Montigo Resorts Nongsa

Wrapped by lush greenery and the South China Sea, this 2012-opened property has a hideaway feel, and hill settings afford sensational sea vistas. Private villas with futuristic facades contrast bamboo- and straw-thatched restaurant, spa, and kids' club areas, and all are attractive. The property's 30 acres (12 hectares) are well-maintained throughout, but steep terrain means 24-hour chauffeured buggies are the preferred way to get around. The lobby has striking white ceiling beams, a freestanding stairwell tree, and pavilion seating in bright turquoise that sets the tone for trendy decor throughout. Evening DJs add some buzz to the generally peaceful property, although weekends get busy -- likely due to the barbecue buffets. Although the resort has a high-end design and luxury feel, most guests are families.

The small Indonesian island of Batam is beautiful, and lush greenery amid crashing waves enhances serenity here, and the hotel's setting is remote. The Nongsapura Ferry Terminal (for which the hotel offers free transfers) is a five-minute drive, and ferries from here to Singapore take 40 minutes. Batam City Center is 32 minutes away by car. Its Mega Mall offers shopping, although Nagoya Hill Shopping Mall (a roughly 40-minute drive away) is more popular, as the hotel offers shuttles to it (at a fee). The nearest Hang Nadim International Airport is a 21-minute drive. Singapore Changi Airport arrivals require ferries to Nongsapura.

All featuring sea views, private plunge pools, and large terraces, the villas here range from one- to five- bedroom setups, and most have a hillside or hilltop positioning. Whites dominate the walls, tile floors, and linens, while dark-wood furniture includes four-poster beds and living room seating. Powder blue or canary yellow throw pillows are classy amid bamboo floor mats. Stylish touches include black-and-white photography, tree trunk lamps, and driftwood sculptures. On the downside, some minor wear is noticeable. Kitchenettes have stovetops, free minibars, microwaves, tea- and coffee-making facilities, and basic cookware. Swanky mosaic-tiled bathrooms have rainfall showers and/or deep-soaking tubs, alongside Argan-branded toiletries, slippers, robes, and hairdryers. Also standard are HD TVs with DVD players, safes, and AC. Note, there's one Garden Villa available, which has a private lawn, but no pool. Rooms can be fitted with cribs.

Features here embrace the tropical climate and commanding sea views, and many areas are semi-outdoors. Despite shorefront positioning, the hotel's small jetty and sand park aren't a full beach, but alternatives include two infinity pools. Both offer mesmerizing views and submerged or cabana-shaded loungers. The adjacent TIIGO bar and restaurant serves fare like club sandwiches and burgers for lunch and dinner, plus popular cocktails into the night. Evening DJs, pool tables, and pop-art memorabilia are fun offerings. The all-day TAAD serves three meals with local and international specialties. The Chinese and seafood-specialized Pantai Restaurant is atmospheric with mood-lit bamboo decor, and its weekend barbecue buffets are a hit.

The Montigo Spa is serene, and signature Indonesian treatments here accompany ginger baths, couples' massages, a sauna, and steam room. There are also a spa pool, airy modern gym with a full range of equipment, and free yoga classes. Tennis, bike rentals, and water sports like kayaking are all available for fees. The kids' club occupies its own building, and a fun yellow slide accompanies endless toys and activities here. Pets are not permitted. Free parking and property-wide Wi-Fi round out the available amenities.