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Lombok

Compared to lush, equatorial Bali, which lies 40 miles (65 kilometers) away, Lombok is drier and more rugged. The inhabitants of Lombok are 85 percent Sasak, a people similar to the Balinese who practice Islam, 10 to 15 percent Balinese, with the Chinese, Arab, and other Indonesian populations comprising the remainder of the population. Lombok is mostly mountainous, unspoiled, and provides a wealth of opportunities for outdoor activities, particularly diving, snorkeling, and surfing.

EXPERIENCES

Gili Islands

The three Gili Islands off the coast of Lombok are inviting and beautiful. The islands are remote and feature transportation by foot, on bicycle, or via horse drawn carriage. This is Indonesia at its most austere and authentic, with little trace of the outside world.

Mount Rinjani

Visit the earthly jewels in Lombok's crown: the volcanic Mount Rinjani, which rises to 3,726 meters (12,224 feet), making it the third highest in Indonesia, and the volcano's crater lake, Lake Segara Anak. Alternatively, take a helicopter to the top and circle the crater.

Pondok Perasi Fishing

Go fishing in the pristine waters around Lombok with native anglers from the village of Pondok Perasi. Pondok Perasi is a traditional fishing village comprised of 750 families that have subsisted on their daily catches for generations. There are over 200 species of fish to be caught here, so a morning's catch will vary depending on how far you go from the shore.

Sendang Gila

Drive to Mount Rinjani and see Sendang Gila, a massive waterfall on the northern slopes of the volcano. According to Indonesian folklore, the waters here have healing powers and this magnificent sight was unknown to man until a lion that they were hunting led them to it.

The waterfall is about 102 feet (31 meters) tall and said to possess healing powers. Visitors may swim at Sendang Gila if they wish.

Surfing & Diving

Water-related activities include world-class surfing at Banko Banko’s Desert Point, and the varied scuba destinations at Sekotong.

Tanjung Market

Visit Tanjung market, a new market in the north of Lombok, where locals sell and buy various items on the island's antiquated barter system. Try bartering in the market and visit with families in the village.

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INDONESIA Regions

MAJOR AREAS

PREFERRED HOTEL

The Oberoi Beach Resort, Lombok

Spend the day in a hammock on the beach, the evening dining in an open-air pavilion, the night in an ocean villa with a private pool - thus is life at the The Oberoi Beach Resort, Lombok. The very definition of indulgence and relaxation, this luxury resort sprawls over 24 acres of lush gardens and a grand infinity pool, overlooking Medana Bay and Bali’s volcanic Mount Agung. Guests stay in luxury pavilions and villas that overlook either lush green or sparkling blue, many with their own private pools for total privacy. All three on-site dining options - Lumbung Restaurant, Sunbird Café, and Tokek Bar - are located in open-air, thatched spaces, taking advantage of the sea breeze and spectacular view. With private beach access, guests can spend their days frolicking in the surf and sand, relax in the spa, or explore the hotel’s incredible surroundings.

PREFERRED HOTEL

Tugu Lombok

Breathe in the peaceful air and tranquil atmosphere of Lombok - a small island just a twenty-minute flight from Bali - with a stay at Tugu Hotel Lombok. This small boutique hotel is located on the white sand beach of Sire on the northwest coast of the island, surrounded by thatched roofs, lush green fields, and a beautifully-landscaped 18-hole golf course. Decorated as a pseudo-museum featuring Indonesian art and cultural antiquities, the hotel itself is an experience: guests can spend their time exploring the art pieces scattered throughout the hotel, dine around the property, from a bamboo bed on the beach to the reconstructed Sang Hyang Barong Temple, and indulge in a spa treatment or yoga class while listening to waves crash on the beach. With some much to do at the hotel, guests will have a hard time being lured away, though diving, snorkeling, surfing, and a sunset horse-drawn bendi ride have their appeal!

Camping

Climbing Lombok’s Mt. Rinjani takes adventurers up through green cliffs and lava-formed canyons, the views only becoming more impressive as you ascend. Along the steep landscape are rims and ridges, perfect for setting up camp and settling in for the night. Surrounded by wilderness, travelers fall asleep under the stars and wake up to crisp mountain air and unspoiled scenery each morning. Reach Plawangan Sembalun at 2,639 meters and you will be camping above a sea of clouds. Accompanied by guides and horses or yaks transporting camping equipment, you will stay at established campsites with all food and drinks provided, with meals prepared by an experienced chef.

The Legian Sire, Lombok

A prime beachfront location with stunning views out to the Gili Islands, The Legian Sire, Lombok is all about barefoot luxury. Suites start from a generous 1,200 square feet, with options of beachfront and pool villas, plus a beach house right on the sand. Infinity pools and butler service exude exclusivity, while the facilities focus on wellness. The hotel hosts three restaurants, including a vegetarian venue, which uses ingredients from the property's fruit and vegetable gardens. The spa offers a smorgasbord of holistic treatments, plus an Apothecary Bar.

Wyndham Lombok Sundancer Resort

A lush island nestled in Indonesia’s West Nusa Tenggara Province, Lombok is a paradisiacal setting complete with serene beaches and exquisite waterfalls. Its forested slopes and mountainous inland areas give way to crystalline turquoise waters and white sandy beaches along its coast. Snorkelers, surfers, and anglers alike will find idyllic tranquility on the shores of Lombok. The Wyndham Lombok Sundancer Resort features ceramic tiled rooftops and accents, coupled with natural wood and stone elements, that pay homage to the island’s indigenous, ocean-side roots. Guests are spoiled for choice in terms of activities, with windsurfing, scuba diving, and snorkeling options available, in addition to a health spa, private beach club, access to guided fishing trips and “surfing safaris.”

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Lombok for the Beach Lover

Author : Elsha McGill

Famed for Mount Rinjani and its inland volcanic wonders, Lombok has unique beach and waterfront experiences that rival anything visitors are likely to find in neighboring Bali.