Alycastre Resort, a hidden gem located on Pemana Island in Maumere Bay, offers an enchanting retreat for those seeking a truly off the beaten track experience with all amenities and comfort. Owned by the dynamic duo, Anthon from Bunaken, and Virginie from Paris, the resort presents a harmonious fusion that is truly captivating.Drawing from Virginie's experience as a former Parisian restaurant owner, the resort offers an exceptional dining experience. The cuisine is a celebration of locally sourced ingredients, with grouper, snapper, tuna, squid, and lobster taking center stage. Each meal is a delightful exploration of flavors, showcasing the freshest catches and an authentic taste of the region.Anthon's extensive knowledge as a seasoned guide ensures unforgettable underwater adventures. Every dive brings encounters with white tip and black tip sharks, blended with abundance of critters like crabs, nudibranch, and shrimp making for an great experience. The resort's exclusive dive sites, discovered and charted by Anthon himself, grant guests exclusive access to these extraordinary waters, fostering a sense of tranquility and seclusion. No diver soup here! Only fish soup 😊.The house reef is in good condition. We encountered reef mantas, turtles and sharks, providing an opportunity for unforgettable snorkeling sessions. It's worth noting that accessing the house reef might be more suitable for strong swimmers due to the drop-off distance from the shore. The resort does provide kayaks to reach the drop off should you not feel comfortable swimming the distance.The accommodations, including the intricately designed Jogglo, where we had the pleasure to stay, a reconstructed Javanese wooden house, offer spacious comfort. The serene view of the lagoon adds to the overall tranquility. The restaurant building, an awe-inspiring Balinese bamboo structure with high ceilings, sets the perfect stage for great dining moments. A delightful touch, that added to the impression of tranquility was the absence of any need to lock doors during our stay.What truly sets Alycastre apart is the warm and familial hospitality of its owners. Anthon and Virginie welcomed us with open arms, creating an atmosphere where we felt like cherished members of the extended family. This personal touch added an extra layer of magic to the overall experience, making us feel at home in this tropical paradise.In a world where true seclusion is a rare find, Alycastre Resort delivers. The dedication of its owners, the captivating surroundings, and the exceptional service converge to create an unforgettable experience. Whether you're seeking good diving, or simply a slice of paradise, Alycastre is the perfect haven.After an incredible 11-night stay, tears flowed as we bid farewell, a testament to the awe-inspiring place and the even more remarkable people. Thank you, Virginie and Anthon, for creating such an unforgettable experience!