You’ll Never Guess Where These Homes Are Located
Why settle for one setting when these unique luxury homes capture the essence of two enticing worlds?
Certain locations are distinctive enough to immediately resonate their geographical position in the world, and discerning travelers can readily name what attracts them most to these destinations. The varied architecture, landscapes, cultures, and climates of different regions captivate our fancies for myriad reasons—making it nearly impossible to settle for just one. However, the selection of properties below offers a less familiar sense of place mainly due to the amazing contrasts available at these locations. When the architectural style of a favorite region is combined with the landscape so characteristic of another, luxury home buyers can experience two worlds simultaneously and, as these unique estates demonstrate, such fantastic and unexpected juxtapositions create a wholly original sense of place.
Luxurious Italian Villa or Spectacular Swiss Estate?
The incredible highlights of this penthouse in the Italian-speaking Ticino region of Switzerland include spectacular views of a pristine alpine lake.
The dramatic lakeside views, mountainous surroundings, and Mediterranean styling of this luxury penthouse instantly call to mind Italy’s celebrity stomping ground, Lake Como. In actuality, this three-bedroom, five-bathroom property is located on the other side of the Alps in the Italian-speaking town of Lugano, Switzerland, which is quickly becoming known as the “Monte Carlo of Switzerland” due to its ritzy residents and gorgeous scenery. Unparalleled vistas of the mountain-ringed Lake Lugano are the principal draw of this top-floor condominium residence, and the open living space featuring floor-to-ceiling windows enhances this asset to stunning effect. With a negative-edge pool, outdoor areas for dining and entertaining, spa facilities including a hot tub and sauna, and a tranquil location, this alpine escape offers privacy, relaxation, and sophistication in one of Switzerland’s most ideal locations.
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Andalucía Mansion or Australian Manor?
This beautiful home channels Old Hollywood with its classic Spanish Mission style and countless luxury amenities.
A splendid example of the Spanish Mission style, this exceptional residence would look perfectly at home in Spain. What’s truly spectacular is that it’s located almost 7,500 miles away in Sydney, Australia. Built in the 1930s by acclaimed architect F. Glynn Gilling, Alcooringa, a ten-bedroom, ten-bathroom estate, boasts panoramic views of Sydney Harbour as well as arched windows, stone fireplaces, custom ironwork, formal dining and living rooms, a ballroom with marble flooring and Italian chandeliers, and elevator access to all levels. A regal Spanish style is reflected in this home’s glamorous decor and detailed luxuries, which range from a fountain water feature, private chapel, billiards room, and wine cellar to a master bedroom and dining pavilion with sweeping views.
Austrian Alpine Estate or Great Escape in Greece?
This secluded hillside villa features a large pool, picturesque wooded grounds, and remarkable views of the Aegean Sea.
Mention Greece and many envision sunbaked, ancient cities rising precariously above an azure sea. This heavily wooded area with a natural waterfall and the remains of a 19th-century watermill provides a picturesque setting with opportunity for exploring both the surrounding mountainside and nearby coastline. The lush greenery and mountainous landscape are reminiscent of a hilly estate in the Austrian countryside. But Old Cataract, a luxury villa on a hillside overlooking the Aegean, boasts a truly unique location near Mount Pelion in central Greece. Expert craftsmanship is evident throughout the five-bedroom home, from the solid, handcrafted staircase and wooden floors to the custom plaster and stonework. The high ceilings, impressive entrance hall, and ample room for entertaining (both indoors and out) add grandeur to a stunning property in an unbelievable location.
California Country House or Tuscan Renaissance Villa?
Italianate splendor awaits on California’s Central Coast in this luxury villa overlooking the Pacific.
California’s Santa Barbara County is often compared to the Italian countryside. Both enjoy a mild, sunny climate that is particularly well suited to the cultivation of wine grapes, and the gentle, grassy hills and soft sunlight characteristic of both locations have been inspiring artists for generations. When Italian immigrants first arrived on the West Coast, many were compelled to remain in the Central Coast area due to its striking resemblance to their homeland. It’s no coincidence that this romantic Montecito villa features an Italian-inspired design. Luxurious marble finishes, a magnificent entrance with soaring ceilings, and a classical courtyard are just a few of the Old World features that transform this home into a majestic villa. While the stylishly decorated interiors include a spacious wood-paneled study, an alluring pool and large terrace for al fresco entertaining allows residents and their guests to fully enjoy this home’s two acres of landscaped grounds.
Patagonia Palace or Scandinavian Castle?
Enjoy the natural beauty of the Patagonia region in complete luxury at this modern mountain retreat.
Synonymous with outdoor adventure, Argentina’s Patagonia region attracts nature lovers from all over with its rugged landscapes. Located just outside the city of Esquel but secluded on more than 6,000 scenic acres, this charming country getaway was styled after a Swiss chalet or Tyrolean mountain lodge. Outfitted with modern amenities like solar panels, radiant floor heating, satellite internet, a full kitchen, and indoor swimming pool, this 9,000-square-foot retreat is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise, with room for plenty of guests. Rainbow trout fill the placid 240-acre lake that is surrounded by towering peaks and serviced by a marina station. A day of exploring the estate’s natural surroundings can be followed by enjoying a fine vintage from the wine cellar next to the home’s massive stone hearth.
Modernist Cabana in California or Contemporary Bungalow in Brazil?
This unique São Paolo estate is designed around a modular grid and features beautiful finishes and floor-to-ceiling windows that meld indoor and outdoor space.
Palm Springs, California, became known for its strikingly modern homes designed to reflect and harmonize with their natural settings as early as the 1920s. Meanwhile in Brazil, key São Paolo architects carried the torch of Modernism in their own country. Inspired by this rich architectural tradition, the Grid House offers a contemporary expression of such domestic ideals in the form of an eight-bedroom estate swathed in luxurious refinement. Carved into its lush natural surroundings, this gridded site creates a new landscape all its own. Amenities include floor-to-ceiling windows throughout, fireplaces, guest and service quarters, landscaping with native plants, a water feature, outdoor patios, and breathtaking vistas from a lofty hillside location.
Mediterranean Estate or Dwelling Down Under?
With abundant sunshine, endless rural views, olive groves, and Tuscan-inspired architecture, this New Zealand estate takes its cues from Southern Europe.
Mediterranean by design, this four-bedroom, three-bathroom home looks like it was made for the warmer climes of Southern Europe. What a surprise to learn it’s actually located just outside Marlborough, on New Zealand’s scenic North Island. With four bedrooms in two wings, this commodious residence allows for versatile living. Its formal dining room, generous lounge space, and sun-soaked patios make this property ideal for entertaining. The Mediterranean fantasy is enhanced by expansive views over the property’s Tuscan-inspired olive groves toward the majestic Tararua Range beyond. Award-winning vineyards and an 18-hole golf course are also nearby.
Moroccan-Inspired Palace or Majestic Miami Penthouse?
The dramatic Moroccan details in this Miami penthouse create an atmospheric environment like no other.
This gorgeous penthouse evokes the romance and mystery of the Maghreb with its Moroccan-inspired decor. Dubbed “The Palace in the Sky,” this three-floor penthouse offers 360-degree views of downtown Miami and the azure bay below that can be enjoyed from multiple vantage points, including the 3,000-square-foot terrace and the sunny atrium. Crafted over the course of a year by 25 Moroccan artisans, this home’s exquisite tilework and intricate muqarnas vaulting create the ultimate transportive luxury experience. Relax like royalty in the majestic Moroccan-style salon featuring the dazzling tile mosaics and highly detailed ceiling carvings found in traditional Moorish palaces. Spectacular chandeliers and a suite of luxury amenities complete the effect, ensuring The Palace in the Sky fully lives up to its name.
Thank you for reading. I hope you found this information useful.
Jeff Pittman, Realtor in Ladera Ranch – Orange County, California