Akuvara's contemporary design may not be to everyone's taste, but once you settle into the tropical lifestyle on offer you soon appreciate the beauty of keeping things simple. The clean open spaces suit the environment and technological enhancements like the music and

The staff are courteous and try hard to meet every request. Despite the occasional language barrier they manage to run everything smoothly while remaining unobtrusive and the english speaking manager ensures the villa runs smoothly and deals with things like tour bookings and restaurant recommendations. This part of Lipa Noi offers a nice balance between seclusion and diversion. You can happily spend days doing very little, but a short drive to the other side of the peninsular brings you to some decent resort restaurants, as well as the Nikki Beach Club, which is far more sophisticated a venue than you'd expect to find in such a secluded location.

In some ways Akuvara felt like two villas in one. The studio at the rear of the property feels like an independent unit, but would certainly be a useful addition for a full family gathering. The option to rent the villa without this fourth bedroom, however, makes Akuvara a great choice as a functional but comfortable family getaway.

If there is such a thing as villa envy then staying at Akuvara may inspire it as the villas close-by are significantly larger and more opulent than this one - but come with a much higher price tag. Yet despite its compact design, Akuvara still boasts the full range of amenities required to provide a pleasant beachside escape. Between the pool and the beach you never want for daytime pleasures and lazing in the ocean-front sala with a cool drink and a book must surely rate as one of life's finer moments.

Our stay at Baan Asan really felt like a retreat away from the hustle of every-day life. The pace shifted down a gear as the whole family adjusted to the natural tropical environment and our luxurious and very private surroundings. The kids adored the bunk-beds and having their

For us, Baan Dalah is the perfect casual family beach house. Nothing pretentious just easy and relaxing - the sort of weekend escape we would all like to have. This is not your exotic ‘to die for’ villa but a simple retreat on an enjoyable stretch of tropical beach.

The incredible beachside location and natural surroundings make it easy to slip into indulgent tropical island mode at Baan Hinta. Even though the villa covers several levels, the staff somehow manage to always be on hand with fresh fruit and cool refreshments, and the design of

Despite being a very grown-up and stylish villa, Hinta is also an idyllic family holiday destination for those with older children. There really is something for everyone here.

Ten minutes after arriving at Baan Jakawan we found ourselves planning a party with celebrity guests. After an hour, the party had started (who needs celebrities?). Surrounded by a cool combination of luxury, nature and high-end technology, we hardly missed the beach, even though

The chef's extensive repertoire covered everyone's taste and from the fresh and filling breakfast, right through to post-dinner drinks, the knowledgeable English-speaking villa manager and her diligent staff made sure we never felt ignored (although the one night we did head out for dinner, there was no-one around on our return). The music and visuals in the lounge caused initial consternation, because no-one could work out which remote to use, but once we had the iPod pumping soothing tunes into the views, such minor irritations disappeared. Bedroom-wise, we preferred the upper level suite to the more luxuriously appointed master, mainly because of its dramatic location and views, which made waking up an absolute pleasure. Having said that, the bathroom in the master is definitely a cut above, with a double rain shower that could rekindle even the most jaded romantic flame.

For adventurous types, a hire car is a must. With one, you're ten minutes from the bright lights and endless dining and shopping choices along Chaweng Beach (east) or the more sedate, beachside pleasures of Choeng Mon (west). There are two or three resorts with beachside restaurants quite close to the villa but with a wide selection of dishes on the in-villa suggestion menu, eating in is a much more appealing option. The lack of a gym may concern more active guests, but the provision of a proper lap pool and the many steps at the villa more than justify your next meal.

Overall, Baan Jakawan stands out as an ideal private escape – especially for a group of friends or families with older children. What's more, the attractive rates allow you to celebrate your good fortune in memorable style!

It is rare to find villas like Baan Kilee. We visited as a group of families and it worked an absolute treat. The kids had a ball and fell into bed exhausted each evening giving the parents time to enjoy their vacation. The staff could not have been more welcoming and

Slouching in front of the TV with the French windows open onto the terrace, or standing under the rain shower gazing down at the beaches in the distance, the stunning views and surroundings at Baan Ling Noi have a constant and positive influence. Being this high up has its

This is tropical life at its best. Lazing on a cushioned lounger staring out across an undisturbed, indigo bay, cold beer in hand delivered by the gentle, smiling Thai villa manager. Surround-sound beats chill the sea breeze and the prospect of a live match on a massive plasma

Some clever design touches add to the overall enjoyment. Walk-through showers open onto the pool from the master bathrooms so you don't drip all over the bedroom floor, sliding doors in the two masters conceal or reveal ensuite bath tubs and there are fridges just about everywhere, so you're never far from a refreshing beverage. Two lounge and dining spaces may seem excessive unless you're in a large group, but there's a certain pleasure that comes with switching from the beach to indoor comforts after your evening shower. If you wake up one day and realise there's still time to see what the rest of island has to offer, the bright lights of Chaweng are just around the corner, which also means it's easy to get home after a big night out. Just make a mental note of the route. The villa may be close to everything, but part of the joy of staying at Baan Mika is that it's difficult to find.

Ora Chorn is huge with a very dignified refined feel. It is in a wonderful setting – one of the very best in Koh Samui, if not Asia. We loved the open airy feel with so much space (there is room for another two or three bedrooms). The villa has a tranquil but serious vibe

Three generations could easily holiday together at Baan Phulay. It's the ideal private family base with enough attractions close by for everyone to occasionally drift off and do their own thing. The kids have plenty to keep them happy from the moment they arrive, from DVD

The Asian-inspired decor and furnishings are tasteful and practical, giving a real sense of a family home. The open-air (and very visible) bathrooms attached to each master bedroom take a little getting used to but, with the shutters closed to offer a little more privacy, make for a fun indulgence. Almost every room literally folds out to let in the sun and sea breezes, but when you crave cooler moments in the evenings the staff are there ready to tackle all the doors and windows. For us, this ceremonial shut down became a substitute for clock-watching as it conveniently marked the moment to head off for pre-dinner showers.

Despite the remote location, you never feel you are missing out on Samui's attractions. If you do decide to venture out to eat (it was nice to have Nikki Beach to ourselves for lunch) or to entertain the kids with elephant and boat rides, options are easily accessible. But staying at the villa just relaxing, reading and enjoying the surroundings and privacy is one of the biggest thrills.

Baan Phulay is definitely a place for independent-minded families or groups of friends looking to share some quality time. We also felt it would be a great place for a small celebration such as a wedding or anniversary get together. The central lawn and poolside area provide a picture perfect setting and guests beyond close family could stay at one of the nearby resorts to the south.