Lombok’s pristine white beaches hiding in the bays of its dramatic coastline, divided by countless headlands and “Teletubbies” resembling rolling hills are in a league of its own. Despite its indisputable appeal and awe-inspiring scenery, the island still remains relatively undiscovered and overshadowed by its wildly popular sister island next door.
Which is exactly why we fell in love with it. When the hustle and bustle of South Bali becomes too much to handle, an escape to Lombok’s unspoiled tropical utopia is in order. One short bumpy boat ride later we arrived at the tropical oasis of Tugu Hotel. Its quaint estate is located on miles of unspoiled Sire beach on the Nortwest coast of Lombok under the looming Majestic Rinjani volcano.
It seems like time has stopped here. The Tugu concept is unique in many respects. The resort boasts a collection of antiques brought to the site from all over the vast archipelago to showcase its rich cultural heritage. The traditional collection of buildings and unique art pieces sit under the towering palm trees on many hectares of perfectly manicured tropical land. The quietness is deafening. Catch up on your reading in the beach front gazebos, lounge by a designer pool or dine under the stars in the main building housing the restaurant. The historical structure’s pillars represent gods and appear to be supporting the roof on their heads. The many art pieces tell the legends of the ancient kingdoms of Indonesia.
The hospitality of the Lombok people is unparalleled and very genuine. They make you feel at home far away from home and happen to be one of the many highlights of the famed Tugu experience.
Indulge in centuries old Indonesian massages in their award winning spa, take a stroll on the empty beach with dramatic views over the jagged West Coast, snorkel with turtles on Gili Islands – the three small tropical islets are only 20 minute boat ride away. Enjoy the most lavish and flavorsome breakfast poolside or pick your favorite spot on the property – at Tugu hotel every wish is made possible.
If you feel adventurous, although it is hard to leave the otherworldly tranquil vibes of Tugu, go explore the charming island – we recommend the resorts’ signature trip to the majestic waterfalls. You’ll see the life of the friendly and resilient local people unfold in pretty much the same way it has done for centuries, while the emerald rice paddies frame the mountain range in the background, shrouded in the clouds.
At the foothills of mighty Mt. Rinjani, the two tall waterfalls hide in the jungle and the short trek down into the lush valley rewards you with views straight out of Indiana Jones. Amidst the verdant tropical vegetation, you’ll come across two spectacular falls cascading down in multiple different discharges over steep green cliffs.
Tugu Lombok offers an experience like no other on a spectacular island that still remains largely off the main tourism radar – go and explore it now before it turns into buzzing Bali, big changes seem to be looming on the horizon for Lombok too.
Hotel Tugu Lombok
www.tuguhotels.com
lombok@tuguhotels.com
+62 370 6120111
Instagram: @hoteltugulombok
Words & Photos by Vero