A Journey into Eco-Luxury at Somewhere Resort, Lombok
Secluded Luxury Meets Vibrant Energy
Upon my arrival at Somewhere Lombok in Indonesia, I was immediately struck by the profound sense of contrast that defines the resort. Resting on a lush hillside overlooking the pristine Guling Bay, this property offers a unique blend of seclusion and accessibility, creating an oasis of tranquility that still pulses with the vibrant energy of Lombok’s natural beauty.
The hotel’s exterior is a testament to thoughtful, organic architecture, blending seamlessly with its surroundings. The design, characterized by sustainability and an eco-conscious ethos, features structures that gently cascade down the hillside, allowing for breathtaking views of the bay. The use of natural materials and the resort’s commitment to environmental stewardship are evident, resonating with guests who prioritize sustainability without compromising on luxury.
Stepping through the main entrance, guests are welcomed into a world where every detail is curated to enhance the experience of connection—both with nature and with fellow travelers. The lobby is more than a space for arrivals and departures; it’s a portal to a place where luxury is defined by simplicity and the profound beauty of the natural world. The design is minimal yet sophisticated, with an emphasis on natural light, open spaces, and a color palette that reflects the earthy tones of Lombok’s landscape.
The resort’s villas, each with its own private plunge pool, offer a sanctuary of privacy and comfort. Inside, the influence of local culture and the personal touch of the Gontard sisters is present. Bespoke furniture, Valia’s captivating photographs, and artisanal details create an atmosphere that is both personal and deeply connected to the locality.
Private Villas with Plunge Pools
The hotel grounds are a testament to the harmonious balance between architecture and nature. The open communal spaces—a fusion of reception, lounge, restaurant, and pool area—offer a seamless transition from indoor luxury to the natural elegance of the outdoors. The centerpiece, an infinity pool perched on the edge of the plateau, offers mesmerizing views of Are Guling Bay, inviting guests to bask in the serene beauty of the waters below, a view that encapsulates the essence of the island’s tranquil allure.
Pathways and stairs, lined with indigenous, non-invasive vegetation, wind through the property, not only serving as a testament to the hotel’s commitment to environmental stewardship but also enhancing the privacy and intimacy of the experience. Each villa, strategically placed across the rugged hillside, offers a secluded retreat, complete with a private plunge pool and terrace, where one can revel in the luxury of solitude or the simple pleasure of nature’s embrace.
The design of Somewhere Lombok is a narrative of respect and admiration for the land it occupies. Buildings and outdoor spaces are thoughtfully arranged to minimize environmental impact while maximizing the natural beauty of the surroundings. The use of local materials and artisanal craftsmanship adds layers of authenticity and charm to the space, creating an ambiance that is both elegant and earthy.
Dining at the hotel is an experience in itself, with a focus on local flavors and ingredients that tell the story of the island’s culinary heritage. The communal dining setting fosters a sense of connection, making each meal a shared journey of discovery.
Somewhere Lombok stands as a beacon of eco-conscious luxury, offering a unique experience that resonates with the soulful traveler seeking a sanctuary where luxury is measured by the quality of connection and the depth of the experience. Here, amid the lush landscapes and the gentle rhythms of island life, guests find a retreat that is both invigorating and tranquil, a place where the essence of Lombok is felt in every detail, inviting a deeper exploration of its natural beauty and cultural richness.
Panoramic Views from Every Room
Each of the 20 standalone villas is a testament to thoughtful design, blending local craftsmanship with contemporary comfort, creating a space where guests can unwind in utter privacy and elegance. Guests are greeted with over 50 square meters of meticulously designed space upon entering the private plunge pool villa. Surrounded by lush greenery, the villa’s interior is a harmonious blend of bespoke ceramics, handwoven textiles, and local artistry, creating an ambiance that is both refined and rooted in the local culture.
The villa’s design is purposefully minimalistic, allowing the stunning landscape to take center stage, visible through expansive windows that draw the outside in strategically perched on a steep hill, offering breathtaking views and a sense of seclusion. While the ascent to the villas is a bit of a workout, the reward is a private haven where luxury and nature converge. For convenience, the hotel offers side exits for easier access to lower villas and complimentary shuttles to Kuta, enhancing the guest experience.
Inside, the villas boast king-size beds, cozy lounge areas with sofas, and private plunge pools for an immersive relaxation experience. Modern amenities like rain showers, mini-bars, complimentary Wi-Fi, and Harman/Kardon Bluetooth speakers ensure comfort and connectivity. The attention to detail extends to the choice of Sensatia Botanicals amenities, reflecting the hotel’s commitment to sustainability and luxury.
The property’s design ethos is evident in its commitment to local sourcing. Furnishings and decorations are predominantly sourced from local artisans, such as intricate rugs from Kriyatex, pottery from Casakaya, and woven baskets from Mami, underscoring the hotel’s dedication to supporting the local community and showcasing Indonesian craftsmanship.
The villas’ terraces, each offering 16 square meters of outdoor space, feature seating areas and mini plunge pools, perfect for private relaxation while soaking in the views of Lombok’s picturesque landscape. The interior spaces, spanning 35 square meters, are adorned with Valia’s captivating photographs, adding a personal touch and deepening the connection to Lombok’s culture and scenery.
Locally Sourced Farm to Table Delights
The dining experience is an integral part of the luxury offered at Somewhere Lombok Hotel Indonesia, blending local culinary traditions with international flair. The in-house restaurant, positioned within the main building, is a culinary gem that offers a diverse menu of Indonesian fusion cuisine, where the emphasis is on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Dishes like tuna open sandwiches, mahi mahi carpaccio, and beef tataki showcase the innovative use of local produce and seafood, drawing guests into a gastronomic journey that is both authentic and refined.
The commitment to sustainability and support for the local community is evident in the restaurant’s sourcing philosophy, relying on local farmers and fishermen to supply the freshest ingredients. This approach not only enhances the dining experience but also contributes to the local economy, creating a connection between guests and the island’s culinary landscape.
The restaurant’s ambiance is designed to foster connection and conversation, making each meal an opportunity for interaction and engagement. Whether enjoying breakfast, lunch, or dinner, guests can expect a dining environment that is both inviting and sophisticated, complemented by an extensive wine list that caters to diverse palates.
Lombok Lifestyle With Authentic Local Wellbeing and Experiences
At Somewhere Lombok Hotel Indonesia, the pursuit of wellness and leisure transcends the conventional, offering guests a sanctuary where body, mind, and spirit are nurtured amidst the island’s natural beauty. The spa, an oasis of tranquility, features two massage rooms with an option for couples’ treatments, fostering a shared experience of relaxation. The outdoor plunge pool, inspired by traditional rainwater collection tanks, adds a unique touch to the spa’s serene ambiance, complemented by an outdoor shower for a refreshing post-treatment experience.
Beyond the spa, the hotel’s commitment to local culture and community shines through in its boutique, which showcases local products and Valia’s evocative photography prints, offering guests a piece of Lombok to take home. The availability of regularly scheduled shuttles to the beach and the town of Kuta, along with scooter rentals, ensures that exploration is effortless and enriching.
Embodying a “home away from home” philosophy, the staff, primarily locals from Lombok, provide insightful tips and warm, personalized service, making guests feel cherished and connected to the island’s culture. The hotel’s collaboration with local tour operators expands the horizons of adventure and cultural immersion, offering an array of activities from surfing and scuba diving to yoga and village visits, each designed to deepen the guest’s experience of Lombok’s diverse landscape and vibrant local life.
Somewhere Lombok stands as a beacon of holistic luxury, where wellness is interwoven with cultural authenticity, offering a retreat that is as enriching as it is relaxing.
Expanding the Somewhere Brand of Responsible Luxury
Somewhere Lombok Hotel Indonesia distinguishes itself not just as a sanctuary of luxury but as a beacon of sustainability and community engagement, setting a new standard for eco-conscious hospitality in the region. The Gontard sisters have infused their father’s ethos of giving back to the community by employing staff predominantly from the local village and Lombok, ensuring that the hotel contributes positively to the local economy and cultural fabric.
The hotel’s commitment to the environment is profound and multifaceted, incorporating sustainable building practices, energy-efficient products, and comprehensive waste management systems. The property goes beyond the conventional, with meticulous attention to rainwater harvesting, water recycling, and the use of 100% indigenous vegetation, aligning with a philosophy that respects and harmonizes with Lombok’s natural landscape.
The hotel’s design integrates passive strategies that optimize energy use, such as recycled water for irrigation and the strategic use of porous paving blocks and aerated bricks to minimize its environmental footprint. These measures are not just token gestures but are integral to the hotel’s operation, reflecting a deep-rooted commitment to sustainability.
The future looks bright for Somewhere Lombok, with plans to expand its villa offerings and aspirations to introduce the Somewhere brand to new locations worldwide. This vision for growth is matched by a commitment to maintain the core values of sustainability and community engagement that define the hotel.
Final Thoughts On My Stay
My recent sojourn at Somewhere Lombok Hotel Indonesia was a deep dive into an eco-luxury experience that gracefully balances sophistication with sustainability. The villas, perched on a lush hillside, provided a serene haven with stunning vistas and private plunge pools, epitomizing secluded luxury. The resort’s dedication to environmental stewardship and local community support was truly inspiring, offering a meaningful connection to the island’s ethos.
Dining at the hotel was a delightful exploration of local flavors, though I found myself wishing for more variety in global cuisine options. While the natural slope of the property adds to its charm, it may present accessibility challenges for some guests, which is worth considering.
The personal touch in service, combined with authentic cultural experiences, enriched my stay, leaving a lasting impression. Despite minor areas for enhancement, Somewhere Lombok stands out as a destination for those seeking an immersive, eco-conscious retreat that doesn’t compromise on luxury, offering a profound and reflective travel experience that resonates long after departure.
Written by Amin Brodie
Photos by Valeryia Kalantayeva
