Somewhere Lombok

Somewhere Lombok, a Michelin Key Selected property, offers a captivating retreat amidst the serene hills of Pujut, Indonesia, drawing guests with its breathtaking views, thoughtful design, and exceptional service.

Overall Rating & Sentiment

Somewhere Lombok consistently garners overwhelmingly positive reviews, with guests frequently describing their stays as "amazing," "dream," and "wonderful" experiences. It holds high ratings for staff (9.3), cleanliness (9.2), comfort (9.2), and facilities (9.0) on major booking platforms. The general sentiment highlights a tranquil and relaxing atmosphere, making it a sought-after escape from bustling areas.

Key Highlights

Guests are particularly enchanted by the breathtaking views of Are Guling Bay, the ocean, and the sunrise, especially from the stunning infinity pool and private villa balconies. The extraordinary design of the resort, which seamlessly blends with the surrounding nature and incorporates local handicrafts, is another major draw. The exceptional and friendly staff are frequently praised for their attentiveness and genuine hospitality. The peaceful and relaxing atmosphere is consistently mentioned as a key element of the guest experience, providing a serene sanctuary.

Room Quality

The accommodations at Somewhere Lombok consist of 20 identically-designed standalone villas, each featuring a private plunge pool and a palm-fringed terrace. The villas are spacious (approximately 549 sq ft or 51 sq m) and boast a minimalist, contemporary-boho style with high ceilings and an indoor-outdoor feel. Large glass sliding doors open to lush mountain terrain or ocean views, and guests can enjoy rain showers with views of Mount Rinjani through almost full-height windows. Amenities include comfortable beds (often described as one of the most comfortable), a Harman Kardon Bluetooth speaker, minibar, tea/coffee making facilities, air-conditioning, and Sensatia Botanicals bath products. While generally lauded as luxurious, one reviewer did describe the rooms as "spartan" and the plunge pool as "laughable," like an "outdoor bathtub."

Dining Experience

The hotel's all-day dining restaurant serves a delicious Indonesian-fusion menu with a focus on fresh, locally sourced produce. Guests consistently praise the high quality of the food. Breakfast is a highlight, offering a bountiful spread of tropical fruit, homemade granola, and smoothie bowls, alongside à la carte options like pineapple-topped pancakes and French toast. The restaurant caters to various dietary needs with halal, vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free options. While the food quality is excellent, some guests note that the spa and restaurant can be "rather pricey" compared to nearby local establishments.

Service & Staff

The service and staff at Somewhere Lombok receive widespread commendation. Guests describe them as "unbelievable friendly," "exceptional," "super attentive," "helpful," and "sincere." The warm welcome and genuine care provided by the team, with specific mentions of staff members like Gaio and Emil, significantly enhance the guest experience. The hospitality is often highlighted as a key reason for a memorable stay.

Location & Accessibility

Somewhere Lombok is strategically perched on a hilltop overlooking Are Guling Bay, providing a secluded and tranquil environment. It is approximately a 10-15 minute drive from the lively town of Kuta, known for its restaurants and world-class surf spots. The hotel offers a regular shuttle service to Kuta, and airport transfers from Lombok International Airport (LOP), which is about 40 minutes away by car. While the location offers stunning views and peacefulness, some guests have noted that the road leading up to the hotel can be challenging or "not the best." The resort's tiered layout on a steep hill means it is only accessible via stairs, making it potentially unsuitable for guests with mobility issues.

Value & Pricing

Somewhere Lombok is considered a luxury experience, with pricing that reflects its high quality, unique design, and personalized service. Room rates can start from approximately GBP 139 or USD 199.85 per night. The average room rate in the past month has been around 5,447,023.2 IDR. While some reviews indicate it is "rather pricey", many guests feel the cost is justified by the exceptional experience, breathtaking views, and the overall luxurious and tranquil ambiance. The Michelin Key selection further reinforces its status as a high-quality stay.

Common Complaints

While overwhelmingly positive, some recurring criticisms include:

• Access Road: The dirt road or driveway leading to the hotel is sometimes mentioned as needing maintenance.
• Limited Menu Choice: A few guests have found the restaurant's menu to be somewhat limited in choice.
• Pricing: The restaurant and spa services are noted as being pricey compared to local options outside the resort.
• Isolated Location: Being "in the middle of nowhere" can be a downside for those seeking more immediate access to amenities or a bustling environment. However, the hotel offers a shuttle service to Kuta.
• Minor Room Issues: Isolated comments include noisy air conditioning, one guest finding the rooms "spartan" and the plunge pool small, and observations of dirty or stained staff T-shirts.
• Staff Interaction: One reviewer reported a staff member "pushing for sponsoring," which was deemed unacceptable for a resort of this caliber.

Sources

1. booking.com
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3. i-escape.com
4. epicureasia.com
5. mrandmrssmith.com
6. bali.live
7. thevacationdestinations.com
8. tuguhotels.com
9. mrandmrssmith.com
10. expedia.com