IHG Hotels & Resorts is preparing to introduce its acclaimed luxury lifestyle brand to Indonesia with the opening of Kimpton Suntaya Bali Ubud, a 101-key retreat set in the cultural heart of Ubud. Scheduled to welcome guests later this year, the hotel marks another milestone in Kimpton’s rapid expansion across Asia, following successful openings in Taipei, Bangkok, Samui, Hong Kong and Kuala Lumpur.
Located on Jalan Bisma, one of Ubud’s most desirable addresses, Kimpton Suntaya Bali Ubud places guests within walking distance of the Ubud Palace, Saraswati Temple (Water Palace), Ubud Art Market, and the town’s vibrant collection of galleries, cafés and boutiques. While immersed in Ubud’s energy, the property enjoys a more tranquil setting beside the Wos River, creating a welcome contrast between the town’s lively centre and the serenity of Bali’s lush landscape.
Designed by internationally renowned architecture firm Denton Corker Marshall, the hotel embraces the contours of Ubud’s hillside terrain rather than imposing upon it. The architecture draws inspiration from the movement and rhythm of traditional Balinese ceremonial processions, with layered pavilions, landscaped pathways and open communal spaces creating a contemporary interpretation of village life. Natural materials, generous greenery and flowing water features reinforce a strong connection to the surrounding environment.
The name “Suntaya” reflects this philosophy. Derived from Sanskrit-inspired words symbolising stillness and vitality, it captures the balance between relaxation and discovery that defines both Ubud and the Kimpton experience.
Accommodation ranges from stylish guest rooms to spacious one-bedroom suites and private pool villas, many offering views over tropical gardens or the river valley. True to Kimpton’s design-led approach, interiors combine contemporary luxury with handcrafted local touches rather than traditional Balinese clichés, resulting in spaces that feel modern yet unmistakably rooted in place.
Food is expected to become one of the hotel’s defining attractions. Leading the culinary programme is Imamura Ubud, an intimate omakase restaurant overseen by Michelin-starred Japanese chef Hirofumi Imamura, alongside Shaku by Imamura, a lively izakaya concept offering a more relaxed interpretation of Japanese dining. Together with three additional restaurants and bars, the hotel aims to establish itself as a dining destination for both international visitors and Bali residents.
Wellness also receives significant attention. Rather than focusing solely on traditional spa rituals, Kimpton Suntaya Bali Ubud introduces a more contemporary approach that blends Balinese healing traditions with modern recovery techniques. Guests will have access to Sakshi Spa, a two-level fitness centre, recovery facilities and contrast-therapy experiences designed for today’s wellness-conscious traveller.
As with every Kimpton hotel worldwide, guests will also enjoy several signature brand experiences that have become synonymous with the lifestyle brand. These include the complimentary Kimpton Kickstart morning coffee programme, the popular Kimpton Social evening gathering that encourages conversation among guests, and the thoughtful “Forgot It, We’ve Got It!” service, which provides complimentary travel essentials that guests may have left behind.
Leading the opening is General Manager Austin Jones, a long-time Kimpton executive who has helped launch and operate numerous Kimpton hotels around the world. His experience with the brand’s distinctive hospitality philosophy positions the property to deliver the personalised, approachable luxury that has made Kimpton one of IHG’s fastest-growing premium lifestyle brands.
The opening also strengthens IHG Hotels & Resorts’ growing luxury and lifestyle portfolio across Indonesia, complementing established brands such as InterContinental, Regent, Six Senses and Hotel Indigo. For Bali, Kimpton Suntaya Bali Ubud introduces a fresh alternative to the island’s traditional luxury resorts – one that combines boutique-style individuality, destination-driven dining, thoughtful wellness programming and a vibrant social atmosphere.
Rather than simply offering another luxury stay in Ubud, Kimpton Suntaya Bali Ubud appears poised to become a lifestyle destination in its own right, bringing Kimpton’s signature blend of design, culture and genuine hospitality to one of Asia’s most celebrated travel destinations.
