Next time you're planning a weekend getaway off of Bali, head to one of these 5 luxe resorts in Indonesia
Though we can think of few things more glorious than a sun-soaked holiday in Bali, we thought we’d help you plan your next luxe vacation off the island in case you feel like jet-setting a little further afield. From a super chic contemporary seafront villa to a private wellness retreat set in the middle of a working coffee plantation, we’ve handpicked five of the most fabulous stays in Indonesia to put on your travel bucket list.
Yogyakarta, Central Java
Amanjiwo
Perched on a hill overlooking the majestic Candi Borobudur is the award-winning luxury resort Amanjiwo. Consistently heralded as one of the best hotels in Indonesia, Amanjiwo is truly a sight to be seen. With architecture that so beautifully reflects the UNESCO heritage site it neighbours, you’ll definitely want to stay here during your next trip to Yogyakarta. Guests will want for nothing as they enjoy activities like visiting Candi Borobudur at dawn or taking in a private picnic in the midst of the serene rice terraces. We recommend heading to the spa to indulge in the Javanese beauty ritual mandi lulur – a full-body treatment originally reserved exclusively for royalty.
How to get there: Garuda Airlines flies directly from Bali to Yogyakarta (Adisucipto International Airport) daily. Amanjiwo is an hour drive away from the airport.
Magelang, Central Java
MesaStila Hotels and Resorts
Folks looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of Seminyak should venture to MesaStila, an idyllic wellness retreat in Magelang, Central Java. Set in the middle of a tranquil, twenty-two hectare coffee plantation, the resort boasts twenty-three villas all decadently decorated with Javanese antiques, all with magnificent views of mountains and volcanoes in the distance. For the true Javanese experience, meet the local jamu masters who offer healing tonics produced fresh daily according to your needs. There are a myriad of activities on offer including yoga, circuit training, TRX, the Javanese martial arts pencak silat, and a brisk tour around the coffee plantation to keep guests moving. And for those who would rather immerse themselves in cultural classes can do so with batik, Javanese dance, and gamelan classes on offer. Meanwhile, Candi Borobudur is a mere 45-minute drive away.
How to get there: Garuda Airlines flies directly from Bali to Semarang (Achmad Yani International Airport) daily. MesaStila is a 90-minute drive away from the airport.
Lombok
The Lombok Lodge
Lombok’s relatively untouched white beaches and turquoise waters are the perfect seaside alternative to Bali. For unparalleled luxury on the island, look no further than The Lombok Lodge. This luxury beachside haven boasts nine lodge suites with stunning views of the ocean and Mount Rinjani, and is just a short boat ride away from the neighbouring Gili Islands. Its contemporary minimalist design features super chic all-white interiors and is kitted out with modern facilities like Hermes amenities, Apple TV, and a Bose sound dock. Also on-site is the impressive 25 meter infinity pool that looks even more spectacular at night.
How to get there: Garuda Airlines flies directly from Bali to Lombok (Lombok International Airport) daily. The Lombok Lodge is 90-minute drive from the airport.
Labuan Bajo, Flores
Plataran Komodo Resort
Nestled on the secluded and beautiful Waecicu beach are the beautiful beachfront cottages of Plataran Komodo Resort. As one of the only luxury stays in Labuan Bajo, Plataran’s private location is surrounded by colourful coral reefs, and is just a boat ride away from the Komodo National Park. The resort will take care of everything you could possibly need, from day treks to hidden waterfalls, excursions to see the exotic komodo dragon, and even arranging a romantic lobster dinner on the beach.
How to get there: Garuda Airlines flies from Bali to Labuan Bajo (Flores Airport) daily. Plataran Komodo Resort is a 30-minute drive from the airport.
Belitung Island
Arumdalu
The Belitung islands are famous for their soft white sands and crystal clear waters, making it a must-visit destination in Indonesia. Set in a preserved forest, overlooking the gorgeous seas is Arumdalu, Belitung’s only eco-friendly luxury resort. Each unique villa is decked out in contemporary Indonesian interiors, has its very own pool and impressive gazebo, making it a secluded getaway like no other. During the day, take in the wondrous sites of Belitung by visiting local fisherman villages, or hopping on a speedboat to explore some of the most pristine beaches in Indonesia.
How to get there: Garuda Airlines flies from Bali via Jakarta to Tanjung Pandan (H.A.S. Hanandjoeddin) daily. Arumdalu is a 90-minute drive from the airport.
