My first-hand review of The Sanchaya Bintan, from rooms and dining to spa, wellness, and activities, plus practical tips for your stay
I chose The Sanchaya for a luxury escape from Singapore, looking for a place where I could relax, recharge, and enjoy a private beachfront experience. My purpose was simple: unwind from work, enjoy the sun and sand, and immerse myself in a well-curated luxury resort without the crowds. The estate promised privacy, refined design, and attentive service, which made it an appealing choice for a short getaway.
My journey started at Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal, where I boarded the Bintan Resort Ferries. Upon arrival at Bandar Bintan Telani Ferry Terminal, I relaxed in The Sanchaya Private Lounge, enjoying snacks and a calm space before the 10-minute transfer to the resort. From the moment I arrived, I knew this stay would be something special.
Getting There: International and Domestic Access
International: Tanah Merah Ferry Terminal in Singapore —— 10 minutes from Changi Airport (Singapore)
- 50 minutes to Bandar Bentan Telani (BBT), Bintan
- 10 minutes chauffeured drive to The Sanchaya
Domestic by air: 60 minutes chauffeured private car transfer from Tanjung Pinang 6TNJ Airport (Jakarta)
Domestic by sea: 35 minutes chauffeured private car transfer from Tanjung Uban Jetty (Batam)
The Scene
The resort is located on Lagoi Bay, surrounded by white sand, tropical gardens, and swaying palms. The vibe is peaceful and upscale, ideal for couples, honeymooners, small groups, or anyone looking for a quiet escape. The neighborhood is low-key, so it’s perfect for relaxation but not suited for nightlife or local sightseeing. The focus here is on the resort’s estate itself, including the pool, beach, and curated activities.
Tip: For maximum privacy and calm, consider visiting on weekdays.
The Sanchaya
Entering The Sanchaya, the first thing that strikes you is the refined, heritage-inspired elegance blended with tropical design. The property features heritage architecture, antiques, and manicured gardens that give it a sense of history and warmth. It feels more like a private estate than a hotel, which adds to its charm. Staff are friendly and attentive, making every interaction seamless, from arrival to check-out. Small touches — like fresh flowers, cold towels, and personalized greetings — make the service feel personal and effortless.
Rooms & Suites
The Sanchaya is a private beachfront estate featuring 29 villas and suites, along with the stunning Vanda Villa — a four-bedroom private residence with its own infinity pool and sweeping ocean views.
I stayed on the upper floor of a Sanchaya Suite, which offered space, privacy, and elevated views over the gardens. The layout included a large bedroom, seating area, work desk, and a spacious bathroom with a deep soaking tub and Lefroy Brooks fixtures. The bedding was plush, and blackout curtains made it easy to rest anytime.
Tech amenities were modern and discreet: iPad-controlled lighting, Apple TV, and a fully complimentary minibar enhanced convenience. The upper-floor location gave me better vantage points over the pool and garden, along with a gentle breeze through the balcony doors. The suite’s design blends heritage charm with tropical accents, creating a warm and refined atmosphere.
🧍♂️ Who Each Is Best For
| Type | Ideal Guest |
|---|---|
| Junior Suite | Couples & solo travelers who want ocean views |
| Verandah Suite | Those wanting classic beachfront suite elegance |
| Sanchaya Suite | Guests wanting more space & veranda/sea views |
| Lawan Thai Villa | Travelers who prefer privacy & garden/lagoon setting |
| Two‑Bedroom Villa | Families or small groups |
| Leelawadee | Groups wanting private pool and shared space |
| Vanda Villa | Big families, celebrations, ultra‑luxury seekers |
Dining Venues
Dining at The Sanchaya is simple but high-quality.
- The Dining Room serves refined regional and European dishes. Breakfast included fresh tropical fruits, pastries, and made-to-order hot options.
- Tasanee Thai Grill offers casual, vibrant Thai dishes poolside — perfect for lunch or dinner.
- The Bar serves cocktails, wines, and afternoon tea in a relaxed setting.
Must-try dishes: Balinese seafood specialties and locally inspired desserts.
Tip: Reserve dinner at Tasanee Thai Grill for the best poolside experience, especially at sunset.
🧠 Quick Summary
| Outlet | Style | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| The Dining Room | Fine casual all‑day dining | Breakfast, lunch, dinner with views |
| Tasanee Thai Grill | Al fresco Thai‑inspired cuisine | Poolside lunches & dinners |
| The Bar | Elegant lounge | Cocktails, afternoon tea, cigars |
| The Decanter | Wine cellar experience | Wine tasting & private dinners |
| In‑Villa Dining | Private service | Beach dinners, villa meals |
Meetings & Events
The Dahlia Function Room is the main venue for meetings or small events, accommodating 48 guests banquet-style or 75 theatre-style. It comes equipped with AV gear, Wi-Fi, and natural light. For more informal sessions, breakout areas like the Library, The Bar, or outdoor lawns are available.
Ideal for:
- Corporate retreats
- Small conferences or workshops
- Intimate weddings
Staff available to customize layouts, menus, and décor.
📊 Quick Reference: Event & Meeting Facilities
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Main event space | Dahlia function room (indoor) |
| Capacities | ~48 banquet / ~75 theatre |
| Breakout spaces | Library, Bar, Decanter, gardens |
| Event types | Meetings, workshops, retreats, weddings, parties |
| Customization | Fully tailored layouts & menus |
| Exclusive use options | Estate buyouts available |
Wellness Facilities & Activities
Wellness is a highlight at The Sanchaya. Guests can enjoy a wide range of in-house activities, including archery, croquet, stand-up paddleboarding, cycling, cooking classes, mixology sessions, wine-and-cheese pairings, spa treatments, massages, and yoga.
- Spa: Set within tropical gardens, offering Balinese, Thai, and signature treatments indoors or in cabanas.
- Gym: A 24/7 facility with modern cardio and strength equipment. Personal training is available.
- Pool: A 50-meter infinity pool overlooking the beach, ideal for laps or lounging.
- Yoga & Outdoor Activities: Beachfront yoga, croquet, paddleboarding, and cycling around the estate.
Tip: Complimentary morning yoga classes are offered at an open‑sided Yoga Pavilion facing the sea — great for stretching, balance, and mindfulness before or after your spa treatments.
Beyond the Sanchaya Estate: Things To Do
If you want to explore beyond the resort, The Sanchaya offers a selection of curated off-property activities:
- Bintan Mountain Hike – ~IDR 1,115 / Resident (~SGD 100)
Trek to the 340m Gunung Bintan summit with wildlife and 360° views.
Best for: Active travelers and nature lovers - Mangrove Discovery – ~IDR 810 / Resident (~SGD 75)
Private boat cruise along Sebung River, spotting monkeys, lizards, and tropical birds.
Best for: Families and wildlife enthusiasts - Night Discovery (Fireflies) – ~IDR 675 / Resident (~SGD 63)
Moonlight mangrove cruise with fireflies dancing along the riverbanks.
Best for: Couples and evening explorers - Golf at Ria Bintan Golf Club – Weekend: ~IDR 2,071 / Weekday: ~IDR 1,704 (~SGD 160–195)
18-hole championship course by Gary Player, with buggy, caddy, and transfers included.
Best for: Golf enthusiasts and scenic course lovers
Practical Tip: Book activities at least a day in advance; weekdays offer quieter experiences.
Give Back
Beyond its serene beachfront setting, The Sanchaya gives back through the Mr Morris Foundation, supporting education, community care, and environmental initiatives on Bintan. Current programmes include: Education Scholarships, An Orphanage, Home for the Elderly, and Environment Protection Projects. Named after the resort’s black-and-white mascot, the foundation partners with organisations such as Smile Train and invites guests to contribute through Mr Morris merchandise.
My Takeaway
The Sanchaya delivers a private, serene, and luxurious experience. The service, design, and attention to detail impressed me throughout my stay. While it is premium-priced, the privacy, curated activities, and beachfront setting make it worth it. I’d recommend it to couples, honeymooners, small groups, and those seeking a tranquil, high-end escape. For travelers wanting nightlife or nearby attractions, it may feel too quiet, but for relaxation, it’s hard to beat.
Quick FAQ Section
- How long is the ferry from Singapore? About 55 minutes via Bintan Resort Ferries.
- Does the resort have a private beach? Yes, complete with loungers and cabanas.
- Are spa treatments included? No, but they are highly recommended.
- Is Wi-Fi available? Yes, throughout the resort.
- Can I host meetings here? Yes, with Dahlia Function Room and outdoor/indoor breakout spaces.
- Are children allowed? Yes, young residents never get bored. Neither do older ones!
- How far is the resort from the ferry terminal? About 10 minutes by transfer.
Final Thoughts
If you’re after a quiet, well-managed, luxury beachfront escape, The Sanchaya delivers from start to finish. From the Private lounge arrival at the ferry terminal to the infinity pool, spa, and dining experiences, everything felt smooth and thoughtful. My practical tips: choose the right room type for views, book poolside dining in advance, and enjoy early-morning activities. Overall, it’s a recharge-focused, high-end resort that delivers both comfort and charm.
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Tel: +62 770 692200
Lagoi Bay, Bintan, Riau Islands, Indoensia (50 minutes from Singapore)
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