The Sanubari

A WILD PARADISE

Sanubari is a charming small property nestled in the heart of a lush reserve on the forgotten ancestral lands of the Marapu people of Sumba Island, a one-hour flight from Bali. The 100-hectare reserve is a true sanctuary for all lovers of nature, culture and the ocean. Created by an Anglo-Australian couple and opened in September 2022, this little corner of paradise takes some effort to reach and is not easily accessible, but that is what makes it so charming and unique. Its six spacious villas are nestled in the vegetation along the edge of the deserted beach, dressed in white and exotic wood with sliding glass doors offering superb ocean views. The experiences on offer revolve around water (surfing, paddleboarding, swimming), nature (hiking, cycling, motorbiking, horse riding) and Marapu culture, unique to Sumba Island (exclusive visits to traditional villages or "kampung"). Sanubari is the ideal haven for travellers seeking unique experiences within one of the last megalithic cultures in the world.

STYLE

A minimalist design using materials that pay homage to Sumba culture

SITUATION

On the island of Sumba, a 1-hour flight from Bali, in the heart of a 100-hectare nature reserve

CAPACITY

Only 6 spacious villas across miles of wild beach and breathtaking ocean views

HIGHLIGHTS

Its isolated location in the heart of unspoilt nature and its 6 beach villas offering a unique experience

THE EXPERIENCES

  • Galloping at breakneck speed and swimming with one's horse
  • Teasing legendary surf breaks
  • Exploring rivers on a paddle board
  • Exploring rice paddies and villages by motorbike or bicycle
  • Attending centuries-old local rituals
  • Discover the waterfalls of the Wanukaka Valley

THE EXTRAORDINARY

Sanubari is a dream hotel for anyone yearning for calm and serenity in an unspoilt and authentic natural setting. It will delight lovers of waves and deserted beaches, as well as visitors in search of spirituality and freedom. Sumba is one of the last cultures to practice the Marapu religion, an ancestral animist religion.  

ETHICS

To create this dream setting while preserving the surrounding wilderness, Sanubari sourced local building materials such as teak, stone and alang grass. The resort has also improved the local ecosystem by planting more than 5,000 native trees across its 100-hectare reserve.