Whether you’re searching for a meditation and yoga retreat, an idyllic beach break, world-class dining, Balinese cultural experiences, or some unique nightlife, Seminyak is the place to be. The town is found to the south of the Indonesian island, north of Legian and Kuta. It has a reputation for being both sophisticated and relaxed, with some of the tastiest food around. If you love a spot of shopping, be sure to hit up the Main Street (aka Basangkasa Street) for some exclusive boutiques and outlets. As the streets can get pretty clogged, it’s well worth hiring a bicycle, for some local sightseeing.
w Bali
A huge stone W is set between a row of swaying palms and the white sandy shores of the beach, marking the spot for this trendy seaside hotel. Taking a cue from the local area, its centrepiece layered pool has been inspired by a rice field. Rooms come with terrazzo bathtubs, robes and 350-thread-count cotton linens, with villas adding private pools. Be sure to party at the outdoor Woobar accompanied by the sounds of resident DJs. And do brunch at Starfish Bloo’s; an epic and famous buffet spread featuring a BBQ smokehouse, a ceviche bar, a sushi and sashimi station, and oyster shucking stations, as well as mountains of puds.
The Legian Seminyak, Bali
Indonesia’s own Jaya Ibrahim designed all 66 of the sleek suites, 13 pool villas and the stunning ocean view Beach House at The Legian; incorporating natural-fibre furnishings, polished wooden floors and artefacts from around the islands. Guests can dine in the main restaurant and at the pool bar, as well as nibbling on canapes at the thatched Champagne Bar which is nestled between the ocean and a lily-pad-covered pond. The lobby bar doubles as a library, with books in many languages, plus there’s a spa, a Grooming Lounge and a Wellness Concierge to look after you.
Anantara Seminyak Bali Resort
Right on the town’s main beach, this resort places you close to the action, yet with a secluded ambience. Rice paddy-style water features, an infinity pool, an eatery and manicured gardens separate guests from the public sands. Head to the rooftop for spa treatments and yoga classes, a restaurant serving Asian specialities and a bar with panoramic views. Book a higher-category suite for your own private bath, a living room with Bose speakers and an espresso machine. Kids will love it here too — there’s a range of dedicated activities, play spaces in the dining rooms and spa treatments for little ‘uns.
The Samaya Seminyak Bali
Meaning “inner sanctum of well-being”, this hotel’s name gives a clue as to what lies in store if you stay here. It’s on the same beach as the Anantara, but a quieter stretch and has two restaurants; Breeze, with indoor and outdoor seating on its lantern-lit deck, and the Brasserie for Balinese food. Afternoon tea is included in your room price, as are cultural activities, yoga classes and 24-hour butler service. Your villa will come with its own pool and a four-poster bed — larger villas in the Royal Courtyard area have additional outdoor daybeds with gazebos and gardens.
Peppers Seminyak
An all-pool villa resort, Peppers offers everything from studios to a five-bedroom Presidential Suite catering for up to 14 guests. Each has indoor and outdoor living areas and bathrooms, with lashings of marble, top-notch sound systems and full kitchens. But if you don’t feel like cooking, you can dine on an international array of dishes while overlooking a rock pool at The Laneway Restaurant and Bar. Peppers’ day spa provides treatments, therapies and wellness programmes. Or you can relax in the Balè traditional pavilion set in the hotel’s tropical garden and swim in the 35-metre pool.
