Apurva Kempinski Bali

This grand resort on the Nusa Dua cliff face exudes contemporary Javanese style.

When you step into the lobby of the opulent new Apurva Kempinski Bali, be prepared to be overwhelmed in the best possible way. The grand design showcases a soaring golden tiered ceiling, the finest Javanese handcarved partitions, dazzling water features and a striking labradorite Madagascar granite floor that reflects hues like gemstones do. A decade to build, it’s been worth the wait and is full of surprises with the design a tribute to the handicrafts of Indonesia’s glorious Majapahit Kingdom era.

Built into a Nusa Dua cliff face, the steep 250-step Grand Staircase that soars towards the sky was inspired by Bali’s sacred Pura Besakih water temple and takes centre stage.

Vivid bougainvillea trail over the terraces where nightly rituals are held while tumbling waterfalls lead down to the shimmering 60-metre main pool, beach and turquoise Indian Ocean.

Clusters of Solobium trees, fragrant frangipanis and lush gardens feature throughout.

The design reflects an openair theatre and a series of flat green roofs cascading down the hillside mirrors traditional Balinese rice terraces.

My palatial suite features an infinity lap pool and a marble bathroom with a stand-alone bath showcasing captivating ocean vistas that I can’t take my eyes off.

It’s one of 475 sumptuous rooms, suites and villas with ocean views – many with plunge pools, plus beautiful Indonesian craftwork and chic decor.

If you are feeling peckish, there are six restaurants that feature unique culinary experiences in eclectic settings.

Pala Restaurant offers all-day dining with local and international dishes, while a Japanese menu features at Izakaya by Oku. You can feel the sand between your toes at the Reef Beach Club that’s great for casual dining overlooking a 42-metre beachfront infinity pool.

For a taste of Indonesia’s famed herbal tonic Jamu and the distinctive Luwak coffee, head to the Selasar Deli and at Koral Restaurant, you can gaze at an aquarium while you dine.

For a nightcap under the stars, the Pala

Rooftop Bar is perfect.

The impressive Apurva

Spa offers healing treatments based on the Javanese philosophy Rupasampat Wahyabiantara, which aligns outer and inner beauty. Even the body scrubs sound delicious.

After a signature massage that leaves me feeling totally restored, I sip herbal tea on the terrace and gaze out to sea wondering how to delay my departure.

The Apurva Kempinski Bali is a perfect mix of Indonesian heritage and a dreamy tropical feel – it’s also well deserving of a standing ovation.

Rates start from

IDR4,401,980 (about A$456) per room, per night.