Just outside the hustle and bustle of Bali, lies an Indonesian escape so tranquil and secluded that the moment you step ashore its crystalline beach, the rest of the world simply ceases to exist. Poof, gone. Renowned for its deep sense of tranquility and near-total privacy, Amanwana has long been a retreat for presidents, celebrities and royalty — among them, Princess Diana.
Seeking solace, the Royal visited Moyo Island, home to the resort which features just 17 tented suites nestled where jungle edges the sea, in 1993. Accompanied by her security team, it’s reported the British navy sent submarines to sweep the island two weeks before her arrival, before she spent her days exploring local waterfalls and taking much-needed respite from life in the spotlight.
Some 30 years later, the resort remains much the same — a testament to the luxurious sanctuary it’s come to be known as. An early adopter of glamping-style accommodation, designed by now legendary Belgian architect Jean-Michel Gathy, each of the private suites feature all the comforts one could need, topped with canvas roof that allows the pitter-patter of local monkey feet to be heard at any moment.
Set amongst Moyo Satonda National Park in the Flores Sea and only accessible by private resort boat, there’s more than just monkeys to be found in the nature reserve spanning 36,000 hectares.
The island is famed for its resident deer — and more recently, its whale shark expeditions. Guests are taken by private charter to a nearby spot frequented by the gentle giants, offering the rare chance to swim alongside them in the open sea. The activity menu doesn’t end there; there’s in-house spa treatments, kayaking, diving, guided treks and more.
In my three three blissfully long days at Amanwana, I endeavour to relish all the island has to offer. I go swimming in turquoise waters teeming with marine life, meditate at sunset with a local healer, lounge on the beach with a good book, indulge in one of the best massages I’ve ever had, and watch deer and monkeys roam freely through the resort.
I do it all and still find time to do nothing at all – the best activity a holiday can offer a workaholic.
As a chronically online digital editor, I thought I’d made peace with the idea that a true detox would never be possible, even when my out-of-office notifications are switched on. But, I was wrong. Amanwana’s physical separation from the rest of civilisation allows for a rare and total switch-off. There are no roads, no traffic, and no notifications clamouring for attention.
My total submersion into relaxation comes while floating in the cascading limestone pools of Mata Jitu Falls, also dubbed Diana Falls – affectionately named after the Princess who visited the natural site during her stay.
It’s here the local healer, Frendy, guides us through a floating sound bath. Staring up at the canopy, my mind racing as it usually does, already readying for the journey home when he tells me to take a breath, still my mind and let it all go.
I take a deep breath at the first chime of the singing bowl and, for once, feel like I actually can.
For more, visit Aman.com
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