Villa Aum

Villa Aum is perched right on the cliffs of Uluwatu, and the view is the thing you will remember: an infinity pool that seems to pour straight into the Indian Ocean, glass pavilions hovering over the edge, and a long timber deck where the coastline unfolds in both directions. Below, a staircase of around 132 steps leads down to the sand, so a morning swim in the sea is as easy as one in the pool.

The architecture is bold and theatrical, mixing dark tropical timber, carved screens, stone statues and koi ponds that wind through the grounds. The main pavilion is wrapped in glass, with a lounge and a long dining table set right above the water, and a modern kitchen with an island alongside. Downstairs, a separate games and media level adds a billiard table, a gym and a home cinema with a big screen, while out in the garden a hot tub and a fire pit spot make lovely places to linger after dark.

Four king bedrooms each have their own ensuite, many with deep tubs and garden showers, and the media room can be made up as a fifth bedroom when needed. A villa manager leads a warm, attentive team, breakfast is included each day, and the in-villa cooking wins constant praise from guests. Padang Padang, Bingin and Uluwatu Temple are all within easy reach.