Those sessions are divided into four distinct experiences. Sistrum is an immersive light, sound and vibration experience that ‘awakens human potential’. Developed at Pyramids of Chi and experienced by more than 10,000 people before its inauguration at Sanctuary, the experience invites attendees to laze on waterbeds with built-in vibrational speakers that pulsate in time to a synchronised light show – it’s impossible as a layperson to assess whether the claim that this process ‘stimulates brainwave states’ is accurate but it’s certainly distinctive.
Sound Healing sessions take place in the cosy Sanctuary Sunset Space and are agreeably relaxed, though with just one healer servicing the group the chimes sometimes lack a sense of intimacy, focus and potency. Breathwork sessions can be unexpectedly deep and intense, and reconnect visitors to the life force of their bodies; Breathwork + Ice sessions conclude with freezing-cold dunks in iced water that will further test the limits of mind and body.
Which therapist should I book? Don’t worry about which therapist to book! Sanctuary sessions are held at set times each week and attendees have no say in who might teach when. Trust instead that every practitioner has the requisite proficiency and submit to the process – think of it as an exercise in relinquishing control.
What makes it different? With their utilisation of high-tech kit and lofty ambitions for personal betterment and fulfilment, Sanctuary’s esoteric treatments and classes fit in nicely with the ethos commonly conveyed by Bali’s other luxury properties, while still being highly distinctive. Well-versed wellness experts will be unaccustomed to the likes of Sistrum, even if the underlying concept is readily comprehensible.
What else do they offer? Desa Potato Head emanates great energy – the seaside setting is rejuvenating, staff are universally lovely and the overall concept feels progressive, welcoming and cheery. Supportive of healthy-eating ambitions, without being sanctimonious or restrictive, dining concepts include high-tech and immersive Tanaman, where advanced lighting rigs allow the room to radiate all the colours of the rainbow as diners sample a set menu that showcases. By the Beach Club, Ijen is Indonesia’s first zero-waste restaurant and Kaum serves delicious, hearty and beautiful local dishes such as spicy braised chicken with fresh coconut and sweet soy sauce. Make room at breakfast for the resort’s in-house granola, served with fruit and yoghurt – I’m addicted to this resort stalwart and this is one of the best recipes I’ve ever tasted.
Beyond the bars and restaurants, the property offers a decent array of fitness and yoga classes. The adjacent beach makes a pretty setting for jogs and walks at sunset.
Where do you stay? Desa Potato Head comprises two adjacent but distinct accommodation options. With 68 rooms and suites, the more affordably priced Potato Head Studios is cleverly designed and stylishly finished with colourful furniture and accessories formed from reclaimed plastic; formerly known as Katamama, Potato Head Suites features typically larger and grander suites, again beautifully designed, that might feature seafront roof terraces and open-air hot tubs. Guests in the latter space get exclusive access to a mellow garden pool.
Anything else to mention? Well-travelled hotel aficionados will vouch for Desa Potato Head’s sterling reputation. With the property Indonesian-owned, its management team have gone to admirable efforts to showcase the country’s incredible diversity and cultural heritage. Their commitment to operating responsibly is incontestable too – few hotels globally make as much effort to contribute so positively to their locality and the wider environment. For lots of reasons, it feels very good to stay here.
Final word While Sanctuary’s wellness concept definitely isn’t for everybody – traditionalists will likely find aspects of the offering gimmicky – there’s undoubtedly a strong market for these unconventional, spiritually centred experiences in Bali. More broadly, Desa Potato Head is one of the island’s best resorts – whether submitting to a session in the Sanctuary or not, guests should find their time here special.
Healing Holidays [healingholidays.com/condenast] can arrange a seven-night stay from £989pp, including transfers and breakfast.
We had the chance to enjoy the flagship Potato Head Beach Club, designed by architect Andra Matin. If you are looking for a place to relax and seriously soak in the sun [and I do I mean seriously, everyone got sunburned haha—use sunscreen often, people!], then this is the space for you. We went here every night, and it was the best way to end our long days of exploring.
Here’s a breakdown on why I give the
Potato Head Beach Club a 10/10:
S E R V I C E & V I E W
Since we were staying at Suite 501 at the Katamama, we had exceptional service the whole time we were in Seminyak. Every day we had daybeds reserved front and center at the Beach Club. We would be escorted to our daybeds promptly and were looked after well. This was truly five-star service! Imagine sipping on a cool minty mojito, having your legs warm from the sun [but safe in the shade], and watching the sun slowly go under the ocean. Incredible.
F O O D
Oh man, we had a lot of “beach” food here. We enjoyed fries, nachos, mojitos, and ice cream sundaes. More than once. Unfortunately, given the heat, our ice cream sundaes turned into liquid within five minutes haha. But the mojitos were incredible and stayed cool for longer. You can also eat at the restaurants in the beach club if you don’t want to order bites. The food was so good, and the service was really fast! I’d say the drinks here are a bit pricey, but that’s expected given that it’s a high-end beach club!
A M E N I T I E S
Everybody inside receives a towel to use, which is great. As for safety, there is an abundance of security, so nobody dared get too rowdy. Usually these beach clubs can get trashy quickly, but this was an exception. The restrooms were clean and located in the center-side of the club. This property also features two restaurants, a bar, an infinity pool, and incredible sunset views. As you are leaving the beach club, you can also check out their store. We didn’t buy anything from the store since it was $$$, but it was nice to peruse!
D E C O R
When I first saw the outside of the Potato Head Beach Club, I couldn’t help but be impressed. It is covered in coloured antique shutters that are salvaged from across Indonesia, and that certainly helps keep it private! We went to the roof of the Katamama hotel next door and still couldn’t look in haha, so yes, it is very private. But this helps with the atmosphere because everybody wants to be inside the beach club. The interior is filled with different forms of seating.
Why is Potato Head Bali famous?
Potato Head Beach Club in Petitenget is a household name in Bali, famous for its iconic sunsets and award-winning cocktails.
What is the minimum spend at Potato beach club?
Our Beach Club is free to enter and has several seating options with no minimum spend or booking fee. However, these areas are available on a first-come, first-served basis and cannot be booked in advance.
Can you swim at Potato Head Bali?
Whether it's in our infinity pool, on a daybed, or under the shade of swaying palms, you are invited to swim, eat, sip and unwind any way you like.
What is the dress code for Mr Potato Head Bali?
The dress code for Potato Head varies depending on where you are. The restaurants stipulate 'smart-casual' and the poolside allows for 'casual beach wear' therefore, if you're looking to swim in the pool as well as have a bite to eat, make sure you bring a suitable change of clothing.