Always on a mission to discover the new and unique, this issue we spread our wings a little further than usual. All the way to the mystical island of Sumba no less. Far removed from the typical Lombok vibe and way of life, Sumba is as unique as they come – even for Indonesia’s bizarrely diverse assortment of islands.  This is an island of mysterious megalithic tombs, the soaring pointed roofs of kampung homes and of course, the iconic ritual warfare on horseback that is Pasola. The latter in particular has been a magnet for adventurous travellers but Sumba has quietly been gaining plaudits for its luxury resorts. The latest turning heads is Lelewatu Resort Sumba, a cliff-hugging haven of 27 pool villas. Spanning 10 hectares of land nestled above the ocean and hemmed in by lush greenery, it reimagines the traditional Sumbanese village through the creative mind of acclaimed designer Popo Danes.

Each of the raised pavilion style villas has the idiosyncratic ‘pointed hat’ thatched roofs that are such an unmistakable feature of Sumba’s landscape. Interiors range from 130 sqm to a sprawling 650 sqm, and are filled with rich dark woods against a tapestry of flowing handwoven ikat fabrics. Quirky wall adornments are a nod to Sumba’s timeless animist culture, yet the indoor-outdoor living spaces featuring one to four bedrooms, are awash with game-changing luxury comforts. There is a private plunge pool, and the verdant topography acts as a natural barrier to offer each villa ample privacy and space. Expansive terraces provide front-row views across the ocean. Sparkling marble bathrooms have open air showers and freestanding bathtubs.

Each villa is linked with other resort amenities along winding paths. The sleek infinity pool is the social hub by day, which looks out across a wide expanse of blue ocean, framed by rolling green hills.  There are comfy daybeds for lazy days fanned by onshore breezes, or retire to the relaxed poolside hangout of the tiki bar for a cool and zesty fruit cocktail. Two restaurants – one poolside and one perched atop the resort provide contrasting foodie experiences, spanning traditional yet little-known Sumbanese fare, ocean-fresh seafood and a smorgasbord of western favourites. Open to residential guests and the public, Le Humba Restaurant and Lounge serves up Sumbanese-inspired afternoon tea and is a perfect spot for captivating nuptials and other events. The more casual Bokosawu restaurant also offers cooking classes.

Head-to-toe luxury pampering takes place in the serene Maraga Spa with a range of unique spa treatments. The design as well as the treatment menu is inspired by Sumbanese fabric of life, making full use of nourishing, natural ingredients such as coconut and cloves. In addition there is a fitness centre, horse riding trail and games room.

As a deluxe boutique resort, Lelewatu champions Sumba’s pristine ecosystem with a program of sustainable practises, from waste water recycling, locally sourced materials and food, and incorporating natural ventilation air flow within the buildings’ designs.

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