Entering the villa through large solid wood doors into the living room, one is immediately struck by the glorious views through the massive French windows out over a wide stone terrace to the pool, the luxuriant gardens and the ocean beyond. The enormous, lofty living pavilion is cooled by sea breezes and ceiling fans (though air conditioning is available). The living room is divided into three areas with a billiard table at one end, TV/DVD (and iPod dock) at the other, and a sitting area furnished with teak sofas and tables in the middle. A free-standing stone-carved fresco – reflecting images of the lush garden beyond – dominates this comfortable living space which is large enough to accommodate a multitude of activities without stepping on anyone’s toes.     

To the left of the living room, and along a corridor of lotus-filled ponds, is the large, open dining hall with a massive 12-seater teak table. Just beyond that lies a modern kitchen divided into two separate cooking areas (one for guest use and one for the staff). A long breakfast bar is perfect for casual breakfasts or evening aperitifs. For the ultimate in daytime relaxation, head across the garden to the beachside bale (gazebo) nestled right on the edge of the sand and, since the tide ebbs only slightly, only ever a few steps from the water. Loaded with cushions, the bale can accommodate 10 or more reclining bodies in comfort and, more importantly, shade. There’s even a room service phone in here!   

Positioned in pairs either side of the living pavilions (but with plenty of space between them), the four air-conditioned sleeping pavilions all have large sliding glass doors opening out on to the gardens. Each room is equipped with a king-sized bed and two built-in daybeds or single beds, making them ideal for small families. Three of the bedrooms have TVs, DVDs and iPod docks. The indoor/outdoor bathrooms all have showers (three have tubs) and feature quirky elements such as ‘secret windows’ and mysterious carved stone faces.