Element of 8 at Cape Laem Sor Estate

Element of 8 cascades down a jungle-clad headland on Cape Laem Sor, in the unspoilt south-west of Koh Samui, with nothing in front of it but emerald water, rocky coves and green islands on the horizon. The house is spread over three descending levels, a calm contemporary design of white walls, pale stone, timber and glass that lets the sea fill almost every frame. Thong Krut’s fishing village and seafood restaurants are close by, the golden Laem Sor chedi is just along the coast, and the busier east of the island feels a world away.

On the top level, a fourteen-metre saltwater pool runs across a sweep of lawn, with a thatched Balinese sala, sun loungers and old shade trees framing the view. It is a beautiful place at dusk, when the pool glows blue against the darkening sea. Steps lead down through the gardens to the villa’s own shoreline area at the water’s edge, with a barbecue and fire pit spot and kayaks ready for exploring the coast. Indoors, open-plan living rooms with floor-to-ceiling glass flow to a long dining table and a bright kitchen facing the islands, and there is a private gym and table tennis for active days.

All six bedrooms have king beds, air conditioning, a TV and their own bathroom, and each looks out to the sea, several with private terraces and tubs placed to catch the view. A villa manager, chef and housekeeping team look after everything, breakfast is included, and return airport transfers for one car are part of the stay. For a smaller group, the villa can also be booked with three bedrooms open.