Words: Tanya Joslin. Photos, except where stated: Tony Joslin
Overview:
Club Med Bintan Island is a luxurious all-inclusive resort located a short ferry ride from Singapore. This award-winning beachfront escape offers a wide range of activities, amenities and wellness pursuits — whether you’re looking to stay active with fitness classes, yoga and ocean adventures or simply relax and indulge in delicious cuisine. And with stunning views of the South China Sea, a private beach, and a divine spa, couples can truly unwind and enjoy the beauty of nature.
Arriving at this splendid escape, nestled amidst lush foliage with the beach just steps away, we were welcomed like old friends. Club Med’s hospitality is always wonderfully warm, and this island resort was no exception.
The location:
Club Med Bintan Island is easily accessible from Singapore (around an hour by ferry), making it the perfect refresher after a few days of big-city bustle. We loved changing gears in such a peaceful setting, especially on our early morning beach walks. Over a four-day stay, we didn’t share the sand with another soul at this magical time of the day. Talk about wellness therapy!
One of their notable initiatives is the establishment of a turtle sanctuary, where they protect and preserve the breeding grounds of endangered Green and Leatherback turtles. The resort also has a dedicated sick bay and research facility to care for injured turtles and conduct important research. In 2020, they successfully released nearly 200 turtle hatchlings into the sea, and during our visit, we had the privilege of witnessing their team release over 100 more.
Spa, leisure & wellness:
Like at all Club Med resorts, most activities are included in your stay (at Bintan Island you’ll have 31 to choose from) plus access to more on-demand activities. There’s also a glorious beachfront swimming pool, designed over two levels and surrounded by sun loungers and swaying palms.
If you’ve ever wanted to try something new (think SUP, kayaking, archery, or aerial yoga), this is the place to do it! There are so many options, from a few rounds at the prestigious Ria Bintan Golf Course to sailing the South China Sea. Not sure where to start? Don’t worry, the staff will always help find your idea of fun, even if that’s lazing on the beach with a cocktail in hand.
The resort’s Club Med Spa by CSpa was an absolute highlight of our stay. This serene slice of paradise is nestled amidst lush vines and tropical foliage, seamlessly blending into the natural environment. The treatment rooms offer stunning ocean views, with the waves so close you can hear them gently lapping at the rocks outside. An eco-luxe, relaxing and rejuvenating experience.
Food & drink:
A highlight of any Club Med stay is the all-inclusive food offerings. The food here amazed us, particularly at buffet restaurant The Waterfall (Club Med does an awesome buffet!). From its perch above the pool, this light-filled space offers sublime sea views through massive windows and the chance to enjoy a range of cuisines.
You’ll go back again and again (don’t worry, it’s all included!) to sample the ever-changing smorgasbord of local specialties and international options — from American, Italian and French to Japanese, Chinese, and Indian dishes. Plus, there are low-calorie and vegan dishes that taste utterly sinful.
Looking for a date-night option? Be sure to book at The Terrasse at least once. Perfect for a romantic dinner, this sprawling restaurant extends outdoors into a breezy area with breathtaking sea views.
There are also several bars on the property, including The Panorama: an elevated terrace where you can sip and savour views of the swimming pool and South China Sea. The Matahari is the place to sample slow-pressed juices with your feet in the sand, while poolside lounge The Santai will keep you nourished and hydrated all day.
Best room for two:
Take your pick from 300 rooms and suites, all with their own terrace or balcony. The style is spacious and comfortable with sleek dark timber furnishings, luscious accent colours and plenty of natural light. Couples will love the premium 80 sqm suites with canopy bed, massive bathroom with soaking tub, and sea-facing terrace for the ultimate in tropical relaxation on Bintan Island. The rooms are a lovely retreat for when you’re not enjoying the myriad delights of the resort.
Couples will love:
The serenity and beauty of the setting and the stress-free Club Med experience. The resort may be family-friendly, but it allows adults and couples on a romantic getaway or honeymoon to make it all about themselves and steal away for an island holiday that focuses on wellness.
Our favourite memory? Waking early each morning and strolling down to the beach, just as the sun was rising, before taking a swim in the ocean – just the two of us. The tranquillity of having the beach to ourselves was a real treat, especially after four bustling days in vibrant Singapore.
Our stay at Club Med Bintan Island was a rejuvenating experience that left us feeling refreshed, pampered, and fully alive once again. Perfect as part of your Singapore itinerary.
Find out more about Club Med Bintan Island
