A Week in Lombok and The Gili Islands | 7 Nights/8 Days Luxury Villa Escape

Day 1 | Arriving into Island Life

After many years of living in Lombok, one thing has never changed for me: the island reveals itself best when you slow down. Your first day should not be about rushing into activities or ticking boxes. It should simply be about arriving – both physically and mentally. As part of our Signature Villa Package Offer, your private driver will welcome you upon arrival at Lombok Airport or the harbour and escort you directly to our secluded Villa Estate in North Lombok, where privacy, tropical nature and personalised hospitality quietly set the tone for the week ahead.

YOUR PERSONAL WELCOME TO THE ESTATE

The first moments at the Estate are intentionally gentle and unhurried. Upon arrival, you will receive your traditional Lombok Welcome Bracelet – inspired by local Lombok Traditions where bracelets symbolise protection, connection and safe travels.

And because no stay at The Estate would feel complete without it, a freshly opened young coconut from our own Coconut Grove will be waiting for you upon arrival. A small tropical ritual and perhaps the Perfect Way to begin Island Life.

I always encourage our guests to leave the first afternoon completely open: Barefoot by the pool, listening to the ocean, enjoying the gardens, reading a book, or simply doing absolutely nothing at all.

As soon as the day comes to an end, the sunset over Mount Agung creates one of the most beautiful moments of the evening. Around 5:30 PM, the sky transforms into soft shades of gold, amber and pink while the ocean becomes perfectly calm beneath the fading light. Along the beach, your Personal Butler will prepare a private bonfire as the first stars begin to appear above Lombok’s coastline. Pre-dinner cocktails and elegant home made crackers will be served while the gentle sound of the waves sets the atmosphere for your very first evening in paradise.

Meanwhile, your private chef will be preparing a beautifully curated in-villa dinner experience at the Estate.
The perfect beginning to your week in Lombok.

Day 2 | Explore Gondang Beach & Village and Slow Transition into holiday mode

For guests who enjoy exploring slowly, the coastline surrounding the Estate is beautiful at sunset. Walking west along the beach, you will pass local playgrounds where Lombok families gather in the evenings, especially during weekends. Heading east, you will discover small traditional fishing villages where daily island life still unfolds quietly and authentically.

Mountain bikes are available at the Estate for guests wishing to explore the surrounding area of Gondang Village at their own pace. Just a short ride from the Estate, you will discover traditional villages, local schools, peaceful countryside roads and authentic daily life in North Lombok – an experience that still feels wonderfully untouched and far removed from mass tourism.

The quiet roads around Gondang are generally very safe and relaxed for cycling, making it a beautiful way to experience the local atmosphere of Lombok.
Your Personal Butler will be delighted to recommend scenic routes and favourite local spots nearby. For guests who prefer a more immersive experience, guided cycling tours with our dedicated biking guides can naturally also be arranged.

WELLNESS TO BEGIN YOUR JOURNEY

Personally, I always believe wellness is the best way to begin any Lombok stay – especially after a long international journey.
Our signature Ayurveda Massage is particularly recommended on arrival day: a calming and grounding treatment inspired by ancient healing traditions, designed to restore balance, release travel fatigue and gently reset both body and mind.

For guests arriving from longer international flights, our Jet Lag Recovery Ritual is another wonderful way to transition into holiday mode. This carefully designed treatment includes:

• A revitalising ginger body scrub
• A hydrating facial ritual
• Our signature recovery massage

All experienced within the peaceful privacy of the Estate Spa.

SUNSET ON THE WATER

I would highly recommend ending your first day on the ocean.
Our Private Lombok Sunset Cruise remains one of my personal favourite experiences to introduce guests to the beauty of North Lombok. As the sun slowly sets behind Bali’s Mount Agung, the coastline transforms into soft golden light while you sail peacefully through Medana Bay and the surrounding waters.

PRIVATE SUNSET CRUISE EXPERIENCE

Duration: Approximately 2 Hours
Recommended Departure: Around 5:00 PM

Including:

• Private sunset sailing experience
• Pre-dinner cocktails
• Elegant finger bites
• Scenic cruise around Gondang & Medana Bay

The perfect, gentle beginning to your week in Lombok.

Day 3 | Sunrise Moments & The Gili Islands

One of the things I love most about Lombok is the way mornings feel here. Quiet. Soft. Unhurried. The island slowly wakes with the rising sun, fishermen return to shore, Mount Rinjani appears through the morning light, and everything feels calm before the day begins. For guests staying at the Estate, I always recommend embracing these early island mornings at least once during your stay – although most guests quickly discover they want to repeat it every day afterwards.

6:00 AM | SURYA SEVANA SUNRISE EXPERIENCE

Surya Sevana is one of our most peaceful Experiences at the Estate, inspired by mindfulness, stillness and gratitude.

As the sun rises over Lombok, your Private Butler will prepare the Surya Sevana area in front of Villa Dua for a quiet sunrise moment surrounded by tropical nature and ocean views. It is not about activity or schedules – simply taking time to fully experience the beauty and stillness of Lombok in the early morning hours. I personally believe this is one of the most beautiful ways to begin your first full day at the Estate. Do not hesitate to contact your E-Butler to book.

A PRIVATE DAY DISCOVERING THE GILI ISLANDS

After a relaxed breakfast, I would dedicate your second day entirely to the Gili Islands.

For Villa Estate guests, I highly recommend discovering the islands privately rather than by public boat. Our Premium Bagno Di Gili Experience allows you to explore Gili Air, Gili Meno and Gili Trawangan entirely at your own rhythm, away from fixed schedules and crowded transfers. Every journey can be personalised depending on what you enjoy most – whether that is quiet beaches, snorkelling, long lunches by the sea or simply cruising between islands.

Highlights may include:

• Turtle snorkelling experiences
• Swimming in crystal-clear turquoise waters
• Relaxed beach stops on Gili Meno
• Baby turtle releases depending on the season
• Elegant seaside lunches overlooking the ocean
• Exploring the atmosphere of Gili Air and Gili Trawangan

What I personally love most about the Gili Islands is how each island offers a completely different atmosphere within such a short distance from one another. Gili Meno feels peaceful and untouched, Gili Air has a relaxed balance of local island life and charming beachfront cafés, while Gili Trawangan brings a more vibrant tropical energy.

For guests enjoying our Premium Bagno Di Gili Experience with private boat services, I usually recommend starting the day at Gili Trawangan with a bicycle ride around the island for a first impression of its lively atmosphere. Afterwards, continue towards Gili Air for a relaxed beachfront drink before heading to Bagno Di Gili.

And my personal advice: do not spend too much time elsewhere – once you arrive at the idyllic setting of Bagno Di Gili, you will most likely wish you had even longer to simply enjoy the beauty and tranquillity of the surroundings.

RETURNING TO THE VILLA ESTATE AFTER YOUR GILI DAY

After a full day beneath the Gili sun, there is nothing better than returning to the quiet comfort of the Estate.
For the perfect end to the day, I would highly recommend our Lombok Sisley After-Sun Facial. A deeply hydrating and restorative treatment designed to calm and nourish the skin after time spent on the ocean. The ideal way to fully unwnd before another beautiful Lombok evening begins.

Day 4 | Lombok Nature & Countryside Discovery

Today, I would like to introduce you to a different side of Lombok. The island’s lush mountain landscapes, traditional countryside and untouched natural beauty that many travellers never fully discover.

SENDANG GILE & TIU KELEP WATERFALL EXPERIENCE

One experience I would highly recommend during your stay is a visit to the spectacular Sendang Gile and Tiu Kelep Waterfalls beneath Mount Rinjani. The journey itself is already part of the experience, leading through traditional villages, tropical forests and peaceful countryside before arriving at the waterfalls hidden deep within the northern mountains of Lombok.

What I personally love most about this region is how authentic and untouched it still feels. Compared to many other destinations in Indonesia, North Lombok has preserved a quiet natural beauty that feels wonderfully peaceful and deeply connected to local life. The refreshing mountain air, flowing rivers and lush jungle surroundings create an entirely different atmosphere from the coast – and one of the most beautiful contrasts within your Lombok journey.

GOLDEN HOUR | SUNSET CYCLING THROUGH NORTH LOMBOK

Upon returning to the Estate after your waterfall trip, I would highly recommend continuing the afternoon with one of my personal favourite experiences during golden hour.
Your private guide and mountain bikes will be waiting at the Villa Estate for a peaceful ride through the quiet countryside surrounding North Lombok.

The route gently passes:

• Rice paddies glowing in the late afternoon sun
• Coconut groves and hidden rural pathways
• Traditional Sasak villages
• Beautiful local scenery untouched by tourism

This is the Lombok I personally fell in love with many years ago – calm, authentic and wonderfully simple.

DINNER RECOMMENDATION | INDONESIAN RIJSTTAFEL EXPERIENCE

For dinner, I would like to continue the day with a typical Indonesian culinary experiences at the Estate – our refined Indonesian Rijsttafel Dinner.
Curated by Executive Chef Wayan Jiwa Raga, this elegant Lombok Dining Experience celebrates the richness and diversity of Indonesian cuisine through a beautifully presented selection of traditional dishes served rijsttafel-style.

Vegetarian preferences and personalised dietary requests can naturally always be accommodated.

Day 5 | Culture, Vespas & Organic Garden Lunch

Exploring Lombok by Vespa feels wonderfully nostalgic and cinematic. Coastal roads, quiet villages, ocean views and tropical landscapes create the perfect setting for a relaxed day discovering the island at a slower pace.

What makes the experience even more enjoyable is that Lombok’s roads remain wonderfully calm compared to Bali. Traffic is light, the atmosphere feels relaxed, and the routes are generally quiet, scenic and comfortable to explore by scooter or Vespa. Even for guests who normally would not consider driving themselves in Indonesia.

For today, I would recommend discovering some of Lombok’s most beautiful scenery and local experiences through our Guided Lombok Vespa Journey.

The route can naturally be adapted entirely to your pace and interests, but highlights may include:

• Tanjung Traditional Market
• The Lombok Monkey Forest
• The scenic Senggigi coastline
• Malimbu & Malaka ocean viewpoints
• A traditional Lombok Pearl Farm visit

What I particularly enjoy about this journey is how much variety Lombok offers within a single day – local markets, quiet beaches, mountain views and authentic island life all beautifully connected by peaceful coastal roads.

THE LOMBOK PEARL FARM EXPERIENCE

Lombok is internationally known for its beautiful South Sea pearls, and visiting a working pearl farm offers fascinating insight into one of the island’s most celebrated traditions. During the experience, you will discover the delicate craftsmanship behind pearl cultivation and learn more about the process that has made Lombok pearls admired around the world for generations.

PRIVATE VILLA ESTATE COOKING EXPERIENCE

After returning to the Estate, I would continue the day with our Private Villa Estate Cooking Experience. A relaxed and intimate culinary experience hosted within the organic gardens of the Estate. Hosted alfresco by Executive Chef Jiwa Raga, this interactive cooking session introduces authentic Indonesian flavours and traditional cooking techniques using fresh local ingredients, herbs and spices sourced directly from our gardens whenever possible.

More than simply a cooking class, it is a beautiful way to connect with Indonesian culture while enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of the Estate.

INCLUSIONS

• Private guided cooking session
• Fresh local ingredients
• Traditional Indonesian recipes
• Estate apron
• Private lunch experience in the gardens
  

  YOUR SPECIAL DINNER | TOES IN SAND BEACH DINING

  As part of your Villa Inclusions, enjoy a beautifully romantic evening beneath the stars with our private Toes in the Sand Beach Dining Experience.
  Set directly on the beach beside the Estate, your table will be prepared softly by candlelight while the sound of the ocean and gentle evening breeze create the perfect atmosphere for a memorable evening in Lombok.

  Barefoot in the sand, surrounded by tropical serenity and complete privacy, this intimate dining experience is designed to celebrate the beauty of island life in its most relaxed and elegant form.

Day 6 | Wellness, Sunset & Slow Island Moments

After several days exploring Lombok and the Gili Islands, I always recommend dedicating one full day entirely to slowing down, restoring energy and simply enjoying the peaceful rhythm of the Estate.

OVER-WATER MORNING YOGA

There is something incredibly calming about beginning the morning with yoga overlooking the ocean. As the sun slowly rises above the turquoise waters of North Lombok, private yoga sessions take place in one of the most peaceful settings at the Estate – surrounded by soft sea breeze, tropical nature and complete quietness.

Whether you are experienced or completely new to yoga, the sessions are designed to be gentle, grounding and deeply relaxing.
Personally, I always feel Lombok mornings were made for moments like these.

RINJANI HOT STONE MASSAGE

After days of island adventures, cycling, waterfall walks and boat trips, I would highly recommend our Rinjani Hot Stone Massage.
Inspired by the volcanic energy of Mount Rinjani, this deeply relaxing treatment uses heated volcanic stones to release tension, improve circulation and restore balance throughout the body.

Duration: 90 Minutes
It is one of the most grounding wellness experiences at the Estate and the perfect way to fully relax into island life.

AFTERNOON BEAUTY RITUAL

Before your final evening in Lombok, I would highly recommend one of our signature Lombok Hair Cream Bath & Blow Dry rituals.
This traditional Indonesian beauty ritual deeply nourishes the hair while offering a wonderfully relaxing scalp and head massage — the perfect preparation for a beautiful evening ahead.

LOMBOK SUNSET PHOTOSHOOT

One thing I always tell our guests: Lombok deserves to be photographed properly.
The golden afternoon light, tropical scenery, quiet beaches and elegant architecture of the Estate create an extraordinary setting for timeless holiday memories.
Our in-house photographer will guide you through a relaxed sunset photography session throughout the Estate and surrounding coastline, beautifully capturing your Lombok journey in a natural and elegant way.

EVENING | PRIVATE OVER-WATER DINING EXPERIENCE AT MEDANA BAY

For the special evening of your 6th day in Lombok, I cannot imagine a more beautiful setting than a private candlelit dinner above the ocean.
Soft sea breeze, sunset colours fading into the evening sky, complete privacy and the sound of the water surrounding you – it is one of the most magical dining experiences on the island.
For the ultimate indulgence, I would personally recommend Chef Jiwa Raga’s signature 6-Course Lobster Menu featuring fresh Lombok lobster and refined flavours inspired by the island and the sea.

FRANGIPANI FLOWER BATH RITUAL

To conclude the evening beautifully, I would highly recommend our romantic Frangipani Flower Bath Ritual.
Filled with fragrant tropical flowers, candlelight and calming aromas, this final wellness ritual creates the perfect peaceful ending to your Lombok experience.

AN ALTERNATIVE WELLNESS EXPERIENCE | SPA SAFARI & LUNCH AT THE LOMBOK LODGE BOUTIQUE HOTEL

Alternatively, for guests wishing to discover another side of Lombok wellness, I would also highly recommend our Lombok Lodge Boutique Hotel Spa Safari & Lunch Experience.

Day 7 | Lombok Culture Tour & Tetebatu

Discover a different side of Lombok through a full-day cultural journey exploring traditional village life, local craftsmanship and the island’s rich heritage.

The experience begins with a visit to Lingsar Temple, Lombok’s most important and unique Sasak-Hindu temple, where Hindu and Wektu Telu traditions peacefully coexist – offering beautiful insight into the island’s spiritual diversity and cultural harmony. Continue towards the traditional village of Nyiur Baya, known for its handcrafted Ketak weaving. Here, local artisans create beautiful handmade baskets, bags and decorative pieces using traditional techniques passed down through generations.

The journey continues to the historic Royal Palace of Narmada, originally built in 1805 as the summer residence of the King of Lombok. Surrounded by peaceful gardens and water features inspired by Mount Rinjani, the palace remains one of Lombok’s most important historical landmarks.

From there, discover Lombok’s traditional weaving villages before continuing to Banyumulek, internationally known for its hand-thrown pottery and ceramic craftsmanship. Watching local artisans shape and decorate pottery entirely by hand offers a fascinating glimpse into one of Lombok’s oldest artistic traditions.

EXPERIENCE DETAILS

• Duration: Approximately 8 Hours
• Suggested Departure: 8:30 AM
• Pricing: Per Car Basis

A beautiful experience for guests wishing to discover the authentic culture, craftsmanship and daily life of Lombok beyond the coastline.
A visit to the beautiful countryside village of Tetebatu can naturally also be included along the journey.

YOUR SPECIAL DINNER | CHEF’S TABLE AT THE OFYR GRILL RESTAURANT

As part of your Villa Inclusions, enjoy an intimate Chef’s Table dining experience at our OFYR Grill Restaurant. A relaxed and elegant evening centred around open-fire cooking, refined flavours and beautiful oceanfront surroundings. Prepared live by our culinary team, the experience celebrates premium ingredients, sophisticated grilling techniques and the warm atmosphere of dining beside the fire under the Lombok evening sky.

RECOMMENDED UPGRADE | WAGYU DINNER EXPERIENCE

For guests wishing to elevate the evening even further, I would highly recommend upgrading to our signature Wagyu Dinner Experience featuring premium Wagyu selections expertly prepared over the OFYR grill.

Day 8 | Sunrise Fishing or Golf

I always believe the final morning sets the emotional tone of departure.
Rather than rushing through your final day in Lombok, I would always recommend embracing it slowly and intentionally – enjoying a final moment of island living.

FOR EARLY DEPARTURES | AUTHENTIC LOMBOK SUNRISE FISHING EXPERIENCE

For guests with earlier departure schedules, I would highly recommend ending your Lombok journey with one final authentic island experience.
Join local fishermen aboard a traditional Lombok fishing boat as the island slowly awakens around you. While the sun rises above the ocean, experience the peaceful rhythm of local fishing life that has remained unchanged for generations along the North Lombok coastline.

There is something incredibly calming about being on the water at sunrise – quiet seas, soft morning light and the simple beauty of Lombok before the day begins.

EXPERIENCE DETAILS

• Traditional Lombok fisherman boat experience
• Sunrise departure
• IDR 990K++ per person

A wonderfully authentic and memorable final moment before leaving the island.

FOR LATER DEPARTURES | SIRE BEACH GOLF EXPERIENCE

For guests departing later in the day, I would highly recommend spending your final hours in Lombok at the beautiful Sire Beach Golf & Country Club.
Surrounded by ocean views, swaying palm trees and the impressive backdrop of Mount Rinjani, this international championship 18-hole golf course is considered one of the most scenic golfing destinations in Indonesia.

Whether you prefer a relaxed “Learn to Golf” introduction session or a full 9- or 18-hole experience, the setting alone makes it a beautiful and peaceful final activity before departure.

More unique Lombok Experience to discover

Should you wish to explore even more of Lombok during your stay, I would also be delighted to recommend:

• Mount Rinjani Helicopter Experiences with departure from our Estate Helipad
• Start-to-Surf Lessons
• Beachfront Foot Reflexology Rituals at the Privacy of your Villa
• Morning Rice Paddy Walks
• Diving & Snorkelling Adventures
• Jet Ski Adventures in front of your Villa at Gondang Bay
• Visit Lombok Zoo & Feed Elephants in Lombok

Final Thoughts | Why I Love Lombok So Much

What makes Lombok so special to me is not only its beauty.
It is the feeling. The slower pace. The kindness of the people. The silence. The mornings.
The understated simplicity wrapped in luxury.

Unlike many tropical destinations that constantly demand movement, Lombok invites you to soften, slow down and reconnect – with nature, wellness and yourself. And honestly, that is exactly why I love this island so much.

Your stay at our Private Villa Estate can be spent doing as little – or as much – as you wish.
Should you desire additional experiences beyond those suggested above, our team would be delighted to create a fully tailor-made itinerary designed entirely around your personal interests, pace and travel style.

Ibu Antje

I’m Ibu Antje, Founder and Owner of The Lombok Lodge Hospitality® and 'Chief of Magic' at TLL Hospitality® With over 15 years of experience in luxury hospitality, I am passionate about creating meaningful and bespoke travel experiences across the breathtaking island of Lombok and the Gili Islands in Indonesia. My passion for Lombok comes from the island’s breathtaking beauty, its rich traditions, and the warmth of its people. It inspires me every day to share this special place with others by creating meaningful and memorable experiences that allow guests to truly feel the spirit of Lombok and the Gili Islands. Follow my daily life in Lombok & Gili - and more things I adore - on Instagram @ibu.antje

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