As I stand on Utopia Lawn, having just witnessed the very first light show at the official opening of THK Tower, I’m struck by how Nuanu has managed to create something truly extraordinary on Bali’s western coast.
The 44-hectare creative city, Nuanu, whose name aptly translates to “in progress” in Balinese, represents a bold vision of what mindful development can look like. And I cannot think of another place like it, anywhere in the world.
I got to spend a couple of days exploring Nuanu, which offers far more than beach clubs and restaurants. The city runs on eco buggies, which can ferry you to everything from a butterfly breeding program to educational offerings to creative classes. There is so much on offer at Nuanu, but allow me to highlight my favourite places:
THK TOWER
The 30-metre THK Tower is an architectural masterpiece. At its official opening, I found myself sharing canapés with Indonesian government officials, watching the tower’s first multimedia show paint the sky. It was an immersive and impressive display, and one that mesmorised both children and adults alike.
LUMEIRA SPA
Lumeira captured my heart instantly. This isn’t just another luxury spa – it’s a sanctuary that redefines wellness in Bali. The attention to detail, the seamless blend of traditional and contemporary approaches to wellbeing, and the serene atmosphere made it my favourite spot within the development.
Set within Nuanu’s creative landscape, Lumeira manages to strike that elusive balance between luxury and authenticity, innovation and tradition.
The alternating hot and cold treatments were incredible, with the wood-fired dome steam room creating an almost mystical atmosphere.
At Lumeira, wellness isn’t just about individual treatments – though these are exceptional. The spa menu draws from both traditional healing techniques and contemporary therapeutic practices, using locally sourced ingredients that connect you to the island. But it’s the integration of social wellness that truly elevates the experience. The communal spaces are designed to foster connection, creating opportunities for shared experiences that feel both organic and enriching.
Perhaps the most unexpected delight was the food and drink offering at Lumeira. After experiencing several of the spa’s signature treatments, I discovered that the offering matches the wellness experience in both sophistication and mindfulness.
The focus on organic, locally sourced ingredients creates dishes that are as nourishing as they are delicious. The menu caters thoughtfully to various dietary preferences, from vegan to gluten-free, without ever compromising on flavour or presentation. And the drinks. Oh my, the drinks. After sweating it out in the saunas, I rehydrated with electrolyte drinks, iced strawberry matchas and virgin mojitos.
Lumeira has a real commitment to sustainability. From the eco-friendly materials used throughout the complex to their support of local artisans and farmers, every aspect of the operation reflects a deep commitment to environmental responsibility.
In a destination already famous for its spa offerings, Lumeira manages to create something truly unique: a space where personal wellbeing becomes a shared journey, and luxury serves as a gateway to genuine transformation.
LUNA BEACH CLUB & LUNA 369
Lunch at Luna Beer Garden offered my first taste of Nuanu. The beach club itself is a masterpiece of design, featuring an innovative pool that transforms from day to night.
Dinner at Luna 369 proved that Nuanu’s menus can compete with the best of Bali’s dining scene. The combination of thoughtful design, impeccable service, and creative cuisine creates an experience that feels both luxurious and authentically Balinese, in a space that truly took my breath away. That ceiling. I’m still not over it.
AURORA MEDIA PARK
Perhaps the most unexpected delight was discovering Aurora Media Park. In a destination already known for its Instagram-worthy moments, this space pushes the boundaries of what’s possible when technology meets creativity. The immersive experiences here prove that Nuanu isn’t just building a resort – they’re crafting the future of immersive art, and using many local artists and poets to do so.
LABYRINTH
The Labyrinth section of Nuanu deserves a special mention. Its unique hotel rooms challenge conventional design, while the inclusion of a music studio speaks to Nuanu’s commitment to fostering creativity. As the name suggests, it’s a maze of gorgeous hobbit-like homes and greenery.
OSHOM
Oshom represents the pinnacle of what thoughtful luxury accommodation can achieve in Bali. As I wandered through the property, it became immediately apparent that Oshom is more than just another boutique hotel – it’s a sanctuary that speaks to both body and soul.
The property’s positioning is nothing short of magnificent, suspended between the dramatic expanse of the Indian Ocean and the gentle embrace of verdant mangroves. Each space seems to invite both relaxation and reflection. From sunrise yoga sessions overlooking spectacular landscapes to meditation spaces that seem to float among the palms, Oshom has mastered the art of mindful luxury. And then there’s the rooftop. A sprawling space, perfect for the sunny Balinese days, that seem to roll endlessly into another.
The accommodation options are equally impressive. During my tour, I discovered a range that caters to every preference, from the garden-embraced Sunrise Junior Suite to the showstopping Panorama Ocean View rooms. The Royal Suite, in particular, exemplifies Oshom’s commitment to elevated comfort, with its king-sized beds and luxurious bathtubs that seem designed for long, contemplative soaks.
However, it was the Treehouse Hideaway that truly captured my imagination. Nestled within the property’s lush canopy, these elevated sanctuaries offer an experience that feels more like a retreat into nature than a hotel stay.
What sets Oshom apart is its holistic approach to hospitality. Expert facilitators guide guests through wellness practices, while the property’s design encourages moments of self-discovery at every turn. Each space feels thoughtfully crafted to foster connection – with nature, with oneself, and with the rich Balinese culture that infuses every aspect of the experience.
This is luxury redefined for the modern traveller – one who seeks not just comfort and style, but opportunities for genuine growth and renewal. I’ve not come across another hotel that has specially designed reading nooks, for moments of quiet contemplation and growth. Or one that revels in disco balls hanging from the ceilings. In a destination already known for exceptional hotels, Oshom manages to create something truly unique: a space where luxury serves as a gateway to deeper experiences.
THE EUGENE MUSEUM
Though very much under construction during my visit, the huge gallery space hints at Nuanu’s serious commitment to the arts. The plans for this space suggest it will become a significant addition to Bali’s arts landscape.
Designed by Andra Matin, and set to open in 2026, the Eugene Museum will be a permanent art museum located in Nuanu. This unique collaboration brings together Nuanu and Japanese-American artist Eugene Kangawa, with architectural design led by renowned Indonesian architect Andra Matin. Spanning over one hectare, the museum will cover 3,000 square metres and include more than 15 gallery spaces, a café, library, and reading room. Beyond serving as an exhibition space, the Eugene Museum aims to be a centre for education, research, and community engagement, with a strong emphasis on social involvement.
A NEW WORLDWIDE STANDARD
Nuanu has managed to do the impossible – seamlessly weaves together luxury, creativity, and sustainability in a sprawling destination that makes you want to pack up your life and move.
There are ample high-end developments in Bali but Nuanu is a vision of what thoughtful, progressive hospitality can be. The careful consideration of local culture and environment did not go unnoticed during my time at Nuanu.
For those seeking more than just a luxury escape, Nuanu offers something rare: a glimpse into the future of sustainable luxury development, where creativity and community take centre stage. With properties on sale now, Nuanu’s dedication to becoming a permanent city celebrating creativity is alluring.
As this ambitious project continues to evolve, I cannot wait to keep up with the many new openings and updates. Nuanu is setting a new standard for what’s possible, worldwide.
I’ll see you in paradise.
