JUMEIRAH BALI
Set in terraced gardens designed by the late Made Wijaya, this recently opened all-villa resort descends down the hillside toward Uluwatu’s Dreamland Beach. Its design is an ode to Java’s Majapahit Empire, a Hindu-buddhist kingdom that deeply influenced the cultural development of Bali. Intricate carvings recall the ruins of Trowulan, site of the Majapahit capital, and the main swimming pool was inspired by that city’s Kolam Segaran reservoir. Architect Martin Grounds and Denniston International’s famed Jean-michel Gathy have brought the long-lost civilization to life for modern-day travelers.
Guests can choose from 123 one- and two-bedroom villas that either overlook a tropical garden or the Indian Ocean. At the top of the line is a 4,900-square-meter four-bedroom villa featuring a private wine and cigar cellar. All accommodations have spacious outdoor lounge areas complete with an open-air pavilion and plunge pool; the abundance of water features is no accident, as the entire resort was conceived as a modern royal water palace.
Closer to the waves, a trio of restaurants and bars provides front-seat views to Bali’s famed ocean sunsets. Segaran spotlights Southeast Asian cooking and local cuisine with a farm-to-table philosophy; Maja Sunset Lounge offers cocktails and finger food beside the ocean-facing infinity pools; and the resort’s newest addition is AKASA Restaurant & Bar, where diners can tuck into fire-cooked specialties as a resident musicologist sets the mood.
Jumeirah’s own Talise Spa boasts the only traditional Turkish hammam in Bali, alongside wellness facilities such as a sauna, steam bath, and Vichy showers. Expert therapists here deliver facials, body scrubs, and muscle-melting massages that make use of ancient Balinese techniques and traditional herbal preparations. Over at the indoors-outdoors Peafowl Kids Club, younger guests can embark on treasure hunts and learn about the island’s rich culture through a range of hands-on activities. Weddings and special events are well catered for too, thanks to a cliff-top garden venue, Trowulan, which accommodates up to 200 guests.