Surrounded by vast and beautiful bodies of water – the Arctic Ocean, Atlantic Ocean, North Sea, Baltic Sea and Mediterranean Sea – Europe’s waterways are a thing to behold. There’s the Alboran Sea, Balearic Sea, Bay of Biscay and North Atlantic Ocean flanking Spain’s shores; the Tyrrhenian, Ionian and Adriatic Seas giving Italy’s famous boot its fashion-forward shape; the chilly Celtic Sea, English Channel, and North Sea sweeping past France, the United Kingdom, Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, and so forth. Suffice to say, this beloved continent has no shortage of impressive waterfronts, and in turn, no shortage of fantastic waterfront properties either—whether seaside or lakefront.
New Golden Mile, Spain, Alboran Sea
Kristina Szekely – Kristina Szekely Sotheby’s International Realty
The stilted majesty of this contemporary beachfront property on the New Golden Mile is immediately obvious. The white exterior stands bright and powerful, a fitting complement to the Alboran Sea. Its stature may have something to do with the fact that the property is situated on a double plot, giving homeowners an opportunity to entertain, and then some. Fourteen bedrooms, large lounge areas indoor and out, extensive sea views, two swimming pools, and even a home spa all meet the design criteria of relaxed and artistic. A steadfast vessel, indeed.
Navarino Dunes Beachfront II, Greece, Mediterranean Sea
Stephanie Michalopoulou – Greece Sotheby’s International Realty
Rich in amenities and blessed with abundant sea views, this six-bedroom beachfront villa in southwest Peloponnese, Greece is part of a limited collection of resort homes. As part of the Navarino Dunes resort, owners enjoy two golf courses, and Anazoe spa, 24-hour security, concierge service, and more than 20 dining venue options.
On property, the splendor is innate. Ample natural light floods in through entryways, adding to an already seamless indoor-outdoor living set-up: two large wings with a sea-view master and three additional en-suite bedrooms in one end of the home, and a living room, impressive kitchen, dining room, and elevator in another. The outdoor spaces are as inviting and comfortable as the indoor, and you’ll be hard pressed to pull yourself away from the sea-salt air.
Villa Casa nel Porto, Positano, Italy, Tyrrhenian Sea
Sabrina Majello – Italy Sotheby’s International Realty
Casa nel Porto, perched in breathtaking Positano, easily encompasses verdant cliff-side living and traditional Italian charm. Privacy is the ultimate win here, with the villa shrouded by incredible natural rock and lush local flora. Divided into two units, the house is of two minds, but one soul. The main house has a traditional side, with vaulted ceilings, earthy stone, and hand-painted doors. Each room leads to a gorgeous garden with an unbeatable outdoor dining area. The second unit is a quadruple studio–style layout, each with a bedroom, kitchen, bathroom, and large private terrace. A beautiful place to enjoy the waves with friends and family.
Laglio Estate, Como, Italy, Lake Como
Luca D’Angelo – Italy Sotheby’s International Realty
This bright and elegant estate house encompasses the taste of Italy’s Lake Como. The inland spot is treasured by well-known and discerning individuals the world over. Fantastic old-world touches, from exposed-beam ceilings to intricate inlays to chandelier-style lighting are paired well with modern amenities, including an indoor pool, home cinema, and fitness area with spa. From the green grounds to the sun-drenched outdoor terrace and refreshing outdoor pool, every element of this property feels like a well-earned retreat—one made even sweeter thanks to its beautiful lake views.
Frankfurt Villa, Germany, Rhine River
Olivier Peters – Peters & Peters Sotheby’s International Realty
A stroll across the grounds of this vineyard villa offers view after view of the incredible Rhine River. Mature trees dot the grounds, some over a century old, while the subtle estate beckons. Inside, parquet and granite floors commingle with sandstone and ornamental plasterwork. High ceilings make every stately room feel grand but homey. A library, tennis court, billiard room, and wine cellar top off the picturesque outdoor veranda, which welcomes sunlight and afternoon repose.
Moisionrannantie, Mikkeli, Finland, Annilanselkå Lake
Kenneth Katter – Snellman Sotheby’s International Realty
Bright and beachy modern architecture make this lakeside villa built for the Mikkeli Housing Fair truly a prize of a property. With three bedrooms and outfitted with a large terrace, this is a prime example of the streamlined comfort and taste for which modern Finnish design is known. Outside, a large balcony is outfitted with a jacuzzi for extra languid afternoons and evenings, and beyond, a private boat dock offers water-bound adventure. Inside, minimalism and purposeful living take center stage. An ideal retreat for those seeking simplicity.
The lure of waterfront homes is intrinsic—water is healing, calming, inspiring, and powerful, all at once. What better place to rest, revive, and reignite than a luxury retreat on the shoreline?