Villa Mar

Villa Mar Samui is a stylish hideaway for two on the shore at Bangrak, on the north coast of Koh Samui, where the sea is quite literally at the end of the terrace. Sleek white architecture, pale oak and soft sandy tones give it a calm, gallery-like feel, while sheets of glass slide away so that the whole villa opens to the water. Shady old trees frame the view and a strip of lawn runs down to the shoreline, so it feels wonderfully private for somewhere so close to everything.

The angular infinity pool is the centrepiece, set high above the rocks with its edge aimed straight at the bay, so every swim comes with open water and passing boats in view. Cushioned loungers, a big umbrella and a little table for two line the wide terrace, and at night the lit pool and glowing interiors make it feel like a boutique hotel suite of your own.

Inside, one generous open-plan space holds a platform bed, a deep sectional sofa with a smart TV for streaming, a light-wood dining table and a fully equipped kitchen. The marble-lined bathroom has a freestanding tub and a rain shower. Breakfast is included, a chef can be arranged, a villa manager and daily housekeeping keep things effortless, and Fisherman’s Village and the airport are both only a few minutes away.