For the second year in a row, Nihi Sumba Island was named by Travel & Leisure as the top hotel in the world. Baroque Travel explores this exemplary establishment
Located on the explored Indonesian island of Sumba, 400 km east of Bali, Nihi Sumba Island offers the ultimate luxury – an opportunity to live a simple, healthy and mindful lifestyle in an idyllic location. Offering world-class surfing, the best sport fishing in Indonesia, an opportunity to hike through breathtaking waterfalls, follow butterfly trails and explore ancient villages as well as paddle down the Wanukaka River standing upright. The experience offers understated luxury as well as a freedom that allows one to reconnect with a simplistic lifestyle.
The resort is located on the western part of the island, covering 567-hectares of land. Accommodation is in luxury villas built on terraces with their own private verandas. The entire resort has been designed to protect and preserve the unique culture and environment, offering locals the opportunity to support themselves and their families and thus improve their lifestyles.
The island itself has been a best-kept surfers’ secret for decades, a pristine environment with an extensive coastline, dramatic waves and a rich coral reef. It’s also scenically beautiful, with a stunning valley, lush paddy fields and isolated little villages, offering a fascinating look into the local culture.
What sets this extraordinary resort apart is its unique offerings. It’s a haven for adventurers, offering the chance to explore the Indian Ocean’s thriving marine ecosystem whilst fishing and diving (dive sites include Rock Slide, ideal for beginners, and the more advanced Morning Rock). It also lets guests experience local tradition and flavour and give back to the local community with various projects.
The resort itself is small, and well contained, with just 32 suites in all, including five two-bedroom Paintai Villas. Each villa has its own pool. Guests enjoy every possible facility including surfing lessons, airport transfers, fishing, spearfishing and diving, motorized and other water sports, horseback riding, an open-air spa and a private beach. It’s also totally unique, luxurious yet sustainable, offering equal amounts of solitude and adventure. It’s also great for kids, who will enjoy horse riding on the beach, swimming in private pools and visiting the turtle hatchery.
Like any luxury resort, everything is included here, including all meals, soft drinks, afternoon teas and coffees plus bottled water from the mini bar. Guests can also enjoy in-room massages, beach cinema, pool, free WiFi and a choice of restaurants. Dining includes produce from the resort’s own organic garden. Ombak is the main restaurant, offering stunning ocean views, while Nio Beach Club offers simple grilled fish, sizzling satay dishes and pizzas. The Ombak Bar is open-air and there’s also the Boat House Bar, an upmarket hangout. The Nest offers family meals, and Nio Beach Club is a romantic choice. Guests can also enjoy beach dinners, tree-house barbecues and in-villa lobster feasts.