LAND ACTIVITIES
Whilst many people will visit Cempedak just to unwind, there is a wide range of activities on offer for the more active. The best thing about this is that there is no charge for most activities and you are free to use the equipment for as long and as often as you like. Charges apply for use of the more advanced equipment and activities such as diving. Many of the staff are experienced sailors, divers and rock climbers and are always happy to help introduce guests to a new activity.
Exploring Nature
Only one-third of the island has been developed and there are a number of walking paths around the island taking you through untouched forest, mangroves and past stunning rock formations making it a rewarding experience for anyone interested in nature or simply looking to burn off lunch. We are fortunate to have a number of rare species on the island including Pangolins, Silver Leaf Monkeys, Sea Otters, Hornbills, Dugongs, Turtles and Nicobar Pigeons. In the sea, we have spotted pods of the critically endangered Irrawaddy Dolphins. If you are lucky you may be able to spot some of them during your stay with us. At low tide the rock pools make a fascinating area to explore. Cempedak staff will be happy to help you identify what you see or even take you on a guided walk pointing out the flora and fauna. There is a team that monitors the beaches for turtle nests and works on marine conservation so do ask to speak to any of these staff if this is something you are interested in. There are a number of uninhabited islands near Cempedak and if you are interested in exploring these then please ask our staff. Picnics can be arranged for such excursions.
Sustainability Tours
Our staff will be happy to take you on a tour of Cempedak to show you what we do to make Cempedak as sustainable as possible.
Sports
Tennis and croquet
There are two natural grass tennis courts on Cempedak that are lovingly tended. The courts are rotated so one is in play for tennis and the other set up for croquet. The nature of a natural grass court is that it cannot be played on all the time but without doubt, it is the best surface to play.
Boule and volleyball
We have sets of Boule (Petanque) at the boathouse that you are welcome to borrow. The best location to play is along the footpaths. Our staff are keen players and are always up for a game of volleyball. They have a net set up in the staff area as well which you are welcomed to join in or watch if you are interested. However, be warned they are very good and take the game quite seriously.
Rock Climbing
Rock climbing, mountain biking and trekking are some exciting activities available for visitors to explore on Bintan and neighbouring islands. We have some great natural rocks to climb on the island. Our staff have been well trained and the equipment kept well maintained. There is a small charge for the rock climbing activity.
Recreation
Board games
We have a small selection of board games including scrabble, chess and draughts. We also have dice and cups to play a game called Paso (aka Liars Dice or Perudo) as featured in the movie Pirates of the Caribbean. A great game to play with a rum in your hand!
Library
We intend to slowly build up a small library of books. The iPads in the rooms also have access to the online version of The Idler magazine which we thoroughly recommend.
