As the plane begins its descent, the island of Sumba appears like a jewel surrounded by endless blue. Rugged cliffs and vast stretches of pristine coastline come into view, and somewhere along this untouched paradise lies Nihiwatu, a guesthouse unlike any other. Known not just for its beauty, but for its ability to seamlessly blend luxury with nature, Nihiwatu feels like it belongs to another world, far removed from the chaos of daily life.
Upon arrival, you are greeted with warm smiles and a cool, refreshing towel. The soft rustle of the wind through the palm trees is the only sound, and as you’re led down a winding path toward your villa, the ocean unfolds before you—wild and free, just like the island itself. Nihiwatu is perched on the edge of a cliff, offering sweeping views of the Indian Ocean, where the waves crash powerfully against the shore. But here, among the verdant hills and golden sands, peace reigns.
A Retreat into Nature’s Embrace
Your villa feels like an extension of the land itself. Constructed from local materials, the thatched roof and hand-carved wooden beams speak of craftsmanship deeply rooted in the island’s traditions. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood the space with light, and from your bed, draped in soft linens, you can see the endless stretch of ocean, its rhythm steady and eternal.
Outside, the plunge pool shimmers under the sun, inviting you to slip in and let the cool water wash away any lingering thoughts of the world you’ve left behind. Everything here feels in harmony with nature—from the soft breeze that carries the scent of frangipani to the way the villa opens seamlessly into the wild landscape.
At Nihiwatu, luxury isn’t loud or overbearing—it’s subtle, thoughtful. It’s in the basket of fresh fruit left by your bedside each morning, the handwritten note from the staff wishing you a wonderful day, and the way every corner of the guesthouse feels both intimate and expansive.
Culinary Delights by the Sea
Dining at Nihiwatu is an experience in itself. At the open-air restaurant, Ombak, each meal feels like a celebration of the island’s bounty. Breakfast is a leisurely affair with fresh juices, tropical fruits, and eggs cooked to perfection, all enjoyed with the backdrop of the ocean glistening in the morning light.
Dinner, however, is where the magic truly happens. Tonight, the chef has prepared a feast that blends local flavors with international flair. Grilled Tuna, caught just hours before, arrives perfectly seared, paired with roasted vegetables and a tangy lemongrass sauce. Every bite is fresh, vibrant, and alive with the tastes of the island. Dessert is a decadent Coconut Pudding, light and airy, drizzled with a caramel sauce that adds just the right amount of sweetness.
As you sit back with a glass of chilled wine, the sun begins to dip below the horizon, casting the sky in shades of pink and gold. The sound of the waves, ever-present, becomes the soundtrack to this perfect evening.
Personalized Service, Tailored Experiences
What sets Nihiwatu apart is not just its location or beauty, but the service that seems to anticipate your every need. The staff here are more than just attentive—they feel like family, welcoming you into their world with a genuine warmth that’s hard to find. They know your name, your favorite drink, the activities you’re most excited about, and they go out of their way to make sure every detail of your stay is perfect.
In the morning, you are taken on a horseback ride along the beach at dawn, the sky painted in soft pastel hues as the waves lap gently at the shore. In the afternoon, you explore the nearby waterfalls, hidden deep within the jungle, where you swim in crystal-clear pools, feeling the cool water cascade over your skin. Each moment here feels like a gift, crafted just for you.
Nihiwatu is more than a guesthouse—it’s a sanctuary. A place where the wild beauty of Sumba meets the comfort of home, where time slows down, and where every experience leaves you feeling more connected to the world around you. Here, at the edge of the world, luxury takes on a new meaning.
By : Bambang S