Five best celebrity stays

From extravagant mansions to discreet retreats, step into the shoes of the rich and famous.

Twin Palms Sinatra Estate, US
Twin Palms witnessed some of the most sensational scenes of Frank Sinatra's marital life and still bears the scars - a chip remains in a bathroom sink where he hurled a Champagne bottle after a row with Ava Gardner.

Designed by E Stewart Williams in 1947, the four-bedroom,seven-bathroom home is an imposingexample of mid-century architecture. Its linear structure centres around the piano-shaped pool.

Lunuganga, Sri Lanka
Lunuganga offers guests the chance to explore the private world of Sri Lanka's most celebrated architect. Geoffrey Bawa spent 40 years transforming this abandoned rubber estate into his tropical idyll, which, for eight months of the year, is open only to resident artists.

But the plantation house, with its four antique-filled suites and elegant courtyards, opens to the public from December to April. Shrouded by lush Italianate gardens, it offers breathtaking views over a lake and jungle. For the ultimate in seclusion, choose Cinnamon Hill - a separate two-bedroom cottage overlooking the rice fields and lake.

Château de la Colle Noire, France
Once the location for glittering parties and stylish weekends, Christian Dior's former holiday-home is now available to rent. The fashion designer bought it in the 1950s and, with the help of architect Andre Svetchine, restored it to its 19th-century glory.

Dior's opulent style is reflected in the lavish interiors, which have been meticulously maintained. The 14-bedroom château's doors open onto a dramatic, Roman-style circular hall, which leads to rooms filled with elegant furnishings, including a grand piano. The surrounding 12-acre park also conceals a swimming pool, tennis court and private chapel.

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