Lombok is often hailed as Bali’s quieter, more pristine sibling – a throwback to the island’s heyday some 20 years ago. Deserted beaches, jaw-dropping volcanoes, and lush, picture-perfect landscapes, all blissfully free of the tourist hordes. And if Lombok enchants, Somewhere goes one step further, delivering understated luxury and unfiltered beauty, just 15 minutes from Kuta’s buzzing restaurants and world-class surf spots on the island's south coast.
Perched dramatically above the turquoise expanse of Are Guling Bay, you’re hit by the sense of space and light from the moment you enter the hotel. Somewhere is the inspired creation of sisters Claire and Valia, whose aim to distill years of globetrotting into a sophisticated (and well-priced) Indonesian retreat squarely delivers. Twenty identical, ultra-chic villas are seamlessly nestled into lush, indigenous vegetation. Poured concrete is punctuated by sleek black columns and softened with warm Javanese teakwood furniture. The hotel’s central hub hums with laid-back charm. It’s a space made for lingering – over a leisurely meal, a cocktail at the bar, with a book poolside, or drifting off in a hammock. But it’s not just about the looks. The atmosphere is effortlessly relaxed, striking the perfect balance between attentive hospitality and the comforting ease of feeling at home. If only home looked this good.
Highs
- Somewhere is perfectly located for accessing the southern coast of Lombok; lively Kuta and stunning neighbouring beaches
- The saltwater infinity pool is Somewhere’s pièce de résistance; long enough for morning laps over crashing waves
- The rooms are impressively spacious and good value: comfortable yet stylish, each with their own private terrace and plunge pool
- The service was fantastic: attentive but not intrusive
- Its eco credentials: rainwater harvesting, on-site waste management, recharge wells, and absorption pits. Somewhere treads lightly
Lows
- To get to any of the rooms there are really steep stairs and no lifts. For some, this may prove a challenge
- There aren’t many places to walk to from the hotel, however they do run a shuttle to Kuta and Kuta Beach five times a day
- The road up to Somewhere is a work in progress, so expect a bumpy ride - but it’s OK in a normal hire car, taken slowly
- Laundry felt disproportionally expensive, so perhaps save it for when you get home
Best time to go
The dry season in Lombok is May to October when most visit the island for its resplendent sunshine. The months each side – April and November – also yield sunny days interspersed by a few, patchy showers.
For something different, and if you don't mind some rain, the Bau Nyale Festival (Feb or March; dates vary) is a chance to see island traditions come alive, with a sea worm catching ceremony (yes, Google it!), horse racing, parades and live music. Also worth noting is the Nyepi Day of Silence (March; date varies) when Lombok comes to a complete standstill for 24 hours, with no lights, music or transport on the island.
For something different, and if you don't mind some rain, the Bau Nyale Festival (Feb or March; dates vary) is a chance to see island traditions come alive, with a sea worm catching ceremony (yes, Google it!), horse racing, parades and live music. Also worth noting is the Nyepi Day of Silence (March; date varies) when Lombok comes to a complete standstill for 24 hours, with no lights, music or transport on the island.
Our top tips
Ask for a room which overlooks the sea, as not quite all of them quite do.
Make sure you’re at the hotel between 4-6pm for a really, really good happy hour of proper cocktails.
Make sure you’re at the hotel between 4-6pm for a really, really good happy hour of proper cocktails.