Villa Phala 5

Villa Phala 5 is tucked into the leafy slopes of the L’Orchidee Residences estate above Patong, where palms and tropical greenery frame a long view out over the bay and the Andaman Sea. Dark polished timber, carved Thai panels and warm lamplight give the interiors a calm, sophisticated mood, while terraces on several levels make the most of the breeze. With four bedrooms for up to eight guests, it suits families and couples sharing a holiday.

The infinity pool is the star, its glassy edge lining up with the horizon so that at sunset the palms and the sky are mirrored in the water. Around it, timber decks lead to a Thai pavilion, a covered terrace with plump white lounge sofas, and a round outdoor dining table looking out to sea, with a second table tucked into the garden. Barbecue equipment and a teppanyaki grill make dinner outdoors easy. Indoors, the lounge has soft cream sofas and a cushioned daybed nook, and the dining table seats eight beside a sleek, fully equipped kitchen.

The two master suites have king beds and their own bathrooms with whirlpool tubs, double basins and glass showers; one has a carved four-poster and the other a sea-view sitting corner. The two guest rooms each have twin beds that can be joined into a king, with their own bathrooms, so they work well for children or friends. A villa manager, security and housekeeping look after the house, a chef can cook on request, and the beach, restaurants and nightlife of Patong are just down the hill.