Lombok Lodge
Lombok

Lombok Lodge is one of our favourite hotels in Lombok. Open since 2010 but still relatively under the radar, it is a small boutique hotel with serious “feel good” factor. The decor has a hint of Ibiza chic, but with definite Asian flavour: the colour palette is creamy white with lots of oversized pillows, earthy browns and bright tropical greenery. Guest bedrooms are incredibly Zen and romantic, decked out all in white with private terraces, beautiful bathrooms, driftwood furniture and candles. Amenities include TV & DVD player, preloaded iPod & dock, Hermès bath products, fluffy bathrobes & slippers; Family Lodge Suites have an iMac, a Nespresso machine and a Bang & Olufsen sound system. 

There are just 9 suites and, though there is no direct beach access, the hotel does have a surprisingly large infinity swimming pool with plenty of sun lounging chairs and an area of sand with deck chairs to relax. Lombok Lodge also has one of the island's best restaurants, a very cool little driftwood bar and a spa for beauty and massage treatments.

The property is laid out over a hill which makes it feel larger because there are several different tiered areas to relax, all with sea views. The grounds are covered with flowering frangipani trees, palms trees and luscious greenery which is all very well tended. This level of care and pride in the landscaping extends to the décor and the service – staff go out on a limb to welcome and look after you and they have a good level of English.

Lombok Lodge is situated directly next door to the Oberoi and you can use their beach if you order a drink there. Also, Lombok Lodge has its own white speed boat, which will whizz you over to your own private stretch of beach on the Gili Islands to spend an hour or a whole day snorkelling or scuba diving at the best spots. Gili Air is about 10 minutes away, Gili Meno is 15 mins and Gili Trawangan is 20 minutes. 

I can't think of anything that excites a greater sense of childlike wonder than to be in a country where you are ignorant of almost everything.
Bill Bryson