Reclaiming Serenity at Bintan’s Most Regal Beachside Haven, The Sanchaya

CONTENT: Michelle Ng

Stepping off the ferry in Bintan, I was immediately ushered into The Sanchaya’s private VIP lounge. With a chilled towel in hand and a coffee, it was a smooth start to my weekend away from bustle of Singapore. Check-in, immigration and baggage collection were all handled by the attentive staff, and then we were well on our way without having to lift a finger.

This set the tone for a weekend of pure indulgence, defined by ultra-fresh coastal gastronomy, hyper-local flavours, and unbroken ocean views. The Sanchaya was a short drive away from the port, and we were welcomed by Greg, the property manager. Stepping onto the grounds of The Sanchaya feels like crossing into an era of bygone elegance, where sweeping black-and-white colonial architecture meets the gentle, palm-fringed quiet of Bintan’s finest coastline. Only the sounds of beach and a soft sea breeze rustles in the background remain as time instantly slows.

The estate has 30 rooms and villas, which includes 21 suites and 9 standalone villas. Despite it being fully booked the entire weekend, we never had a problem getting a table to dine or a seat at the pool. As we slowly discovered, The Sanchaya was a fitting description of its Sanskrit namesake that is rooted in a collection of architectural influences, with giant floating Saga Seeds, whimsical ant-isnpired Pipilaka sculptures by local artist Wahyadi Liem, and their quirky striped mascot Mr Morris.

Our home for the weekend was the Sanchaya Suite—a stately, colonial-inspired sanctuary featuring an expansive living area and a private veranda overlooking the ocean. For a change of aesthetic, guests can also opt for the Thai-inspired Lawan Villas set around a tranquil lagoon, or the majestic, two-story Vanda Villa with its own private compound for bigger groups.

Thoughtful touches—from woven sun totes and beach slippers to organic insect repellent—give the stay the intimate, intuitive feel of a holiday home rather than a destination resort. The home-away-from-home hospitality extends into unlimited maxibar treats, dedicated butler service on call around the clock, and restorative and wellness activities like yoga, archery, and Papillionaire bicycles.

Breakfast is a slow start to the day, with restorative shots and a selection of Western and Asian dishes. Meals are served up at the Dining Room, and guests also have the option for alfresco dining at The Tasanee Grill to enjoy Thai cuisine and fresh coastal seafood. Culinary excellence at The Sanchaya begins with a commitment to the land and sea that surround it. By centering its menus around hyper-local ingredients—from ocean-fresh seafood caught by local waters to estate-grown herbs—the resort elevates every meal while honoring the coastal ecosystem.

While the team is more than happy to arrange day-trips out to explore the island, The Sanchaya itself is an irresistible sanctuary you’ll never want to leave, offering total luxury and effortless seclusion without ever having to step foot on a plane.

The Sanchaya is located in Lagoi Bay, Jl. Gurindam Duabelas No.Plot 5, Sebong Lagoi, Kec. Tlk. Sebong, Kabupaten Bintan, Kepulauan Riau 29155, Indonesia