With an estimated 3500 registered hotels in Bali, declaring the absolute best on the island is a daunting task. Having reviewed at least 100, possibly over 200, including many of the most opulent properties, I'm ready to stake my reputation on a bold claim. The Bali Regent Canggu, a five-star beachfront resort boasting 152 guestrooms, six restaurants, and 19 swimming pools, which took eight years to construct and opened just over a year ago, might just be the premier hotel in Bali today.
The Grounds: An Oasis Amidst Chaos
Bali is home to dozens of five-star and five-star-plus hotels, with grounds reminiscent of ancient Greek or Roman palaces, such as the Kepinski, Bvlgari, and Ayana. However, the Regent stands alone in Canggu, Bali's trendy hipster enclave, better known for its vibrant nightclubs and beach clubs than for high-end luxury. Spanning 15 acres, every inch of its grounds is impeccably maintained. Visitors are treated to a visual feast of pools, fountains, intricate carvings, statues, paintings, lush gardens, custom furniture, and innovative lighting designs. But why choose Canggu for such a lavish establishment?
"What we've created is an oasis in the middle of chaos, but also in a place undergoing change," explains resort manager Clement Cerda. "Canggu is evolving into something a bit more refined. Sure, you have the crazy nightlife, but you also have more sophisticated restaurants and concept stores. We fit right into that."
The Rooms: Unparalleled Luxury and Design
Every square centimetre of the Regent's guest rooms has been meticulously planned and designed, with no object left uncurated or uncustomised. The bathrooms are particularly stunning, featuring a blend of green, honed, and flamed stone on floors and walls, alongside bathtubs handmade from ironwood—one of the strongest, rarest, and most beautiful natural fibres globally, each costing over $40,000 to produce.
The entry-level studio suites measure 76 square metres, 21 per cent larger than the average room in Bali's luxury category. For those seeking ultimate extravagance, the two-bedroom penthouse spans a massive 618 square metres, complete with an infinity beachfront balcony swimming pool, a butler's kitchen, and accommodation for up to six guests.
The Food: Culinary Excellence with a Michelin Touch
While Michelin doesn't operate in Indonesia, Bali's dining scene often references chefs with Michelin-starred backgrounds. Andrew Walsh, the Regent's executive chef, not only worked at several Michelin-rated restaurants but earned a star in 2021 for CURE, his modern Irish restaurant in Singapore, which is temporarily closed as he prepares to open a second CURE at the Regent in Bali.
Until then, guests can savour his creations at Sazon, a Spanish soul food brasserie perched above the road at the hotel's entrance. Highlights include crispy patatas bravas, a house citrus green salad with pomegranate and almond brittle, striploin with chimichurri, and sangria gelato. Beyond Andrew's offerings, the Regent surprises with touches like an unsolicited dip of bechamel sauce with cracked pepper and a poached egg, served with hot, crispy homemade crackers at the Regent Club, leaving a lasting impression.
The Service: Beyond Five-Star Expectations
As someone familiar with royal treatment in the hospitality industry, I found the Regent's staff not only met all standard expectations but exceeded them. The WhatsApp concierge was impeccable, available 24/7 with thoughtful suggestions and kind words. When I fell mildly ill during my stay, the staff's care was maternal, showing genuine concern or masterful empathy.
The day spa features world-class masseuses, and Ibu Ayu, the Regent's "balian" or spiritual healer, is described as angelic. "We have so many guests who say that their experience with her is life-changing," Clement shares. "She stays in touch with all the guests she sees, takes their number, and randomly messages them with advice whenever she gets a download from the spirit world."
Fact File
Rooms at the Regent Bali Canggu start from $1050 per night, including à la carte breakfast for two and a fully stocked minibar with cocktail ingredients and snacks. Dining at Sazón costs approximately $100 per person, excluding alcohol. This review is based on an independent stay, with no influence from the hotel.
