Casa Cantarena has an incredible, castaway-style location, on a flank of the UNESCO-protected Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve. Behind, just across the dirt road, sprawls a calm lagoon. In front is your very own white-sand beach, from which dolphins, turtles and manatees can often be spotted. That road follows the wispy, 50-kilometre Boca Paila Peninsula all the way to lonely Punta Allen, a fishing village with an edge-of-the-world vibe.

The eco-luxe villa runs on solar and wind power. Below high, thatched ceilings, its communal ‘great room’ combines low-slung white sofas with a terrific kitchen and a dining area starring director’s chairs. Fold-away doors open to an outdoor lounge, daybeds, a chlorine-free pool, palm trees and that perfect shore. Snorkelling equipment and toys – Cantarena suits family gatherings as well as romantic getaways – are provided for ocean play, plus kayaks for the lagoon, while an overhead projector enables memorable alfresco movie nights.

Up in the thatched rafters, all four bedrooms are ensuite and air-conditioned. One has a pair of double beds with children in mind. A small, full-time staff accompany the house, including a dedicated chef and an activity-arranging butler.

As well as fly-fishing at Punta Allen, you could circle Sian Ka’an to its main entrance: the remains of Mayan settlement Muyil and guided boat trips looking for monkeys and crocodiles await. Within day-trip range are swimmable cenotes, golf courses and the buzz of Tulum, Playa del Carmen and Cancun.