Villa Amandara

Some villas earn a reputation; Amandara has been named one of "10 places to stay before you die," and it spends every acre proving it. Set on two and a half secluded acres in Terres Basses, this celebrated estate serves up world-class views from all five bedrooms and an almost comical wealth of things to do: a private Balinese massage house with a carved stone soaking tub, a bar and cinema with a window that looks straight into the pool, a regulation pétanque court, volleyball, basketball, foosball, table tennis, a gym.

The heated pool anchors it all, with the island falling away beyond. A chef is available on request, and every booking comes with six days a week of housekeeping and laundry, so the only effort required is deciding what to do next.

Sleeps ten, plays like a private resort, and lives up to every word of its legend.