If you're one of those savvy Hideaways members who has rented a private vacation home, no doubt you remember the thrill of discovery when you first turned the key in the lock and opened that front door. Maybe it was a cozy stone fireplace that first met your eye, or a sparkling infinity pool, or an amazing ocean view through floor-to-ceiling windows. Whatever it was, we're betting it left an indelible impression.

Just for fun, we thought we'd elevate that thrill of discovery a notch or two with this handful of thoroughly unique vacation villas that have an extra-special added twist. It could be their size—small and cozy or vast and sprawling—their sense of history, their location, or simply their "Wow!" factor. Bottom line: These are vacation homes that are sure to fire up your imagination and have you eagerly planning your next getaway.

When that time comes, we're ready to help! Just call your Hideaways Travel Specialist at 800-843-4433 for very personal travel planning that will match you and your family or friends with the absolute perfect villa for your travel style and budget.

Here are just a few of our favorite "villas with a twist" that will start you dreaming—and could quite possibly knock your socks off! You can also view a spectacular slide show of images of our featured villas.