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The Sanchaya: Bintan’s Best-Kept Secret

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29th April 2025

Tucked away in Indonesia’s Riau Archipelago on the idyllic island of Bintan, The Sanchaya is a beachfront escape that’s still refreshingly under the radar. While part of us wants to keep this gem a secret, it's simply too exceptional not to share.

Just an hour’s ferry ride from Singapore, The Sanchaya transports you into a completely different realm—one defined by timeless elegance, barefoot luxury, and exceptional service. From the moment you step off the ferry, the experience feels curated. Guests are greeted at a private VIP lounge exclusive to the resort, where chilled towels and light refreshments help ease you into island time. A private chauffeur then whisks you away for the 15-minute journey to the estate.

Upon arrival, the General Manager and his team welcomed us personally—a rare and warm gesture that set the tone for the rest of our stay. The property is quiet and serene, with sweeping ocean and pool views visible from the lobby. It immediately became clear that The Sanchaya isn’t just another luxury resort—it’s a sanctuary.

The estate is designed in a refined colonial style, merging old-world charm with contemporary luxury. Its suites and villas are spacious, artfully appointed, and exude an effortless elegance that suits solo travellers, couples, families, and small groups alike. Whether you’re escaping the pace of Singapore or celebrating a special occasion, the ambiance is elevated yet relaxed—designed for complete, uninterrupted rest.

During our two-night stay, we travelled with our two children, who were instantly enamoured by the powder-soft sand and calm waters. Although the midday sun was intense, the resort offers plenty of shaded lounge areas and a wonderfully serene spa. We highly recommend booking a treatment or two—it’s excellent value for money and an ideal retreat for parents craving a bit of rejuvenation. The Sanchaya also offers a wide range of complimentary experiences, from beachside kite-flying and garden archery to cultural storytelling and movie nights under the stars. Our children loved the freedom to explore while we unwound in the resort’s beautifully curated library and bar, sipping fresh-pressed juices and signature cocktails.

Dining at The Sanchaya is another standout feature. The estate’s culinary offering surprised and delighted us—we highly recommend opting for their local dishes, the Chef personally creates and prepares each dish using fresh local produce and can adjust the spiciness level according to your threshold for spicy food. Each meal, whether breakfast with ocean views or dinner in their signature restaurant, was a highlight and something we’d recommend coming to The Sanchaya for.  So much so, we requested to meet the chef personally to express our appreciation.

Design lovers will also be captivated by the aesthetics of the property. Every space is carefully considered—grand without being ostentatious, serene without feeling empty. Whether you’re admiring the symmetry of the estate’s architecture, watching the tide roll out from a sea-facing veranda, or capturing golden-hour moments by the pool, The Sanchaya is an Instagram dream—though its beauty is far more than skin-deep.

Final Thoughts

There’s something rare about The Sanchaya. It’s not just a resort—it’s an experience that evokes the sense of arriving somewhere truly special. With its discreet charm, impeccable service, and serene location, it redefines what it means to “get away.” Whether you're travelling with family, a partner, or simply seeking solitude, The Sanchaya delivers something few luxury resorts can: genuine warmth, understated opulence, and the quiet magic of feeling entirely at home.

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