Sungai Gold: 1 suite $585++, both suites $720++
– Everything. But especially the team which looks after you.
– You can’t stay here forever.
I feel overwhelmed with kindness, hospitality and beauty. My stay at Sungai is simply exquisite. Everything is perfectly designed, planned and executed. There are not enough superlatives to describe staying at Sungai.
Sungai means river, and this exceptional resort is set on the bank of a small one in the tiny village of Cepaka. You’re in the real Bali here.
The resort is divided in two, and you can book the entire resort (sleeps 12 to 17) or just part. Regardless, bespoke service and exclusivity are paramount.
My stay is on the Sungai Gold side. It is just like staying in a private home, if your home is an incredible two-bedroom villa with an outdoor living room and dining room. And a pool overlooking a lazy jungle river. In Bali. With a dozen staff, half of whom are exceptional chefs.
These chefs will prepare incredible meals for you, you simply let them know what you’d like in enough time to do the daily shopping (or leave it to them to surprise you). Only the cost of ingredients is charged.
The decor is simple and elegant, bright whites and beachy taupes. Bathrooms are open to the air on one side (be aware if you’re super squeamish of insects, you’ll see a few). Tuberose and frangipani blossoms are everywhere perfuming the air.
While the setting, facilities and the (many) luxury inclusions are wonderful, it is the staff that make Sungai truly outstanding. The team is led by Made (pronounced Mah-day), who also acts as your personal concierge alleviating you of planning and logistics. The team has unaffected personal and professional service down to an art, and provide the perfect balance of friendliness, care, charm and grace.
Everyone should be so lucky as to enjoy a stay at Sungai.
