Ubud, Indonesia

This stylish boutique resort and spa is our favourite pied-a-terre in Ubud, Bali’s culture capital. It nestles unobtrusively on the outskirts of town, entirely surrounded by rice fields and coconut trees, along the banks of a winding river. The pool villas, with their sunken tubs and teak decks, pull off the difficult trick of offering wide-ranging views at the same time as great privacy, while the new infinity pool also enjoys wonderful panoramas over the paddy terraces and palm canopy. In addition to an indulgent spa, the resort lays on recitals of Balinese dance in its open-air theatre – a delightful way to experience the island’s traditional culture.