Gajah Mina Beach Resort

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Secluded hotel set amidst rice fields on Bali's dramatic south west coast – a quiet idyll for lovers (and grown up surfers)

Located high on a headland above a private velvety black-sand beach, Gajah Mina’s 9 villas, painted in gemstone colours, are set back from the pool amidst lush tropical gardens. Miles from the bustle of the tourist resorts, this is the place for travellers who seriously want to get away from it all. As massive waves crash onto the cliffs and matchstick men surf on the distant Balian Beach, sea breezes will keep you cool while you laze by the pool. Throw in butterflies as big as birds, flowers as bright as Ascot hats, and birds that sing as though they’re a full orchestral choir and you’ve got the ingredients for a stay that is truly unforgettable - in my personal top three most romantic hotels in the world.

The hotel’s restaurant draws in the local expats who – understandably - rave about the surprisingly inventive menu. One of the highlights of any meal is watching the chef run from the kitchen to the vegetable garden to return moments later clutching a papaya, a watermelon or a bunch of fresh herbs.