A place where time stands still
VILLAS: 8 | SERVICE: EXCELLENT | LOCATION: BEACHFRONT | AMENITIES: PRIVATE POOLS, FRONT DOOR SURF, BEACH BAR, RESTAURANT, HORSES
Understated luxury balanced in a perfect state of remoteness. Expect unique experiences on a visit to The Sanubari. From connecting with locals through cultural artisan programs, swimming with horses in crystal blue waters, to surfing your heart out or embrace the tranquility of the untouched landscapes.
THE STORY
A resort experience designed to seamlessly blend with the land of this "lost" island. The rich culture and customs of Sumba, spanning centuries, are showcased through the use of natural Sumbanese limestone rocks, local hardwoods, intricate handcrafted carvings, and the globally acclaimed Ikat weavings. Nestled along a pristine two-kilometer beachfront, the resort creates a sensation of journeying back in time while ensuring modern comforts are readily available. British-Australian couple Rowan and Micha Burn joined with Bali-based hoteliers Allan and Roger Thomas to turn this corner of Sumba into a magnificent sustainable getaway.
CHECK-IN
Arriving at The Sanubari is truly an experience to savor. The journey onto the property is a picturesque one, taking you past ancient megalithic stones, quaint villages, and expansive verdant rice fields. As you approach, a charming reception area welcomes you with the refreshing Hibiscus drink, offering a glimpse of the tranquil indulgence awaiting during your stay.
GARDEN VILLA
We decided to book ourselves to a stay in one of the newly built garden villas, opting for a change from our usual choice of beachfront accommodation. Last year, we fell in love with the beachfront villas, but this time, we were intrigued by the allure of the three new garden villas they had added since our last visit.
The design aesthetic of the garden villas can best be described as a luxurious take on minimalism. Each villa came equipped with all the essential amenities: a well-stocked minibar, a high-quality speaker system, plush robes and slippers, a private pool overlooking the picturesque rice fields, and bicycles for easy transport back and forth to the bar and restaurant.
The Beachfront villas offer a stunning panorama of the Indian Ocean. Guests can revel in the luxurious amenities provided, like a relaxing bathtub, a convenient study desk, and an invigorating outdoor shower. We highly suggest these villas as the ideal choice for starting your day with the mesmerizing sight of waves gently rolling in.
THE KITCHEN
The food at The Sanubari is known for its simplicity yet high quality ingredients. The restaurant partners with local farmers to source the finest seasonally grown fruits and vegetables from their own farms and local suppliers. Additionally, they prioritize sustainable practices by serving line caught seafood, harvested in a responsible manner from the rich oceans nearby. The Sanubari strives to showcase a sustainable lifestyle to their guests, emphasising how one can live off the land while still enjoying exceptional culinary delights.
SUNSET SURFS
Uncrowded, world-class Indonesian quality surf breaks, standup paddleboard excursions down freshwater rivers through rice paddies and villages, centuries old village rituals, sunset horse rides, day treks, mountain or motor biking through landscapes unique to the Indonesian archipelago, or simply unwind and recharge on one of the property’s stunning beaches… or at their beachfront bar. The Sanubari presents a diverse range of experiences tailored to every explorer, promising unique and unforgettable moments amidst the beauty of Indonesia.
COCKTAIL HOUR
One of the standout features of The Sanubari that truly captured our hearts was their charming palm leaf bar, serving as a focal gathering spot where visitors could engage in delightful conversations with fellow guests, all the while relishing the flavours of their exceptional handcrafted hibiscus cocktail. As dusk descended, a mesmerising bonfire was ignited, offering a picturesque setting with breathtaking views over the wide open space of the Indian Ocean.
A FINAL NOTE
The Sanubari is to us a more down to earth piece of Paradise on the edge of Sumba's incredible wilderness. A place were time stands still. Connect with locals, swim with horses, surf some lines, explorer waterfalls or simply soak up the beautiful aspects of nature all around. The Sanubari absolutely makes it to our personal top 3 of favourite hotels & experiences worldwide.
