Nestled away in the serene heights of Pecatu on Bali’s Bukit peninsula, Jumeirah Bali is a hidden gem that beautifully encapsulates the opulence and style of Jumeirah Hotels & Resorts. While the Emirati brand is renowned for its grandiose properties in the Middle East, it has expanded its presence worldwide, and Jumeirah Bali is a testament to the brand’s ability to create an oasis of luxury in a tropical paradise.
Architectural Marvel: A Fusion of Cultures
As you step onto the grounds of Jumeirah Bali, you are immediately struck by the low-rise architectural marvel that embraces you. The design is a fusion of Indonesian and Dutch-inspired architectural elements, with a touch of European influence. The result is a unique blend of tropical modernism that respects the history and culture of the region. The dazzling mix of white columns, marble, covered walkways, archways, and strategically placed fishponds all harmonize to create a sanctuary-like estate.
The inspiration for this architectural marvel draws from the Javanese-Hindu water palaces, representing the golden age of Indonesia’s Majapahit empire in the 13th century. The meticulously designed estate, spread across 11 hectares, offers guests a sense of place, rooted in the local culture. Exploring the property is like taking a journey through the history of Indonesia, with wall carvings, mythical creatures, and woven accessories that pay homage to the island’s rich heritage.
The gardens, designed by revered landscape designer, Made Wijaya, were created years earlier and the result is a magical tropical landscape that is full of special moments amid the lush plantings.
Unwind at the Spa: A Haven for Relaxation
One of the highlights of Bali’s best luxury resorts is the 5-star spa, and Jumeirah Bali does not disappoint. The Talise Spa is a haven for relaxation and rejuvenation, offering a range of treatments that combine traditional Balinese techniques with Bali’s first hammam Turkish bath and modern wellness practices. The spa’s tranquil setting, surrounded by lush gardens and soothing water features, provides the perfect backdrop for a truly immersive experience.
Indulge in traditional Balinese massages, body scrubs, and facials, all performed by skilled therapists who ensure your utmost comfort. Whether you opt for a solo treatment or a couples’ ritual, the spa at Jumeirah Bali is a place to unwind and reconnect with your inner self.
Culinary Delights: A Feast for the Senses
Jumeirah Bali offers an array of dining options that cater to every palate, from casual poolside meals to fine dining experiences. The Segaran Dining Terrace, with its indoor and outdoor seating, is the perfect setting for all-day dining. Guests can enjoy a sumptuous breakfast spread, including creative dishes like eggs Benedict beautifully dressed, bountiful tropical fruit, incredible home-made pastries and whole green coconuts branded with the resort’s logo. For lunch or dinner, authentic Balinese and Indonesian dishes offer light and spicy fare that showcases the vibrant flavours of local cuisine.
The Maja Lounge is an excellent choice for afternoon tea, offering a selection of sandwiches, cakes, and warm scones along with local delicacies. It’s a delightful experience amidst the elegant surroundings of the lounge with sweeping views along the coast.
For a truly exquisite dining experience, Akasa is the place to be. Perched high with stunning views, this restaurant is designed for romantic evenings and special occasions. Akasa specialises in flame-grilled Asian seafood and offers a variety of peppercorn choices to elevate the flavours of prime cuts of meat. The menu includes delectable dishes like Hamachi Carpaccio, Japanese oysters, a stunning Furikake foie gras and a whole range of premium seafood, poultry and meat grills.
Executive Chef Vincent Leroux and talented Chef de Cuisine Joan Archour often greet diners as the sunset paints the sky in shades of gold and bronze. It’s the perfect moment to raise a glass to the beauty of the Balinese twilight.
Your Private Sanctuary: Accommodation at Jumeirah Bali
The accommodation at Jumeirah Bali is nothing short of a private sanctuary. The resort offers one and two-bedroom walled villas, totaling 123 in number. These spacious, freestanding villas are thoughtfully designed to provide guests with a luxurious and comfortable retreat. Each villa features a private pool and comes in different aspects, including garden enclosures, ocean views, and panoramic vistas.
I had the pleasure of staying in a premier garden-style villa, complete with a private pool and outdoor shower. The villa was surrounded by lush, well-tended plantings, including thriving lotus that added colour and a taste of the tropics. The interior of the villa is designed with a creamy and pale grey palette, and the high pavilion ceilings create a sense of spaciousness. Both the sleeping and living areas are well-appointed and equipped with modern amenities, including large TVs with cable channels.
The freestanding bathtub, an open-plan curiosity, cleverly incorporates sliding panels for privacy when needed. Guests can expect a range of complimentary amenities, including breakfast, 24-hour butler service, nightly turndown service with canapes, and fast Wi-Fi.
What makes Jumeirah Bali even more special is its family-friendly approach. Families are warmly welcomed, and the resort offers a children’s club, junior meals on most menus, and flexible villa arrangements to accommodate cots and extra bedding. It’s a place where both couples seeking a romantic escape and families looking for a peaceful getaway can find their ideal retreat.
A Tranquil Oasis in Bali's Southwestern Tip
Jumeirah Bali’s location, tucked away in Bali’s southwestern tip along the staggeringly beautiful Uluwatu coastline, provides a peaceful escape from the bustling tourist areas. While the resort is a bit of a distance from the island’s most famous temples and attractions, this only adds to the sense of tranquillity and relaxation. The dedicated concierge desk can assist you in planning excursions and activities, including the must-see kecak monkey dance performances held at the nearby Uluwatu amphitheatre. These performances are a mesmerizing display of energy and culture, even if they can be quite crowded.
However, with the resort’s expansive and beautifully landscaped grounds, there’s no pressure to leave the property. Strolling through the estate is an engaging experience in itself, with clear references to local culture in every corner. The stunning beachfront, known locally as Dreamland, is a bonus for those who love a beautiful beach. The staff, known for their helpfulness, politeness, and intuition, ensure that your every need is met, making your stay even more enjoyable.
Jumeirah Bali is a luxurious retreat that seamlessly blends the opulence of the Jumeirah brand with the rich culture and natural beauty of Bali. With its stunning architectural design, tranquil spa, exquisite dining options, and comfortable accommodations, it offers guests a truly unforgettable experience. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a peaceful escape, Jumeirah Bali has it all. It’s a destination where the Arabian opulence of Jumeirah meets the tropical paradise of Bali, creating a harmonious and unforgettable retreat.
If you’re planning a visit to Jumeirah Bali, it’s about an hour by car from Denpasar airport, with transfers available. The Jumeirah website often offers advance purchase rates with discounts for bookings made at least 30 days in advance, and breakfast is included. There are also flexible rates for longer stays. Villa rates may vary depending on the season, so it’s worth checking the specific dates of your stay.
By Sarah Dougherty.
