Villa Sierra

Villa Sierra rises from the green hills above Plai Laem, on the north-east corner of Koh Samui, with a panorama that sweeps across the treetops to the sea, the curve of the coast and the islands beyond. The architecture is bold and modern, all clean lines, dark stone, timber-beamed ceilings and walls of glass, softened by tropical planting and pieces of striking contemporary art. Choeng Mon and Plai Laem beaches are only minutes away, and Big Buddha, Fisherman’s Village and the airport are all an easy drive.

Outside, a long infinity-edge pool stretches across the front of the house, its far edge seeming to melt into the view. Loungers line the water, deep blue-cushioned sofas fill the terrace and a shaded daybed tucks into the greenery for afternoon naps. In the evening the deck is the place to be, drink in hand, as the sun slides down behind the hills and islands. Indoors, an open-plan living room with soaring ceilings flows to a dining table for eight and a sleek black kitchen with an island, built-in oven and coffee maker.

The four king-bedded rooms each have their own bathroom, many with deep stone tubs and rain showers set behind timber louvres. One bedroom opens straight onto the pool on the ground floor, two upper-floor rooms have balconies looking out to sea, and the fourth sits apart from the main house for extra privacy. Daily housekeeping and a personal guest assistant keep everything running smoothly, and a chef, massages, a car or a driver can be arranged whenever you like.