W Retreat Bali is a designer beachfront hotel in busy Seminyak. It is a perfect destination for those who love non stop action and busy atmosphere. W Bali is for The Lux Travellers who love ‘to see and be seen’, for party people. Like many other W Hotels around the world W Bali is a glamourous, sizzling resort. There is no space for seclusion and no escape from the other fellow travellers, unless you choose to spend the day in your villa.

So put your beach best best and enjoy the scene. If you like loud music, a lot of people, trendy setting – this hotel is for you. If you are searching for a romantic getaway location that can offer privacy and relaxation try The Legian Bali.

Location

W is located in Seminyak, but not right in the centre. It is about 20 min walk by road or 15 min walk along the beach to the central part where all the cafes and shops are. Hotel building is situated right on the beach while the villas are tucked in at the back.

Rooms & Suites

This hotel is near new and designed with utmost attention to detail. The style is ultra modern and trendy. Our only complain is that there is no Balinese feel in the resort, you could be anywhere in the world. It is somewhat a shame as Balinese style is so beautiful and holistic, it is part of the reason why so many people love Bali.

As for the accommodation options here are the choices:

Sea view rooms are luxurious and very spacious (64 sq m). Perfect for couples.

Marvelous suite – The Lux Traveller’s Favourite

It is very large (127 sq m) and totally luxurious. It features a large balcony overlooking the sea, big marble bathroom with a rain shower and a great bath.
The sofa bed in this living room can easily accommodate 2 big kids if one wanted to share the suite with the little Lux Travellers.

Wow Suite (2 bedrooms) and Extreme Wow Suite (2 bedrooms over 2 levels) are the crème de la crème of the resort. They are truly beautiful and come at a price of course. If you can afford to stay here, you’ll probably never leave the room!

Villas

I prefer the suites to the villas in this hotel as villas are very close to each other, far from the sea and have no views (feel a little boxy) while the suites are very spacious, bright and have full frontal ocean views.
The only reason I would choose a villa over a suite is if you have a big family and would like to stay together (go for a 2 bedroom or 3 bedroom Wow villa) or if you would like complete seclusion on a romantic break.

One bedroom villas are very enclosed and don’t feel roomy. The name suggests that villas would have a living room (they don’t, it is only the bedroom and the pool) so these villas are not a good option for families.

Dining at W Retreat Bali

Breakfast is served in 2 restaurants. Beachfront restaurant is reserved for the Villas & Suites – wonderful setting and superb food!

Restaurant at the back serves all other guests – similar choice of food but feels more on a simple side with indoor tables only. Not our first choice.

Sunday Brunch – Absolute must try even if you are not staying in the W! It attracts a very glamorous crowd from around the island, has great buzzy atmosphere and free flowing bubbles all afternoon. Heaven!

Oh, forgot to mention – the food is excellent as well, but that is not surprising here in Bali. They do know how to tantalise your taste buds.

Hotel Facilities

Swimming pool is pretty but packed with people. If you are hoping to do morning laps here – no chance.

The beach in front of the hotel is not for swimming. The sand is brown, the water is very wavy and brown, not what you’d call inviting. However it is absolutely perfect for long afternoon walks as the beach goes on for miles.

The Lux Traveller Loves:

Trendy look of the resort

Complementary upgrade to Marvellous Suite for the Platinum Starwood guests (if you are lucky)

Sunday brunch

Sunset drinks at WooBar

The Lux Traveller Doesn’t Like:

Super noisy in the rooms on the party nights (impossible to sleep, especially if your room is close to the beach). Double glazing would’ve gone a long way here!

Pool is packed with people and children – it is impossible to have a relaxing swim or do laps

No kids activities (there are a lot of children at the resort especially during Australian school holidays)

ALL IN ALL – It is a touch too noisy & busy to place this resort in The Lux Favourites category but it is still a solid option for your Seminyak stay.

Given a choice The Lux Traveller prefers The Legian – it is a little more sophisticated, authentic and peaceful.