Below, is the barn’s funky cave bathroom, which is reached by a flight of steps. Open on one side and bordered by river stones and a random rock wall, the cave is lined with marble and fitted with a shower, toilet and washbasin. This is ideally suited to younger people, due to the steps up and down between the sleeping area and the bathroom.

A winding stone stairway meanders down through the garden to a thatched ‘sakenam’ relaxation pavilion, positioned upon a ledge overhanging the river valley with a magnificent vista of the rice fields and distant volcanoes. Fringed by the forest, with its two raised platforms strewn with cushions, the pavilion is a charming collectors’ piece showcasing ornate woodcarvings. This is a wonderful spot for enjoying a hearty breakfast, or simply daydreaming and absorbing the natural surroundings, while being lulled by the ceaseless gurgle of the river as it coils its way through the chasm below.

At night Villa Melati takes on a different persona. As the chirruping cicadas finish their day shift, guests will be serenaded by a chorus of frog song to the accompaniment of ritual music from distant village temples. With the night sky unsullied by streetlights, it is pure joy to sit in this pavilion and watch the fireflies.