PAUSE Visits: Raffles Bali

Quite Literally Quiet Luxury

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Imagery courteous of: Raffles Bali

Bali, also known as the ‘Island of the Gods’, has long been one of Indonesia’s most popular destinations for those looking to reconnect with nature, immerse themselves in local culture and trade their everyday routines for a more barefoot way of life. From the clifftop beaches of Uluwatu and the rice terraces of Ubud to Seminyak’s lively social scene, the island offers an entirely different experience depending on where you choose to stay.

But then there’s Jimbaran. Situated at the gateway to the Bukit Peninsula, around 20 minutes from Ngurah Rai International Airport, it’s a more relaxed side of the island. Sometimes dubbed the ‘Beverly Hills of Bali’, it’s a neighbourhood that blends Balinese daily life with some of the island’s most luxurious resorts. Among them is Raffles Bali, overlooking Jimbaran Bay.

Raffles Bali: Designed with Nature in Mind

Officially opened in December 2021, Raffles Bali is a relatively recent addition to the historic Raffles portfolio, and has since earned Two MICHELIN Keys.

Set across 23 hectares overlooking Jimbaran Bay, it is home to just 32 private pool villas, with approximately 60% of the grounds dedicated to green space.

Protecting the existing ecosystem was as much a priority as the design itself. Rather than flattening the land, the resort was built around the natural contours of the hillside, keeping much of the original greenery and wildlife habitat intact.

Sustainability carries through to day-to-day operations, with a deep-well water system, energy-efficient heat pumps and an on-site composting programme. The electrical wiring has also been installed underground, doing away with the overhead cables common across parts of Asia and keeping the views unobstructed throughout.

Imagery courtesy of: Raffles Bali

First Impressions: A Balinese Welcome

The Raffles experience begins at the foot of the resort, before you even reach the main building. As you approach the entrance, two Traveller’s Palms stand on either side of the driveway. It’s a fitting introduction to the property and a nod to the brand, considering the Traveller’s Palm features in the Raffles emblem. Interestingly, the trees themselves can be found at just three Raffles properties.

The welcome continues at the open-air lobby, where the sounds of traditional Balinese rindik music accompany a blessing ceremony, with staff on hand to greet guests as they arrive. The ritual involves holy water and rice placed on the forehead, a traditional Balinese gesture of blessing and welcome.

Positioned at the highest point of the resort, the lobby offers views across the hillside and towards Jimbaran Bay. It’s also where you begin to appreciate the peace and quiet that comes with the property’s secluded setting.

From here guided tour of the ground is given before heading over to the villa. It’s at this point that the scale and beauty of the property really begin to reveal themselves, as you’re escorted around the grounds by buggy for a tour. From lush greenery and the wellbeing river to views of the ocean and beachfront along the way, it’s truly a sight for sore eyes.

Imagery courtesy of: Raffles Bali

Inside the Ocean Villa

Accommodation at Raffles Bali spans seven villa categories. The Ocean One Bedroom Pool Villa comes with uninterrupted ocean views.

Each villa is gated, with a private entrance leading to a front porch and the main door. Measuring 470 sqm, the villa draws on traditional Balinese architecture, with wood, rattan and stone used throughout. Inside, an entryway opens into the main living space, with a king-sized bed, a sitting area, a writing desk and a smart TV, all furnished in keeping with the Balinese design.

Outside, the garden has a swimming pool, an outdoor dining area, a large shaded balé daybed with a ceiling fan, and two sun loungers. The views are a highlight, particularly at sunset, with the ocean stretching out ahead and planes taking off and landing at the nearby airport, an unexpected but oddly mesmerising addition to the scenery.

The bathroom features a Japanese-style toilet, double basins, indoor and outdoor showers and a freestanding bathtub overlooking the garden and ocean, so you can soak with a view. Bath amenities are by Appelles, presented in refillable ceramic jars rather than single-use plastic.

There’s also a walk-in wardrobe and a minibar area stocked with complimentary non-alcoholic drinks and snacks. Smaller details include two types of robe, plus beach hats, bags and flip-flops for use around the resort. A second welcome drink and snack are waiting in the villa, a thoughtful way to help you settle in.

The One Bedroom Pool Villa is the entry point, but for the view, the Ocean One Bedroom is well worth the step up. Travelling with more than a plus-one? The Ocean Front Two and Four Bedroom Pool Villas give families and groups room to spread out.

Imagery courtesy of: Raffles Bali

A Taste of Raffles Bali

With several dining concepts across the property, food is an important part of the Raffles Bali experience, combining Indonesian ingredients sourced from across the archipelago and the resort’s own garden.

Loloan Coastal Peruvian takes inspiration from Peru’s coastal cuisine while incorporating locally sourced seafood. Situated on the beachfront, its open-air setting, torch fires after dark and ocean views make for a more laid-back dining experience. Live music features on selected evenings, while the bar is an ideal spot for sunset cocktails.

Rumari, named Indonesia’s Best Restaurant at the World Culinary Awards in 2023 and 2024, is the resort’s main dining room. Located at the highest point of the property overlooking Jimbaran Bay, the restaurant serves a seven-course Indonesian menu, placing particular emphasis on produce sourced from across the archipelago.

The Writers Bar is another important part of the Raffles experience. A signature of the brand, the concept pays tribute to the literary figures associated with the original Raffles Singapore, with the Bali property offering its own interpretation. Here, you can try the Bali Sling, inspired by the iconic Singapore Sling, first created at Raffles Singapore in 1915. The cocktail incorporates local flavours, including traditional Balinese arak infused with blue pea tea, alongside tropical notes of jackfruit and soursop.

Imagery courtesy of: Raffles Bali

The Experiences: Nature, Culture & Wellbeing

One thing Raffles Bali does particularly well is introduce guests to the island’s nature and culture through its curated experiences, with activities available both within the resort and in the surrounding community.

The botanical tour allows a closer look at the property’s landscaping and the variety of plants grown across the grounds. Led by the resort’s botanical expert, the walk explores their significance in Balinese culture, including how different varieties are used in traditional practices and everyday life.

The tour also includes a visit to the resort’s farm, where herbs, fruits and other ingredients are grown for use in the restaurants and bars. One of the more interesting discoveries is the colony of stingless Trigona bees, whose honey is incorporated into everything from breakfast to cocktails.

The Balinese house visit offers an opportunity to spend time at the home of a local family, learning about traditional architecture and religious customs. Raffles Spa, meanwhile, offers a selection of treatments inspired by Balinese and Southeast Asian wellness practices. For those looking to stay active, there’s also a gym, tennis and pickleball courts, alongside a programme of wellness activities.

Although each villa has its own private pool, there’s also a beachfront infinity pool. The beach itself isn’t owned by the resort, and swimming isn’t permitted due to the tides and coral reefs. However, there is direct access from the pool area, with complimentary beach shoes provided for exploring the shoreline.

Imagery courtesy of: Raffles Bali

The Butler Service

As part of the Raffles experience, a butler service is available to all guests throughout their stay, with contact established ahead of arrival and requests and arrangements handled via WhatsApp. From sending reminders and organising buggy transfers to coordinating dining reservations, scheduled activities and any other requests, the service is one of the property’s most convenient touches. Though a dedicated butler isn’t assigned for the duration of the stay, assistance is available 24/7, making it easy to arrange whatever you need.

The Lasting Impression

Raffles Bali has definitely created an experience that leaves a lasting impression, particularly when it comes to its setting, the design of its villas and the experiences on offer. The sense of seclusion, combined with the limited number of villas, creates an atmosphere that feels remarkably peaceful and intimate.

It’s not your typical resort, where the grounds are filled with endless things to see and do. Instead, the emphasis on wellbeing carries through the entire experience. It’s simplicity done extremely well. Quite literally quiet luxury.

PAUSE Rates: 4/5 ⭑⭑⭑⭑

“Raffles Bali is undoubtedly one of the most stunning resorts I’ve visited. I love how secluded and relaxed the property feels. Everything slows down, and there’s a great sense of peace throughout. I couldn’t get enough of the views and the incredible sunsets. From the beautiful grounds to the pool and gorgeous villa, there were so many wow moments. I didn’t anticipate how much I’d enjoy the botanical tour, but it was most definitely one of the highlights of my stay. The local artwork available to purchase at the resort was also really interesting.“ – Taija-Leorelle (Head of Travel & Hospitality)

A special thank you to Sheren and to the staff for the warm hospitality.