How Bali Got Its Groove Back

Your next island getaway just got way more Instagrammable thanks to an upsurge of cool-factor hotels in the Indonesian island’s trendiest towns that offer an immersive experience for travellers with design on their mind

- Julia Freemantle

Bali has re-emerged as a nexus for both high-end on-the-pulse design destinations and quirky spaces unique to the island’s culture – no doubt a result of merging cultural influences, rich craft heritage, unbeatable scenery and an upswing in luxury hospitality. Whereas Bali used to be synonymous with hippies on sabbatical and dreamcatchers in doorways, now it attracts a cosmopolitan crowd courtesy of a major reboot. Intimate owner-run villas and glossy international chains are the new hotspots carrying Bali’s laidback undercurrent with serious style cred.

SPECTACULAR OUTLOOK

Alila Villas Uluwatu and Como Uma Canggu

Como Uma Canggu and Alila Villas Uluwatu are two new jaw-droppers on the island’s south coast. Trademark Balinese sunsets are best enjoyed at Como Uma’s penthouse, which overlooks the famous surf, while Alila Villas is perched on a dramatic cliff edge. Located on Echo Beach, Como Uma is one of the newest five-star establishments to join Bali’s hotel scene. Its beach club, designed by none other than Paola Navone, has serious decor chops and elegantly fuses local and European influences. The bells and whistles come as standard, from yoga (considered a religion in itself in Bali) to a spa. Alila Villas boasts sensational sea views and features private pools, cabanas and 24-hour butler service. The one-, two- and three-bedroom villas are the epitome of secluded luxury.

alilahotels.com; comohotels.com

URBAN X-FACTOR

The Slow, Canggu