Bawah Reserve - Eco-Luxe Private Island in Indonesia

Looking for an extraordinary vacation experience? The Bawah Reserve is an eco-luxe private island off the northeast coast of Indonesia. It is part of the Anambas archipelago. The island has 13 beautiful beaches, three lagoons and a protected marine conservation area. Opened in 2017, the resort is an eco-friendly getaway with all the features and amenities of a five-star hotel. It is the only all-inclusive resort in Asia that includes complimentary spa treatments.

In total, there are 19 beachfront villas, 11 overwater bungalows and 5 garden suites. All of Bawah’s structures are made of bamboo harvested from Java, and the resort was built to have as little environmental footprint as possible. The 35 safari-style suites feature barefoot-chic décor and are very comfortable, with air-conditioning and WiFi. The overwater bungalows are surrounded by crystal clear waters, and the tented beachfront suites open up onto the sand. All accommodations feature billowing canopy beds, shell chandeliers and semi-open bathrooms with rain showers and copper bathtubs. Beach bags, sun hats, Turkish beach towels and sandals are provided, and the mini bar is stocked daily with fresh smoothies, beet chips and chocolate-nut clusters.

Bawah’s culinary offerings are impressive thanks to the on-property garden. The four restaurants have access to fresh cauliflower, spinach, papaya and more. The standout restaurant is the Asian-fusion Tree Top. It is open all day and is located high in the canopy, with spectacular views of Bawah’s two jetties and the neighbor islands. Tree Top’s menu is a mix of local favorites like nasi goring (stir fried rice), as well as international dishes, such as hummus and falafel wraps, black cod with cashews, pan-fried lobster burgers and pesto and aioli potatoes. Popular breakfast dishes include Indonesian classics, such as turmeric rice, chicken rice congee, lemongrass fish skewers and coconut chicken curry. Another restaurant is the Boat House, which has a casual à la carte menu and serves al-fresco meals on the beach. In the evening, enjoy a pre- or post-dinner cocktail at the casual Grouper Bar or the more elegant Jules Verne Bar (note that while Bawah is all-inclusive, alcohol is an additional cost).

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