Live like you’re in The Hills with these LA vacation mansions

With the return of (scripted) reality show The Hills, we’ve picked out some LA vacation mansions that look like they came from the set of the MTV show, so you can live out your over-the-top mid-naughties notions.

After a nine-year hiatus, MTV’s über-popular Los Angles-based reality phenomenon The Hills is back on screens this week. A lot has changed since it last aired: main star Lauren Conrad is now a New York Times best-selling author, Brody Jenner is now one of the least famous members of his extended Kardashian-Jenner family; iPhones have replaced Blackberries, and, with the advent of social media, almost anyone can be a reality star.

One thing that hasn’t changed though is Los Angeles’ dreamy appeal. It’s still one of the most intriguing cities in the US; an endless sprawl of towering palm trees, culturally-diverse neighbourhoods, laid-back beaches and endless sunny days. And now that The Hills has returned, it’s inspired a heady dose of LA wanderlust within us. But one that’s steeped in impractical daydreams. We may not have the paychecks or the glossy lives of the cast but if we did, we’d be checking in to one of these LA homes.

Downtown LA Penthouse

This two-bed, two-bath penthouse has its own private cabana by the pool, as well as floor-to-ceiling views of DTLA’s skyline. Sleeps six. £774 ($938) per night.

Hollywood Hills Villa

Just steps away from the Sunset Strip and the Chateau Marmont Hotel, this two-bedroom house has a private terrace with 280 degree views of LA, all the way to Catalina. Sleeps six. £530 ($673) per night.

Hollywood Honeymoon House

Overlooking Sunset Plaza, this used to be the home of a film producer (whose identity has been kept under wraps). It comes with a secluded pool that’s protected by a dense thicket of trees. Visitors who stay longer than two weeks can rent one of the home’s two Rolls Royce cars. Sleeps four. £494 ($627) per night.

Mulholland Drive Hilltop Home

Located on a quiet hill at the top of Mulholland Drive, this hilltop mansion comes with an infinity pool that spills out over the city. Sleeps 10. £1432 ($1705) per night.

Hidden Beverly Hills Estate

Tucked away down a private lane in Beverly Hills and surrounded by celebrity neighbours, this rental is the ultimate LA dream pad, complete with a heated saltwater pool and sweeping, light-filled rooms. Sleeps 12. £1314 ($1669) per night.