Our family loves to travel, and Bali holds a special place in our hearts. Our uncle and aunt discovered, when visiting East Bali, that in a private villa you were far closer to nature. You experience the Balinese lifestyle far more intensely than in a hotel. They didn’t hesitate for a moment when, 20 years ago, a hilltop site came up for sale. The beauty of the green rice fields, the amazing volcanos and the quiet beaches are enchanting.
My uncle and aunt called in the Indonesian architect Robin Bimantoro to design a residence for them in harmony with the natural surroundings. Robin Bimantoro is well known for incorporating traditional Balinese architecture in his designs. He also designed the villa of President Megawati Sukarnoputri, Indonesia’s first woman president and daughter of the former president, Sukarno.
The villas, restaurant and Balinese daybed beside the swimming pool were inspired by the traditional Balinese Bale a classical pavilion with partly open areas accessing the natural surroundings. The pavilion’s typical pointed roof is clad with alang alang grass. The Wantilan villa is the largest Bale, with a large open space on the first floor where you can spend a pleasant time together. The sea breeze keeps the space cool and you can enjoy the commanding views. On a clear day you can see Lombok Strait.
Having grown up in the tropics, I always knew I wanted to grow old in the tropics, too. For me, East Bali is the perfect place to do so. In the middle of nature, surrounded by friendly people. We’re happy that for years our holiday guests have felt completely at home here. They often return for the tranquillity and for the hospitable staff. But we have discovered that our guests do expect more luxury than 20 years ago.
At the end of 2021 my husband and I took over the estate and gave the interior a thorough make-over. The challenge to the architect: to add 5-star luxury without compromising the authentic Balinese design. He succeeded! Interiors flow naturally into the landscaped garden. The de-luxe bathrooms and king-size beds at are one with the minimalist Balinese style. Natural materials like marble and wood radiate tranquillity and elegance.
From the chef to the gardener – the same team has been working at Wangi Felixe estate since 2002. They welcome all our guests as if they were family members. The attentive staff ensures that everyone is content. You are collected from the airport, after which the chef will spoil you with a meal to help you recover from the journey. The most important thing is that all guests feel completely at home. Then they can relax and enjoy their well-deserved holiday.
