Nothing says Bali more than a private pool villa in a serene compound away from the hustle and bustle. Nestled in privacy yet minutes from the beachside action.
Traveller: Cathy Wagstaff
Room: One-Bedroom Royal Courtyard Villa
Address: Seminyak Beach, Bali, Indonesia
Date: October, 2023
Price range: from $570
Best for: Bali beachside getaway near the buzz of Seminyak Beach
Location
The Samaya Seminyak Bali offers luxe beachside villas blending contemporary elegance with authentic Balinese charm. Positioned along the stunning beachfront of the famous Seminyak – Petitenget Beach, this resort features sleek villas and suites designed for utmost privacy with villas on the beach side or across the road and down a laneway in the Royal Courtyard setting, where I stayed. Although this site is older, it is equally charming and peaceful.
Within a short walk, you can find
Seminyak is known for its fashion boutiques and world-renowned designers. Stroll down the main streets – including Kayu Aya – to window shop and discover hidden finds from accessories to homewares, beaded shoes, crocheted bedspread, and other items to take home. Shopping centres near the resort include The Seminyak Village, Seminyak Square, and Kayu Aya Square.
Claim to fame
Each of the 52 private villas at The Samaya Seminyak boasts stylish interiors, private pools, and lush gardens, providing an oasis of tranquillity over five types of accommodations. Guests can indulge in personalised services, from butler assistance to exquisite dining experiences at Breeze, the on-site beachfront restaurant offering delectable Indonesian and international cuisines.
The room
Opening the double doors of villa 304, I am surprised at the size of the pool and garden, not to mention the voluptuous layout of the villa’s interior. My One-Bedroom Royal Courtyard Villa is 300 sqm in size and although a little tired, the villa is a pleasure, with its four-poster king-sized bed looking out onto the pool and garden with birds dropping by for a dip. Frangipani trees, tropical plants and a shaded cabana lounge surround a large 11.5m x 3.8m swimming pool, with its own waterfall feature. A classic yet chic interior complemented by modern comforts.
Beyond the rooms
The resort offers a range of activities and amenities. The Spa at The Samaya invites guests to unwind with traditional Balinese treatments, while the main infinity-edge pool offers a serene spot to soak up the sun and enjoy panoramic ocean views. Breeze is an award-winning beachside restaurant overlooking Petitenget Beach, with a menu of international and local dishes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Its beachfront setting makes this one of Bali’s most romantic places to dine and see in the sunset. The Brasserie at the Royal Courtyard offers another intimate dining area to enjoy.
Dish to dine for
To test their promise of breakfast served “anytime, anywhere”, one night I ordered breakfast in the beachfront restaurant Breeze after returning to the resort at 9pm. Eggs and pastries might seem unusual for supper. However, it was exciting to know you have this option beyond the usual hotel hours that serve only until 11am.
Spa life
The award-winning The Spa at The Samaya boasts four couple treatment rooms and the Indian Ocean as the backdrop. Take a revitalising bath in the jacuzzi, or relax at the bale while enjoying the soothing symphony of the sea at the two beachfront spa suites.
Staying in
The chic open-planned bar is virtually on the beach, with outdoor seating, including sofas under the shade of the coconut trees. The hotel can arrange a private table for two next to the pool with candles, flowers, and the starlit sky for the ultimate romantic ambience. Or book in-house dining with restaurant service quality in the privacy of your villa.
Stepping out
The resort’s prime location allows easy access to Seminyak’s vibrant shopping, dining, and nightlife scene. Beyond Seminyak, day trips to Ubud with a visit to the Sacred Monkey Forest, the Tegalalang rice paddies, the Bali Coffe Luwak plantation, and various temples such as Tanah Lot, the Holy Water “Tirta Empul” and Uluwatu temple, can all be arranged by the dedicated butler team.
The family factor
The largest villa is located at the Royal Courtyard, across the main street from the beachside resort complex, and is ideal for groups or families and can cater to up to 12. The villa (at 540sqm) offers three separate bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms, a living room, and a vast private 20m lap pool. The outdoor gazebo has a dining area perfect for hosting a family get-together. Family-friendly spa packages at The Spa are made for kids and are ideal after all-day activities under the sun.
Before booking
Certain Villa types include daily ala carte breakfast served anytime and anywhere. Complimentary shuttle service within the Seminyak perimeter area. Plus, daily afternoon tea, daily stocked minibar and daily two pieces complimentary laundry service.
Also, take note of the free-of-charge daily guest activities. These include Yoga, Kite Painting, Arakxiologist, and Coconut Leaves Art. With cooking classes for an extra charge.
Insiders’ tips
Two laundry items each day are also included, which is appreciated. My clothes are returned on the same day packed as if they had just been purchased. They all look as new as when I first bought them.
V&T expert rating
Whether you are seeking a romantic getaway, a family retreat, or simply a tropical escape, The Samaya Seminyak ensures a serene stay immersed in Bali’s natural beauty and hospitality.
Read more
Chasing the food Gods: Bali’s dining revolution
The best beach clubs in Bali
Perhentian Islands: Is this the new Bali?
Read more inspiring stories by Vacations & Travel…
