House party holidays

SEND TO A FRIEND

18 SEPTEMBER 2003
How often have you talked about going away with a group of friends or family, but can't face trawling through the holiday brochures and websites to find somewhere big enough to take you all? Instead, we suggest taking a cue from the stars, holidaying with your loved ones at an exclusive hideaway.

Former Police front man Sting regularly invites friends such as Kate Moss, Stella McCartney, Madonna and Guy Ritchie to stay at his sprawling Tuscany estate, while Elton John's pals have enjoyed getting away from the spotlight at two of his luxurious mansions. David Beckham took a rest at the singer's enormous south of France home on the Riviera, and Liz Hurley famously "got some space" at his £6-million retreat in Windsor with her new son Damian just after giving birth.

Though you might not share a social circle with the rich and famous, there are a number of glamorous castles, mansions and villas for rent where you and your own luxury-seeking friends can relax in film-star style.

Villa Cavallo Amore, Corsica
Tucked away on the southern tip of Corsica in over an acre of its own land, Villa Cavallo Amore can house up to 16 with ease. The big living room features a cosy fireplace to sit around late into the night, while sliding doors open onto a sun terrace and pool.

The location – high above the sparkling Mediterranean, with sweeping views of the Cavallo and Piana islands – is perfect. And while there's plenty in and around the villa to keep you entertained, it would be a pity to miss out on Corsica itself. The medieval stronghold of Bonifacio is one of Europe's most extraordinary towns and just an easy drive away through some of the Mediterranean's most beautiful scenery.

Cayo Espanto, Belize
A group of up to 14 can share this ultimate hideaway on the private island of Cayo Espanto off the coast of Belize, three miles and a seven-minute boat ride from the nearest town of San Pedro.

The five wooden cabanas set against white sand beaches – all with hammocks for sunset viewing over the Caribbean – have king-size beds and marble plunge pools, while award-winning chefs provide tempting local cuisine in a dining room over the water. There are 12 staff to pamper your party, including butlers and masseuses, and even a Mariachi band can be laid on.

Then there's Belize itself. The small, Central American country boasts 250 orchid species, superb rainforests and haunting Mayan ruins. Truly a pocket-sized oasis.