InterContinental Bali Sanur Resort

The InterContinental Bali Sanur Resort embodies much of what makes Sanur so appealing to visitors to Bali -- it's laid-back, peaceful, and feels leaps and bounds away from the boozy party scene found at the island's west-side resorts. But the InterContinental brand name, and this resort's relatively high prices, keep this from becoming a mid-range retreat disguised as a luxury property (of which there are plenty in Bali). Instead, it's all about high-end polish -- from the moment you pull up to the breezy open-air lobby, to the butler-accompanied walk through breezy paths to your suite, to the stunner of a spa. The atmosphere feels definitively Balinese -- which is a feat for a brand that often relies on sanitized corporate style for its aesthetic -- as a temple-inspired pyramid rises from the center of the grounds. In the evening, musicians playing tingklik and other traditional instruments mount the structure, and the soft sounds are carried across the resort. It's this kind of subtle detail that sets the InterContinental apart from the other luxury properties in town. Around sunset, the lawn near the beach becomes a lively spot to kick back with cocktails and satay, while other corners remain more tranquil. It's an all-encompassing package with something for everyone -- from well-off families to couples on their honeymoon and mature travelers as well.

The InterContinental Bali Sanur Resort, at first, feels a bit removed from the main hub of action in Sanur -- much of which is north of the Hyatt development that essentially splits the town in two. However, it does sit near a variety of other hotels, from sharp mid-range properties to budget homestays. At the end of the block are some of Sanur's trendiest foodie haunts. It will take about five to 10 minutes on foot to reach most of them. A 10-minute walk west along Jalan Danau Tamblingan also leads to a clutch of hipster boutiques selling one-of-a-kind art objects and clothing. It's a hot 20-minute walk to the center of development in the town's north, around the Hardy's department store. The same distance can be covered in five minutes by taxi. For more authentic Indonesian eats, check out the Sindhu Night Market, which is a 10-minute cab ride north. Budget up to 30 minutes to reach the airport -- it may take less than that, but traffic in southern Bali is frequently a nightmare.

Faults are almost nonexistent with this resort's suites and villas. For starters, they're massive -- some of the largest that we've seen in Bali. Size aside, though, it's hard not to feel utterly spoiled when you enter the suites. Minimalist sculptures sit in recesses along the foyer as the view opens up to take in a long, wide space packed with details that may include handsome furniture, panels of mirrors, cream colored fabrics, and a jaw-dropping amount of hardwood. Accents like textured ceiling panels and chic patterned pillows all make these suites feel fresh, contemporary, and Balinese. Outside, massive terraces serve as living rooms, with a wall of banquette seating, a dining table, an entertainment system, and a minibar hutch. Views are across the resort to the sea. Villas follow a similar decor scheme, but are arranged across multiple floors and eschew the open-plan layout of the suites. They're private and walled-off from one another, and all have their own patios and pools. Keep in mind that many of the villas are farther from the beach and hotel's amenities.
Standard features in all rooms include powerful air-conditioning, extensive minibars, free Wi-Fi, soundsystems, multiple flat-screen TVs, free snacks and treats, French press coffee, dressing areas, and massive desks. Each floor in the suite buildings has two butlers, while villas each come with two butlers. Bathrooms are something else altogether. The huge layouts include two stone-carved pedestal sinks, round soaking tubs, walk-in rainfall showers, and Le Labo bath products. Some suites even include a separate massage room for private in-room treatments. At night, you will hear a chorus of thousands of frogs who call the pond-filled grounds home. At first the noise may be alarming or disruptive, but it's certainly an authentic way to fall asleep and is actually quite soothing.

The InterContinental Bali Sanur Resort ticks every box for a luxury getaway. The beach is long and there's attentive beachside service, though like much of Sanur, tides are drastic here and the number of boats in the water is a bit disappointing. Even so, it can be pretty when the water line is closer to shore. The hotel's pools were more popular than the beach during our visit. These include an infinity pool with a poolside restaurant, plus two quieter plunge pools. The poolside ice cream stand is a popular addition as well. There's a photographer on staff throughout the day for portrait sessions on the beach and elsewhere throughout the resort.
Dining is a highlight as well. This starts with an extensive breakfast buffet featuring local fruit, Balinese dishes, and a massive spread of hot and cold options, pastries, and juices. Fresh, made-to-order coffee is provided as well. Keep in mind that breakfast isn't included in rates. A weekend lobster brunch is also popular, and is accompanied with live music. Otherwise, there are two restaurants. Nyala Beach Club & Grill serves lunch and dinner, and services the beach. Layang Layang is the place for the aforementioned breakfast as well as more formal dinners that include Indonesian and international fare. A popular happy hour takes place in the Lobby Lounge and at the seaside Cabana Lounge, where satay and drinks are slung as the sun goes down.
Wellness isn't an afterthought either, and the hotel's small fitness center has a good range of modern cardio equipment and weights. The spa is a stunner, with its semi-underground treatment area and tranquil vibe below the pagoda at the center of the resort's grounds. The sound of falling water is all around. Free yoga is also offered. There's a supervised kids' club that's packed with toys, games, video games, and computers. It's free to use.
A shuttle is available for free at scheduled times throughout the day, and those who'd like a fancier ride can rent the hotel's Rolls Royce. A boutique is also on-site for anyone needing to take home a high-end souvenir or luxe gift for friends or family. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property, and the concierge can arrange any tours.