In ancient Sanskrit, the term ‘Meru’ means ‘peak’ or ‘mountain.’ In Hindu, Buddhist and Jain cosmologies, ‘Meru’ refers to the ‘centre of the universe’ and the divine dwelling place of the Gods. The Meru Sanur, a newly opened state-owned resort in Bali, aspires to be a haven where your mind, body and spirit find balance, offering an unforgettable experience in this premier destination.
STORY BY Vira Tanka | PHOTOS BY Bagus Tri Laksono, Davy Linggar, The Meru Sanur
The Sanur is the first integrated destination for holistic health in a special economic zone, known as Sanur Health Special Economic Zone (Sanur SEZ), in the southeast Bali. When built completely, it will consist of accommodations, a convention centre, an international hospital, medical clinics, and a medicinal garden. Being part of that, which is one of the projects that have been established, is The Meru Sanur, an all-suite five-star resort that caters to those seeking a peaceful retreat.
Covering approximately 15 hectares, the resort is situated in an area of historical significance dating back to the 1960s, marking the beginning of Bali’s tourism development. Designed by renowned Indonesian architects Gregorus Yolodi Supie and Maria Rosantina under their new design firm, Yolodi+Maria Architects, it embodies the concept of ‘tropical luxury.’
Stunning Arrival
Upon entering the resort, you will pass through a tunnel-like area between the porte-cochère and the lobby, which is located one level below ground. The walls are clad in rough-surfaced marble, whilst the glossy marble floors in dark tones complement the design. The ceiling boasts a long skylight with a water feature and a reflecting mirror thus, creating a magical atmosphere. The water serves as both an aesthetic feature and a cooling element, reducing the indoor temperature by 1-2.5 degrees Celsius.
Upon arrival at the lobby, your eyes will be pampered with its spaciousness, luxurious materials, and water features. Indeed, this all will make you feel warmly welcomed by the friendly Balinese staff. The lobby, shared with the Bali Beach Hotel (formerly known as Hotel Grand Inna before its renovation), connects The Meru Sanur to its historical neighbour, symbolising the link between the past and the present.
Wooden Clad Buildings
The resort consists of four separate buildings, interconnected by bridges that integrate with the surrounding gardens, creating a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces.
The guest room buildings feature three levels with limasan-style roofs, which is a response to the tropical climate. The open underlayment of the roofs adds an attractive architectural feature.
The corridors and connecting bridges are designed to allow natural airflow. It’s a breath-taking feature that truly enhances the resort’s focus on beauty and healthful energy for guests. Locally sourced natural materials, including wood and natural stone, are used throughout the buildings. The structures are predominantly clad in wood, such as ironwood and merbau, which is also applied in the intricate joinery seen on the roof, columns, walls, and stairs. In addition to being contextually appropriate for the tropical environment, the wood enhances the warmth and homey feel of the resort.
The Suites and the Wellness Concept
The suites are intentionally spacious, ranging from 83 to 209 square metres. As General Manager Ed Brea explains, “Meru is part of the medical and wellness tourism sector, with a focus on wellness. It was designed for long stays, where guests undergoing treatment at the hospital can recover, potentially for weeks or even months. It will be ideal as we will have a direct connection to the hospital and will even provide transportation back and forth.”
Each suite features a terrace or balcony that connects guests to the exterior, allowing them to enjoy the warmth and beauty of Bali’s tropical climate. The bathrooms include a rain shower and a bathtub with beach or garden views, further enhancing the natural connection.
Also read: Kezia Karin, the interior designer of the suites at The Meru Sanur
Ni Luh Eka Arini Fritz, director of wellness at The Meru Sanur, explained on the resort’s wellness concept: “It’s about living well in general, but here it also supports the medical tourism services offered in The Sanur complex. We provide holistic wellness and spiritual wellness, including traditional spa treatments as well as cutting-edge therapies.”
In addition to Svasana Spa, Meru offers active wellness facilities, such as bike riding, yoga classes, a fitness centre, and two swimming pools. The Main Pool, located in front of the restaurant, is open to all guests, whilst the Resort Pool, located in a more private area, is reserved for guests aged 16 and older to ensure a tranquil atmosphere.
Dining Experience
Arunika Restaurant features live cooking stations and an extensive array of local and international cuisines. Located in an open-air structure facing the ocean, it offers the perfect setting for all-day relaxation, making it an ideal space to unwind with friends and family.
Enjoying an early breakfast at Arunika with a breathtaking sunrise view is just one of the unforgettable experiences at Meru. Boasting a wellness concept, Arunika will soon offer more healthy yet delicious menu options.
Also not to be missed is the Sutasoma Lounge, where history meets relaxation. This intimate space serves light bites and drinks, including alcoholic beverages, and doubles as a library with curated books on Bali and Indonesia’s culture and history.
Operated since February of this year, The Meru Sanur continues to develop additional facilities for guests to enjoy. In the meantime, it remains a perfect place to unwind, offering a peaceful ambiance that leaves guests feeling recharged.
Project Data
The Meru Sanur
Jalan Hang Tuah, Sanur Kaja, Denpasar Selatan, Bali 80227
T: +62 361 201 2000
Owner: Injourney Hospitality - PT Hotel Indonesia Natour
Head of Board Advisor: Erick Thohir
Deputy of Board Advisor: Kartika Wirdjoatmojo
Board of Advisor: Dony Oskaria, Christine Hutabarat
Design Coordinator: Gregorius Supie Yolodi, Maria Rosantina
Design Advisor: Felly Imransyah
Architect: Yolodi+Maria Architects
Principal Architect: Gregorius Supie Yolodi, Maria Rosantina
Interior Design Consultants
Suites: KEZIAKARIN Studio
Lobby and Lounge: Yolodi+Maria Architects, SHS & Associates
Arunika Restaurant: SHS & Associates
Lighting Consultant: Lumina Grup
Landscape Consultant: Larch Studio
M&E Consultant: PT Mitra Perdana Engineering
Civil&Sructural Consultant: PT Anugrah Multi Cipta Karya
Environmental Signage Designer: Leboye
Main Contractor: Nindya Karya
Granite & marble supplier: MM Galleri
Started Construction: September 2022
Soft Opening: February 2024