WEBSITE PREVIEW – LAUNCHING AUGUST 2021

FEATURES • DESTINATIONS

Reef, Roots & Renewal:
Sumberkima Hill’s
Vision for a Collaborative
Future

January 2025
Words by The Punch Editors
Photography by Sumberkima Hill

Sumberkima Hill began as a simple idea for a second home but quickly grew into a community of villas, thanks to Bernard’s vision and the land’s untapped potential. Opening in 2015, it developed organically, fueled by the enthusiasm of visitors drawn to its natural beauty and atmosphere. Today, it serves as a model for community-driven initiatives, enriching the local area and promoting responsible tourism with a focus on sustainability and cultural immersion.

Initially, Bernard had no plans for a large-scale project–he and his family already owned a house in Pemuteran and were simply looking for a small plot to build a second home. When he encountered a larger plot with striking potential, he imagined building a few houses for friends. As more friends expressed interest, the idea expanded, with Bernard acquiring neighboring plots to fulfill the growing vision.

What began as a handful of villas soon turned into a vision for 12 villas and a restaurant. Over time, Sumberkima Hill’s influence on the local community flourished in ways Bernard never expected, continually developing into a model of community-driven growth and environmental responsibility. Now, there are around 80 villas in operation, with more on the horizon, along with added amenities such as restaurants, a spa, sauna, ice bath, and multiple yoga shalas.

EMPOWERING LOCAL VOICES

Ecological mindfulness isn’t just a principle at Sumberkima Hill–it’s a way of life. Bernard’s vision goes much further than environmental responsibility, as making collaboration a constant through each project is important. Sumberkima Hill has a special partnership with villa owners, Bernard doesn’t just manage their properties; he invites them to bring their touch into each space. This philosophy of co-creation reflects the respect and shared purpose that define their bond with the local community and where cooperation becomes part of each decision.

From the early days, local craftsmen and builders were the backbone of Sumberkima Hill’s construction, ingraining a sense of pride and ownership throughout the village. One of their most ambitious projects–a collective reef restoration–signaled a new era for the area, making Sumberkima one of its pioneering developments. This strengthened the relationship, transforming them from developers into trusted partners. The community’s involvement is in every bit of the resort’s operation, from staffing to guiding development plans. Village leaders and residents join in the vision, attuning progress with the community’s aspirations.

This spirit of partnership could be seen in a recent project when the village gained rights to the hill behind Sumberkima. They reached out to Bernard, looking for his insight, and together, they conceptualized a glamping site. Now, this site is co-managed by Sumberkima, with profits shared directly with the village, reinforcing a sense of collective investment. An amphitheater, newly constructed on top of the hill, now hosts community events and resort gatherings, mixing tourism with local interests and empowering villagers to oversee their role in the region’s growth. Here, tourism and tradition aren’t at odds; they’re bound together, making sure that the village’s legacy and prosperity remain at the heart.

A VISION OF UNITY THROUGH A CULTURAL ARENA

Perched atop the hill, the Sumberkima amphitheater has blossomed into a dynamic hub of culture and connection. With plans for traditional dances and the rhythmic drama of a kecak troupe at dusk, the village foresees this space as a stage for local heritage, set against a panorama of Java’s volcanoes. Recently, the resort’s team hosted an event that drew in around 200 attendees, filling the air with laughter, chants, and the spirit of camaraderie. Games and team-building activities connected guests and locals alike, making the evening a shared celebration and creating an atmosphere of genuine unity.

But the amphitheater is more than a stage for performances; it’s a setting for weddings, a space for twice-weekly sunset yoga, and proof of Bernard’s philosophy of harmony. Each event brings value not only to the resort but also to the village, carrying a vision of growth that supports both sides. This collaborative approach helps the balanced progress Bernard strives to replicate across every project at Sumberkima Hill.

Through strong ties with local artisans, nearby villagers, and villa owners, Bernard has cultivated more than a resort–he’s built a blueprint for responsible tourism, where environmental responsibility and cultural preservation come to life. Sumberkima Hill stands as a beacon of sustainable development, where each initiative speaks to shared progress. Here, visitors and locals find a future rooted in respect, purpose, and a vision that endures.

NATURE RENEWED: SUMBERKIMA'S LOCAL IMPACT

Sumberkima Hill launched meaningful environmental projects through their locally established NGO, Metamorfosa. Since 2017, this community-driven organization has focused on restoring coral reefs in the bay–important to coastal protection and marine biodiversity. Along with support from government recognition and village volunteers, the reef restoration efforts help revive the ecosystem and bring ecological and economic benefits to the village.

Sumberkima’s dedication to the land also encompasses a tree-planting initiative that has been designed to keep the area green year-round. Guests are invited to sponsor a coral or plant a tree, making a personal connection with the environment.

Sumberkima Hill’s approach to conscious tourism is a balance of environmental responsibility and community empowerment. By aligning ecological projects with cultural collaboration, they’re creating more than just a destination–it’s a space where locals and guests contribute to a shared future. This vision for accountable growth is a blueprint for lasting impact that resonates beyond the moment.

EXPLORE THE FULL STORY IN UNCOVERED BALI BOOK

Uncovered Bali is a collective project showcasing the sustainable journeys of carefully selected Bali businesses to a global audience. Each story highlights the unique impact these enterprises have on preserving Bali’s cultural and environmental heritage while driving positive change. Through this project, we aim to inspire global leaders, travelers, and communities to embrace more sustainable practices and appreciate the powerful role that local businesses play in shaping a better future.

EXPLORE THE PUNCH

Celebrating Bali's Responsible Heroes

Celebrating Bali's
Responsible Heroes