The traditional high-peaked teakwood building is approached via a series of uneven natural stepping stones over a lily pond, where it presides over the garden like a floating pavilion.  Waterfalls tumble over boulders down to a little bridge, before seemingly flowing into the swimming pool.  Five wooden steps lead up to the elevated veranda of this gorgeous one-bedroom house.  Sheltered by the roof and offering a beautiful view of the garden, the veranda is furnished with a small table and two rattan planters’ chairs for alfresco dining, as well as a pair of armchairs and a coffee table.  The walls feature shuttered peepholes, while bell-jar lanterns hang from the roof casting a soft light in the evenings. 

The front door opens straight into the all-timber bedroom, which is stunningly furnished with a king-size bed, an antique cupboard, shag pile rug and a modern daybed, complemented by some fascinating antique artefacts.  The room is equipped with a 37-inch satellite-channel TV and DVD player (Nintendo Wii is also available), air conditioning, ceiling fan, and iPod speakers. Bevelled glass windows look out over the veranda and a soaring roof seems to extend upwards forever.

A door leads to a small kitchenette with a full-size fridge and two gas hobs for guests who want to do their own cooking. The rustic semi-open-air bathroom spills out into a private walled garden. Sheltered by a pergola roof and with the blessing of a non-slip floor, it is fitted with a hollowed-out river rock bathtub for two, a walk-in rain shower and twin washbasins. The enchanting garden is divided into several distinct areas, linked by a winding pathway.  The free-form swimming pool is located immediately next to the century-old (but air-conditioned) spa building, which is equipped with twin massage beds and characterised by wooden-shuttered windows.  The remainder of the garden – complete with gazebo and pondok for outdoor relaxation, as well as the sandy pétanque court and giant chess set – rolls down to merge with Villa Sarasvati next door.

Shared facilities at Dea Villas include: Dea Spa, with massage room, outdoor treatment area, sauna, jacuzzi and showers; a fully-equipped, air-conditioned gym, and a children’s playground with sandpit, Wendy house, swings and slides. Here, parents can relax on cushions within an antique balé while they watch over their kids.