Dream of a tropical island hideaway, and you'll probably imagine the casitas at the Villas Delfines.

Built above the ground on stilts, each casita has a high thatched roof and is wrapped by a wooden veranda.

The design isn't just about daydreams though - this is one of the most ecologically sound properties that we've seen.

The thatched roof encourages the air to circulate in the spacious interiors, while the stilts allow any rain to soak into the ground quickly and keeps the room cool when temperatures soar.

There are yet more ingenious features inside, but none of them are obtrusive or inconvenient for guests.

The gardens around the property are mature, and the casitas are separated by flourishing palms trees and shrubs.

Most bungalows are very private, and even those that face the beach are fairly well screened from passers-by.

Despite the foliage, the gardens enjoy a generous amount of sunshine through the day, while the terraces offer some welcome shade.