Set among more than 300 hectares of beachfront gardens overlooking the South China Sea and the archipelago of Indonesia’s Riau Islands, Bintan Lagoon Resort is a nearby golf-friendly getaway that has become a favourite weekend destination for expatriates and Singaporean golfers without a club. In these uncertain economic times, it is also comforting to note that we don’t have to go very far when looking for great golf and equally great resort accommodations.

I was given the opportunity of a stay-and-play recently to check out the newly turfed Ian Baker-Finch course, and also to revisit some of the resort’s many amenities, and partake of local and international cuisine on tap. Proximity sometimes leads to oversight, and I was glad I made it a point to pay a visit to a seaside destination that is just as good as any in the region.

Bintan Lagoon has gone through many renditions and ownerships. And the latest makeover comes with a renewed marketing effort that aims to raise the profile of the resort.

The accommodations include 473 spacious deluxe rooms, suites and villas, plus an impressive range of 12 dining options and nine lovely function rooms.

Its main draw, of course, is golf – specifically, the two courses, designed by Jack Nicklaus (Sea View Course) and Ian Baker-Finch (Woodland Course). But other recreational activities such as the sea sports centre, spa and Bintan’s first island party club called Silk help to make it the perfect place to have a well-rounded good time.

Renovated rooms with views
Even though golf is the main attraction for most guests, it is tempting to just chill out in the guest rooms all day. The subtlety and complexity of the interior design made it inviting to order in some food, and get comfortable in front of the large-screen LCD TV to watch a few movies, rather than having to exert oneself under the sun.

I was told Bintan Lagoon recently completed the first phase of its guest room refurbishment project, which is part of an extensive, year-long S$15.26 million upgrading programme. Subsequently, I noticed that various enhancements to my room’s floors and wall furnishings, light fittings and furniture resulted in a blend of contemporary design and comfortable elegance, accented with artistic Indonesia motifs.

For example, with its palette of fresh off-white and cream shades, with splashes of bright persimmon, my renovated room exuded a calm and relaxing feel, while also evoking a sense of holiday excitement.

Artistic attention to design details accentuated the ambience via iconic wave-inspired wall features, sea shell-styled wardrobe handles, and warm colours and textures that extended across the soft furnishings, highlighted by rattan fittings.

I was also informed that all the bathrooms have been totally refurbished in light marbled tones, showcasing Bravat designer bathtubs and sanitary ware, and featuring a full-length floor-to-ceiling mirror to enhance the rooms’ sense of visual space.  

From my balcony on the third floor, I got a great view of two of the holes of the Sea View Course.

The only sounds I could hear outside in the early morning were birds chirping and the barely audible chatter of golfers in the distant, meandering their way along the magnificent course.

Key features of the newly redesigned rooms are a brand new built-in refreshment unit, a flat-screen LCD TV, as well as a range of modern Indonesian designer teakwood furniture.

In addition, I noticed that the popular day bed was enhanced to make the rooms more accommodating for a large family.  

Playing the Ian Baker-Finch Woodland Course
After a scrumptious Japanese lunch at Haskells Café in the Golf Club House, I mustered the energy to explore Baker-Finch’s Woodland Course. His design layout has always been a challenging one for better golfers, but anyone can easily enjoy the beauty of its setting through the indigenous forest.

Though I wasn’t really counting my strokes, I realised by the third hole that staying in the fairways and carefully reading putting greens were paramount to obtaining good scores.

I also came to understand why this course is widely acclaimed for its two signature holes (8th and 13th), undulating natural fairways and scenic water hazards.

Designed with the front nine snaking away from the resort and the back nine returning to the clubhouse, the course is laid out over dramatically changing terrain.

Re-turfed with new grass, the rough now poses a great challenge to hit out of, if by any chance you find yourself there with a wayward tee shot.

Fortunately, this course offers five different tee locations to suit all level of golfers. The par-72 course measures 6,211 meters (6,792 yards) and includes many tight and narrow fairways on rolling landscapes among daring greens, with sand traps and menacing water hazards. Consequently, there are many risk-and-reward opportunities for seasoned golfers, along with play flexibility for less experienced players like me.

Specific highlights of the course include an elevated 8th hole tee at the 526-meter (575 yard) par 5, which, I was told, is a favourite with golfers. Stretching downhill into the distance before rising to the green, the hole demands absolute precision, as one must negotiate his or her shots past bunkers, a lake and a solitary tall tree. Further along the card, the elevated 13th is another hole that is worth whipping out your cameras. From the tee, you can see the seaside villas and catch the sunlight reflecting off the gentle waves of the South China Sea.

Rejoicing repast
Completing a round of golf at Bintan Lagoon can leave one hungry for a good meal – or at least longing for a drink – whether in celebration or to seek solace from shots gone astray. In this respect, the resort leaves nothing to be desired and offers something for everyone.

I could have satiated my local taste buds at Kopi-O, the main restaurant where breakfast sees a hustling crowd jostling for space next to the buffet spread. Or I could have indulged in Mediterranean fare at Orzo, where the quality of wood-fired pizzas are said to stand side by side with the top pizza joints in Singapore. Miyako Restaurant should make any Japanese expatriate feel thoroughly at home with its range of sashimi, teppanyaki and everything in between. But for me, the Nelayan Grill was perfect for my needs. After all, what good is visiting an island resort if I don’t get to sample the seafood barbecues that define the ambience?

Last but not least – and with the last ounce of energy I had left for the day – I managed to drag myself into Silk, Bintan’s only urban-style party place, where drinks and music exude contemporary cool. I might not have embarrassed myself attempting moves on the dance floor, but with a drink in my hand, and feeling the vibes reverberating through the air, I felt energised enough to look forward to another go at one of the resort’s courses the next day.