Looking to step off life’s treadmill and slip away from the crowds for some sensory re-sourcing and tranquil breathing space? The one dilemma facing you on arrival at the aptly named Villa Maya Retreat is this: how will you ever leave?

Villa Maya Retreat rests at the base of a gorge on the banks of the Penet River in the pretty village of Cepaka on Bali’s south-western coast. This utterly private paradise is all about time out, and time together – for both relaxation and socialising. The tropical architecture and interiors pay tribute to traditional Balinese design, with open-sided alang-alang thatched living pavilions facing the 12-metre green-stone swimming pool, and six individual bedroom pavilions – three with plunge pools – thoughtfully laid out to maximise privacy and views. There are loads of outdoor living spaces among the lush jungle gardens too: after lunch on the dining deck, retreat to the shade of the poolside bale, enjoy a massage in the large curtain-swathed garden bale, or sip pre-dinner drinks on the lounge terrace overhanging the river.

Maya is ideal for families and groups of friends looking for a get-away-from-it-all place in a stunning location with lots of social space for partying and quiet corners for private time. While there’s no reason to leave – everything you need is at your fingertips and an experienced chef is on hand to prepare and serve delicious home-cooked Asian and Western meals – a driver is on standby for those eager to explore the island or scout Seminyak’s hip restaurants, bars and shops a 45 minute drive away. Beyond the villa, Cepaka village offers guests a glimpse of rural and religious traditions unchanged across generations.

This is a place to breathe in the essence of Bali, leaving you refreshed and rejuvenated for your return home.