Bali Beach Hotel Reopens as Heritage Luxury Destination

The Bali Beach Hotel, the Heritage Collection, is celebrating its second year of operations following an extensive restoration project that transformed the island’s oldest hotel into a premier luxury destination [1]. Originally envisioned by Indonesia’s founding father, President Soekarno, the property serves as a tribute to the nation's history and its initial opening to international tourism in the 1960s [2].

Key takeaways

• The hotel is the only ten-story beachfront building in Bali, originally launched in 1966 [1].
• It is located within "The Sanur," a 42-hectare state-owned special economic zone dedicated to health and wellness tourism [2].
• Architects Gregorius Supie Yolodi and Maria Rosantina led the restoration, balancing original structural elements with modern luxury [1].
• The property features 273 ocean-view rooms and a convention center capable of hosting 5,000 people [1].

Preserving a Presidential Vision

The hotel was first launched in 1966 as the InterContinental Bali Beach Hotel, serving as a symbol of Indonesia’s emergence into the global travel market [1]. Over the following decades, the property underwent several name changes, including the Grand Inna Bali Beach Hotel and Inna Grand Bali Beach Hotel, following a significant fire and subsequent transformation in 1993 [1]. The recent restoration aimed to revive the "soul" of the original landmark while integrating contemporary comforts [2].

Architects Gregorius Supie Yolodi and Maria Rosantina maintained the building's original granite-textured and marble-painted finish to signify the passage of time [1]. The design incorporates a tunnel-like lobby and preserves historic focal points, such as an andesite stone mural by legendary artist Harijadi Soemadijaja located in the Soekarno Lounge [1]. The facility now includes modern amenities such as a 24-hour fitness center, a kids' club, and multiple dining options, including the Roso restaurant, which focuses on Indonesian culinary heritage [1].

Why it matters

The hotel’s rebirth is part of a broader strategy by InJourney Hospitality, a state-owned enterprise, to elevate Indonesian hospitality by aligning with the growing trend of cultural heritage tourism [1]. As a centerpiece of "The Sanur" special economic zone, the hotel is positioned to support the government's goal of fostering health and wellness tourism [2]. InJourney Hospitality, which currently manages 38 properties, intends to continue expanding its portfolio to over 100 state-owned properties in the coming years, aiming to create environments where history and tradition remain central to the guest experience [1].