Borobudur, Indonesia

Set in lush tropical gardens close to Borobudur, this boutique property offers a luxurious base from which to explore the nearby ancient ruins. Choose between a self-contained villa in traditional wooden Javanese ‘joglo ‘style, with its own garden area, or a more indulgent Grand Spa Suite, which comes with an exclusive infinity pool and treatment annexe (you can literally soak in a carved granite bath tub strewn with rose petals, while gazing across the palm canopy to great stupa, framed by views of the distant Menoreh Hills – heavenly!). Either way, lustrous, dark-wood floors, chic décor and a feeling of being immersed in nature come as standard in this serene hideaway in central Java. International gourmet meals are served in the two restaurants, and there’s a pool in the grounds for those without one in their own villa, or who crave a proper, limb-stretching swim.