Once upon a time, beachside land in Bali was readily available and considerably more affordable than it is now. In those days, ‘Bali style’ was charming and romantic; design concepts were inspired by classical Balinese architecture, materials were limited to what was obtainable locally, and the creativity and culture of the island was embraced through stone carvings, wood carvings and artwork. Nature did the rest.
Nowadays, when coveted oceanfront land becomes available it is promptly snatched up for multi-million dollar homes or hotels that often sanitise and take the fun out of the experience with a few too many Western ideals and interpretations on Bali style. This is not the case, however, at the beautiful Villa Sungai Tinggi, a rare seaside abode that leaves ostentation at the door and cherishes the authenticity of Balinese architecture and design.
The name means ‘High River’ and this magical four-bedroom property rests in the arm of a small lagoon, at the point where the river meets the sea. Yes, the beach is at the vast coconut-and-palm-strewn garden, as is the enchanting, two-bedroom which can be hired together with Sungai Tinggi or on its own.
Sungai Tinggi is characterised by coralline-limestone walls, thatched roofs, and an open-sided living pavilion fashioned after a traditional Balinese wantilan, or village meeting hall. Palimanan stone-carved friezes depict scenes from daily life and Hindu mythology, while water – a predominant element in the spiritual landscape of Bali – is ever-present in fountains, fish-filled lily ponds and the soothing sound of the ocean waves. Throw in some sunny open-air bathrooms, romantic four-poster beds, a smattering of Balinese antiques, artwork, textiles, intricately-carved doors, and moss-encrusted statues, and you’ll be under the spell of time-honoured Bali style.
Sungai Tinggi presents oodles of outdoor space – including a (shared) tennis court. Flowering dune-vines and pandanas border the lagoon, diffusing the offshore winds and providing a wild and woolly buffer to the sand. Coconut palms fill the sky, while cool crisp grass serves underfoot upon a little pathway to the beach.
Perfect for groups or family holidays, Sungai Tinggi is serviced by a full-time team of staff including a very capable cook, who will also take care of the grocery shopping (on guest account). This is a place where you can leave your shoes at the door. Talk about bliss!
Additional Features: Charcoal Grill, Linens provided, Bicycles (On Request), Games, Car, Garage, CD Library, Tumble Dryer, DVD Library, Ceiling Fans, Food Starter Pack, Hairdryers, High Chairs, IDD, Internet (WiFi), iPod Dock/Speakers, Iron/Board, Equipped Kitchen, Laundry Service, Book Selection, Food Menu, Microwave, Oven/Hotplates, Electronic Games (Playstation), Swimming Pool Toys, Extra Bed (Roll away/mattress), Safe, Snooker/Pool Table, CD Player/Stereo System, Pool (access), Tennis Court, Toiletries, Towels, TV (Satellite/Cable) , Washing Machine, Wine List, Air-con, Crib, Coffee Machine, Main Dining (12 persons), Driver (8 hours), Chef/Cook (All meals), Babysitter, Security, Shopper, Manager, Masseuse/Spa Therapist, Housekeeping (Full time)
Location Type: Beach in ten, Beachfront, Body and soul, Bring the relatives, Kid friendly, Going for golf, Fair share for groups, The great outdoors, Sensible for seniors, Room with a view