Breathtaking views are one of my key criteria for an amazing property – whether it’s to live permanently, short term or on a brief family holiday.

I’ll forgive a lot in a property, including less space, dated furnishings, a badly-stocked kitchen, you name it. If there’s a stunning landscape on offer, I’m in!

My fav site to book accommodation is Booking.com – I like the flexibility that a lot of accommodation offers with free cancellation or changes allowed. Plus, they have some great ways to filter when searching to help you find exactly what you’re looking for in a property. Agoda is another great option too, particularly if you’re looking for accommodation in Asia, but I find it a bit more clunky than Booking.com.

Here are some of my all-time favourite breathtaking views over the years, with a little info about each place and location. Enjoy!

1. Miraflores, Lima (2020) – Breathtaking Views at Home

The view from our apartment in Lima, Peru was simply amazing.

Which was good, as it’s where we spent most of our time due to all the COVID lockdowns – so we spent a lot of time looking out the windows! You can probably imagine how incredibly grateful I was that we splashed out and opted for a place with a rooftop penthouse. I’m not sure how we would have survived online learning for as long as we did without this view!

2. Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia (April 2023)

This sunset was the view each night from the beach restaurant at the Shangri-La Resort. So while it’s not directly from our room, we got to see it each night (and still had a decent view from the room, too!). This would have to be one of the best sunsets I’ve ever experienced!

3. Miami Beach, United States (August 2022)

During our 5 day trip in Miami we stayed at the Seacoast Suites, which offer various apartment sizes to cater for families, couples and singles. It was in a great location with direct access to Miami beach and the very handy Miami trolley system was also just located outside the door to explore the area, including the famous ‘South Beach’ area.

4. Halong Bay, Vietnam (December, 2022)

We had an incredible time exploring Halong Bay with Genesis Regal. Our rooms had amazing views, and the rooftop (featuring a bar with music and plenty of sun lounges to relax) featured unforgettable 360-degree views! Find out more in my post featuring a family-friendly itinerary for Vietnam.

5. Dambulla, Sri Lanka (June 2016)

We visited Singapore and Sri Lanka just before our second daughter turned 2 to take advantage of the free infant flights! Dambulla was our first stop in Sri Lanka and our stay at Raintree was phenomenal. In addition to the gorgeous villa right on the lake, the staff arranged an airport pick-up, cooked us delicious Sri Lankan dishes in our villa and offered to babysit the kids while we explored.

6. Puerto Varas, Chile (January 2020)

Just outside Puerto Varas, Cabañas Ruta Del Lago had an amazing lakeside location with incredible views of nearby Osorno Volcano. With bay windows (that the kids and I loved!), you literally felt like you were sitting on top of the lake.

7. Vichayito, Peru (January, 2021)

After a VERY long year of COVID lockdowns, we escaped Lima and headed north to the tiny town of Vichayito. This two-bedroom house had its own private pool (perfect size for kids) and was situated right on the beach. It also featured a rooftop terrace where you could watch the sunset each night, and the price included the services of a lovely, friendly local who not only cleaned the pool but also collected groceries for us whenever we needed. Five-star service at Casa Acuarela Vichayito, available via Airbnb.

8. Cusco, Peru (January 2021)

Although this apartment was a little dated, it offered plenty of space and a long balcony from which to see the whole of Cusco. This Airbnb was also in a fantastic location, only one block from the main square, where you could easily access restaurants, cafes, and artisan shops.

9. Jeju Island, South Korea (April 2023)

Back in 2024, we were lucky enough to call Jeju home. The island itself offered plenty of breathtaking views, and this one was from the boarding house we lived in on campus at one of the international schools.

It’s spectacular during spring when all the flowers come out, especially these golden canolas. You can just see Mt Halla in the background, which is visible pretty much wherever you are on the island.

10. Ollantaytambo, Peru (January 2021)

When we visited Ollantaytambo, it felt like we were the only tourists in town as things were only opening up again after the COVID lockdowns. Usually, this gorgeous town surrounded by massive mountains is super busy because of its proximity to Machu Picchu. We stayed at Apu Lodge, which offered a beautiful family room and cooked breakfast daily.