He lived here for the first year of his governing with his wife, American socialite, Wallis Simpson. Edward VIII abdicated the throne in 1936 to marry Simpson and they moved to the Nassau estate in 1940. British aviation pioneer, Mr. Sigrist, built the home in the mid-1920s and it was featured in the early “James Bond” movies!
Click here to view on ThirdHome Exchange.
Villa la Querce | Impruneta, Italy
Built in the hills and vineyards of Impruneta is a historic Italian masterpiece. Villa la Querce is an elegant villa located in the hills of Florentine Chianti and is not only known for its quality of wine and olive oil, but is also known for its historical significance. The main architectural feature of the villa, a prominent and stately tower, dates back to the 1300s. Furthermore, there were reports of a sale in the area of a “house with land and vineyards” dated back to 1042. During World War II, the villa was occupied by German soldiers at one point.
Click here to view on ThirdHome Rentals.
The Boathouse | Galway, Ireland
A 200-year-old coast guard station on the coast of the Irish Ardfry Peninsula awaits your arrival. This renovated 19th-century building now offers 5 bedrooms, incredible green scenery, and uninterrupted ocean views. Located right on the water and surrounded by walled gardens, there couldn’t be a more relaxing or wonderful place to experience alongside family. This seafront residence is tucked away off a country road on the grounds of the 18th century Ardfry castle ruins and is only 9 miles from the city of Galway.
Click here to view on ThirdHome Exchange.
Chateau de Lalande | Crozon-sur-Vauvre, France
A quintessential chateau nestled in the heart of France could be your next magical destination. Chateau de Lalande was built in the 16th century and once belonged to King Louis XIV’s cousin, La Grande Mademoiselle. The romantically-structured chateau is built to accommodate up to 22 guests. Standing amongst nature in the small town of Crozon-sur-Vauvre, there is plenty to explore and see in the French countryside. You can even visit the nearby town of Nohant to visit the home of French novelist, George Sand, where she hosted many famous artists such as Frederick Chopin, with whom she had a relationship.
Click here to view on ThirdHome Rentals.
Villa Scopetello | Sinalunga, Italy
One of the most renowned villas in the heart of Tuscany is calling your name. Historical documents show that the first owner of Villa Scopetello was recorded in the 13th century! Pope Pio II’s family owned the villa until 1873. Whether you’re swimming in the lavish pool or playing tennis on the private court, there is much to see and do around the 700-year-old villa. Built amongst the small, quiet village of Sinalunga, Villa Scopetello will welcome you with unparalleled beauty.
Click here to view on ThirdHome Exchange.
If these historic homes intrigue you and you’d like to learn more about ThirdHome, please click here.
ThirdHome Exchange members have recently returned from Charette-Varennes, France and Akumal, Mexico. Keep reading to learn about their ThirdHome experience.
Chateau de Varennes | Charette-Varennes, France
This historic chateau in Southern Burgundy is a wine-lovers dream retreat. Surrounded by famous vineyards such as Beaune, Dijon and Chalon, this expansive chateau is a well-known wedding venue, as well as a property for private holidays. This property can sleep up to 16 guests at a time and features spacious dining room to accommodate large groups. The grounds include a pool and beautifully manicured garden. Explore the countryside, vineyards, tastes and smells of Burgundy with this one-of-a-kind French chateau.
ThirdHome member Alyse says, “My husband and I traveled to Burgundy to stay with 3 other couples. This is a trip we take annually to different places around the world. We were most delighted with the Chateau…It is a large, beautiful place to stay and convenient to the many wineries that are scattered around the area. They had a wine expert who we hired to take us to several of them, and it was our top day. The rooms are spacious and beautifully done. The bathrooms were modernized which was important for us, as the original house was built in the 1400’s, I believe. We had one day of skeet shooting on the property, and the chef prepared 2 meals for us in the house…It was a delightful historic place on a beautiful piece of property and I recommend it highly with 5 stars!” click here to read more of Alyse’s review.
Casa Dos Palmas | Akumal, Mexico
Get lost in an oceanside oasis with Casa Dos Palmas. This 5-bedroom property is decorated using traditional Mexican motifs throughout and uses large ocean-facing windows to flood each room with natural light. Enjoy nearby access to the beaches and activities of Akumal. Relax by the beach bars or embark on a scuba diving adventure off the coast. When you’re home, enjoy the pool and onsite staff who can shop and prepare gourmet dinners for guests. There’s also plenty of surrounding Mayan culture to discover during your stay.
ThirdHome member Phyllis says, “We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Casa Dos Palmas! It’s a wonderful home, lovingly maintained by caretakers and cooks Esther and Rigo, who are an absolute delight!We enjoyed the local restaurants, especially La Buena Vida and Lol Ha, and spent our days exploring cenotes, snorkeling with turtles, and traveling to a Mayan village to experience their Day of the Dead celebrations.” click here to read more of Phyllis’ review.
Members, click here to view all available weeks and plan your next ThirdHome Exchange trip. Remember, you must be logged in to your account to see availability.
Want more information about our luxury home exchange club? Click here to learn more about ThirdHome.
ThirdHome Exchange members have recently returned from Aups, France, and Somerset, United Kingdom. Keep reading to learn about their ThirdHome experience.
Beautiful French Farmhouse in Provence | Aups, France
Catch a breath of fresh air in the foothills of the French Alps at this stunning farmhouse. This effortlessly elegant farmhouse retains a classic stone exterior with updated amenities and decor on the interior. Sleep up to 8 people in this house while exploring the French countryside. Learn about the local black truffle and olive oil industry or discover wineries across the peaceful Aups landscape. Gastro/Oenophiles will find endless places of interest surrounding this charming home.
ThirdHome member Kathy says, “Our one week stay (6 adults) was fantastic!! A serene setting, amazing views. Farmhouse overlooks a valley, surrounded by abundant olive trees and the Alps in the distance…Loved our day trips to Verdon Gorge+ Moustiers Ste Marie, St Tropez, Monaco, local vineyards and surrounding quaint villages. Outdoor market days in Aups center were delightful.” click here to read more of Kathy’s review.
Whitelackington Manor | Somerset, United Kingdom
Treat yourself and up to 23 other guests to a regal countryside escape with a stay at Whitelackington Manor in charming Somerset. The extravagant interior will leave you speechless. From the rustic hardwood billiards room to the grand room fireplace, you’ll feel a sense of prestige only afforded to English manors. Outside you can enjoy a heated swimming pool and views of the sprawling estate gardens. Explore surrounding breweries, mythic Glastonbury or the nearby Cheddar Gorge cheese caves.
ThirdHome member Petra says, “If Hollywood needed a quintessential English manor house, they would choose Whitelackington Manor. The house and gardens are as picture postcard as you can possibly imagine, but with all modern amenities. This house (if you dare call it that) is perfect for a large family gathering or for a group of friends who want to play Lord of the Manor for one week…This house is NOT 5 out of 5. It is 100 out of 100. If you only stay in one ThirdHome property in England, Whitelackington Manor is the one to choose.” click here to read more of Petra’s review.
Members, click here to view all available weeks and plan your next ThirdHome Exchange trip. Remember, you must be logged in to your account to see availability.
Want more information about our luxury home exchange club? Click here to learn more about ThirdHome.
Amex Travel’s Trend forecast for 2018 has some classics and some newcomers in the realm of international travel; Bali, Costa Rica, Dubai and Vietnam to name a few. But how do the industry-wide trends line up with ThirdHome users in 2018? It’s looking to be a strong year for cultural immersion trips paired with luxury experiences.
Several of these destinations come as no surprise. Costa Rican properties have been increasingly popular in the club as have Bali homes. The “United States Hot Spots” are longtime favorites of ThirdHome members. But what sticks out within ThirdHome’s membership for 2018?
Of our member bookings for 2018, here are ThirdHome’s Top 10 Destinations of 2018:
10. “United States Hot Spots”: Florida, California, Aspen, Park City, Vail, Truckee, San Francisco
It’s not difficult to guess why over 16% of 2018 bookings end up concentrating near the Rockies and West Coast. World-class ski resorts and mountain homes with stunning views are the main attractions. But year-round outdoor recreation opportunities make Western U.S. Hot Spot cities even more attractive for active travelers. Southeast bookings have unsurprisingly been dominated by Florida stays around the Gulf. These U.S. destinations are definitely worth a Saved Search, given how quickly and often they’re booked. If being more outdoorsy was one of your resolutions for the New Year, consider making a trip out West.
Click here to see available properties in the United States.
9. Mexico: Cabo San Lucas
Great weather, beautiful beaches and amazing golf. Mexico, particularly the Baja del Sur region, seems to have it all. With all the Affiliate resort properties available, making a trip to Mexico is just so easy. And even if you aren’t looking for a coastal resort town there are so many cultural experiences to be had in cities like San Miguel de Allende. Taking an estimated 11% of 2018 bookings, Mexico is very popular with many ThirdHome users.
Click here to see available properties in Mexico.
8. France: Paris, French Alps and Provence
Who doesn’t dream of flying away to Paris for a week of relaxation and cultural immersion? Centrally located Parisian properties have always been popular for club members, but a few new French destinations are gaining popularity. The French Alps are drawing more adventurous skiers this year. Also, more members are exploring Provence and other pastoral Southern regions. Yes, landing at Charles de Gaulle Airport and not leaving Paris makes for a wonderful trip, but don’t be afraid to explore new areas of the French countryside, mountains and coast in 2018.
Click here to see available properties in France.
7. Costa Rica: Playa Flamingo and Manuel Antonio
Costa Rica has emerged as a must-go eco-travel destination over the last few years. With an abundance of luxurious villas available in gorgeous areas like Playa Flamingo and the Manuel Antonio Rainforest, it would be criminal not to make a quick stop in Costa Rica in 2018. Most destinations are easily accessible, usually only requiring one transfer flight when flying from the United States.
Click here to see available properties in Costa Rica.
6. The United Kingdom: London
Similar to Paris, a trip to London is an easy European adventure. The city is filled with endless activities and experiences, making the city one of our top destinations of 2018. But more members are also venturing out to different U.K. locales. Naturally, more golf enthusiasts have been booking properties in Scotland while others are venturing to smaller towns, such as Cornwall.
Click here to see available properties in The United Kingdom.
5. Italy: Rome and Venice
Holidays in Rome and Venice have remained fairly popular in the club. Historic properties with central access to attractions have kept bookings up in Italy for 2018. A wide range of rural Tuscan properties have also been popular. Smaller coastal cities like Trieste are making for a slightly different Italian experience, more akin to a Croatian holiday. The Italian Alps are also drawing more and more skiers into cozy mountainside chalets. Be sure to explore Italy’s diverse range of destinations this year.
Click here to see available properties in Italy.
4. Canada: Mont-Tremblant
2017 was a big year for Canadian travel and 2018 will probably see even more bookings in the great North. With urban centers like Quebec and Toronto anchoring huge swaths of national parkland, Canada has the best of city living and natural wonder. Not to mention some of the world’s best skiing at Mont-Tremblant and Whistler. Cozying up by the fire in a timber ski chalet alongside Lac Tremblant is something everyone should experience.
Click here to see available properties in Canada.
3. South Africa: Cape Town and Plettenberg
With a diversity of landscapes only paralleled by New Zealand, South Africa is a one-stop shop for coastal wonder, safari adventure and serene wine country. ThirdHome members are mostly booking stays along the coastline in places like Cape Town and Plettenberg Bay. In a country like South Africa, it’s easy to stay on the coast and make day trips to the Franschhoek Winelands or the safari lands alongside the Zimbabwe and Mozambique borders. Or, just play with the penguins at Table Mountain National Park in Boulders Beach. South Africa is filled with out-of-this-world experiences.
Click here to see available properties in South Africa.
2. Spain: Marbella
Surprisingly, large urban centers like Madrid and Barcelona aren’t topping ThirdHome’s charts. Spain’s booking numbers are led largely by Marbella properties and other Costa del Sol homes. The Andalusia region’s rich history, Moorish influence and warm weather make Costa del Sol a prime location for a summer vacation with cultural immersion built-in. The luxurious private property selection in Costa del Sol is an attraction in itself. Some of these villas are to die for. If you haven’t already explored the land of Don Quixote, do yourself a favor in 2018 and book an Andalusian property.
Click here to see available properties in Spain.
1. The U.S. Virgin Islands: St. Thomas
Demand for the U.S. Virgin Islands was hardly diminished despite Hurricane Irma. Private homes and resort properties, mostly The Ritz-Carlton Destination Club St. Thomas, have seen healthy bookings for 2018. Luckily, the Virgin Islands have rebounded from Hurricane season and have been tourist operational since this past November. St. Thomas has always been a ThirdHome favorite and will most-likely make the Top 10 list for years to come.
Click here to see available properties in The U.S. Virgin Islands.
ThirdHome’s Top 10 Destinations 2018
2018 should be a fresh year of discovery for members. So, we recommend trying something new. Whether it’s ecological exploration, cultural discovery or new outdoor recreation experiences, make 2018 a year to remember.
Now that you’ve seen what fellow club members are booking for 2018, where will you go? Click here to browse through all available properties. Remember, you must be logged in to see availability.
EOY ThirdHome Booking data 2017: Top 10 Destinations 2018 accounts for 45% of 2018 bookings.
WHAT ARE THIRDHOME MEMBERS SAYING ABOUT THEIR LUXURY HOME EXCHANGE TRIPS (TO France AND Costa Rica) THIS WEEK?
Located in Southeastern France, Annecy Lake Lodge is a combination of early 19th-century architecture and newly renovated and contemporary interiors. This home can sleep up to 14 people and is designed for experiencing the surrounding natural beauty to the fullest. Outdoor living spaces open up onto Annecy Lake, widely considered “Europe’s cleanest lake” due to strict environmental protections. This pristine lake, surrounded by the French Alps, is the perfect place for outdoor recreation. Paragliding is a favorite pastime for many who visit the area. Escape to the serenity of Annecy Lake with this lakefront property on your next European adventure.
ThirdHome member James says, “The location was perfect right on Lake Annecy, we had our evening drinks on the deck right on the lake. The villa was so comfortable and great for entertaining. We had two sets of friends and my wife’s sisters. All had a great time and want to come back.” click here to read more of James’ review
The Palms at Playa Flamingo | Costa Rica
The Palms at Playa Flamingo is located on the Northwestern coast of Costa Rica, facing the Pacific Ocean. This resort property features elegant architectural design and panoramic Pacific views. These 2 bedroom residences are perfect for a romantic beach retreat. Lounge on the beach or take advantage of The Palm’s spa pool, infinity pool and watersport gear. Discover some of Costa Rica’s most beautiful and exclusive coastline at The Palms at Playa Flamingo on your next tropical adventure.
ThirdHome member Janet says, “We had the most amazing time. The Palms is a very special place where you feel like home in your villa…the service is by far the best…and the property is perfect in every way. The beach is just footsteps away and the pool is absolutely beautiful!” click here to read more of Janet’s review
Click here to view all available weeks and plan your next ThirdHome trip. Remember, you must be logged in to your account to see availability.
Want more information about our luxury home exchange club? Click here to learn more about ThirdHome.
The kids have been fighting in the back of the car for hours, you’ve already stopped three times, and the humidity is oppressive. You finally check in to your resort, the kids get their bathing suits on, and you run triumphantly to the beach. Next thing you know a gust of wind has blown sand in your eyes and your youngest daughter is crying because the water is still a frigid 65 degrees Fahrenheit. Why can’t the beaches be ready when you are? Well, maybe you’ve been booking the wrong beach vacations.
THESE BEACHES ARE CLIMATE CHAMPIONS YEAR-ROUND: Check out THIRDHOME‘s picks for best beach vacations you can take any time of year
Disclaimer: There’s no one perfect climate for everyone. This list attempts to round up temperatures and climates that remain more consistent throughout the year than other popular destinations for beach vacations.
Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
Climate: Temperature is typically between 68°F to 87°F (20°C-30°C). Rarely below 65°F (18°C) or above 89°F (31°C)
Hawaiian Christmas should definitely be on your bucket-list if it isn’t already. There’s nothing like a tropical escape in the midst of mainland cold. Kailua-Kona is on the western side of Big Island, which is considered the leeward side of the island. The leeward side of any island is the side that’s protected by the island’s elevation. On Big Island, west is leeward and east is windward. This makes Kaiulua-Kona one of the most protected beach sites (from rain and storms) in Hawaii.
Where to stay: Click here to see all properties in the Kailua-Kona area or book a stay at this ocean view Equity Residences home in September.
Malaga, Spain
Climate: Temperature is typically between 45°F to 88°F (7°C-31°C). Rarely below 38°F (3°C) or above 97°F (36°C)
Parts of Southern Spain, such as Costa Del Sol, are notorious for their insufferably hot days in the city. Malaga falls in this category during summer months, but receives welcome gusts of cool wind from the Meditteranean, making the dry heat bearable. The winters in this subtropical-Mediterranean climate are very mild due to the Northern Malaga mountains which block most of the northern cold from reaching the coast. The city has only seen snow once in the 20th century on a February night in 1954. Malaga is touted for being “green” all year round making it a joy to visit any time of year. June, July, and August- the hottest months- usually peak out around 87° Fahrenheit. Many British and German ex-nationals have moved to the area since the 1970’s for the pleasant weather.
Where to stay: Click here to see all properties in the Malaga area.
Cyprus
Climate: Temperature is typically between 43°F to 92°F (6°C-33°C). Rarely below 36°F (2°C) or above 96°F (35°C)
Another subtropical-Mediterranean climate, the island of Cyprus has one of the warmest climates in the Mediterranean Sea. The climate does shift dramatically the more you travel inland, reflected by the snow covered Troodos Mountains, but the coast is a sunny delight. The coast of Cyprus receives 3,200 hours of sunlight per year compared to foggy London’s 1,540 hours per year. So plan your trip to Cyprus today, and play on the sun-drenched beaches of Nissi.
Where to stay: Click here to see all properties in the Cyprus area.
Marseille, France
Climate: Temperature is typically between 39°F to 84°F (4°C-29°C). Rarely below 30°F (-1°C) or above 90°F (32°C)
Not quite as sunny as Cyprus, but sunnier than the rest of France, Marseille is the perfect mix of beachside fun and French culture. The coastline is spotted with old fortifications and buildings. If you look out into the Bay of Marseille you can see the Frioul Archipelago, which was made famous in the Dumas novel The Count of Monte Cristo. Dry summers and mild humid winters paired with the Mediterranean breeze makes Marseille, and the surrounding coastal region, a delightful holiday destination year-round.
Where to stay: Click here to see all properties in the Marseille area or stay in nearby St. Tropez or Nice.
Mykonos, Greece
Climate: Temperature is typically between 48°F to 82°F (9°C-28°C). Rarely below 41°F (5°C) or above 86°F (30°C)
Mykonos and the other Cyclades islands of the Aegean all share bright and temperate springs and summers. But many tourists have the misconception that the islands completely shut down in winter. It is true that many of the big resorts and tourist based restaurants are closed in the off-season, but this can work to your advantage. Traveling off-season can help you avoid the tourist traps that would deprive you of a completely immersive island experience. The waters do get cold during the winter months, but the rocky coast is just as beautiful and the views are fabulous. Mykonos itself is too popular to be abandoned during the off-season so most amenities remain open and operational. Several beachside properties in these areas feature hot Jacuzzis as well.
Where to stay: Click here to see all properties in the Mykonos area or stay at Villa Deep Blue in October.
Aruba
Climate: Temperature is typically between 77°F to 91°F (19°C-31°C). Rarely below 74°F (16°C) or above 93°F (33°C)
Want all of the thrills of the Caribbean without the unpredictable weather? Visit Aruba! Around 20 miles north of the coast of Venezuela, this Dutch island sits right outside the hurricane zone and receives a constant stream of refreshing trade winds from the north. Cactuses thrive in the semi-arid climate though the island is not uncomfortably dry. The predictability in weather has made Aruba a go-to vacation spot for Americans- so much so that three-quarters of Aruba’s gross national product is made up by tourism and tourism related activities. The other ABC Islands (Curaçao, and Bonaire) also have similar climates.
Where to stay: Click here to see all properties in the Aruba area or stay at the Marriott Aruba Surf Club in December.
Explore any of these prime spots for beach vacations on ThirdHome’s website, and book today!
What are ThirdHome members saying about their luxury home exchange trips (to South Africa and France) this week?
Cape Winelands Villa | Paarl, South Africa
Situated in the Franschhoek Valley, South Africa’s “Food & Wine Capital”, Cape Winelands Villa is a gorgeous 4-bedroom property with access to some of the finest dining in Africa. Only 30 minutes away from Cape Town, this operating wine estate offers privacy and proximity to some of South Africa’s greatest attractions. If you don’t have the spirit of a Sommelier, you might visit the local lion sanctuary or Simons Town’s coastal penguins. Brandy, cheese, and beer tastings are also common pastimes for visitors. If history is your calling, visit Robben Island, the prison where Nelson Mandela was kept for 18 years. But with the gorgeous ensuite bedrooms, outdoor lounging area and pool, you might have trouble convincing yourself to leave.
ThirdHome member Laura says, “The views of the vineyards are stunning! Security is top notch in this gated community. The only low on our trip was having to leave! We enjoyed our time in this special place and each of us hopes to return someday soon. I highly recommend reserving a week at this home if you want the best Cape Winelands region experience!” click here to read more of Laura’s review.
Le Fresnay | Cambremer, France
This 1560 manor and farmhouse in rural Normandy is a collision of fairytale-like scenery and French history. Set in the bucolic fields of Cambremer, these three buildings can accommodate up to 10 guests. The interior has maintained a great deal of the original stone and woodwork, but many rooms such as the kitchen have been updated with modern appliances, allowing you to be steeped in history while maintaining contemporary luxuries. Le Fresnay is only a few kilometers away from Normandy’s renowned Cheese Route and Cider Route. It is also the perfect launching point for history buffs looking to explore Omaha Beach and other Allied landing points during WWII.
ThirdHome members Peter and Nancy say, “The massive structures with rough-hewn beams truly transported us in time to an era that predated anything we had experienced in the States. Being eight hearty New Englanders we were captivated by the somewhat primitive but bucolic setting that allowed us to experience Normandy’s countryside the way we felt it should be, without superficiality and artificial trappings…central to our positive experience was Le Fresnay.” click here to read more of Peter and Nancy’s review.
Members, click here to view all available weeks and plan your next ThirdHome trip. Remember, you must be logged in to your account to see availability.
Want more information about our luxury home exchange club? Click here to learn more about ThirdHome.