Taprobane Island

Built in the 1920s by a self-appointed count and later owned by the expatriate writer Paul Bowles (who penned Spider House here), this two-and-a-half-acre private island boasts just one sumptuous, five-bedroom villa. Although guests can wade to their exclusive hideaway from the shores of Sri Lanka, it's more fun to ride in on an elephant. The concept behind the villa's design was to avoid closed spaces, which means that there are views of the sea from almost every point in the house. Adding to the sense of luxury is the island's attentive staff, which includes houseboys, stewards, security guards and a dedicated chef whose many specialties include Sri Lankan curries.

For more information, visit www.taprobaneisland.com

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