The Loveliest villas in the most unexpected Indonesian destinations

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Lombok
Travelling to rural Lombok doesn’t mean you should stay in a Spartan beach hut. This Hollywood worthy villa includes the most indulgent features: from a 18-metre infinity pool to a media room, a pool table and some minimalist designer furniture. The 4-bedroom villa is close to some major surf spots and heavenly beaches to keep a group of friends or your family entertained.
How to get there: Fly to Lombok and go on a 20-min taxi ride to the villa.
Price: $$$
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Nusa Penida
Neighbouring island Bali may need no introduction, but Nusa Penida is still under the radar - for now. Located only 20-min away from commercialised Bali, this little island surprises by its untouched beauty. To complete the experience, stay in the most incredible room in Indonesia: a tiny hut perched in the trees overlooking a cliff. Offering a shared bathroom, the room is basic but no other place offers such a breathtaking view over the bay.
How to get there: Fly to Bali Denpasar and take a 20 min boat ride from Sanur to Nusa Penida.
Price: $
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Mentawai island
If for you, holidays rhymes with "workout everyday", then this remote island should get you back into shape and allow you to improve your surfing skills. Catch Asia's best waves and enjoy the relaxed vibe at Kandui resort while staying in one of the pretty beach chalets. If you don’t surf, fret not: you can still go for yoga classes or simply relax and enjoy the resort’s healthy fresh juices.
How to get there? Fly to Padang and hop on a speedboat for 3 hours to reach Mentawai island.
Price: $$$$
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Salatiga
If you’ve ever wanted to stay in an architect’s home, this villa might be a dream come true. Located in Central Java between the Merbabu mountain and Indonesia’s most iconic temple –Borobudur– this house is so unique that you might just stay in the whole time. Inspired by the surrounding volcanoes, the villa includes a high-ceiling and gorgeous glass walls. Sharing the villa with the owner who is the architect, you’ll enjoy some quiet time and be able to spot some rabbits in the villa’s tropical garden from the comfort of your room. An ideal getaway that would enchant young ones.
How to get there: Fly to Semarang and grab a taxi for an hour long ride.
Price: $
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Raja Ampat
Despite being located in a lesser-known part of Indonesia, Misool could put the Maldives or Bali to shame. The eco-resort nestled in Raja Ampat archipelago is home to 15 Pinterest-worthy over-water villas. They come with breathtaking views from the balcony's little hammock, and stylish yet minimalist furniture. The resort is impressive not just for its looks but also for its commitment to preserving marine life in the area. From there, take a tour of the jungle-covered, deserted island or go diving in one of the world’s most impressive corals and sea life area.
How to get there? Fly to Makassar, from there, catch a short domestic flight to Sorong, and then you are another 1.5 hour ferry or speedboat ride away to one of the Raja Ampat islands.
Price: $$$$
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Pulau Macan
This tiny enclave among the Thousand Islands has all the trimmings of an expensive resort, except its price. The eco-resort offers crystal-clear water, a private deserted island and absolute bliss at a very reasonable price. With only 9 bedrooms, Pulau Macan is intimate and is the perfect getaway for a group of friends or a couple wanting to sleep in one of the simple yet beautiful villas built on the shore and offering breathtaking sea views. From there, start your day by walking a few meters from your bed and going snorkeling or kayaking to the deserted island owned by the resort.
How to get there? Fly to Jakarta, 30 minutes drive and then 2 hour boat ride to reach Pulau Macan.
Price: $$
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Pulau Cubawak
if you want to experience an intimate island but are not into bumpy boat rides, Pulau Cubawak is an easy beach getaway, being just only 15 minutes away from the shore. Paradiso Village is a kids-friendly resort that offers cute beach bungalows and some picturesque communal area built on stilts. From there, go for a snorkeling trip where you could bump into beautiful turtles.
How to get there? Fly to Padang, 2 hours drive and then a quick 15-minute boat transfer.
Price: $$

Going for a getaway is always nice, but going for a getaway with intimacy and private space is even nicer. Perched over a cliff or facing crystal clear waters, there is something incredibly appealing about the whole idea of your own personal space. You might picture touristy locations in Koh Samui or Bali; but we think you should set your sights on some secluded and lesser-known locations where you can get the peace you deserve.

Indonesia, home to thousands of islands set in breathtakingly azure seas and busy cities surrounded by lush forest, the country is certainly not short of the perfect villa experience for your ideal vacation.

Tempted? Browse through our gallery above to check out our favourite villas in the most unexpected locations. Afraid villas will blow-up your budget? Fret not: there’s something for everyone in this list.

This post was written with the collaboration & support of the Ministry of Tourism Indonesia. Air Asia offers the best connectivity to Indonesia, check out their 15 destinations here!

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The Loveliest villas in the most unexpected Indonesian destinations

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