THE FACTS ABOUT THE ISTANA

Indonesia Bali

The Istana is set on a cliff 60 metres above Uluwatu, one of the main surfing beaches in Bali. To reach the sea you have to drive for about five minutes (a vehicle and a driver are included in the villa rental price), then walk for 10 minutes down a rough path past masseurs and cafes where surfers hang out. Four bedrooms lead off the open-air living room, which is approached over ponds planted with lilies and water hyacinths. The fifth, the master bedroom, is in a separate building with its own deck area and L-shaped pool. All of the bedrooms have air-conditioning and high ceilings; two have garden rather than sea views. To add to this there is an air-conditioned TV-and-Internet room, a small dining room and a kitchen fitted with professional ovens. But the best thing about this place is the 32-metre, infinity-edged swimming pool. SLEEPS 10 BEST FOR Surfers WHY To enjoy the best lap pool on the island or ride the breakers COST From £635 a night CONTACT 00 62 361 731074; www.theistana.com.