Borneo, Malaysia
Bungaraya Island Resort, Borneo
Even the previously ‘off the beaten track’ destinations like Borneo have become well-paved tourism paths and that’s why we’ve been busy searching this jungle/beach island utopia for somewhere special. The Bungaraya Island Resort is just that. An exotic jewel set on a coral reef island, off the coast of Borneo, this island hideaway will take you away from the crowds and sandwich you between crescent sugar-like sand beaches and dense, wild jungle.
Location
Bunga Raya Island Resort’s location is secluded, private and utterly tranquil. Set a few kilometres off Borneo’s north eastern coast, the resort is nestled in a bay that backs onto an expanse of jungle coated hills. Grab yourself a guide and wander through the jungle in search of an Orangutan in its natural habitat. Or turn the other way out of your cabin to the beach, where you can dive, kayak, snorkel or jet ski in the sparkling waters.
Your room
The large, secluded villas with either jungle or ocean views, offer sensual jungle island living offset with all the modern touches, but most importantly, the seclusion and privacy that has become hard to find in the tourist traps on the mainland. The villas all boast jaw-dropping views from their private balconies and the Beachfront villas sport sumptuous plunge pool. Each private villa has been hand-crafted by local tradesman in the traditional Borneo style, eschewing bricks and mortar for the age-old methods of rough-hewn timber. This is the place to rediscover that Borneo charm of old.
Why we love it
What’s not to love about a secluded paradise set between unchartered jungle and perfect beaches? Not that you need much help to unwind here, but the hilltop spa provides exotic treatments, blending traditional Asian and Western treatments to pamper your body into a state of zenful delight. Seek out further hedonistic pleasures at the resort’s restaurants: Pantai Grill and Koi serve up a mixture of traditional Asian delicacies alongside Western classics, as well as enough locally-caught seafood to make sure your taste buds are well looked after. Complement your meal with a selection from the resort’s enormous Wine Cave, where there’s the perfect wine to partner every meal.