Condé Nast Traveller India - Trident Hotel Bandra Kurla

An infinity pool at the Alila Villas Uluwatu, Bali
photograph: sam mcadam
AlilA VillAs UlUWAtU, Bali
If any further proof were needed that Bali is back on track as
a destination for cool hotels, then Alila Villas Uluwatu is it. This new
kid on an already crowded block also demonstrates that designer
luxury can reach yet another new zenith. The hotel' s spectacular
infinity-edged pool runs along a vertiginous limestone cliff, which
drops hundreds of metres to a rugged beach along a pristine stretch
of the Indian Ocean. The 84 spacious villas have private salt-water
pools, sun decks and cabañas with ocean views. The minimalist
open-plan design, with removable walls and doors, allows the sea
breeze to circulate and almost entirely negates the need for air
conditioning. Sliding panels reveal a generous selection of treats,
from flat-screen televisions to espresso machines and a bountiful
supply of bathroom products and suncreams. With a butler service
that can be fine-tuned to personal taste and seductive in-villa dining
menus, it would be easy not to take advantage of the hotel' s other
facilities. But do make the effort: there is an excellent spa, a clifftop
bar, two restaurants and some innovative activities which explore
the cultural charms and natural beauty of the Bukit Peninsula.
When to go April to October is coolest with low humidity; rain
can come at any time of the year, but sunshine is rarely far away.
Room to book The one-bed villas between 301 and 314, for the
best views and sea breeze.
+65 91 919 950; www.alilahotels.com/uluwatu. Villas from
US$715 ( 33,400)
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