How wonderful to discover Sumberkima Resort, a peaceful and eco-conscious resort in the quiet northwest of Bali. We’re here with our two teenage daughters, aged 14 and 16, and from the moment we arrive, we feel the difference. This isn’t a typical resort—it’s a place where luxury, freedom, and local life flow together effortlessly.
The villas are spread out across a hillside surrounded by Balinese villages. Our own villa feels wonderfully private, with a large outdoor kitchen and lounge area, and beautiful views over the hills and sea. The bedrooms are cool and stylish, with natural touches and open bathrooms that blend into the landscape. And a real treat? The huge private pool, perfect for lazy mornings, sunset dips, and everything in between. And for those who prefer a bit more variety, the resort also offers several stunning shared pools, each with its own view and peaceful atmosphere.
How about this?
While we have everything we need to cook ourselves, we usually walk down to the restaurant each morning for a freshly made breakfast—smoothie bowls, tropical fruit, eggs, pancakes, and Balinese coffee.
One of the most special things about the resort is how integrated it is into the community. On the way to breakfast, we pass locals going about their day, kids waving on their way to school, neighbours working in their gardens. We rent scooters from one of the villagers, and spend a full day exploring temples, stopping for lunch, and soaking in the atmosphere of rural Bali. One of the most memorable stops is a small temple set high on a hill, where a monk has just begun his daily rituals as we arrive. He welcomes us warmly, offers us something to drink, and invites us to quietly sit and take in the peaceful surroundings. It’s such a simple, generous moment—completely unplanned. Menno especially enjoys the freedom of the scooter rides. When Angela gets a flat tire, the scooter owner shows up in minutes with a replacement. Everything is kind, and full of smiles.
The resort offers a unique way to connect with local life through small-scale activities that can be booked directly with the staff—during their free time. Guests join sunrise hikes to hidden viewpoints, learn to make offerings or traditional dishes at a local home, snorkel with a staff member who grew up on the nearby reefs, or visit family-run farms and waterfalls. It’s all very personal, very real, and truly enriching. You might go for a hike with one the staff members, but there are also a view stunning hikes to be done by yourselves. To avoid getting to warm Menno and Tess get up early and have a great, steep walk to the top!
View of one the great restaurants
The girls and Angela also spend time at the spa, where the massages are excellent and the setting is calm and open to the sounds of nature. There’s even a super cold plunge pool next to the sauna, which is incredibly refreshing after a treatment. It's one of those simple luxuries that make a big impression.
Nearby, we visit a small turtle sanctuary where young turtles are raised until they can safely return to the ocean. It’s a short drive from the resort and a lovely, educational stop—especially around feeding time. We also hear great things about snorkelling at Menjangan Island and hiking in West Bali National Park, and plan to return to try those next time.
WOW
# Waking up to panoramic views of volcanoes, jungle and sea, right from our private terrace.
# Immersive, off-the-beaten-path experiences with locals, full of warmth and authenticity.
# Space and freedom: from our enormous private pool to the quiet shared pools throughout the resort, everything invites you to slow down and truly unwind.
