Last week in Lombok was simply amazing. So much so that I am going back again in two days. We were staying at one of the prettiest properties on the island – Novotel Lombok, which totally enhanced our experience.Â
Lombok is barely a 30 minute boat ride away from Gili Trawangan (where we went to kick start 2018), so getting there is really easy.Â
The local boat made sure that my friends and I reached Bangsal harbour within time and swiftly, found a local taxi that was willing to ferry us to the hotel at a reasonable cost of IDR 300000.Â
A beautiful 2 hours and 30 minute drive through some amazing landscapes interrupted only by torrential downpour couldn’t dampen my spirits. With hilly roads for the initial portion of the journey, followed by wide open roads and wider intersections it was quite revealing to see that Lombok is still an island but with all the facilities. Although it is quite big in size as compared to Gili where the only modes of transport are bicycles and horse carts, it was a humbling experience for sure.
First look at Novotel Lombok Resort & Villas
Upon arrival at the Novotel Lombok Resort & Villas, we were stumped at the architecture which actually blends in with the natural surroundings amicably. We were greeted with amazing hospitality upon arrival at the open lobby with is beautiful art deco and minimalistic approach.
The thatched roof combined with bamboo pillars and wooden statues that adorn the lobby area has a very calming effect. A cold towel accompanied with a refreshing lemon sorbet was the need of the hour and the ever smiling staff made sure I got it.
After a swift check in, we were guided towards our fancy Garden Villa #403 with a private pool (it was effing amazing).
Accommodation in Novotel Lombok Resort & Villas
Villa #403 that is enclosed with a tiny wooden gate gives a very homely feeling as we entered the sand and stones laden walk way. Having our own private pool was a big surprise as well 🙂Â
The villa in all its glory and luxury does not look out of place as the structures blends in with the environment and feels like living in tropical forests instead of a luxury hotel.
A wide open porch in the front with a big bamboo couch is the perfect spot to relax and chill. The hammock that is strung up adjacent to the porch is great for chilling after a relaxing dip in the private pool.
The room comprises of a huge and comfy king size bed accompanied with all the basic necessities such as televisions with satellite channels, DVD player, well stocked mini bar, separate seating area and of course tea/coffee making provisions.
Amenities at the Novotel Lombok Resort & Villas
When it comes to amenities, Novotel Lombok does go above and beyond expectations with high quality amenities. With a big and spacious bathroom that has a separate enclosed rain shower with hot and cold water can be quite soothing after a day out in the beach.
Designer toiletries adorn the villa and might I say that they are wonderful and eco friendly products that’s sourced responsibly as well.
The closet with the safe is pretty nifty to keep valuables protected and secured. The hotel also provides room service round the clock.
The ‘on property’ ATM machine comes in quite handy as the next nearest ATM is in Kuta.
Recreation in Novotel Lombok Resort & Villas
Apart from the private plunger pool, Novotel Lombok has 2 pools that are open for guests; aptly named lower and upper pools. The upper pool overlooks the beach activity area along with a clear view of the private beach and clear waters. The lower pool is very well placed adjacent to the kiddie pool and they are well maintained.
Beach activities in Novotel Lombok comprises of beach volleyball, beach soccer, sand-pit, etc.. The ever smiling staff at the resort is always hands on with any requests made in any form. They make sure that each guest is looked and cared after quite well.
There is also a shopping center in the property that is quite popular among guests and a hotel staff would be more than happy to assist guests with their shopping.
Apart from the above mentioned, there is a plethora of activities to choose from that Novotel Lombok has curated for its guests.
Free activities in Novotel Lombok Resort & Villas
- Sunrise walk
- Sunset walk
- Aqua Aerobics
- Kuta Market visit
- Monkey Feeding
- Novotel Got Talent (and many more)
Paid activities in Novotel Lombok Resort & Villas
- Lombok Waterfall Trip (US$30/person)
- Traditional Sasak Village Visit (US$8/person)
- Gili Nanggu Snorkeling Trip (US$48/person)
- Tanjung Aan Sunset Tour (US$5/person)
- Sunset Yoga Class (US$8/person)
- Mawun Beach Visit (US$12/person)
There are more activities to choose from, and enquiry at the hotel reception would provide exact information based on weather conditions.
Dining at Novotel Lombok Resort & Villas
Spice Market Restaurant – Daily buffet breakfast is served here with a wide variety of choice. From traditional Indonesian cuisine to European and American food is dissed out every morning. I for sure had to go back for seconds as once was not enough (literally).
Breeze Bar – With a wide choice of wine and spirits along with a wonderful tapas menu, Breeze Bar is one of the best spots in Novotel Lombok to relax. With happy hours between 3-7pm, the cocktails just keeps flowing. Buy 2 get 3 is quite an invitation.
Breakfast on the hill – A spectacularly special breakfast arrangement is done by the wonderful staff at Novotel Lombok for guests at an additional fee (free for villa stays). The breakfast is arranged on top of a hill that overlooks Seger Beach as well as the adjacent bay which is shielded unless you reach the hilltop. This had to be the highlight of my stay in Novotel Lombok amongst all the others.
We even hiked further up the hill for this amazing view.
Service at Novotel Lombok Resort & Villas
It must be noted that Indonesian people are quite hospitable by nature but the staff at the Novotel Lombok takes it to a whole different zone. They will surely go out of their way to help guests out every time.Â
For instance – I was late in reporting to the lobby for renting a motorbike as they ran out of them. A little later I was surprised that one of the hotel staff actually handed the keys to his bike so that I could go out exploring. (I would never forget it!).Â
The other day I had a tiny mishap at the beach and came back with a glaring wound. The staff at front desk promptly came with a first aid kit and quickly fixed me up.
Even the GM (Jan Kroeckel) personally greeted me and happily shared some insights on Lombok as well as Novotel. Agung (from Marketing) and Ashley (from Guest relations) were equally amazing and helpful.Â
With such high standards of quality, service and hospitality, our stay at Novotel Lombok gets full marks.Â
In Balance Spa at Novotel Lombok Resort & Villas
The In Balance Spa at Novotel Lombok is the quiet corner where you can de-stress and unwind. A relaxing massage or a treatment at the Nature Spa is sure to rejuvenate all the body’s functions and senses.
I had the opportunity to pamper myself with a traditional Balinese massage and it was simply divine. Although I get massages regularly, the one received here is probably the best till date. My masseuse Eve was super nice and made sure that my cuts and bruises were not touched upon.Â
Soft relaxing music played in the backdrop and the entire experience was soothing. Â
Booking InformationÂ
Website – Novotel Lombok
Address:Â Pantai Putri Nyale, Pujut Lombok Tengah, Kuta, Pujut, LOMBOK, Nusa Tenggara Bar. 83001
Phone:Â (0370) 6153333
I can see why Novotel Lombok Resort & Villas is one of the most highly rated properties in Lombok. If you happen to be in this piece of paradise, check it out for sure.
This alongside regular visits to Indian jungles in search of the Royal Bengal Tiger, fueled her zest for adventure, nature and wildlife.
Now she is a renowned travel blogger, outreach expert and has worked with over 500 travel brands in the last 15 years.
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You words and the pic has made the place so desirable. I am surely going to check out this place.