Villa Darma

Behind the walls of Villa Darma, a long ribbon of blue water runs the length of a green lawn, and five thatched bungalows sit around it like a small Balinese hamlet. Red parasols and loungers line the pool edge, frangipani shades the paths, and the whole garden feels wonderfully private, even though Seminyak’s restaurants, boutiques and beaches are only minutes away.

The fourteen-metre pool is the centrepiece, flanked by lawn, stepping-stone paths and a shaded gazebo for lazy afternoons. Facing it, an open-sided living pavilion rises to a high alang-alang ceiling, with a deep sofa lounge, a long timber dining table and a fully equipped kitchen, so the cook is never cut off from the conversation. Each of the five bedrooms is its own bungalow, with a canopied bed draped in mosquito netting, air conditioning and an ensuite bathroom with a rain shower open to a little walled garden.

Set on around 750 square metres, the villa suits families and friends who want space as much as convenience. Double Six and Gado Gado beaches are close by for sunset walks and surf lessons, while favourites such as Made’s Warung and Zula are an easy ride away. Daily housekeeping, a gardener and round-the-clock security keep everything running smoothly in the background.