Baan Chaba

Baan Chaba is a relaxed, low-key villa near the beach at Hua Thanon, on the quieter southern side of Koh Samui. Tall coconut palms shade the garden, stepping-stone paths lead between the lawns and tropical planting, and the soft sands of the south coast are close by. It is a peaceful base for families and small groups who want an easy island holiday away from the busier resort strips.

The pool sits at the centre of the garden, lined with sun loungers in the dappled shade of the palms, and a covered terrace beside it has an outdoor dining table and a barbecue for long, lazy lunches. Inside, floor-to-ceiling glass walls open the living room to the garden, with deep sofas and woven armchairs for afternoons out of the sun. A dining table for ten sits next to the living area with views of the pool, and the open kitchen comes with a coffee machine and everything you need to cook.

The four bedrooms are spread over two floors, and those upstairs each have a private balcony. Two have queen beds and two have twin beds, ideal for children or friends, and every room has its own bathroom, one with a bathtub. Breakfast is included, a housekeeper and gardener keep things running smoothly, and a manager is on call. The villa can also be booked with two or three bedrooms open, so it works just as well for a couple or a small family.