The Balé Nusa Dua by LifestyleRetreats brings to mind the phrase "live like a king". Walk up its vast sweeping steps, past endless polished limestone and a central cascading waterfall and you're in a modern, minimalist palace. Architect Antony Liu has applied his clean cut palette on an impressive scale.
Set on a hillside in the upmarket enclave of Nusa Dua, its individual pool villas are cutting-edge contemporary design. Each villa has its own small garden, with a daybed the size of a small house. Walk into the bathroom and you could find yourself drifting down into your own infinity swimming pool. What's clever is how they've combined the seclusion of private walled enclosures without losing a sense of open space. You can look out, nobody looks in. Your own butler checks you in and will sort out any trips you need. With armies of staff, ultra style, funky restaurants and a fabulous spa, they don't come more luxurious than this.
Highs
- High-style, ultra-private villas, all with own infinity pools – some of the most seductive rooms on the island that make you think twice about bothering to leave
- Soothing atmosphere and total luxury, including highly personalised service
- Excellent spa with inspired treatments and plenty of couples options
- Striking minimalist design, a complete contrast to the usual Balinese decor
- Just a 30-minute drive from the airport, perfect for relaxing at the beginning or end of your trip
Lows
- Cut off from the outside world and not for those seeking a traditional Balinese experience. Ideal for those wanting to cocoon themselves but not if you want shops, restaurants and culture
- No direct access to Geger Beach – though the beach club is a short walk or drive away
- Some minor signs of wear and tear, the limestone isn't as gleaming as it once was
- A romantic retreat, no children under 16
Best time to go
Any time of year, though the drier months are April-September. Bali's wet season runs from November to March. The busiest periods are June and July, Christmas and New Year.
Our top tips
This is honeymooner paradise: sleep late, order room service, enjoy the spa and swim in your private infinity pool. The real world will soon feel a million miles away.
Location
The Balé Nusa Dua is perched on the hillside of Bali's Nusa Dua area close to the white sandy beach of Geger.
By Air:
Denpasar Ngurah Rai (12km / 30-minute drive) is served by many international airlines. You can also fly to Jakarta, then travel overland or on a connecting flight to Denpasar.
From the Airport
The hotel offers a complimentary transfer to and from the airport. If you'd prefer to get a taxi, go to the Airport Taxi Desk in arrivals, where fares are fixed.
By Ferry:
There are frequent boats between Bali and the major islands in Indonesia, including Java, Lombok and Komodo. You can then catch a taxi from the port to Nusa Dua, where someone from the hotel will meet you.
Getting around:
The hotel offers free transport within the Nusa Dua area and can arrange transfers and excursions across Bali. Scooters are also a popular way to get around locally.
Detailed directions will be sent to you when you book through i-escape.com.
More on getting to Bali and getting around
Airports:
- Denpasar Ngurah Rai Airport 12.0 km DPS
Other:
- Beach 1.0 km
- Shops 1.0 km
- Restaurant 0.5 km