The Bale

Unlike many luxury properties in Bali that try to incorporate traditional Indonesian touches, The Bale goes for a sophisticated yet subtle Japanese-inspired style. Clean lines, white stone surfaces, and open spaces lend this beautiful boutique a minimalist, zen-like feel, while a soft palette of whites and tans is soothing and stylish. Most of the common spaces here have a smart indoor-outdoor design that makes the most of the hotel’s gorgeous grounds and mild Bali weather. Restaurants, bars, and even the spa have the same pristine style, with all-white decor and dark wood accents. The only area that breaks the mold is Tapa Bistro, located inside a large wooden pavilion with bold purple interiors and white and yellow accents. The open lobby is simple but sleek, with all-white decor, tons of square pillars, and a seating area with wooden accents and a few touches of beige. Straight lines running in different directions give it a fresh geometrical look, while a pale limestone wall adds some texture. Outside, manicured lawns dotted with frangipani and palm trees line canals and white stone paths. The only obvious local touch here are the thatched roofs that tower above the lush trees and walled gardens.

Kayumanis Nusa Dua Private Villa & Spa is one of the only other adult-only options in the area and offers a comparable experience right on the beach, so it may be worth comparing rates. For families seeking a similarly luxurious experience nearby, Samabe Bali Suites & Villas has a kids' club as well as 24/7 butler service and villas with private pools.

The Bale is located directly adjacent to the Bali National Golf Club on a small road that runs parallel to the coast. There are several hotels and restaurants nearby, but the neighborhood has few pedestrian-friendly areas and it is better to drive or take a cab. The hotel has a private beach club with loungers and towel service on Geger Beach, located a 10-minute walk away. Bali Collection, known for its shopping and dining, is a five-minute drive away, but there are far more options and a livelier atmosphere in Seminyak, located a half-hour away. The impressive Waterblow can be reached in about 10 minutes, and Benoa Beach in less than 15. Ngurah Rai International Airport is a 20-minute drive from the hotel. Rates at The Bale include free roundtrip airport transfers and free shuttle service on request within the Nusa Dua area.

The hotel has 29 rooms, all housed in white open pavilions set within walled gardens. Decor is minimalist and subtly zen-like throughout, with a serene soft palette, clean lines, and tan wood paneling and furniture. Pitched thatched roofs add some local charm, but the style is more Japanese-inspired than traditional Balinese. King-size beds on platforms are inviting and comfy, while soft yellow light makes rooms warm and cozy. Each room is equipped with a desk, but there is a daybed instead of a chair behind it, making it more convenient for placing drinks or books than for working. 

Amenities include free Wi-Fi, large flat-screen TVs, coffeemakers, minibars (free daily restocking), and DVD players. Villas have one or two bedrooms and huge bathrooms with glass walls and lots of dark wood accents. Deep soaking tubs overlook private gardens dotted with frangipani and colorful flowers. All bathrooms have double sinks, a wide array of toiletries (including handmade soaps), huge mirrors, and outdoor showers. Private gardens have lovely stone-clad infinity pools and porched decks with king-size daybeds and loungers.

Faces is the hotel’s main restaurant, serving seafood and healthy cuisine as well as a plentiful a la carte breakfast that's included in all rates. It is located adjacent to the pool, and features a bar area with all-white lounge decor and wood accents. Bliss Restaurant offers spa-inspired food in a porched area inside the wellness center, and Tapa Bistro serves various tapas in a large open pavilion with a lounge and DJ sessions. 

The infinity pool is serene and relaxing, with comfortable wooden cabanas, underwater loungers, and shaded areas. It is not long enough for laps, but is great for a refreshing dip and has bar service with a food menu. Massages, facials, and a wide array of signature treatments such as detox and shiatsu sessions are all available at the spa. Indoor-outdoor treatment rooms have fountains and a tranquil vibe. The sunny fitness center is small but well-equipped, with a range of cardio and strength-training machines, free weights, and a yoga studio with free classes. 

The nearest stretch of sand is Geger Beach, located a 10-minute walk away. Here, the hotel has a private area with loungers, drinks service, and towel service complete with free sunscreen. Snorkeling equipment and free shuttle service to the beach are also available. Other freebies included in the standard rate are Wi-Fi, 24-hour personal butler service, personal drivers for short trips, 15-minute welcome massages, roundtrip airport transfers, a la carte breakfast, welcome drinks, daily fresh fruit and non-alcoholic drinks, and daily restocking of non-alcoholic minibar drinks.