Juliana Siahaan
May 08, 2025
Set along one of Indonesia’s lesser-explored coastlines, Tanjung Kelayang Reserve is a sanctuary of sustainable luxury, where untamed beauty meets visionary conservation. Designated as a UNESCO Global Geopark, this 350-hectare protected reserve redefines responsible travel, offering an immersive escape where nature, history, and community exist in harmony.
Belitung’s significance extends beyond its white sands and striking granite formations. Once a key maritime hub on the ancient Silk Road, the island connected traders from China, the Middle East, and Europe. The 1998 discovery of the 9th-century Belitung Shipwreck, filled with Tang Dynasty ceramics and gold, cemented its role in global history. Today, Tanjung Kelayang Reserve preserves this legacy while inviting travelers to explore its unspoiled landscapes.
At the heart of the reserve is a commitment to conservation. Over half remains untouched, protecting rare species like the elusive Billiton tarsier, the critically endangered Pelepak tree, and the Sunda pangolin, the world’s most trafficked mammal. A zero-impact water system utilizing local kaolin clay filtration ensures fresh water is sourced sustainably without harming the ecosystem.
"Every aspect of Tanjung Kelayang Reserve is guided by nature itself," shares Daniel Alexander Napitupulu, Director of Tanjung Kelayang Reserve. "Our goal is not just preservation, but to create a self-sustaining model where wildlife, the local community, and hospitality thrive together. Sustainability isn't just about protecting the land—it’s about fostering a deeper connection between people and nature, ensuring that every guest experiences the beauty of Belitung while embracing a renewed sense of responsibility and appreciation for the environment."
For those seeking a refined escape, Sheraton Belitung Resort, blends modern luxury with Belitung’s natural beauty. Its 123 elegantly designed rooms and suites overlook the sea, lagoon, or gardens, offering immersive experiences in a pristine setting. Guests can savor innovative Belitung cuisine, unwind by the infinity pool, or embark on eco-treks, island hopping, and visits to UNESCO-listed Geoparks. A dedicated kids’ area ensures families enjoy an enriching stay, making the resort the perfect gateway to Belitung’s wonders.
To experience a more exclusive hideaway, Billiton Ekobeach Retreat offers an ideal haven with just four secluded Eco Beach Villas nestled along the shoreline. Thoughtfully designed for privacy and sustainability, the retreat invites guests to dine in an open-air pavilion, savor locally sourced cuisine, and immerse themselves in nature. A short boat ride away, a private island awaits, with pristine silica sand, snorkeling, and diving in crystal-clear waters. Rooted in sustainability, Billiton Ekobeach Retreat offers a rare opportunity to disconnect and embrace Belitung’s raw beauty.
Beyond luxury, Tanjung Kelayang Reserve is a movement—an invitation to experience travel differently. Guests can take part in rewilding initiatives, plant endangered Pelepak trees, or witness sea turtle hatchlings making their first journey to the ocean. The reserve’s BlueMind Experiences, inspired by Wallace J. Nichols’ research on water’s therapeutic effects, offer mindful explorations—from island-hopping and rock climbing to guided Whistle Trail hikes, where visitors can spot the White-tailed Eagle and the melodic Whistle Bird, which gives the trail its name.
Aspiring to be a pioneer in sustainable tourism, Tanjung Kelayang Reserve seamlessly blends eco conscious design with world-class hospitality. Its locally inspired architecture, crafted from recycled kaolin bricks and driftwood furniture by Belitung artisans, reflects a deep respect for heritage and sustainability. With only one planet to explore, Tanjung Kelayang Reserve offers a rare opportunity to travel with purpose—where every footprint leaves a lasting positive impact.
To experience the beauty, sustainability, and hospitality of Tanjung Kelayang Reserve, follow @TanjungKelayangReserve on Instagram. For accommodations, explore the Sheraton Belitung Resort or the eco-luxury Billiton Ekobeach Retreat.
