Bintan Island, situated in the Riau Archipelago of Indonesia, is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, pristine white sandy beaches, and luxurious resorts. Tourists from around the globe flock here to enjoy the stunning ocean views, top-notch resort amenities, and various engaging water activities. Despite its rising popularity, Bintan holds numerous hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Often overshadowed by the main attractions, the island’s natural splendour and rich local culture deserve more attention.
In this article, we will highlight some of the lesser-known tourist spots in Bintan that you should visit for a more authentic and immersive experience. From unique deserts to captivating blue lakes, each destination boasts its distinct charm. Among these is The ANMON Resort Bintan, a glamping resort on Bintan island. It is a one-of-a-kind destination offering a luxurious camping experience in the heart of nature. Blending modern comforts with the serenity of the outdoors, ANMON provides the perfect retreat for those looking to enjoy Bintan’s beauty in a novel way.
Gurun Pasir Busung
Located near the port, the Gurun Pasir Busung is a unique attraction. This desert landscape, formed from a disused bauxite mine, contrasts the lush greenery surrounding it. It’s an ideal spot for capturing spectacular photos and experiencing Indonesia’s unusual natural beauty.
Blue Lake
Close to Busung Desert, you’ll find Blue Lake, a stunning body of water with crystal-clear blue hues created by another former bauxite mine. The serene and peaceful atmosphere here is perfect for photography, offering a refreshing escape from the crowded tourist spots.
Trikora Beach
Although less famous than some of Bintan’s other beaches, Trikora Beach is also worth a trip. This beach stretches for several kilometres and features soft white sand and clear seawater. Activities such as swimming, snorkelling, or simply relaxing under the shade of coconut trees can be enjoyed here. The natural beauty of Trikora Beach makes it an ideal destination for tranquillity and peace.
Avalokitesvara Graha Vihara
Avalokitesvara Graha Vihara, or Guan Yin Temple, is the largest Buddhist monastery in Southeast Asia. The monastery in Tanjung Pinang boasts magnificent architecture and a serene spiritual atmosphere. The 16.8-metre-high Guan Yin statue is a significant highlight. This monastery is the perfect place to learn about local culture and spirituality.
Bintan’s glamping resort – The ANMON Resort Bintan
No discussion of Bintan’s hidden gems would be complete without mentioning ANMON. Situated in Treasure Bay Bintan, ANMON offers a luxurious camping experience with teepee-style tents that combine comfort and elegance. Each tent has modern amenities such as air conditioning, private bathrooms, and comfortable beds, allowing guests to feel close to nature without sacrificing comfort.
ANMON also provides a variety of exciting activities to enhance your holiday experience. You can explore the surrounding environment on an ATV, experience the sensation of paddleboarding in the Crystal Lagoon, or take a refreshing kayaking ride through the mangroves to refresh your mind and body. Additionally, ANMON features a dining area serving various delicious Indonesian and international dishes, ensuring a satisfying culinary experience. With its beautiful natural views and comprehensive facilities, ANMON is the perfect place to combine adventure and relaxation, creating unforgettable memories during your stay in Bintan.
Lagoi Beach
Lagoi Beach is another hidden gem in Bintan that offers a tranquil atmosphere and stunning views. Less crowded with tourists, it’s ideal for sunbathing, swimming, or simply strolling along the beach enjoying the sea breeze. The soft white sand and clear blue water of Lagoi Beach will impress anyone who visits.
Mangrove Tour
Embarking on a mangrove tour in Bintan is a unique and educational experience. This tour takes you through dense mangrove forests on a wooden boat, providing opportunities to spot wildlife such as monkeys, birds, and fish. You will also learn about the mangrove ecosystem and conserving these vital habitats.
Senggiling Beach
Senggiling Beach is another hidden treasure in Bintan worth visiting. Located in the island’s northern part, it offers natural beauty and a peaceful atmosphere. The soft white sand and clear sea water make it ideal for swimming and relaxing. You can also enjoy spectacular sunset views here.
Penyengat Island
Penyengat Island is a small island rich in history and culture. Here, you can visit historical sites like the Grand Mosque of the Sultan of Riau, the royal tombs, and an old fort. The island also offers beautiful scenery with white sandy beaches and clear waters. Penyengat Island is the perfect destination to learn about Malay history and culture.
Manabu Restaurant
If you visit Tanjung Pinang, drop by Manabu Restaurant for dinner. Situated on a hilltop, this restaurant offers stunning sea views and sunsets. It serves a mix of Indonesian, Asian, and International cuisine.
Conclusion
Bintan has many intriguing tourist attractions that still need to be discovered. The Gurun Pasir Busung, for instance, is a natural wonder formed from a former bauxite mine that creates a stunning desert landscape in the middle of the island. Blue Lake, with its clear blue waters, offers a calm atmosphere and the perfect backdrop for photos. Beaches like Trikora Beach and Lagoi Beach offer a sunbathing and swimming experience as enchanting as other famous beaches. Moreover, the luxury glamping experience at ANMON adds a touch of elegance to your outdoor adventure with comfortable tents, modern amenities, and various exciting activities.
On your next visit to Bintan, don’t hesitate to explore these hidden gems and uncover their little-known beauty. Every corner of Bintan holds surprises that will make your trip even more memorable. From exploring the desert to enjoying the serenity of blue lakes and relaxing on beaches to experiencing luxurious glamping, Bintan offers a range of unique experiences worth exploring. By venturing into these lesser-known spots, you will have an unforgettable adventure and support the preservation of tourist destinations that have yet to be overrun by crowds.