The Rise of Villanovo in Luxury Tourism
Founded over fifteen years ago in Marrakech, Villanovo has established itself as a significant player in the luxury tourism sector. This French company transcends the conventional vacation rental model by offering a curated selection of villas complemented by personalized concierge services. The entrepreneurial vision of Villanovo was born from the founders, David and Géraldine Schneuwly, who sought to create unique travel experiences through their exploration of diverse destinations.
Exceptional Homes and Personalized Experiences
To appreciate Villanovo's concept, one must look back to the early 2010s in Marrakech. David and Géraldine Schneuwly recognized a burgeoning market for a new form of hospitality, characterized by exquisite private homes staffed to deliver an experience akin to that of a luxury hotel while preserving the intimacy of a family residence. "Upon arriving in Marrakech, we discovered stunning homes with exceptional service. It quickly became evident that we needed to offer these homes for family vacations," explains David Schneuwly, co-founder and CEO of Villanovo. Today, the company boasts nearly 2,800 properties across various destinations, significantly expanding beyond Morocco to include locations such as Italy, Provence, Mauritius, Ibiza, and Île de Ré.
Each of the nearly 2,800 homes in Villanovo's portfolio is meticulously selected to guarantee a superior experience. In Marrakech alone, the company offers around 150 homes, a number that may seem extensive but is minimal when viewed in the context of the local market. "We truly curate our selection, which represents just one in twenty homes available," David notes. The focus on quality extends beyond mere luxury; it encompasses beautifully decorated homes situated in breathtaking locations, aligning with the company's dedication to high standards.
This careful selection process is supported by local experts who personally inspect each property before it is added to the portfolio. For instance, in Provence, a local specialist named Sylvain, who has lived in the area for two decades, evaluates each home and advises on potential new additions. This commitment to quality reflects the company culture, which has remained entirely owned by its founders since inception. "We have never sought external funding; we have grown organically by expanding into destinations we personally appreciate as visitors," David explains.
In a market dominated by platforms like Airbnb, Villanovo sets itself apart by emphasizing human connection and personalized service. Unlike Airbnb, which does not vet properties, Villanovo's value proposition hinges on the careful selection of homes and the dedicated support provided to clients. Upon booking, a concierge reaches out to travelers to assist in planning their stay. This includes arranging restaurants, activities, childcare, private chefs, and tailored experiences, ensuring that every need is met. "Last year, we rented a home in Anguilla for €250,000 per week, and we facilitated everything from magicians to fireworks displays—there are no limits to entertainment as long as resources permit," David shares. This approach not only reassures high-end travelers about the quality of their stay but also fosters a sense of preparedness and success for their vacation.
Concierge support often begins weeks before departure, creating a trusting relationship that enhances customer loyalty. "Clients become well-acquainted with our concierges and often reach out to them when searching for a new property to rent," David notes. This deep understanding of client preferences provides Villanovo with a competitive edge and serves as a powerful tool for retention, as returning travelers offer valuable insights that streamline the planning of future trips.
Looking ahead, Villanovo aims to strengthen its existing destinations while enhancing the on-site experience. Although new locations are on the horizon, the company’s commitment to local expertise remains steadfast. "We aspire to be the true specialists of the destinations we offer, which involves selecting increasingly beautiful homes and maintaining impeccable local service. We are also interested in exploring new areas, such as Brittany, but with the same local approach that defines our brand," David emphasizes.
After fifteen years of growth, David Schneuwly remains convinced that sustainable growth in tourism is rooted in understanding the landscape and nurturing meaningful relationships with travelers. This philosophy has propelled Villanovo to become a key player in the bespoke travel market.
As reported by bigmedia.bpifrance.fr.
