Nature attractions, wellness and hospitality experiences will be some of the new developments arriving at Bintan’s integrated beach resort this year and beyond.
Bintan Resorts, which includes beach resorts, golf courses and recreational facilities and other attractions on the island’s northern coast, attracted more than one million visitors in 2018.
Refreshing the island’s appeal are a slew of new developments this year that will mainly concentrate on Treasure Bay Bintan, a 338-hectare waterfront resort destination.
A new marine park, organic farm, an hotel and wellness resort will join an existing line up of sports and adventure, nature and retail and F&B offerings.
Opening in the second quarter, Treasure Bay Bintan Organic Farm will offer guided tours and workshops on organic farming. The farm received its organic certification from IFOAM (International Federation of Agriculture Movement) in 2018.
More than 70 species and 15,000 fishes will be housed in the 2.8 hectare Marine Life Discovery Park, which is expected to open in the last quarter of this year. Visitors can also enjoy various wildlife exhibits, from marine birds and native mangrove flora and fauna.
Next to the park, a new tepee-styled ‘glamping’ hotel has been planned that will add 100 keys. More details will be announced in the second quarter.
Wellness brand Chiva-Som will be opening a 70-key hotel, wellness centre and 34 luxury villa estates, spanning 25 hectares. The hotel and wellness centre is set to open doors in Q3 of 2022.
Visitors can also look forward to the opening of a 104-year-old ship hotel with a maritime museum in June.
The most luxurious experience on board is a stay at the Master Mariner Suite, which will have a private outdoor jet spa and alfresco area for dining under the stars.
Running enthusiasts can participate in the second International Bintan Marathon, which has been expanded to offer more race categories.
These include the 3km Family Fun Run, 21km Half Marathon, 42km Full Marathon and the 42km Full Marathon Elite.
About 5,000 participants are expected to attend the race this year, to be held from September 7 to 8, up from the 1,200 in 2018.