Built around a timber-decked 25m lap pool, the symmetrical Villa Mandalay, with its creamy-white Palamanan stone walls, comprises three buildings plus a remarkable bamboo gazebo, which shelters an open-air living and dining deck furnished with sofas, chairs and a table for 12.  From here, the spectacular rural panorama is unobstructed.  The buildings and the pool are elevated above a large ‘pitch and putt’ green, complete with a balé relaxation pavilion.  Hidden on a lower level is the seventh, studio-style bedroom with king-size bed and private terrace, a sauna with glorious views and a small plunge pool.

Two master bedrooms are situated on either side of the main pavilion with glass doors opening to raised wooden decks, while four more bedrooms are positioned in pairs on either side of pool.  In line with the symmetrical design of the villa, each bedroom within each pair is a mirror image of the other.  All are the same layout, with air conditioning, timber floors, satellite-channel TVs and king-size beds; the masters are just a bit bigger with larger TVs.  The two bedrooms at the front are blessed with lovely views, and have window seats positioned to make the most of them.   All ensuite bathrooms have double washbasins and walk-in monsoon showers, while the two masters offer the additional treat of a soaking tub.

The main pavilion houses a splendid dining hall, open to the pool deck, with two matching glass-topped dining tables, seating up to 16.  A bar at the back,furnished with four stools, is set against a red backdrop with shelf units displaying local artefacts.  Wings on either side of the dining space incorporate cosy lounge areas with built-in cushioned seating in soothing earthy hues.  Fans keep the room cool, and an iPod and speakers provide surround-sound.  A compact, well-equipped kitchen is tucked away on one side, and a guest washroom is on the other.  Finally, a home theatre,  positioned on a mezzanine floor above the dining hall is equipped with a 61-inch TV/DVD player, surround-sound, floor mattresses, a great selection of DVDs, a library of books, and a desk with a computer for guest use.