Less than an hour away on a ferry, Bintan is great for a short trip from Singapore. Here are our top picks for a luxurious holiday at the beach destination
Looking for the fastest short break from Singapore, that technically counts as going on a holiday abroad? A fast ferry ride – 50 minutes to be exact – away from Singapore is the tranquil archipelago of Bintan. With talcum-white sand beaches and grand golf courses, this beach destination is perfect for those desperate for a quick weekend away. Not the type to laze at the beach for hours or play golf? There are also a vast number of adrenaline-pumping activities including ATV rides and rainforest treks for adventure lovers. So go forth, pick a room below, and make an impromptu weekend getaway to Bintan!
For those who appreciate the finer things in life: Sanchaya Bintan
The only property on Bintan with its own terminal VIP lounge, this luxurious resort is great for a romantic anniversary with your beau. Situated on Lagoi Bay, the airy villas are a beautiful blend of colonial charm and Asian exoticism, and are equipped with modern facilities including iPads, high-fidelity Bang & Olufsen televisions and sound systems, and even an Apple TV. The rooms are incredibly gorgeous too, so much so that we’re ready to hire Sanchaya Bintan’s architect to design our future home (one can dream).
Sanchaya Bintan, Lagoi Bay, Bintan Regency, Bintan Island 29155, Indonesia, p.+62 770 692200.
For glampers: The Canopi Resort
The best glamps are no longer only accessible through plane rides – Canopi Bintan is only a ferry ride away. Tents here are no standard gimmick; guests retreat to heavenly four-poster beds, outdoor jacuzzis, and even private gardens with hammocks for star-gazing. The resort is also an adventure playground, with a myriad of water (jetovators, standup paddling and wakeboarding) and land sports (ATV and motorcross) activities easily available.
Canopi Bintan Crystal Lagoon, Treasure Bay Bintan, Jln Raya Haji, (Right Beside Bintan Resorts Ferry Terminal), Lagoi, Riau, Indonesia 29152, e. [email protected], p. (62) 77-069-2252.
For a couples retreat: Banyan Tree Bintan
This lavish resort perched on a lush hillside gives you a gorgeous panoramic view of the South China Sea. Coming from of the most luxurious hotel groups in the world, Banyan Tree Bintan offers impeccable service that’s fit for royalty. In the day, be sure to hit the resort’s very own beach and enjoy an intimate day out with your S.O.
Banyan Tree Bintan, Jalan Teluk Berembang, Laguna Bintan Resort, Lagoi 29155, Bintan Resorts, Indonesia
For the energetic traveller: Club Med Bintan
Club Med Bintan offers a swish, all-inclusive holiday, with a vast array of activities available. Test your accuracy in the archery school; unleash your inner circus freak and learn how to be a trapeze artist; or master your swing with Club Med’s golf school. If you wish to head out and explore the island, just sign up for a discovery excursion that includes a thrilling elephant ride into the forest.
Club Med Bintan Island Hotel, Jalan site A11, Lagoi Bintan Utara, Tanjun Uban Island, Kepulauan Riau 12920, Indonesia, p. +62 770 692801.
For a getaway with the pals: Indra Maya Pool Villas
Set within Nirwana Garden is seven elegant pool villas offering up to 450sqm of living space. Each villa is fitted with sophisticated furnishings and opens up to a magnificent view of the deep blue. There’s also an exclusive butler service to ensure you and your mates won’t have to lift a finger on your relaxing vacay.
Indra Maya Pool Villas, Jalan Panglima Pantar, Lagoi, Kab. Bintan, Kepulauan Riau 29155, Indonesia, p. +62 770 692505.
For those who need a perk-me-up: Angsana Bintan
We’re totally digging the warm orange hues found in every room at Angsana Bintan. Paired with full glass wall panels to allow natural sunlight to seep in, the rooms are the epitome of bright and cheery, making you feel right at home.
Angsana Bintan, Jalan Teluk Berembang, Laguna Bintan, Lagoi 29155, Bintan Resort Bintan Island (Indonesia) Indonesia, p. +62 770 693111.
For water sports junkies: Trikora Beach Club
The waves at this rustic beachside retreat are great for windsurfing and kite-surfing. Plus, it’s far away from touristy spots, giving you ample space to surf without colliding into others. With simple yet homely rooms, a tranquil environment and friendly service-staff, Trikora Beach Club is an ideal place to recharge and reflect if you’re not keen on getting wet.
Trikora Beach Club, Desa Teluk Bakau, Riau Islands Province 29153, Indonesia, p. +65 9837 8533.
For scuba divers: Sahid Bintan Beach Resort
Spacious and clean, this no-frills resort is popular amongst scuba divers. Unwind by the outdoor pool, or take a five-minute stroll to the serene Trikora Beach after a tiring day underwater.
Sahid Bintan Beach Resorts, Jl. Pantai Trikora Km 39, Telukbakau, Gunung Kijang, Tanjung Pinang, Bintan, Kepulauan Riau 29151, Indonesia, p. +62 771 7011066.
For modern beach-goers: Grand Lagoi Village
If your main concern is service when it comes to selecting a hotel, Grand Lagoi Village has you covered – the staff are friendly, and they go out of the way to meet your needs. The snazzy rooms are also great if you’re seeking a rustic beach retreat but still need modern facilities. Hate swimming in sea water? Take a dip in their sleek rooftop pool that overlooks the South China Sea.
Swiss-Belhotel Lagoi Bay, Jalan Gurindam Dua Belas, Plot 27- 29, Sebong Lagoi, Riau Islands Province 29155, Indonesia, p. +62 770 692988.