This luxury villa company is the keyholder to stays with soul

This luxury villa company is the keyholder to stays with soul

As summer approaches, scrolling through websites in search of your dream Mediterranean villa to rent can be a daunting and often fruitless task, as pages of generic, uninspiring properties fill the screen. But at The Thinking Traveller – voted Best Villa Rental Company in the World at the Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards for the last seven years – the offer is refreshingly different

Founded in 2002 by Rossella and Huw Beaugié, The Thinking Traveller specialises in villa rentals with soul: authentic and extraordinary places that are deeply embedded in their communities and locations. Unlike many other such companies, its curated collection of exceptional private villas, houses and estates is unique and only available through them.

Casino Doxi Stracca, Puglia

The Thinking Traveller focuses solely on destinations the team knows and loves – from Sicily to Puglia and the smaller and lesser-known Italian Islands to Greece and Corsica. Their knowledge of these regions is second to none, so the process is a bit like striking gold with an insider recommendation from a good friend. The property criteria for inclusion is so meticulous that only around one per cent of those assessed are selected. Plus, there are villas to suit every taste that can accommodate groups of all sizes: five-star oases of fully serviced luxury (check out the Think Exquisite collection); beachfront summer houses; cutting-edge contemporary buildings; sensitively restored masseria, charming trulli and divinely romantic retreats. It’s no wonder the company has a vast following of loyal clients who return year after year. 

Masseria Cardinale, Sicily

Expert knowledge of the properties (from the depth of the pool to the size of the beds and the stories behind the artworks) as well as the area – means all kinds of memorable experiences can be arranged, whether that’s a boat trip to a secret beach, a family dinner cooked by a renowned chef, a table at the best taverna in town or the unmissable highlights of a local food festival.

Artelia, Zakynthos

Service and attention to detail is next-level at every step, from real-time availability for online booking to the concierge who’s dedicated to ensuring every aspect of your holiday is perfect. Think comprehensive driving directions so you can’t miss the villa when the sat nav fails; the welcome hamper full of local produce so you can relax by the pool with a glass of wine rather than dashing off to the supermarket when you arrive, and a choice of enriching adventures, from epicurean feasts to water sports and the chance to learn new skills.

Citrus, Hydra

The Thinking Traveller also invests in ecotourism and is well on the way to achieving B Corp status. The Beaugiés collaborate with like-minded individuals who share their vision, from cultural and environmental businesses to the next generation of talent. Their dedication to finding the most soulful homes in truly extraordinary locations guarantees any holiday booked with The Thinking Traveller will be just what you’re looking for.

For more information and to book, visit thethinkingtraveller.com