Unique and magnificent, as the name suggests, The Apurva Kempinski Bali is more than meets the eye. Beyond the splendour of its magnificence, this resort paints a deeper significance; a historical connection to Indonesia’s past through the Majapahit Kingdom that the design takes shapes from.
Award-winning Indonesian architect Budiman Hendropurnomo of English firm Denton Corker Marshall plays a crucial role in the development of The Apurva Kempinski Bali, situated in the prestigious cul-de-sac of Nusa Dua. The design of this luxurious resort is based on Bali’s iconic rice terraces and its century-old subak irrigation system. One of the highlights on the premises is a monumental 250-stair walkway. Inspired by Pura Besakih water temple, the walkway runs in the centre of the resort flanked by cascading water fountains and trees.
From the unmistakeable characteristic of Balinese architecture, landscape and guiding principle, to the Indonesian elegant interior aesthetics, the archipelago’s heritage and excellent craftsmanship echo throughout the property, which boasts 475 keys including grand deluxe rooms, iconic suites and discreet villas.
At the crown of the resort is the pendopo-style lobby, an expansive 2,000-sqm open space with a soaring tiered roof that draws the eyes up the cosmos. The lobby is perched 55 metres above the ocean, presenting a spectacular view of the resort and the glorious Nusa Dua shores.
Always breezy and windy, the lobby takes you back in time to the Javanese-Hindu thalassocratic empire, giving guests a glimpse of the Majapahit’s architecture in harmony with a contemporary nuance. The lobby’s high-rise towering structure with strong geometric quality is a nod of the Kingdom’s past. Towering gebyok that stands on Labradorite granite flooring – with pearly highlights that reflect light differently from day to night – at the lobby is intricately carved by more than 600 artisans from Java and Bali, combining both heritage in the design. Interior designer Rudy Dodo from Trivium Design Group had the vision to showcase the country’s rich design and opulence with a modern touch, by bringing the archipelago’s finest craftsmen and artisans to create a masterpiece.
The Apurva Kempinski Bali is also a haven for foodies, boasting a sumptuous variety of F&B establishments, with culinary diversity that offers local cuisine and international fare to savour your palate. Indulge in gastronomic venture with casual elegance and seaside charm at Reef Beach Club. If you prefer a poolside setting, you can go to Kubu Pool Bar, or Pala Restaurant and Rooftop Bar. To explore local delicacies, Selasar Deli, with the angkringan food cart, serves traditional Indonesian signatures including Luwak coffee and the traditional herbal tonic known as jamu.
To facilitate a venue for various occasions, from a wedding reception to meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions (MICE) events, the resort has Candi, an ocean-view ballroom with natural daylight that can accommodate up to 1,000 people.
For a smaller wedding celebration with a maximum of 100 guests, oceanfront Apurva Chapel is a perfect venue. Inspired by the architecture of Rumah Tongkonan, the traditional house of South Sulawesi; the chapel was constructed with soaring bamboo trunks, marble floor and large glass fronts, lightens the building and paints a panoramic ocean vista during an event. The chapel is adjacent to two-storey, versatile Three-Bedroom Villa and two infinity pools.
Despite the pandemic that has disrupted many commercial activities across major industries, this majestic resort managed to stay on track in the business, with more facilities for guests to experience what the resort has to offer. The following are a brief description of the resort highlighted outlets.
AMALA AND KIMAYA CLIFF CHAPELS
The Apurva Kempinski Bali has added Amala and Kimaya Cliff Chapels to the list of the resort’s gathering facilities and as the extension of Ocean Front Apurva. With the spectacular vista of the ocean as the background, these chapels have their own versatility to offer. Accommodating 20 people, both venues are exclusively designed for a more intimate union, like a wedding celebration and small gatherings.
APURVA SPA
Known for its “signature journeys,” Apurva Spa offers treatments based on the philosophy rooted in the ancient Javanese proverb, Rupasampat Wahyabiantara, which means “true beauty is achieved when inner and outer beauty are in harmony.” For every ritual designed for outer wellbeing, This award-winning spa has created an experience that nurtures the inner self. From multi-day spa journeys tailored around personal needs and an extensive range of face and body treatments to a programme of activities that nurture body and soul, the Apurva Spa will guide you to perfect harmony, preparing body and mind for the next steps on the journey through life.
L’ATELIER BY CYRIL KONGO
Internationally acclaimed graffiti artist Cyril Kongo has transformed the entire area into an atelier at the peak of the resort. The self-taught artist has created a new dimension to the atelier’s alfresco space, with an invisible-grey wall, a vibrant façade and his graffiti artworks. The atelier is what Kongo defines as his universe and part of his lifestyle where he expresses his passion for cigars, as well as champagne, whiskies and wines by showcasing his collections of those said items. With a DJ and piano performance, guests will be elevated to an unforgettable moment in a sophisticated atmosphere.
BAI YUN
For those looking to dine with friends and family, the newly opened Bai Yun is indeed a great gastronomic destination. Inspired by the popular dining style from Mongolia and China, the restaurant offers hot pot dining with a variety of signature soups that diners can savour from specialties prepared by chef Ho Weng Kit. Popular across Asia, this dining venue was designed to cater to groups of four to 150, ideal for various gatherings and celebrations. The elegant interior is decorated in a fuse between modern oriental theme and Balinese sophistication.
IZAKAYA BY OKU
On the same floor as Bai Yun is Izakaya by OKU, an outpost of the award-winning OKU restaurant in Jakarta. The Izakaya offers a bistro-chic setting and an open-kitchen dining experience to embrace the popular dining style of its native Japan, allowing diners to observe the fine skills and craftsmanship of the chefs. The menu includes eclectic signature dishes such as OKU Karaage cooked with squid ink, Truffle Gyu Don and Karasumi Pasta as well as “Okukase” – a delectable five- or seven-course menu paired with sakes and signature cocktails. The Izakaya also offers an extensive range of Japanese sake, shochu and creative cocktails, concocted by the resort’s sommelier.
KORAL RESTAURANT
At Koral, guests will relish in an immersive aquarium dining in the company of manta rays, sharks and other captivating marine species. The centrepiece of the intimate establishment is none other than the glass tunnel with limited seating for diners to delight in the enchanting sights, sounds and palates. Whilst red clay bricks framing the aquamarine vista anchor the rest of the interiors, the ceiling is enveloped by teak wood composition whilst black and white tile flooring continues to illustrate the historic grandeur of the resort. Koral offers a unique gastronomic concept with degustation menus prepared by award-winning chef Andrea Astone paired with fine wines by the in-house sommelier.
Beneath its grandeur, The Apurva Kempinski Bali tells a magnificent story of Indonesia’s past whilst bringing it into modern times and in design. The bastion of luxury hospitality hypnotises guests with its spectacular beachfront setting and vistas, sophisticated interiors, stiff cocktails, stunning sunsets and unrivalled service – creating truly an unforgettable experience.