Issue link: https://viewer.e-digitaleditions.com/i/143180
INDONESIA The Menjangan, Bali The remote area of northwest Bali was, until recently, solely backpacker territory but thanks to the visionary work of an innovative local hotel management company called Lifestyle Retreats, the first truly luxurious property has opened— The Menjangan. The resort offers charm, sophistication and adventure in the heart of the beautiful, tranquil West Bali National Park. The Menjangan covers more than 380 hectares and offers 12 large deluxe rooms and two suites at its Monsoon Lodge complex situated around a seductive, shaded pool. Seven romantic, stand-alone beach villas down on the shoreline are within feet of the gentle waves. Villas are designed in the traditional Joglo Javanese architecture style with modern, sleek, minimalist interiors and large picture windows allowing natural light to flood in and offering stunning views of the surroundings. There's also one vast, secluded and self-contained 'residence', ideal for honeymooners, privacy seeking VIPs and larger families. All accommodation has been built following environmentally friendly guidelines with exteriors designed to blend in with the natural surroundings. Modern amenities include LCD TV, DVD player, iPod dock, mini bar, hairdryer, WiFi, coffee and tea making facilities and safe deposit box. Breakfast is taken near the main Bali Tower, on a wooden deck jutting out into the forest canopy, with the air full of birdsong and views for miles. Guests can explore the property and the park on foot, by mountain bike, on horseback or courtesy of the run-around vehicles driven by the delightful, friendly staff. They can also hire expert wildlife guides for mini-safaris. The real thrill, however, is snorkelling and diving the reefs surrounding nearby Menjangan Island. They are among the healthiest in Asia and boast colourful coral, perfect water temperatures and an abundance of reef fish and larger species including great barracuda. At sunset, admire Java's mighty volcanoes silhouetted magnificently in the distance, before dining under the stars on delicious mahi-mahi, seared tuna and mango salads, and swapping snorkelling stories. Menjangan is a world away from the stresses and strains of daily life; it is a true haven of tranquility in direct contact with nature. Jl. Raya Gilimanuk, Singaraja Km. 17 Desa Pajarakan, Buleleng, Bali 81155 INDONESIA Tel: +62 362 94700 Fax: +62 362 94708 Email: bliss@themenjangan.com www.themenjangan.com www.paradisesonline.com 83