One of Koh Samui’s most iconic structures, Villa Moonshadow and its three curving pavilions tower regally over Coral Cove, ideally placed on the west coast between Chaweng and Lamai’s famous beaches.

It’s immediately obvious why the villa has won architectural awards. In the main, central pavilion, below mezzanine-level dining and kitchen areas, three sides of a lounge are wrapped by arc-shaped, floor-to-ceiling glass doors which can be completely folded back to allow in hillside breezes. Ahead sprawls a vast sun deck, its terrazzo infinity pool and loungers commanding fantastic, 180-degree views over the Gulf of Thailand. Off that are palm-lined gardens containing a waterfall feature between banana, mango and papaya trees.

There’s one bedroom in that main pavilion. A second accommodates two more sleeping quarters – both ensuite, with sea-facing balconies and an interconnecting door should families need it – while the final building is entirely given over to a humongous master suite. Glass walls ensure the ocean is always visible, aided by a private terrace and its cocoon sunbed.

Moonshadow is fully staffed, including a veteran chef on standby whenever international or Thai-style sustenance is needed (breakfast is complimentary, with other meals at cost). Airport transfers are inclusive and your English-speaking manager can arrange for visiting masseuses, scuba-diving outings, trips to elephant sanctuaries or games at the Royal Samui Golf Club, visible on the next hilltop.