The Sanchaya Bintan, Indonesia, is a singular fusion of a glorious past, cutting-edge modern luxury and a clear vision of indulgence, all brought together in a magnificent way
Uncompromising in its penchant for refinement and detail, The Sanchaya Bintan is a luxurious beachfront escape that is steeped in tradition, tranquillity and beauty. Boasting an exceptionally beautiful setting in a former coconut plantation graced with breathtaking views of the South China Sea, it is flanked by rainforest and a manmade lagoon on one side, and the shimmering ocean on the other. Inside, the elegant estate is like a museum of Southeast Asian art and artefacts.
Located on the Indonesian island of Bintan and just a stone’s throw from Singapore, The Sanchaya is a world apart, an idyllically picture-perfect destination that beckons its discerning guests to disconnect and unwind.
Channelling a Gatsbyesque vibe, the luxury estate is carefully styled to resemble an imposing colonial mansion house with colonnade-fronted buildings, white plantation shutters, a courtyard and sprawling grounds.
Owner Natalya Pavchinskaya brings her stylish influence to every corner of The Sanchaya: check out her eclectic fashion and collectables in the boutique, as well as her personal art collection that is arranged throughout the hotel.
Designed with colonial panache and infused with discreet modern undertones, The Sanchaya Bintan offers a refined yet private residential ambience, adorned with tasteful Asian artwork and antiques. The polished timbered floors, dramatic dark wood-accented decor, black-and-white tiles, dark brown leather chesterfields and white pillared verandas are a prelude to what is to come.
Spanning 10 hectares of well-manicured lawns and tropical foliage, this stunning low-rise enclave offers 30 ultra-stylish villas and suites, including an exceptional private residence.
The main building, aptly named the Great House, is where memorable times are spent – a leisurely afternoon in the plush library, an indulgent wine and cheese pairing session in the cellar, a pampering session at the wonderful spa or slow-life appreciation by the aquamarine-tiled pool with its mesmerising ocean views.
Offering an inordinate amount of luxury and elegance along with impeccable service, The Sanchaya in Bintan brings a new dimension of classy refinement to Bintan Island.
The stunning design of the Sanchaya Bintan is enveloped in the charm and grace of colonial aesthetics and is indulgently blended with a hint of understated glamour and dazzling modernity
The Sanchaya reflects centuries-old colonial architecture and plantation estates, whilst melding the elegance of the Orient with European refinement, with references to Southeast Asia’s rich history and culture in its artwork, antiques, books, artefacts and furnishings.
The Sanchaya is the brainchild of entrepreneur Natalya Pavchinskaya, a Russian designer, artist, businesswoman and film producer (the award-winning Home Shopper with Dev Patel, Hotel Mumbai and Buffalo Boys). Her vision for The Sanchaya in Bintan was that it be a collection of experiences that reflect the rich mosaic of Asia. The boutique hotel was conceptualised as a private estate showcasing art and collectables amassed through the owner’s many journeys. Representing Pavchinskaya’s personal discoveries and passions, the collection offers insight into Asia’s cultures and histories, as well as its artistic heritage.
An authentic sense of place with exquisite detail fills The Sanchaya, where the decor is themed around 10 Southeast Asian countries. There are pieces from Thailand, Indonesia, Brunei, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos, each enjoying its own place in this mesmerising mosaic of styles and themes.
Styled with impeccable taste and incredible attention to detail, there are wooden decks and hardwood parquet floors, handmade ceramic tiles and Indonesian handcrafted furniture, bamboo screens and Chinese-style cabinets, antique wooden writing desks stocked with artisanal stationery, and an assemblage of antiques, old travel posters, curios, books and brass objects. The rich tones of wood lend the spaces an unparallelled warmth.
Designed to echo the historical heritage of the colonial period in Indonesia, The Sanchaya holds a plethora of nostalgic charm and grace representing a time gone by. Yet a polished tone of stylish modernity comes through with contemporary detailing that augments the timeless aesthetics throughout the property.
The designers infused the property with clean lines and added a touch of glamorous black-and-white monochrome. Gleaming chrome fixtures and the latest technology and electronics are an integral part of the elegant appointments.
All components work beautifully in harmony with colours and tones that complement one another perfectly, resulting in a splendidly eclectic expression of dazzling timelessness and beauty.
Offering not just a tranquil respite from the frantic city life, The Sanchaya in Bintan is also an inspiring haven for artists and creatives. Since its opening, the resort has played host to a number of creative talents – artists, film producers, musicians, fashion designers and photographers – as part of its artist-in-residence programme and its ongoing commitment to fostering creativity and promoting arts and culture. Kumari Nahappan, one of the most prominent artists in Southeast Asia, has chosen The Sanchaya as the permanent destination for two of her installations: The Guardian Angel – a 2.5-metre tall, pearlescent sculpture of a pineapple – and the striking red Saga Seeds, which are dotted throughout the estate.
Impeccable accommodation with immense elegance and flair
The 21 private villas and nine suites, including a stunning private residence, combine generous proportions with flawless style and comfort.
There are a number of room types, ranging from Thai villas tucked away into the gardens, to sophisticated sea-view suites in the Great House, to the grand 4-bedroom Vanda Villa. Imagine the experience of staying by invitation at a wealthy friend’s elegant mansion: that is the feel of The Sanchaya.
Boasting a careful blend of colonial elegance and timeless beauty, the villas and suites are sublimely stylish with sumptuous furnishings, whilst Southeast Asian antiques, art and curios add a touch of originality and refinement. Decor is divine throughout: colonial chic with rich wood walls and parquet floors, eye-catching monochrome palette, swirling fans, shutters, canopied beds, dark wood planter chairs and loads of luxury.
With so much fine detail, guests could be inclined to remain in their room. There are crisp Egyptian cotton linens, an extensive pillow menu, Malongo espresso machine, complimentary “maxi” bar replenished daily, a premium selection of Ronnefeldt teas, and private wine fridges that can hold four bottles, at different temperatures.
Affording great views of either the sea or the lush tropical gardens, each villa or suite has either private verandas or balconies with comfortable padded sun loungers, allowing guests to enjoy outdoor privacy throughout their stay.
The oversized bathrooms are sanctuaries of calm, with features that include walk-in showers, gorgeous Lefroy Brooks claw-foot bathtubs and Aesop bath products. For the perfect bath, there is a herbal bath salt menu. The beauty bag accommodates signature S’YA skincare products such as a facial massage stick, rejuvenating face oil, facemask and exfoliating skin brush.
Technology is omni-present with Bang & Olufsen TV and sound systems, Apple TV and iPads, with a wide selection of movies. Enjoy daily turndown service with hot chocolate, fruit and cookies.
In-villa dining and 24-hour room service are also available for those who cannot bear to tear themselves away from the luxury of their own private quarters.
A pre-arrival form allows the graceful staff to personalise the experience of every guest: have a favourite champagne available upon arrival, select the perfect music for the room and preference for the bath and pillows, dietary requirements, including food allergies, and any other lifestyle desires.
Nestled amidst luscious gardens and the sparkling ocean, Vanda Villa – the owner’s mansion – is the best of the best. Sophistication and refined seclusion await at Vanda Villa, a stunning 4-bedroom private beachfront residence inspired by Singapore’s colonial past.
With 1,426m² of elegance, the indulgent mansion villa comes with a main building and a cottage and accommodates up to eight guests in the lap of luxury. It features large indoor and outdoor living spaces, including a colonial-style 90m² upper floor terrace with sweeping views of the ocean and the villa’s own private, sunset-facing infinity pool. It comes with its own kitchen. Relish an intimate dinner cooked by one of the estate’s talented chefs for that sense of total indulgence.
A team of specially trained staff from The Sanchaya is on hand to attend to guests’ every need, guaranteeing all the luxury one can devour. Staying at Vanda Villa includes daily breakfast for up to eight guests, served in-villa or in the Dining Room, as well as nightly sunset cocktails and canapés.
Another top choice is the beautiful Leelawadee compound, offering 200m² of living space plus a private pool deck. It consists of three independent spacious 1-bedroom villas that open to the common outdoor areas that include a private 17-metre swimming pool. Each villa features a spacious living area and veranda overlooking the tranquil estate gardens and lagoon. The large outdoor deck by the pool is great for sunbathing, relaxing and private dining.
There are also luxurious 2-bedroom villas with 178m² of indoor and outdoor space. Each of these spacious beach residences features a central living and dining area, two bedrooms and luxurious bathrooms. There is a small kitchen that may be used by the staff to serve family meals at the villa’s very own dining table. The beautiful veranda is accessible from both bedrooms and the living room, and is the perfect spot for sundowners, offering direct access to the lawn and beach.
Impressive food and drinks: menus span East and West, with grand cocktails and an estate sommelier
Casual or formal, day or night, for drinks, snacks or meals, The Sanchaya in Bintan offers guests an inspiring choice of stylish restaurants and bars to suit the mood.
Start the day with truffle-scented eggs and a visit by the jamu-wallah for a shot of traditional Indonesian tonic. Then end it with pink margaritas and Thai street food under the stars, followed by liquid-nitrogen ice cream. Do not miss the estate’s fine afternoon tea, where guests can try a signature tea blend from Ronnefeldt, served with homemade pastries on fine bone china.
There are five delectable experiences to choose from:
Tasanee Grill: Dine at this al fresco Thai grill that sits along the expansive infinity pool overlooking the estate. The restaurant will delight the most discerning taste buds with its delicious menu inspired by Bangkok’s vibrant street food scene.
The Dining Room: From the veranda tables, soak up the expansive views of the ocean and the beautiful infinity pool, whilst enjoying a menu that offers contemporary European and Indonesian delicacies for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Breakfast is a buffet of pastries, breads, cereals and a changing array of Southeast Asian dishes prepared at the live station (noodles, etc.), plus an innovative hot dish made-to-order menu from items such as goat cheese frittata and omelette with red pepper relish. Watch for the traditionally dressed lady offering three types of jamu, an Indonesian herbal tonic. Lunch may be taken by the pool or in the Dining Room, with some lighter options available. The inside dining space is enhanced by French doors, rattan chairs, wood accents and linen curtains that contribute to creating a gorgeously chic environment.
The Bar: Complete with chesterfield sofas and hooded leather chairs, deep, rich colour palette and decorative artefacts, this refined bar exudes a sophisticated Old World ambience. Explore the extensive selection of Cuban hand-rolled cigars, enjoy the delights of a classic afternoon tea, or indulge in one of the tempting cocktails.
The comprehensive list of cocktails includes the classics as well as many tropical, plantation-inspired options prepared tableside by the estate’s expert mixologist. For something different and lovely, try the pink margaritas, “Natalia special” as the Estate Manager calls it, referring to the owner’s favourite neon pink tequila brand. In the evening, cocktails are served with flavoured nuts and canapés, a tempting treat before dinner.
The Decanter: This intimate glass-walled wine bar, with its breathtaking ocean views, delights the senses in more ways than one. The passionate in-house sommelier and fromager delights guests with wine tastings and wine-and-cheese pairing workshops. He even has his own cheese made in Bali. The exclusive and impressive wine list features award-winning wines from boutique vineyards across the world. The range of champagnes is exquisite. The Decanter is also ideal for smaller private parties and seats up to 10 guests.
Private dining options: The Sanchaya organises private dining in one’s suite or villa, and the hotel offers 24-hour room service. For something special, do not miss a romantic beach dinner for two. The estate will put together a lovely beach table with candles and draping close to the sea, offering a memorable meal in the privacy of one’s little cocoon, far from other guests.
A serenely elegant playground with magnificent public rooms and alluring recreational facilities
Set in expansive tropical gardens, there is plenty to keep guests entertained without ever leaving this elegant playground. The immensely handsome public areas, including the Salon and the Library, can be found in the Great House, the stunning centrepiece of the resort.
Elaborately decorated with Southeast Asian antiques and Natalya Pavchinskaya’s private book collection around a huge cage chandelier and two large leather chesterfields, the Library is a sanctuary of peace. Compete in a game of chest, read one of the classics, marvel at the beautiful photography coffee table books or get lost in the pages of one of the fascinating books from yesteryear and today. Like The Sanchaya itself, those books can whisk guests off to another time and place.
The focal point of the outdoor area is the 50-metre Olympic-sized infinity pool that offers the pleasures of indulgence in a setting made of dreams. It overlooks a jaw-dropping expanse of powdery white sand and the blue ocean. This is where luxury meets contentment on a stage of stunning tropical views and blissful serenity. It is all capped off with the guest-pampering service that is on display at every turn.
The pool has submerged sun loungers in its shallow wading section, a great place for guests to cool off.
After the pool, it is perhaps time to enjoy the stunning beach filled with beautiful cabanas and towering palm trees that sway in the gentle warm breeze. The helpful staff will bring a wicker basket with still or sparkling water that is distilled on site, chilled refresher towels, sunscreen and after-sun gel. From time to time, the staff may go around handing out small frozen fruit kebabs or other treats. Staff are a delight, as friendly or unobtrusive as one needs, with food and drink options never far away.
The Sanchaya Spa is the ultimate expression of unhurried luxury. An oasis of calm, it offers four indoor treatment rooms and outdoor cabanas in the lush tropical garden.
Designed to relax, recharge and rejuvenate from head to toe, the spa treatments are inspired by local cultures, traditions and customs and use natural products indigenous to the region. Try the herbal massage – which uses locally grown fresh ginger and herbs – while sipping on a steaming cup of the hotel’s own blend, chakra-balancing tea. Or opt for the signature Java volcanic stone massage done in the outdoor pavilions. Some treatments use Sodashi, an exclusive range of spa therapies that are uncompromising in quality, purity and performance.
The spa also organises morning yoga classes that are complimentary for everyone at the open-sided garden pavilion facing the sea. Or practice the downward dog on the in-room yoga mat. There is also a high-tech gym open to guests 24 hours a day. Personal trainers may be on hand to help hone one’s technique.
Because the hotel sits on a long stretch of beach along Lagoi Bay, guests may go for long walks on the sand or enjoy a morning jog.
Inventive recreational activities include a number of traditional lawn games that include croquet, pétanque, boccia and traditional Indonesian board games such as congklak. There are archery sessions on the manicured lawn overlooking the ocean, stand-up paddleboards, Tokyo bikes, blokart sailing, beach volleyball and beach kite flying.
Guests may take a Southeast Asian Flavours cooking class, with hands-on help from the estate’s chef. Or ask the mixologist at The Bar to teach cocktail-making and mocktails with tropical flavours.
There is a boutique that stocks rare designer-worthy clothing, bathing suits and other accessories where guests may buy some of the items they see around the hotel. The boutique sells apparel from the S’YA Concept collection, especially designed for The Sanchaya by the owner.
While The Sanchaya is an adult’s playground, children are welcome. There are baby cots, babysitting services, in-room iPads with kid-friendly movies, kids’ menu, kids’ bikes, Onewheelers, mini soccer, beach toys, and imaginative activities that delight children of all ages, including archery classes and mocktail classes.
The Sanchaya in Bintan provides the perfect location for small- and medium-sized upscale events. Whether it is an intimate wedding ceremony, birthday celebration, board meeting, exclusive product launch or a corporate retreat, the estate boasts a range of indoor and outdoor venues. The Dahlia function room provides a number of options – from 48 guests for a sit-down dinner, to accommodating 75 guests theatre-style. A team of highly experienced professionals is on hand to tailor an experience according to the customer’s party size, vision and specifications, with a range of culinary and entertainment options. A hotel buy-out for exclusive use of the entire property is also possible.
Inspirational off-site activities
The Sanchaya faces a crystal-clear turquoise sea that is home to playful dolphins and graceful turtles. It is surrounded by rainforests and mangroves rich in exotic animal life such as chattering monkeys and monitor lizards. Guests have the opportunity to discover the wildlife on a mangrove tour, or go island hopping to Senggarang and Penyengat islands to see ancient temples, ruins and tombs.
The night mangrove tour is truly magical. It is a quiet boat ride through the mangrove forest, which is spectacularly lit by iridescent fireflies. There is an Activities Concierge who can arrange snorkelling, scuba diving and sailing trips, as well as a traditional Bintan fishing tour to the fishing village of Trikora. Or cruise along the Sebung River, home to macaques and silvered leaf monkeys. Hike up to the summit of Gunung Bintan Mountain or enjoy nature walks into the island’s rainforest.
In search of some culture, then head south to the area around the capital city of Tanjung Pinang. Reflecting the diverse heritage of the Riau region, here one will find Buddhist temples, Muslim mosques and a beautifully restored Malay palace.
There are open-air cockpit seaplane tours, private charters and sunset cruises on the Sanchaya’s private yacht.
Bintan is a golfer’s paradise too, with several courses conceived by famous designers such as Gary Player, Jack Nicklaus, Greg Norman and Ian Baker-Finch.
In a serene beachfront setting less than an hour from Singapore, Sanchaya Bintan evokes feelings of another world
Set on the northern shore of Indonesia’s Bintan Island, in the Lagoi Bay area, the luxurious Sanchaya Bintan is only a short transfer from Singapore. From Changi International Airport, it takes 10 minutes to the Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal, where high-speed ferries wait to whisk guests to Bintan, 50 minutes across the Singapore Straits.
The arrival process begins as soon as guests disembark the ferry and are greeted by a Sanchaya staff member who invites them to the hotel’s private VIP lounge for fast-track service. It is the only hotel in Bintan with a private lounge at the ferry terminal, which instantly sets the stage for tropical exclusivity The Sanchaya team handles express immigration, customs clearance and hotel check-in processes. Guests will relax in the lounge with aromatic coffee and tea or chilled champagne whilst Sanchaya staff deal with the paperwork. Then they are offered complimentary chauffeur service to the hotel, a mere 10-minute drive away.
The Sanchaya’s private yacht is also available for private transfers from Singapore to Bintan.
The Sanchaya is the undisputed pinnacle of luxury on Bintan
The Sanchaya in Bintan appeals to a global clientele, those who are artistically inclined, or who appreciate art and interior design, fans of beautiful surroundings and of service that goes the extra mile to satisfy the requests of their special clientele.
Billed as Bintan Island’s leading luxury boutique hotel, The Sanchaya offers Instagram-worthy aesthetic, serene ambience, spectacular views of the ocean, unrivalled luxury, quiet glamour and world-class service.
