Villa Cattleya C5A

Villa Cattleya C5A looks out over Patong Bay from a leafy hillside estate at the quieter northern end of town, where the crowds thin out and the views take over. It pairs classic Thai craftsmanship, with carved sandstone panels, gleaming hardwood floors and tall beamed ceilings, with bright, easy modern comfort. Two couples or a small family will find it a calm, private hideaway, with the beach, restaurants and shops of Patong only a short drive down the hill.

The infinity pool is pure theatre. A wall of carved Thai dancers rises behind the water, stone elephants stand guard at its corners, and the far edge melts into a view of the bay and its headlands, especially lovely when the lights of Patong come on at dusk. There is a shallow wading area for children, loungers by the pool, and a covered terrace with a round teak table for long breakfasts above the treetops. Inside, a light-filled lounge with deep sofas and a television opens to the terraces, and a long eight-seat dining table sits beside a modern, well-equipped kitchen.

Both bedrooms have king-size four-poster beds draped in white, air conditioning, a sitting area and doors out to a terrace or balcony with sea views. Each has its own bathroom with a walk-in shower, and a jacuzzi bathtub adds a little indulgence. Housekeeping and security staff look after the villa, a chef can cook Thai and western dishes on request, barbecue and teppanyaki equipment are on hand for evenings outdoors, and airport transfers are included both ways. Guests can also use the estate’s shared pool and gym.