Bali's latest luxury playground on trendy Seminyak beach promises to 'wow' the senses. Janice Seow finds out why.

When it opens its doors in March, W Retreat & Spa Bali-Seminyak in Indonesia will be the third and latest W incarnation in Asia Pacific with, in their own words, “insider access to the world of ‘Wow’”.

Jet-setting folks already familiar with W Hotels and their 24-hour Whatever/Whenever concierge service will know that this is no empty promise. A bathtub filled with chocolate? Check. A rainforest birthday party? Check again.

 

 

It is toe-curling pleasure on command and the multi-sensory experience of light, music and visual theatrics begins the minute you step in.

Like all W developments, W Bali is designed to reflect the historical and cultural heritage of the land and its natural beauty, with a playful twist on bold designs and textures that stimulate the senses.

 

From the architecture by SCDA Architects to the interiors by Poole Associates and AB Concept, W Bali is an inventive contemporary take on traditional Balinese design.

 

In the lobby, silver leaf-shaped sculptures double as seating; a feature wall of handblown glass jars, each with a capiz shell inside, ‘sings’ in the wind.

The villa arrival area is also inspired by Wayang Kulit (leather shadow puppet play) and is decked in black with dramatic backlighting.

In the guestrooms, the local seascape is expressed through beaded pendant lamps inspired by local fishing nets and synthetic leather headboards embossed in stingray skin; W Bali has 158 retreats and suites, most with Indian ocean views, and 79 villas.

 

Guests can choose to party at WooBar or satisfy their gastronomic urges at W’s two signature restaurants. And of course, no W experience is complete without a visit to the AWAY Spa for a massage or body treatments that, in keeping with W tradition, incorporate Asian influences in a cool and playful way.

 

W Retreat & Spa Bali-Seminyak
whotels.com/baliseminyak