Set among swaying palm trees overlooking the sparkling waters of the Caribbean Sea, Stella's Starfish Cottage is an enchanting beachfront retreat for up to four guests. Part of Francis Ford Coppola's prestigious Turtle Inn resort, this cosy villa offers the perfect balance of seclusion and convenience, with an indulgent spa, gift shop, and pickleball court close by.

The delightful fishing village of Placencia is a 30-minute walk away, or you can hop on the complimentary bicycles provided by the villa if you prefer. Here, you can browse enticing stores selling artisanal goods and sample Belizean specialities like succulent conch fritters and fragrant coconut shrimp. The local coves boast calm waters for swimming, snorkelling, and paddleboarding, while the deeper waters offer world-class fishing opportunities with snapper, grouper, and barracuda shoals over the reef. The lush jungles inland can be hiked or biked along enthralling trails, where monkeys swing through the branches and tropical birds serenade overhead.

Stella's Starfish Cottage offers a deliciously restorative ambience. The warm and welcoming interiors comfort and cocoon with their earthy colour palette, dark hardwood floors and furniture, and sumptuous soft furnishings. Spend cosy evenings curled up on the plush sofa with a glass of traditional cashew wine as the evening's chef prepares a platter of vibrant ceviche and juicy lobster freshly caught by the village fishermen. Then, dine to the sounds of the waves at the pretty poolside dining table, enjoying a spectacular Belizean sunset.

There are two restful bedrooms, each with a snug queen-size bed, set beneath a vaulted ceiling. Traditional fabrics and wall hangings add charm to each bedroom, and the eponymous starfish motif can be spotted in the second bedroom's window design. Guests can refresh in the two sophisticated wood-panelled bathrooms – one on the first level and one on the second. These feature rainfall showers and boutique fixtures and fittings.

Find a little pocket of peace in the gorgeous grounds at Stella's Starfish Cottage, whether you're sipping a rum punch in the starfish motif swimming pool or rocking yourself to sleep in the palapa's hammock. The perfect hideaway for a family or two couples, this sleepy corner of Belize will nurture body and soul.