Before long we pull up to a pretty beach with crystal clear water lapping on the white sand, sheltered by a shady grove of palm trees. Here a golf cart is waiting to whisk us to the top of the hill – and to amazing Villa Selalu!

“Selalu” means forever. Maybe it’s named for the views that go on forever. The blues of the ocean and sky stretching out forever. Or maybe it’s because, after a short while here, you know you could stay forever.

Perched on the top of the hill, Villa Selalu enjoys 360º views of the stunning southwest landscape – from the rolling hills on the mainland that stretch all the way to the misty silhouette of Mt Rinjani in the north, and out across the magical ‘secret islands’ of the southwest to the pyramid shape of Mt Agung on Bali.

The spacious layout of villa is designed to take advantage of these expansive views; from the living room you can look out over the infinity pool to the ocean below and in the other direction, across the hills and islands to the west.

The gorgeous design by owner Belinda Darvall takes full advantage of this privileged location. Light-filled, airy rooms flow seamlessly from inside to outside, showcasing the best of tropical living.

Cool white walls form a backdrop for the luscious décor – precious collectibles, coloured glass, striking artwork, industrial pieces juxtapositioned against soft fabrics and pillows, and splashes of blue mirroring the sea and sky.

It’s elegant, opulent, and undeniably luxurious, and yet Villa Selalu invites you to live in its spaces; to jump into the two metre deep infinity pool and make a splash; to sprawl on the bed with its piles of pillows and soft bamboo sheets; to climb to the roof with cocktail in hand and marvel at the magnificent sunsets.

Villa Selalu boasts four spacious bedrooms – all sumptuously appointed with king-sized beds and quality linens. Large walk-in closets provide plenty of storage and separate the bedrooms from the huge spa-style bathrooms, complete with open-air double showers finished in marble and stone.

Complimentary Wifi, satellite televisions, air conditioning and ceiling fans, a DVD player and a large collection of films and books, as well as games and puzzles are all part of the amenities.

Outside are numerous sitting areas and lounging spaces for gathering in groups or spending some time alone taking in the views. A pretty gazebo covered in bright bougainvillea overlooks the ocean, providing a lovely setting for breakfast in the mornings.

Of course, the 18-metre infinity pool forms the focal point for outdoor living, with its spacious deck and comfortable sun lounges positioned to take in the best views of the ocean and southwest coastline.

Alongside the pool, a spacious pavilion houses a barbecue and outdoor bar area with a long wooden table looking out over the ocean; perfect for leisurely evening dinners.

A media and library room off the main living area offers another space for relaxing and can easily be converted into another bedroom for large groups and families.

The villa also boasts two kitchen areas – the guest’s kitchen alongside the living room and main dining area, as well as a professional kitchen for the villa’s chefs, who are eager to prepare delicious meals at guests’ requests.

Guests can also choose to dine beachside at the lovely Beach Box Café. Swap the pool for the beach and spend the day playing in the clear turquoise water before taking a table under a shady thatched gazebo at the café and ordering a fabulous lunch.

The menu is innovative and fresh, using organic produce from the villa’s gardens and featuring delicious pizzas cooked in the wood-fired oven.

After lunch, lay back with a cold drink in a lazy chair under an umbrella and have a siesta, fanned by the fresh ocean breezes.

Other activities include riding bikes around the island to explore the villages and meet the friendly locals, or take to the water on SUP or kayaks provided by Villa Selalu.

They can also organize snorkelling and island hopping tours to the beautiful secret islands nearby.

The villa is fully staffed with separate quarters for the live-in manager, housekeepers, cooks and security staff – all on hand to satisfy your every whim, while maintaining space and privacy.

Gili Gede is easily reached by Gili Getaway fast boat from Bali and from mainland Lombok via local outrigger boats. Book direct to arrange hassle-free transfers.

Villa Selalu is a haven of absolute privacy and tranquillity to enjoy as a couple or with family and friends.

Whether you rent Villa Selalu as a couple or a group of 4, 6, 8, 10 or 12 people, the villa is exclusively yours during your stay. For more information, www.villaselalugiligede.com.