Best Design Spa Retreat: Katamama. Bali, Indonesia

Beauty with a conscience … Nestled deep within Seminyak, is a serene getaway called Katamama. The 57-suite boutique hotel’s captivating brick-red façade by modernist architect Andra Matin sets the tone as an eco hotel with sustainable sensibilities. Once inside, there’s nothing as dull as a reception desk. Instead, guests are met at the door and ushered to their rooms via a lively bar and restaurant by trendy tablet-wielding assistants for a swift and seamless in-room check in.

The suite life … The retro suites boast locally sourced materials that include terrazzo made on-site, teak from the villages, and handmade tiles from Java. The naturally dyed indigo fabrics reflect the look and feel of the hotel, its deep tones and hand-finished textures perfectly embody the spirit of Katamama, from weaved rugs and bed throws, down to the minimalist staff uniforms. The in-room bar fully reflects the artisanal crafts of the island, featuring a Classic Cocktails At Home recipe book, written by award-winning mixologist Dre Masso, alongside fine infused spirits and aromatic bitters. Whip up your favourite mojito and head out to your private balcony that makes for a perfect setting to indulge in your favourite book.

Eco’s the word … For all its swagger and dashing good looks, it’s refreshing to see that Katamama has also given some consideration to the environment, with locally made amenities, water provided in glass bottles, and a ban on plastic straws, among some of their eco-friendly initiatives.

The real allure … Follow the alluring scents of jasmine, turmeric, ginger, and coffee to Nila Spa, where specialised therapists offer massages, body treatments, and facials that combine Asian techniques and age-old traditions. The signature Bersantai treatment is a luxurious two-and-a-half-hour journey that starts off with a revitalising foot bath, followed by a decadent full-body massage using locally sourced essential oils. A deep-cleansing clarifying facial that effectively removes pollutants locked in the skin is also in the mix, before the finisher, a relaxing foot massage, that is sure to put you in a state of nirvana. For those looking to add a more holistic approach to their treatment, let Pak Warmana, the resident reiki master, gently heal and balance your chakras by supercharging them with positive energy, and help discover your inner life force. This is absolutely mandatory for those looking for a highly spiritual and emotional experience. This is the Bali experience I’d come back to, again and again.

Jalan Petitenget No 51B, Seminyak, Bali, Indonesia. Tel: +62 361 3029999. www.katamama.com