If your vacation plans include booking villas in Italy, it's safe to assume that you know a little something about luxurious accommodations. Yet while you may be familiar with modern amenities, you can get a more intimate view of classic beauty by visiting Castello Brown in Portofino, Liguria.

Located atop a hill overlooking Portofino Harbor, this outlook castle dates back to the 15th century and plays an important role in local history. Castello Brown was instrumental in repelling an attack on Portofino by Giovanni Andrea Doria in 1575, though it would eventually receive irreparable damage from a British attack in 1798.

Today, the castle hosts a fine art and history museum, though its real attractions are the stunning views that can be seen from its many ramparts and windows. The harbor glistens in the sun, providing vacationers with unbeatable views of the sea – a factor that makes for especially romantic sunsets.

If you enjoy the views afforded by Castello Brown, then you may want to stay at the beautiful Le Lagore villa. This five-bedroom farmhouse also sits atop a hill, granting excellent views of the Gulf of Levanto from its luxurious patio and many windows.