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Where memories will keep you coming back!

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Welcome to Villa Sofia, your perfect home away from home!
The entrance hall to our lovely bungalow.
This is the entrance to our relaxing lounge & dining space.
Lounge & dining space, great for entertaining.
The dining table can seat up to six people.

Reviews

10 out of 10, Loved by Guests
Top 10% of guest reviews in this area
3 bedrooms0+ bathroomsSleeps 6

Popular amenities

  • Kitchen
  • Washing machine
  • Dryer
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Outdoor space
  • Parking available

Explore the area

View map
Sandbanks, England
  • Place, Sandbanks Beach
    ‪5 min walk‬
  • Place, Sandbanks Ferry Terminal
    ‪8 min walk‬
  • Place, Studland Beach and Nature Reserve
    ‪11 min walk‬
  • Airport, Bournemouth (BOH-Bournemouth Intl.)
    ‪21 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

3 bedrooms (sleeps 6)

Bedroom I (ground floor)

1 Double Bed

Bedroom II "primary bedroom" (ground floor)

1 Queen Bed

Bedroom III (1st floor)

1 King Bed and 2 Single Beds

1 half bathroom

Bathroom 1

Toilet · Shower only

Bathroom 2

Bathtub · Toilet

Spaces

Deck or patio
Kitchen
Outdoor play area
Garden

About this property

Where memories will keep you coming back!

Welcome to Villa Sofia!

Welcome to Villa Sofia!

We are a charming 1930s bungalow located in the heart of the renowned Sandbanks Peninsula. Our villa has been transformed into a delightful coastal sanctuary that promises an unforgettable family vacation experience. Whether you're spending quality time indoors or having fun in our expansive garden, our top priority is ensuring your utmost satisfaction. We strive to provide you with a home away from home where memories will keep you coming back.

Sandbanks is a great place to spend a fun-filled staycation. There are plenty of fantastic places to visit right on our doorstep, including golden sand beaches, nature trails, and sports activities. You can also simply relax on the beach with the sand between your toes while listening to the distant sound of the waves. There is something for every member of the family to enjoy!

For more information on events and attractions in the surrounding areas, please search "Poole Tourism" or "Visit Dorset".

COVID-19 UPDATE:

We want to reassure our guests that we will continue to maintain our enhanced cleaning standards to protect both our visitors and housekeeping staff. Even a single case of COVID-19 can have serious consequences in delivering a safe and secure environment.

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Free WiFi
Outdoor space
Parking available

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 10:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Strip any used beds and gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights, lock the doors and return the keys
If you used the BBQ grill, please dispose of the used coal in the rubbish bin provided so that it’s clean and ready for the next guest.
Please ensure the V.I.K. is hung on the designated hook by the French doors in the kitchen, the two fobs are placed back on top of the microwave, and the main entrance door is securely closed.
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
NO visitors in the Villa other than those on the reservation.
NO illegal activity of any kind on the premises.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock

We should mention

This property does not have any lifts

Frequently asked questions

Is Where memories will keep you coming back! pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at Where memories will keep you coming back!?

As of 1 Apr 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Where memories will keep you coming back! on 18 May 2026 start from AU$769, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking at Where memories will keep you coming back!?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at Where memories will keep you coming back!?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at Where memories will keep you coming back!?

Checkout is at 10:00 AM.

Where is Where memories will keep you coming back! located?

This family-friendly Poole holiday home is located by the sea, within a 10-minute walk of Sandbanks Beach and Sandbanks Ferry Terminal. Shell Bay Beach and Canford Cliffs Beach are also within 1 mile (2 km).

Reviews

10

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 25 out of 27 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 2 out of 27 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 27 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 27 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 27 reviews

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

10/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Victoria M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The house is in excellent condition, with everything you could possibly need has been provided. The communication from the host was very helpful. The house is in a great location.
Stayed 3 nights in Feb 2026
Verified

8/10 Good

Nigel S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great location Sandbanks Holiday

Good location Found ample cooking utensils every thing needed for a complete self catering holiday Found 1 bedroom downstairs rather small
Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 5 Aug 2022
Overall, we are happy to know you’ve enjoyed your experience with us. Our guest feedback is important to us as we strive to improve on our guest experience. Thank you again for your time and honesty. All the best, the de Palma(s)
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Julie L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We had a wonderful stay at this beautiful property. There’s lots of living space, beds are comfortable, very well stocked with anything you need and a beautiful outdoor area. It’s also great for children. Donna is very responsive to any questions/needs.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 21 Aug 2025
Julie and her family were wonderful guests. They were kind, considerate, and a true pleasure to host. We especially appreciated their understanding and thoughtful communication throughout their stay. We would be more than happy to welcome them back anytime.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

andrew m.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
An amazing property- great location, in immaculate condition, beautifully furnished and really well stocked for a family to self cater. I’d give 6 stars if I could! Attention to detail- from kitchen essentials to board games made it a perfect location
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 13 Aug 2025
Andy and his group were a pleasure to host at Villa Sofia Sandbanks. Communication was clear and respectful throughout, and they left the house in great condition. We truly appreciate guests who treat our home with care and consideration — and Andy did just that. We’d be happy to welcome them back anytime!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

kim g.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely getaway

Had a lovely week at this property, it was exactly as described. It is in a great location and although the weather wasn't brilliant, we found tons to do. Donna was super helpful and we would love to visit the property again.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 15 Aug 2023
Hi Kim, Many thanks again for choosing us and for the lovely review! We enjoyed hosting you and hope to host you again at Villa Sofia Sandbanks or Villa Sofia Puerto Banus, coming soon!
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sandra G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Superb stay

Beautifully presented and well equipped property that caters for all needs. Superb location, very close to fantastic beach and harbour with great eateries close by. The host was extremely helpful with good communications. Would definitely rent this property again.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 20 Sept 2022
We had the pleasure of hosting Sandra and her family. Excellent communication, and they looked after the property nicely. We would absolutely host Sandra again.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Katie B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Villa Sofia

This is a fabulous house, super well equipped kitchen, and very spacious. The outside space with a big table and comfortable chairs on the deck, and the pretty garden are a real bonus We absolutely loved our stay !!
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 14 July 2023
Thank you so much for your kind review. We do hope you've enjoyed your stay! Thank you so much for looking after the house like your own. We hope you will consider us again for your seaside staycation! All the best, Donna, Vincenzo & Sofia
Verified

8/10 Good

Tracey G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Villa Sophia

Fabulous
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sandra G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

super stay @ villa Sofia

This was our second time at villa Sofia and we had another fantastic stay. The weather was great so we enjoyed plenty of time on the beach. The location is excellent. The property and garden is beautifully presented and well equipped for all ages. We can’t wait to return, I’m sure we will be back again soon.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 18 Sept 2023
Sandra, thank you so much for your lovely review and your loyalty. It's reviews like yours that keep the memories coming. We look forward to hosting you and your family again soon. All the best, Donna, Vincenzo & Sofia x
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Richard F.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fabulous stay!

We have just returned from a truly fantastic break at this beautiful property. Donna couldn't have been a more welcoming and helpful host. The bungalow is modern, bright, very well equipped, with a great garden and super facilities. A real "home from home". It is situated in a perfect location, close to beaches, bars and restaurants. We'll definitely return and couldn't recommend highly enough!
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 4 Oct 2024
Thank you for the wonderful review. I genuinely hope we exceeded your expectations as a returning guest of the previous owners. Your positive feedback and guest experience inspire us to continue sharing our home on this platform. We hope to host you again soon. All the best
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Erica S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely Sandbanks Holiday

We cannot say enough positive things about this home and our stay there. It was so clean and beautifully decorated and the hosts went out of their way to add so many special touches to make our stay there comfortable and welcoming. It is by far one of the nicest VRBO properties we have stayed at in the US and Europe. Communication was wonderful with the host and the process was very simple and straightforward. We will definitely stay here again the next time we are in England.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Alex V.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Perfect!

Absolutely amazing accommodation in Sandbanks. We have rented property here many times and this is beyond a doubt the best place we've stayed. Location is perfect, the interiors delightful, everything was spotless, the kitchens, bedrooms and bathrooms are so thoughtfully appointed and stocked, the huge garden is great for kids. Donna was incredibly kind and helpful and has really gone above and beyond to create a beautiful home. I felt like I was staying at a friend's house. We would love to return. Many thanks Donna!
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 4 Oct 2022
We are so happy you've enjoyed your stay with us, Alex! It's been an absolute pleasure to host you and your family. We do hope you consider us again in the future. All the best, Donna x
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Janette H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A beautiful home from home

My husband & I enjoyed a week at Villa Sofia with our Mums. It was the perfect location about 5 mins walk from an amazing, beautiful beach & about a 10 minute drive from lovely Poole. The house was perfect & was lacking absolutely nothing, it was lovely & clean & was warm when we needed the central heating after the sun went down. We sat outside in the garden on the decking most afternoons in the sun BLISS! We loved exploring the beautiful surrounding area & trying out all the local ice creams. We would love to come & stay at Villa Sofia again. Thank you so much
Stayed 7 nights in May 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Paul Laithwaite

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A beautiful bungalow in a lovely location.

A wonderful break in a superb bungalow in Sandbanks. It is an easy walk to the glorious sandy beaches or up to the chain ferry. We were blessed with glorious weather too. We could not fault the cleanliness and high standard throughout, from the tastefully decorated rooms, to the kind and friendly touches, to the swinger in the garden and to the extremely well stocked kitchen. It has a lovely calm, relaxed feel about it and it made our stay special. From a teenager to a 79 year old grandad, it catered to us all! Thank you to Donna and family for a wonderful break and for all the hard work that has gone in to creating such a glorious place to stay. Can not recommend staying here enough.
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 29 May 2022
Thank you for the confidence in booking Villa Sofia so far in advance for your staycation accommodation. We have enjoyed hosting your family and appreciate the care you have shown the property during your stay. Your kind and gracious review made me smile and makes this very personal venture worth it! It has been an absolute pleasure to host your family. We wish you all the best and hope you choose us again! Donna, x
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Helen M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful house, fantastic location

We stayed as a family of five in August for just under week and our overall stay was fabulous. Donna was a joy to deal with from start to finish. The house is clean and incredibly well equipped, especially the kitchen. Donna even provides robes, slippers, mini toiletries and beach bags (complete with a set of towels), which gives the property a touch of luxury. The location is ideal for Sandbanks beach (luckily the weather was kind), the Studland chain ferry and many local eateries. The kids loved the swing set and since it kept them busy, so did we! The automatic gate at the front is a welcome addition. We're very keen to return!
Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 4 Sept 2023
Dear Helen, It was an absolute pleasure having you and your family as our guests. Thank you so much for taking the time to share your wonderful review with us. Your feedback means a lot to us, and it helps us to continue providing a great experience for our guests. We hope that you will consider staying with us again in the future. Best regards, Donna, Vincenzo, and Sofia
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Michael B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A great place to make memories of an excellent holiday

We take away with us happy memories of a lovely holiday at Villa Sofia- a great place to relax and unwind. The new owners have gone out of their way toprovid everything you could possibly need for a stress free break. The grand children thought that the outdoor play area was wonderful, and loved the variety of books, toys and games that was provided for them. The host has put a lot of thought into the furnishings and tasteful design of the rooms and into what makes a good holiday base for their guests, The location is perfect, within walking distance of lovely sandy beaches which stretch for niles as well as plenty of other places to visit. There was good communication with the host who went out of her way to make sure all was well with us, Villa Sofia is a place we would recommend for families of all ages and we hope to return to in the future.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Sept 2021
Thank you again for choosing Villa Sofia! And most importantly, thank you for treating the property as your home away from home. We look forward to welcoming you again soon. All the best, Donna, Vincenzo & Sofia xx
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Ezna S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Wonderful and Charming

Donna was amazing and the house was just perfect, even having a decorated Christmas tree prepped for our arrival. Everything in the house is classy yet comfortable, ideal for us and likely perfect for a family with children too. Sizable kitchen and good sized bedrooms and garden ensured that we were comfortable and the dining,/living room had a wonderful fireplace and smart TV - so Christmas was about as perfect as it could be. In the summer this place will be impossible to book no doubt as it happens to also be set in one of the UKs most fashionable areas, Sandbanks. But for us, drawing an awful year to an end, we couldn’t have done it in a better place. Thanks Donna!
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 30 Dec 2020
What a lovely experience! We were so grateful to spread a bit of Christmas cheer this year, more than any other. Our goal was to make it as warm, and festively inviting as possible, so cherished memories could be created during such an unprecedented time. It warms our hearts to know you've enjoyed your stay. We trust those memories will bring you back. All the best, Villa Sofia (formally known as The Retreat) Donna, Vincenzo & Sofia
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Harminder S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

A beautiful home with everything you could need!

We booked this property for a long weekend for a family trip. It exceeded our expectations with a lot of thought given to guests. I was especially pleased with the large wardrobe filled with games for children, the book case (for all ages), cosy robes and the great hair dryer and straighteners ! Host was always available when we had a little question too! The garden was great for extra fun for kids (play area) with decking by the kitchen for us to relax whilst keeping an eye on them. If your after a bit of luxury living in a cosy home, just by the beach then Villa Sofia is for you. I’d definitely stay again, Thanks Donna.
Stayed 3 nights in May 2022
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Kristina R.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fabulous property in great location!

We had a fantastic family stay for a long weekend. The property is really lovely and so well appointed, Donna has thought of it all. We were very comfortable and had a nice, relaxed visit. The property is well located on Sandbanks with access to the beach, the ferry and shops only a short walk away.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jo Y.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Lovely holiday home

Lovely house in a great location for exploring Sandbanks and the surrounding area. Everything you could wish for in the house with really helpful communications from the Hosts. Would love to stay again.
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Sept 2021
Thank you for creating memories with us this summer. We look forward to welcoming you and your family in the future. All the best, Donna, Vincenzo & Sofia, xx
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Karen B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fantastic time at Villa Sofia

Location is perfect for the beaches and amenities. The property was fantastic - even better than the listing - kitchen was so well equipped , every room was bright and spotlessly clean. Donna made us feel very welcome and was super efficient in her communication with us. Thank you.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2021
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Cara W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fabulous Property - very chic and all you need!

As part of our staycation this year we decided to spend a few days on Sandbanks and we’re lucky enough to find the amazing gem that is Villa Sofia. Really cannot speak highly enough of the property & owners. The property is beautifully styled but is comfortable and has literally everything you need for a no worries vacation by the sea. Donna the owner could not have been more helpful & communication is excellent and nothing too much trouble. Book - you won’t regret it and we can’t wait to return!!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 9 Sept 2021
We cannot thank you enough for choosing Villa Sofia as your celebration backdrop! We sincerely hope you had an amazing staycation, and this birthday ranks top 5—at least! ;) It’s experiences like yours that have made our journey so worth it! We look forward to welcoming you again. The very best, Donna, Vincenzo & Sofia xx
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tracy H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Celebration staycation

The owners were brilliant - communicated well with us and kept us informed. The house is beautiful so clean and well equipped- we loved it and would definitely stay again.
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 31 May 2022
Thank you for choosing Villa Sofia as your staycation accommodation. We enjoyed hosting you and your family. Wishing you all the best, Donna
Verified

10/10 Excellent

stephen h.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

PERFECT !! ( apart from the weather !! )

Congratulations to Donna and team for all their hard work in creating a real home from home. So comfortable. The house is beautiful and has every amenity and facility that you could wish for. From luxury coffee to having Jamie Oliver in the kitchen whenever we wanted !!( His book that is !! ) The kids were supplied with every game imaginable and practically every tv app. available. We got onto the fabulous beach a few times which is only a short walk away. If only our UK weather was more stable. Many thanks Donna Look forward to returning Steve.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 9 Sept 2021
From being to end, you have kept me smiling, and it continues with your review! It has been an absolute pleasure to host your family this season. We sincerely hope you choose to staycation with us again. Your experience has truly made the journey well worth it! Thank you for making our summer more special. Wishing you all the best, Donna, Vincenzo & Sofia xx
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jenny W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Family staycation

We absolutely loved our staycation at Villa Sofia! The property is immaculate and Donna and her family have ensured there are so many personal touches throughout the property and throughout our stay to make sure we have the best holiday. We will definitely return to stay here and also at their impending new villas, as I’m sure they will put the same amount of attention, detail and love into their future properties. Adam, Jenny, Grace, Sienna, Halle and Joshua x
Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 9 Sept 2021
Dearest Jenny, Adam, Grace, Sienna, Halle & Joshua, :) We want to thank you so much for choosing to stay at Villa Sofia. The memories you have created are also our memories. Thank you for treating Villa Sofia like your home. Grace, Sienna, Halle & Joshua, you are fan favourites in Sofia's book! You are all her friends in her head, which absolutely warms our hearts and makes the whole journey worth it! We sincerely hope you choose to make more memories with us again. All the best with tons of cuddles, Donna, Vincenzo & Sofia xx

About the host

Hosted by Donna

Host profile image
Inspired by our daughter, Sofia Grace, our goal was to create an environment where Sofia could enjoy and create childhood memories by the seaside, as her father did when growing up in Genova, Italy. And in this creation, we have decided to extend our "happy place" with other families.
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