The Credentials:
The only resort located within Bali Barat National Park’s 382 hectares of unspoiled jungle on the north-west coast of Bali, The Menjangan’s tagline ‘The other side of Bali’ couldn’t be more apt – this is a world away from frenetic Kuta, flashy Seminyak and tourist-swamped (thanks to Eat, Pray, Love) Ubud.
Named after the deer that you’ll no doubt see crossing your path, The Menjangan offers a wonderland for nature lovers, access to arguably Bali’s best diving and snorkeling sites and a choice of woodland or beachfront accommodation, which combine traditional architecture with simple, contemporary interiors.
Dine:
Over the sea, on the beach or above the treetops – the dining locations are incredible. There is plenty of international choice from jungle chicken burger (IDR90,000; ordered twice by the boyf) and falafel burger (IDR85,000) to local staples gado gado (IDR60,000) and mie goreng (IDR75,000). I thought the Eastern dishes were the best.
There were a few things missing from the menu (such as cappuccino at breakfast and Heinken at dinner, much to the boyf’s indignation) which weren’t mentioned until we ordered but staff, who all seemed to know us by name, were so generous and genuinely wanted feedback so I’m sure guests will now be kept up to date before they order.
Sleep:
We spent two nights in a Deluxe Room at Monsoon Lodge, next to the pool; followed by two nights in a Beach Villa, steps from the sea and close to the restaurant, bar, spa and dive shop.
All rooms come with a fruit bowl on arrival, inclusive water, cookies and wi-fi plus mosquito repellent, all-natural bathroom treats and a beach bag made from plastic collected from the reserve.
We liked the sleek minimalist interiors and outdoor verandas, but preferred the layout of the beach villa with the huge central bed. It also featured large picture windows maximising the stunning sea view, and an outdoor bathroom with freestanding tub.
Who Goes There?
Groups of friends young and old, international couples, eco-trendsters, including lots of birdwatchers from the UK apparently.
Out & About:
From horse riding to joining a tree planting programme, there’s plenty of opportunity to make the most of the location. We joined a small group for a half-day snorkeling trip ($55pp) off Menjangan Island – highlights included spotting a turtle and a reef shark!
A fascinating Balinese cooking class ($55pp) with local chef Putu took place on a private gazebo among the mangroves. Four other gazebos overlooking the sea provided the spa massage beds. As a firm believer in ‘no pain; no gain,’ even I had to admit to needing less intense pressure on my calves during my excellent massage ($25pp for one hour) while the boyf’s back pain had completely gone by the end of his.
The Worst Thing:
We wondered if some locals have a problem saying no. After two requests for a particular DVD from the available list, a member of staff finally arrived at our room with a limited selection of DVDs.
The Best Thing:
It’s a special location: having driven along a dirt track, we arrived at Bali Tower (which affords 360-degree views over the park) to see a family of monkeys playing on the wooden jetty while we were welcomed with cool towels, iced tea and Vietnamese spring rolls.
