VILLA PURI BIRWANA

If you relish the idea of getting away from the crowd and reigning over an almost deserted beach in a quieter, less developed part of Bali, then Villa Puri Nirwana could be a right royal match. This six-bedroom villa is among just a handful of beachfront residences in the traditional rural village of Cucukan hugging the coast half way between Sanur and Candidasa on Bali’s south-eastern shore. Nirwana is an apt name for this rather grand contemporary villa, its plantation-shuttered facade gleaming in the sunshine in stark contrast to the black-sand beach beyond the swimming pool. Here, it is easy to shrug off stress and sink into a state of happiness, soothed by the sea breeze and sound of breaking surf. There’s breathing space for a full house of up to 20 guests in six spacious bedrooms, with multiple living areas spread over two levels, a media room, poolside beach-edge gazebos, and even a dedicated spa.