Leamington Pavilion

With a gate straight on to the beach, and a coral reef just offshore, this very individual house nestles in tropical gardens, where orchids, a lily pond and whimsical statuary add colour and character to manicured lawns; and, beside a fabulous swimming pool, a pair of pergolas under the palms are lit with copper chandeliers and crowned with cast monkeys. The villa has its own lawn tennis court and a small gym, but its tranquil tempo induces idyllic idling, as do the services of its obliging staff, and the delicious meals prepared by the chef. Created by architect and stage set designer Oliver Messel, Leamington Pavillion has hosted silver screen stars including Greta Garbo.

It is as glamorous now as then, with unique antiques and artworks, billowing curtains in beautiful fabrics, Aubusson tapestries on marble floors, and a glorious four-poster in the master suite. A very Italianate sitting room opens out to a shaded poolside terrace. The Rococo dining room has classical statues in wall niches and a mirrored-marble table. And a trellised summer room, with large TV, is styled in cool pastels and open to the garden. The villa’s peaceful setting is just 800m from historic Speightstown.

Leamington Cottage, in the corner of the garden, can be booked together with the main house for an extra two guests.