WHAT’S IT LIKE? This boutique gem is so made for an Architectural Digest shoot – blindingly pristine minimalism blending with the warmth of local woods and native materials to create an über stylish retreat. Even after six years, the bolhole remains a unique piece of work in a market rife with hospitality products that keep raising the bar on service and ambience.
Those with offspring, unfortunately, won’t be able to initiate their little darlings in the concept of a truly chic holiday due to the “no children policy” long espoused by The Bale. That’s because it believes in letting a couple “really be a couple” .
WHERE IS IT? Just 20 minutes from Ngurah Rai International Airport in Denpasar and on the fringe of the Nusa Dua hospitality complex. A sprawling St Regis property is rising on an adjacent property as will a massive Mulia resort in the future. With the accommodation set far back from the main road, however, privacy and exclusivity will hopefully continue to be maintained.
HOW MANY ROOMS? There are 14 Single Pavilions with one bedroom measuring 240sqm, nine Deluxe Single Pavilions with one bedroom measuring from 350sqm to 450sqm and three Double Pavilions with two bedrooms each measuring 480sqm – these last two categories were added a year ago to the inventory.
Our Deluxe Single Pavilion (pictured above), occupying a small bluff that overlooked the other units, had a nice view of the surrounding countryside.
ROOM FACILITIES: Every villa comes with 24-hour butlering, outdoor and indoor showers, handmade soap selection, bathtub (above), plunge pool, daybed, TV and DVD player, Wi-Fi internet access, personal safe and coffee-and-tea making facilities among others. Water from the tap may taste somewhat salty and take some getting used to, but that should be remedied soon, the management promises, with the installation of a new plumbing system.
In-room dining is available around the clock and is, in fact, encouraged. The executive chef can suggest various personalised meal experiences.
RESTAURANTS: Just one – Faces, which serves contemporary and Indonesian cuisine that’s not only well presented but is downright delicious. Open daily from 0700 to 2300. Wines and cigars complement the meals.
BAR: Fluid Bar & Lounge is arranged around the pool, and when lit up at night is quite atmospheric.
BUSINESS FACILITIES: The library offers two workstations to check emails. A multifunction room can take up to 18 people and caters to a small corporate meeting or event, or even yoga and meditation sessions.
LEISURE FACILITIES: If you must surface for air, there’s a main swimming pool (although why expose yourself when you have your own private dip) and The Spa, which conducts a year-round programme, featuring well-known Masters and holistic practitioners. Bliss Restaurant at the spa serves cuisine using organic produce. Car drop-off and pick-up is always available – just request for it.
VERDICT: Our stay went by like a dream and was over too soon.
PRICE: Until March 31, 2009, a package with a range of perks is available from US$550.
CONTACT: Jalan Raya Nusa Dua Selatan, PO Box 76 Nusa Dua, Bali 80363, Indonesia, tel 62 361 775 111, www.thebale.com
Margie T Logarta
