Somewhere Lombok: a Striking New Property On An Indonesian Island

Monday, 11 May 2026

There’s a reason why more foreign investors are starting to look beyond Bali and turning their attention to Lombok. The island still feels raw, peaceful, and full of opportunities. But among the growing number of luxury projects on the island, one name keeps standing out: Somewhere Lombok.

Built by sisters Claire and Valia Gontard, this boutique resort is not just another pretty property with infinity pools and ocean views. It’s a smart example of how vision, sustainability, and understanding local culture can turn a dream into a successful hospitality business.

The Gontard sisters grew up in Hong Kong, but Lombok was always personal for them. Their grandfather was born on the island, and that emotional connection became the starting point of their business journey. Instead of chasing crowded tourism markets, they saw potential in Lombok’s quieter charm.

Perched on a hillside overlooking Are Guling Bay in South Lombok, Somewhere Lombok combines minimalist luxury with nature-focused design. The property features 20 standalone villas, each equipped with private plunge pools and panoramic views of the ocean and green valley below.

But what really makes this project interesting for investors is not only the aesthetics. It’s the business philosophy behind it. Claire and Valia didn’t simply import luxury concepts from overseas. Instead, they built a resort deeply connected to Lombok itself.

Most of the materials, furniture, and decorations were sourced locally. Local artisans created woven baskets, pottery, textiles, and even custom furniture pieces used throughout the property.

That approach created two big advantages. First, it gave Somewhere Lombok a unique identity that feels authentic instead of “copy-paste tropical luxury.” Second, it helped support local communities and strengthened the project’s relationship with the island. In modern hospitality, authenticity sells. Travelers today are looking for experiences, not just hotel rooms.

The sisters also paid serious attention to sustainability. The resort uses natural ventilation, reflective building materials, rainwater harvesting systems, and recycled greywater facilities. Even the landscaping was designed carefully to prevent erosion on the hillside.

This matters because eco-conscious tourism is becoming a huge trend globally. Investors who understand sustainability early often gain stronger long-term value and branding.

Another smart move was choosing Lombok before the island fully exploded in popularity. While Bali continues to struggle with overcrowding and rising prices, Lombok still offers space for thoughtful development. Tourism infrastructure is improving fast, especially around Kuta Lombok and Mandalika, making the island increasingly attractive for international travelers and investors alike.

Somewhere Lombok proves that successful property investment is not always about building the biggest resort. Sometimes it’s about creating something meaningful, connected, and different.

For aspiring investors, Claire and Valia Gontard offer an important lesson: understand the culture, respect the environment, and build something with a real story behind it. In places like Lombok, that combination can become more valuable than luxury alone.