Vane Tower, Torquay

About this property

Perched above Torbay in the heart of Torquay, sits the glorious Vane Tower which originally formed part of a larger villa called Villa Lugano, who's design was inspired by a villa that was built on shores of the stunning Lake Lugano in Italy. Offering panoramic 360-degree views of the ocean and and the rolling hills of Dartmoor. A six-person hot tub, elegant gardens, and a sun-soaked terrace for alfresco dining. With its blend of coastal charm and modern luxury, this five-bedroom sanctuary is perfect for families or groups up to ten, making it the perfect base for families or groups to explore beaches, coastal walks, and the lively attractions of the English Riviera.

Enter a kingdom of ritzy indulgence when you take exclusive hire of Vane Tower – its elevated position provides breathtaking 360-degree panoramas, stretching across Torbay to the open sea and inland to Dartmoor. From sunrise to sunset, the views are truly something to behold, and guests can soak them in from every corner of the property – whether enjoying family breakfast on the sea-facing terrace, relaxing in the six-person hot tub after a dip in the sea, or unwinding with a good book in the light-filled conservatory.

This is a no-need-to-leave estate. But the 600-mile-long coastal path is on the doorstep – so you can jam-pack your days discovering award-winning beaches, enjoying water sports in the bay, lining up for lobster and chips, or, for a taste of the town’s rich history, visiting Torre Abbey or stepping into the life of Agatha Christie at her former holiday home. When the sun melts into the sea, Torquay’s vibrant marina, packed with stylish bars and restaurants (including a Michelin-starred restaurant well worth a visit), is just a short stroll away. By day, have salty skin and sandy toes; by night, sequinned dresses and glittering soirées.

Vane Tower's interiors bring zest to every soul who steps inside. Inspired by a villa on Lake Lugano, Italy, this home has been renovated by the Californian interior designer Bita De Laurentiis, who has given Vane Tower a colourful Italian twist – an abundance of pattern and interesting artwork await through every door. The large living and entertaining spaces mean there is plenty of room for everyone.

The dining room will be your stage for lively banquets and dinner parties – the perfect setting for a glitzy evening around the glorious Italian glass table, a piano for evening sing-songs, champagne coupes overflowing in hand. Designed with foodies in mind, the kitchen boasts a gas-fired Aga, perfect for preparing everything from hearty breakfasts to gourmet five-course dinners. This classic British kitchen is bathed in light, and at its centre sits a charming French dining table, steeped in history and dating back to World War II. Wander through to the conservatory with a glossy magazine and an iced coffee in hand, throw open the doors, and soak in the sparkling sea views and fresh sea air. This is a spot for those who wish to simply recline and relax while looking out to the water. The spacious living room has a 55” TV screen for family movie nights, so when evening settles in, the outside world fades into insignificance as you jump into the next blockbuster, bundled under blankets.

With a rich Italian flavour, this luxury self-catering home in Torquay flaunts interiors combining an eclectic fusion of classic and contemporary style to give a flamboyant finish. You will uncover six bedrooms, all promising the sweetest slumber imaginable. Three feature gloriously comfortable king-sized beds, one a beautiful queen-sized bed, one a twin bedroom, and the last a snug room with a sofa bed double. Each bed is swathed in luxury linens for ultimate nighttime indulgence. Every room is unique, but each boasts an adventurous colour palette that oozes opulence. A romantic wake-up is guaranteed, with sensational views from every corner of the house and the sea breeze wafting in through the windows.

Steeped in history the tower was built for the first American Ambassador to England and incorporates Italian architectural ideas. During World War II The Home Guard used the tower as a lookout post for enemy aircraft. The Irish playwright George Bernard Shaw visited the tower. He was the only person to have been awarded both a Nobel Prize for Literature (1925) and an Oscar (1938) for ‘Pygmalion’. The 1897 play ‘You Never Can Tell’ was set in Torquay.

Outside, spend languid time unwinding in the hot tub or take an uninterrupted leisurely lunch in the sunshine at the alfresco dining area – and become enveloped in the ever-changing elements of the sea. Vane Tower will become your oasis – one from which you won’t want to return home

Things you may like to know:

Babes in arms are very welcome. A high chair and travel cot are available.

There is secure off-road parking on the private driveway for three vehicles. There is more parking available on the nearby roads if necessary - free of charge.

This is a pet friendly holiday home.

Free Wi-fi throughout the entire property.

Please, no smoking inside the property.

Pre-arrival hot tub fill and service: Included

Private chef recommendations available

Please request the hot tub when booking if you would like to use this

For smaller parties you can see our reduced occupancy listing here