The three-floor Thara Bay View Villa stands at the summit of a very steep hill, surrounded by a vast garden of terraced lawns and tropical foliage. Perhaps befitting such a grand and imposing property, the house has a distinct James Bond feel to it: the décor is an eclectic mix of 1970s-style black marble floors and animal prints, with unusual wooden antiques and statues from northern Thailand. Best of all, the villa features a “secret room” accessed behind a wooden panel. The house is entered on the ground floor, through an antique pointed arch doorway, where a staircase leads straight up to the first floor bedrooms. The master suite is pure 007: a king-size four poster bed; large windows with panoramic views; and an ensuite bathroom with walk-in rain shower and double Jacuzzi featuring massage jets and integrated LED lighting. This bedroom – like the others – is air conditioned. It also has a large LCD TV and DVD player. Three other bedrooms – two king size and one twin – are also located on this floor, and share one bathroom. All feature rustic solid wood furniture from Chiang Mai. The second floor is entirely open, with a dramatic cathedral ceiling and full height windows along one wall. The space is divided into a kitchen corner, compact but well-equipped with its own breakfast island; a formal dining area; and a large living space with huge black leather sofas and 50” LCD TV. There is also a large breezy terrace with views across Noppharat Thara Bay and the islands beyond. Above the kitchen is a mezzanine, with double daybed and balcony, accessed by a spiral staircase. This is currently used as a library but could also function as an office or work space, or even as another bedroom for older children. The fifth, “secret” bedroom lies behind one of the wooden panels covering the walls on the second floor. Simply press in the right place and panel swings open, revealing a narrow staircase leading up to an attic bedroom, with plush red carpet and built in furniture. Back at ground level, the shaded garden terrace offers a sink counter and barbecue equipment, while to the side of the house, overlooking the countryside, sits a 10 X 4.5 meters swimming pool with surround deck and sun loungers. Wi-Fi internet is available in the house and pool area. Thara Bay View Villa is located approximately 2.5km from Ao Nang beach. Note: Home entrance is steep slope pathway. Its unsuitable for elderly, wheelchairs, prams and pedestrian controlled vehicles.