Opened in late 2017, Bawah Reserve is an island resort that is part of Indonesia's Riau Islands, accessible from Singapore by ferry and seaplane. Bawah Reserve promises untouched paradise, composed of six lush jungle islands, three crystal clear lagoons, and 13 ivory powder beaches. The eco-friendly resort is committed to environmental and ocean conservation, crafting its accommodations from natural and recycled materials. Guests can spend the day hiking the forests and water sports in the pristine lagoons, indulge in holistic meals at two restaurants and wellness programs at the Aura spa and yoga pavilion, then end the day with cocktails from the bar at dusk and open-air cinema screenings under the stars.
Sustainability: The resort is committed to environmental and ocean conservation, built according to sustainable development guidelines, employing a zero-waste program, prohibiting pesticides and fishing, and utilizing locally-grown ingredients.
Location: From lush jungles to pristine crystal lagoons, this island paradise is an unforgettable getaway destination.
Accommodation: Luxurious and eco-friendly, without ostentation and crowds.
Set around Bawah Reserve’s tropical landscape are 36 elegant suites and villas. Each suite features woody interiors, teak floors, jellyfish-styled chandeliers, removable bamboo lattice walls and peaked ceilings for natural ventilation, while bathrooms are designed with copper tubs and showers. With no TV provided, guests are invited to lounge on the balcony and commune with the natural landscape.
The sea-view Beach Suites are 753 square feet in size, including a private covered veranda, and configured with a king-size canopied bed. The bathroom has a separate bathtub and rain shower, twin basins and mirrors, and there's also a tropical outdoor shower.
The Garden Suites are also 753 square feet in size, which includes a private covered veranda. The bathroom has a separate bathtub and rain shower, twin basins and mirrors, and there's also a tropical outdoor shower.
The 1,130-square-foot Overwater Bungalows come with a king-size canopied bed, a private covered veranda, a sun deck with lagoon and ocean views, as well as direct lagoon access. The bathroom has a separate bathtub and rain shower, twin basins and mirrors, and there's also a tropical outdoor shower.
The two-bedroom Jungle Lodges extend over 1,507 square feet and are appointed with a one king and one twin bedroom, both with ensuite bathrooms. There is also an attic den, a dining and lounge area, and an expansive veranda. This room type has partial sea views.
Bawah Reserve's Pool Villas start at 2,152 square feet for two bedrooms, though there options for three, four and seven bedrooms. Some Pool Villas have infinity-style pools and boast direct beach access.
Although the island environs is the focal point of Bawah Reserve, the resort is fitted with staple luxury facilities, such as infinity pool, wellness center, and a litany of on and off shore activities, to ensure clients blissfully want for nothing.
Active guests can explore the island paradise to its fullest with opportunities to hike the forests, explore caves, snorkel the lagoons, and enjoy water sports such as windsurfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Other options include searching for turtle nests on Sanggah Island, touring the kitchen gardens with the resident permaculture expert, and taking a book from the library to read while soaking up the sun and relaxing.
The Aura Wellness Center hosts the spa and yoga pavilion, promoting holistic wellbeing amongst a jungle canopy setting. Guests can enjoy facials and massages, as well as guru-led yoga, pilates, meditation, and reiki sessions.
The Six Islands Trading Post boutique sells locally-made and sustainable branded products, such as resortwear, holiday essentials, and gifts.
For maximum relaxation, in addition to 13 private beaches, Bawah Reserve also has an infinity-edge swimming pool from which guests can sip cocktails while enjoying views of the sea.
Located above the Tree Tops restaurant, The Wallace Library is a peaceful sanctuary with a selection of books and games for guests to enjoy. The space looks out to the main lagoon and is particularly lovely at sunset.
Bawah Reserve has two bars and two restaurants, utilizing ingredients sourced from local areas, including the resort's own gardens.
Enjoy a pre-dinner drink at the Jules Verner bar, crafted by an expert mixologist, before heading downstairs to the Tree Top restaurant.
Located beachside, The Boat House serves locally-sourced fresh grilled seafood which can be enjoyed in the flotsam-decorated sand floor restaurant, or taken poolside. As an official marine conservation area, fishing is forbidden around Bawah Island, allowing for fish and corals to flourish in the lagoons.
Sip on cocktails from the poolside The Grouper bar, while lounging by the infinity pool with ocean vistas in the distance.
Tree Tops offers Asian-fusion cuisine and dishes are prepared each day based on what is locally available. The executive chef can whip up a variety of dishes ranging from Thai-style beef salad to lamb nasi goreng burritos. Picnic baskets can be prepared for guests who wish to dine by the sea.
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