This spectacularly secluded resort lies in an estate covering 25,000 acres and includes the ecologically important Chamela-Cuixmala Biosphere Reserve.

Cuixmala was once the private hideaway of Sir James Goldsmith, and is still owned and managed by the Goldsmith family. The estate includes the four luxury private villas, featured here, and nine small cottages or "casitas" (sleeping from two to six people) that operate as a small hotel. For more information about the casitas, click here.

The four villas have from three to eleven bedrooms and are scattered over the extensive estate. Only la Loma - Sir James Goldsmith's former residence - has ocean views. La Loma is made up of a grand domed "palace" perched on a bluff overlooking the coastline, and six bungalows, each with ensuite bathroom. All the villas have a private swimming pool and are fully staffed.

Miles of virgin beaches edge the estate. The best beach for swimming is at Caleta Blanca, thirty minutes away by car but well worth the journey. This private beach is incredibly beautiful, and guests are likely to have it to themselves. Driving through the tropical forests you may glimpse wild boar, coati mundis, white tailed deer, gazelle and antelope. There are even zebra, imported by Sir James Goldsmith and living and breeding happily in these exceptional surroundings.

Golf, scuba, polo and surfing can be enjoyed nearby, and mountain bicycles and binoculars for birdwatching are available for guests use. Horseback riding can be arranged at the well equipped stables, and there's even a soccer pitch on the property.