Anticipation builds as you travel the winding road along Lombok’s north-west coast, through tiny villages and past quiet beaches lapped by the bluest of seas. Bali’s mountains rise up from the horizon and the gorgeous Gili Islands lie just off shore.

Six acres of lawn and coconut palms provide complete peace and privacy at Sira Beach House, blurring the distinction between beach and garden. Water lilies float on a reflection pond bordered by cool walkways that connect the living and dining pavilions.  These lovely open-sided rooms boast vaulted thatched roofs supported by stout stone columns. A charming dining balé with Moroccan-style seating ‘floats’ on the lily pond and a comfortable media room with a projector screen sets the scene for movie nights.

Six secluded bedrooms are arranged in pairs throughout the grounds; two in the garden pavilion, two in the beach pavilion, plus a master suite and neighbouring twin room set close to the beach.  All bedrooms have stunning views from their timber terraces or pretty courtyards and large bathrooms that include garden showers for that open-air, tropical bathing experience.

With its shallow beach, calm sea and acres of play space, Sira Beach House is exceptionally well suited for families.  Apart from the 18-metre pool, there’s a private tennis court and croquet pitch, kayak, paddleboards, a good range of children’s equipment, toys and games and a fantastically friendly team of staff who love nothing better than a game of football at the end of the afternoon.  Among them is also an excellent chef who prepares a delicious range of local and international dishes for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The villa’s large, well-equipped kitchen can also be used for cookery classes.

And there’s no shortage of activities to enjoy beyond the villa either. A car and driver is available to take guests sightseeing around this beautiful corner of Lombok; snorkelling and diving adventures can be had around the Gili Islands, and the championship Kosaido Lombok Golf Course is almost next door.