In Indonesia’s remote and beautiful Anambas Archipelago, surrounded by clear turquoise waters teeming with tropical fish lies Bawah Reserve. An exclusive island reserve, Bawah reserve was saved from destruction by illegal dynamite fishing by owners who sought to protect and preserve this ecological utopia. Now a designated conservation area, the design and build of this resort was done with supporting the island’s mature island flora. Now the reserve combines a reverence of nature with luxurious yet sustainable indulgence. Melding contemporary convenience with indigenous, traditional craftsmanship, the structures are built on footings that require minimal interference. Stay in any one of the different accommodation options, from a two-bedroom villa for you and your family or friends to stay in, to a secluded and romantic overwater bungalow. No matter where you chose to stay enjoy being surrounded by the island’s abundant nature and the crystal-clear waters of the lagoons and ocean.
Spend your days hiking one of the three trails through the lush forests of Bawah Reserve and encounter the spectacular 50-metre-high, 500-year-old Keruing tree, the beating heart of this ecosystem. Or learn about how food is sustainably grown on the island and take a walk through the gardens and farmlands. Take to the beach or lawns and get your heart pumping with a game of tennis, volleyball or learn the local game of Speak Takraw. Take to the seas and snorkel around some of the stunning coral reefs that teem with an abundance of tropical fish. Silently glide across the water in a clear kayak and see the ocean swirling below you. Or dive below the surface and join the Anambas Foundation team as they help to transplant preserve the precious coral reefs as well as aiding in the removal of ghost fishing nets and equipment left on the reef. Otherwise spend your days simply enjoying the simplicity of gently swaying in a hammock, walking barefoot on the powdery sand, and enjoying castaway picnics in remote spots on the islands. Relax your muscles with a trip to the spa where expert masseurs will alleviate any muscular aches and send you into a state of complete euphoria. After a delicious supper in one of the Reserve’s restaurants head back to your room and fall asleep accompanied by the sounds of rustling forests and crashing waves.