Katamanda – Villa Amanzi

Villa Amanzi sits on the green hillside of the gated Katamanda estate, between Kata and Kata Noi, with a view that takes in the curve of Kata Noi Beach, the headlands and the open sea. The estate has round-the-clock security and feels wonderfully secluded, yet the sand at Kata Noi is only a short, steep walk downhill, with the cafés and restaurants of Kata a few minutes further on. Seven bedrooms across several levels, rich timber floors and classic Thai artwork give it the feel of a much-loved family home on a grand scale.

Life revolves around a fifteen-metre infinity pool on a broad terrace, with sun loungers, a shaded lounge sala and the sea stretching away beyond the edge. Above it, an open-sided rooftop pavilion holds a long dining table, a pool table, a dartboard and a drinks counter with stools, all facing the bay. Inside, the living spaces flow over two floors, with deep sofas, a television lounge and a wood-panelled dining room that seats ten, while the bright, modern kitchen upstairs looks out over the treetops. A gym and a massage room with sea views add to the sense of a private retreat.

The two master suites have king beds, sitting areas and views over the beach and valley, and the guest rooms are a mix of king and twin rooms with en-suite bathrooms and balconies, one with a freestanding bathtub beside an arched window. Breakfast is included each day, and the in-house chef can cook Thai and Western dishes for lunch and dinner. A long-serving villa manager and housekeeping team look after the house, and a car with driver, babysitting and in-villa Thai massage can all be arranged.