Elite Traveler January-February 2019

AMANKILA MANGGIS, BALI

The villas of this peaceful resort dot the hillside of a secluded stretch on Bali’s east coast, with far-reaching views over the Lombok Strait and its own volcanic black-sand beach. Connected by elevated walkways, the stilted, thatched pool villas peer out from the treetops, with interiors combining warm wood design with an infusion of local artwork and pearl and coconut detail. Be sure to swim in the three-tiered, ocean-facing infinity pool mirroring Bali’s rice paddies, and try Balinese spa treatments in the massage pavilion or beach balé . End the day with a yoga session— the resort recently introduced laughing yoga too. Sip on mangosteen cocktails at sunset and dine on locally grown Balinese cuisine by the pool. Top suite Amankila Suite from $3,200 per night Sail away Charter one of Amankila’s traditional jukung -style outriggers, or take out a Hobie Cat sailboat for an exhilarating afternoon exploring the coast. Contact Ernst Ludick, general manager, eludick@aman.com, +62 363 413 33, aman.com

QUALIA HAMILTON ISLAND, AUSTRALIA

Australia’s Unesco-listed Great Barrier Reef is among the world’s most astounding sites, and Qualia is right on its edge on the northernmost tip of Hamilton Island. Open- sided pavilions sit amid the Australian eucalyptus of this resort’s private precinct, with local timber, sandstone and glass reflecting the surroundings, and light-filled rooms opening out onto sundecks with infinity pools. The resort’s isolated setting is perfect for both relaxation and exploration. By day, unwind with treatments incorporating Australian products in the elevated spa, or sail to neighboring islands on Qualia’s motor yacht. Then dine on Modern Australian cuisine at fine dining restaurant Long Pavilion. Top suite Beach House from $4,880 per night When to go See humpback and minke whales during the June-to-September breeding season. Contact reservations@qualia.com.au, +61 1300 780 959, qualia.com.au

LIZARD ISLAND QUEENSLAND, AUSTRALIA

James Cook named Lizard Island when he saw its yellow- spotted monitors during his 1770 exploration. Rich in wildlife and scenically stunning, this is the only resort built within a 2,500-acre expanse of national park, and is the northernmost resort on the Great Barrier Reef. Grassland, eucalyptus and acacia woodland grow across land rising to over 1,177 ft, white sand merges into turquoise waters and with 24 private beaches, but only 40 suites and villas, you might have an entire beach to yourself. Every aspect of this hideaway celebrates the environment, from the glass- fronted villas perched on the cliffside, to the ocean-lookout restaurant serving fresh seafood, and Essentia Day Spa specializing in nature-inspired wellness therapies. Top suite The Villa from $6,000 per night Like a captain Take a morning hike up to the highest point on Lizard Island, Cook’s Look, as the captain once did. Contact dnaprpriority@delawarenorth.com, +1 716 276 0104, lizardisland.com.au

FOUR SEASONS RESORT BORABORA BORA BORA, FRENCH POLYNESIA

Set on an island off northeast Bora Bora’s cerulean lagoon, this remote resort brings crystal-clear water and swathes of white sand together with uninterrupted views of the mainland’s emerald mountains. Stroll from the landscaped gardens surrounding a freeform infinity pool, restaurants and spa to wooden walkways that arch out to sea. Teak-fitted overwater bungalows line these boardwalks, and each bungalow has glass floor panels so you can see the marine life pass below. Choose between a lagoon, beach or mountain view, then take it all in from your sundeck and plunge pool. Unwind with a rebalancing ritual infused with Tahitian black pearl at the waterside spa, or explore the Lagoon Sanctuary by paddleboard or with a snorkel — this area alone has more than 100marine species. Top suite Three-bedroom Beachfront Villa Estate from $16,400 per night Giving back The resort’s marine biologist recently introduced a series of new conservation initiatives, including a coral-grafting program that you can take part in. Contact Maxi Zani, reservations manager, maxi.zani@fourseasons.com, +68 940 603 130, fourseasons.com