Motu Villas, Rarotonga’s latest offering to the boutique resort scene, seems almost too good to be true. It’s superb in every way and especially in its location making it one of the most peaceful places to stay on Rarotonga.

It’s tucked away along the edges of the lagoon, hidden like some secret the South Pacific has kept to itself for far too long. Ten self-contained villas, each more secluded than the last, wrapped in gardens thick with native flora—hibiscus, heliconias, the works. The owners, John and Rose Dunn, have peppered the place with their personal art collection, while a striking contribution from a 12-year-old local schoolchild in the reception is charming in its audacity, sitting comfortably beside a screen-print from Pacific artist Kay George.

The villas themselves designed for relaxation, but with the kind of sophistication that doesn’t need to shout.