I recently stayed at this beautiful resort on Gili Gede. The bungalows are charming, comfortable, and perfectly blend with the natural surroundings, offering stunning views and a true island escape. What makes this place even more special is the couple who run it. They are absolutely wonderful—warm, welcoming, and attentive to every detail. You immediately feel at home, yet also like you are part of something unique and authentic. If you are looking for an experience beyond the typical tourist trail, this is the perfect place. It’s ideal for anyone who wants to disconnect from the rush of everyday life and immerse themselves in genuine island living. The atmosphere is peaceful, the setting is breathtaking, and everything feels authentic and unspoiled. I recommend this resort if you want to experience Gili Gede in the most authentic and heartfelt way.

The bungalows were large with a lovely bathroom and very clean. The staff were great with organising snorkeling trips for us and the two other guests that were there. They were very friendly and their children a delight. There is no fridge or tea making in the bungalow but they happily made us tea or coffee whenever we liked. The included breakfast was simple but great. Eggs of any type or pancake, toast and jam, fresh fruit and tea or coffee. We ate at the neighbouring resort at night as their menu was much more extensive.

We were there in the off season and sadly the property looked really neglected. We were unable to use the pool the entire stay as it was green. They said it was from the recent rain but the resort next doors pool was okay. They tried desperately to get it clean for us so hopefully it’s ok by now.

Michael, the owner, is so nice, funny, generous & friendly. Beautiful garden and swimming pool, private beach, the best choice in Gili Gede !!!! The rooms are nice, with nice furniture and good bathrooms. michael’s staff is so nice and the food is great !

Nothing

Overall we had a great stay at the Papalagi. The Resort is quite small and we were the only guests. At first it was a little bit suspicious, however the humble stuff turned it into a very „local like“ adventure. They were so kind tried to give us always a happy and welcoming feeling. Especially Ilham was really kind and tried to help us with every topic we had. Also the cook (unfortunately don’t know her name) was very kind and her food was exceptionally good. The garden and the pool were very beautiful and if you want to relax it’s definitely the right spot for you. We highly recommend to walk into the local villages. It’s really interesting and you can get an authentic view on how the locals are living

As we wanted to snorkel we were a little bit disappointed about the reef in front of the resort. It was not possible to snorkel there directly. In addition there was only a small offer of food and drinks.

We loved the well planted garden, the beauty of the place, the sculptures, the pool, the comfortable rooms and lovely bathrooms- a high level of attention to detail. Hera and the kitchen staff were friendly. The one evening meal I had - a curry - was fabulous. We loved Hera’s grandchildren too! There is some quite good snorkelling in front but it relies on a high tide.

It was quiet which was lovely, but for some people being a 20 minute walk from the main part of the village might be a downside if you wanted to go to a bar or another restaurant. The kitchen staff were a little bit disorganised with our breakfast orders. On both days that we were there we had to follow most requests up and mistakes were made. I think having pedal bikes or motorbikes to borrow or rent as some other places do would be a good idea.

The perfect place for a quiet, chilled stay after a busy time travelling. So quiet and peaceful. Hera and Michael and their staff were superb hosts. Friendly, informative, very helpful organising transport etc. Great breakfasts! The evening meals we ate there were great too. Lovely pool and snorkelling straight from hotel frontage.

Nothing….it was lovely !

The owner Hera was lovely, as were her daughter and young grandchildren. The staff were really friendly. Everyone was happy to help whenever needed. Papalagi is kept immaculately clean and the pool is crystal clear. At high tide you can snorkel off the beach, otherwise Hera can arrange well priced boat trips to the amazing islands close by. Gili layar has spectacular coral and fish The sunsets are remarkable and the colours of the sea and clouds just after need to be seen.

If you are looking for something special in the south Gili, a quiet, peaceful hotel, this is the place. We spent nine days, here. There are three bungalows and a few rooms in a low building, we stayed in a bungalow. The room was spacious, clean and well maintained. There was ac and hot water. The pool was large,deep and well maintained too. The atmosfere was very relaxing: you feel you are in a family; the owner, madame Hera, is very friendly and can help you for any question. The cooking of the hotel is very good and food is prepared on order.

The presence of some hunk or similar to put on dresses could be usefull

Such a beautiful place, the private beach is breathtaking at sunset. It’s a very relaxing, peaceful and scenic place. Recommend for anyone wanting to escape the busy touristy islands! Lots of great snorkelling spots on your door step, and just a 15min walk to the other villages. We loved Gili Gede, and recommend people to visit this place

WiFi was temperamental in the room, but that is to be expected when you are on a remote island!

Great spot, tucked away and super quiet. Staff were amazing, food was fantastic, clean rooms, decent wifi and air con worked great

Shame the beach nearby has a rubbish issue. This resort is super clean but the nearby beaches were littered. The locals really need to get on top of this. Apart from this, this place is paradise