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6 November, 2024

Hotel review: does Amanpulo in the Phillipines outshine the Australian coastline?

By Nancy Hromin

We set our sights on Pamalican Island, curious if its beauty might outshine the familiar splendour of our own Australian coasts.

Upon our arrival, what Amanpulo presents is a transformation of natural beauty into something that borders on ethereal. The journey by seaplane – a cinematic touch – adds an air of mystery, as if we’ve crossed into a world and became celebrities needing an escape ourselves.

Tucked away on the secluded Pamalican Island, Amanpulo lives up to its reputation as an exclusive hideaway. We hear the murmur of famous names—Bill and Melinda Gates are said to be frequent visitors, and the legend goes that Madonna herself stayed far longer than planned, leaving a $6.2 million impression in her wake. The staff, loyal to their code of silence, neither confirm nor deny it.

Accommodation: You really feel like you are on a deserted island

Spacious rooms at Amanpulo. (Supplied)

Amanpulo’s casitas and villas blend into the natural landscape, each designed to make the most of the island’s beauty without being over the top. The casitas, inspired by local Filipino homes, are thoughtfully placed to maximise privacy. I was only steps away from the stunning white sandy beach, and with open, airy interiors and natural materials, it is understated luxury. Nothing over the top here, other than the natural beauty.

Dining: local, fresh, and sustainable

Amanpulo’s dining is laid-back and relaxed. The Beach Club is the go-to for casual meals, while the Lagoon Club serves Filipino dishes with some creative twists. There’s also the Kawayan Bar, a floating bamboo raft perfect for a sunset cocktail and snorkel among the bale of turtles swimming around to say hello. It was a tad too romantic for my travel buddy and colleague, but we amused ourselves with our fake romance for the afternoon!

The stunning, floating Kawayan Bar. (Supplied)

One standout is the resort’s dedication to sourcing locally. A lot of what’s on the menu comes straight from Amanpulo’s own organic garden – herbs, greens, and even some fruit. It’s a nice touch that you can taste, and it cuts down on the resort’s carbon footprint too. Supporting local farmers and fishermen is part of the experience.

Sustainability: a commitment to keeping it pristine

Organic farm and hut with team members. (Supplied)

Sustainability here is woven into the fabric of Amanpulo, not paraded as a slogan but just done. We accidentally spotted the solar farm as we rode around on our personal electric golf carts hidden away among the forage. It is all unassuming, but it was huge and harnesses the island’s sunlight, keeping the lights on and the cool air circulating, demonstrating luxury and eco can co-exist. Waste, too, is managed with care and intention. Recycling, composting, and thoughtful disposal practices ensure that Amanpulo treads lightly, leaving the island unblemished.

Experiences: not just a beach resort

While the main draw is the white-sand beach and crystal-clear waters, Amanpulo has a range of activities to keep things interesting. Snorkelling and diving are as good as it gets, with reefs and a Dive Centre that doubles as a conservation hub. I loved the snorkelling and did it every day, a complimentary add on, which I took advantage of. The turtles are so beautiful, and are used to visitors. They happily posed for us before swimming away. Occasionally, you would see one of their heads bob up out of the water while enjoying a meal by the beach, as if they are saying hello. A super special experience.

Unforgettable experiences at your fingertips. (Supplied)

For those who like to stay on dry land, yoga classes are held at sunrise, and there’s a spa that incorporates traditional Filipino healing techniques. Even if you’re more of a beach lounger, the spa is worth a visit. And if you’re craving a even more solitude, if that is possible, the resort offers trips to nearby deserted islands.

Bespoke Private Dining is also newly available- secluded locations for private picnics and romantic fine dining on the island, whether in an ocean front cove or high on the hillside with views across the horizon. The cliff-top setting known as Gary’s Nest is one such venue, and several secret beachfront spots are also dotted around the coastline. It’s even possible to dine on the island’s runway–a one-of-a-kind setting for an evening under the stars.

Service: attentive yet understated

Amanpulo’s staff knows when to be there and when to give you space – a fine line that they tread expertly. Service is warm and personal, and most of the team is local. They’re not just serving drinks or meals; they genuinely seem to want guests to enjoy the island as much as they do. The only downside is their refusal to share celebrity gossip!

Amanpulo is more than just a beautiful place. It’s a resort that feels respectful of its surroundings, both environmentally and culturally. From the solar farm to the locally sourced menu, it’s clear that Amanpulo’s goal is to preserve what makes this island special. It’s the kind of luxury that doesn’t scream, it whispers. And as you fly back over the blue-green waters, it’s hard not to feel like you’ve been somewhere rare – not just in terms of beauty, but in approach. Amanpulo isn’t just an escape; it’s a reminder of how luxury travel can be done right.

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