Rated the number one hotel in the world by Travel & Leisure Magazine in 2016, Nihiwatu is a resort made up of private, traditionally-thatched villas spread along the island of Sumba, just an hour’s flight from Bali. Travelers can choose to stay in a range of different rooms from family-sized villas all the way up to the “owner’s estate,” which has its own library and kitchen! Marangga villas include four-poster beds, infinity pools, a bed, and loungers overlooking the stunning beach. All are furnished with teak pieces and muted fabrics. Nihiwatu hires nearly 400 staff for just 28 villas, and guests even have the option of a personal butler! To say you’ll be well taken care of is an understatement!
Nihiwatu’s spa pavilions overlook the sandy beaches and crisp waters. Choose to relax with the Sumbanese Dream treatment, combined therapy of a mineral-rich foot bath, massage, lavender scrub, and aloe-infused body mask. Seeking an adventure with your significant other? Book the Nihi Oka Spa Safari, where guests are taken on a journey to a secluded valley where couples’ treatment rooms can be found. Pick one of the many aromatic homemade oils and relax with a massage, complete with views of the rolling green paddy fields.
Numerous activities are available as well, from paddle boarding down a river to fishing, trekking to waterfalls, releasing baby turtles on the beach, yoga, horse riding, and surfing.
Hungry from all of that fun in the sun? Check out Ombak, the resort’s acclaimed restaurant, complete with ocean views. Enjoy dishes made from the garden’s organic produce and fresh-caught fish. Just steps from the sea, the Nio Beach Club serves simple grilled fish, sizzling satay, and pizzas fresh from its large clay oven.