Villa Muscat

Villa Muscat crowns the upper terrace of a boutique estate of four villas on the slopes above Plai Laem, on the north-east coast of Koh Samui. Built in raw concrete, warm timber and glass and softened by planting that tumbles over every balcony, it looks out across the bay towards the Big Buddha, and every room shares the view. A few steps lead down to the estate’s own private beach, so you get the outlook of a hillside villa with the sea right on hand.

The infinity pool, nearly ten metres long, runs along the terrace with a glass edge that keeps the horizon clear, flanked by sun loungers, cushioned daybeds and a big umbrella for the hottest hours. As the sun sets the sky blazes over the water and the terrace becomes the best seat on the coast, and when night falls the lounge glows behind its wide glass walls.

The villa rises over three levels. Living, dining and a sleek European kitchen open onto the pool terrace, with soft sofas and room-darkening shades for a film night. The generous master suite on the middle floor has its own sea-view balcony and a sofa bed, while two queen rooms on the top floor share a balcony over the water. Breakfast is included every day, a chef can cook lunch and dinner, and a team of four keeps the villa immaculate.