Grand Mirage Resort & Thalasso Spa - Bali

The Grand Mirage is one of the oldest resorts along Benoa Beach, although its beautiful tropical grounds and charming four-story buildings with clay-tile roofs make it as appealing as any of the newer properties -- from the outside, at least. The design is a lovely combination of contemporary Balinese architecture and traditional elements such as ornate wood carvings, teak floors, and stone statues of gods and elephants. The lobby is large and airy, with an inviting open floor plan and sliding wooden shutters that open onto a charming tropical garden bursting with colorful flowers, palm trees and other local plants. The overall look and feel is upscale but down-to-earth, and the many ponds with statuettes and water features lend the property a serene feel. 

Rooms are housed in white buildings with pitched roofs and wooden balcony railings, and interior hallways in one building we toured overlooked a slightly dated looking central atrium, with crawling greenery adorning each level. Most common spaces have either pool or ocean views, including the restaurants and the game room. The property offers a typical all-inclusive Bali experience, with tons of daily activities, several restaurants, and a large pool area with a swim-up bar. Although busy with families, the Grand Mirage does not feel overcrowded, and the atmosphere is relaxing throughout. 

The hotel is located on a busy road lined with markets, restaurants, a few spa parlors, and a number of other beachfront resorts. It is fairly quiet here, especially if compared to other areas in Bali, but those looking to go shopping can find several malls within a 10-minute drive of the property, including the famous Bali Collection. Many more dining, shopping and nightlife options can be found in lively Seminyak, located a half-hour away. The famous Waterblow can be reached in about 15 minutes, and it's a 25-minute drive to the town of Kuta. Uluwatu Temple is about a 45-minute drive away. The property is 25 minutes from Ngurah Rai International Airport.

The hotel has 301 rooms, all spacious enough to sleep at least three adults and one kid under 15. Decor is a blend of contemporary and traditional Balinese, with clean lines, purple accents, and wooden floors and furniture in all rooms. Local touches are a little less obvious in standard units, but suites and higher-priced rooms have lots of details, such as local artwork displayed on walls, beautiful painted sliding panels instead of black-out curtains, and rattan accents. However, most units are starting to show some wear and tear, including scuff marks on furniture, and there can be a few maintenance issues. 

Rooms are equipped with free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, electric kettles, safes, and free bottled water, and all-inclusive guests get free minibar items replenished daily. Bathrooms are spacious and clean, with black counters over wooden cabinets, separate showers and soaking tubs, and an array of hotel-brand toiletries. All rooms have furnished balconies with either garden or pool and ocean views, and suites have two terraces and a whirlpool in the living area.

The hotel is located on a nice sandy beach dotted with loungers and umbrellas, and offering free non-motorized water sports, including paddleboarding, sea kayaks, and snorkeling gear. It is part of a larger beach, and there may be vendors coming around from time to time. A few cabanas with blinds and pillows are also available on the sand, but they are an extra charge. The pool is located close to the beach, and features a swim-up bar and a kiddy section. 

Grand Cafe is the main restaurant here, open 24/7 and offering buffet and a la carte menus near the pool and the ocean. The hotel has three other restaurants, including an excellent seafood and meat grill, an Italian eatery, and a Chinese restaurant, as well as a lounge serving cocktails and afternoon tea by the pool.

Thalasso Spa is one of the best wellness centers in the area, complete with a large hydrotherapy area, 16 massage rooms (including a few for couples and one for pregnant women), and a wide array of treatments, even some for children. The kids’ club, games room, and outdoor playground may come in handy for those traveling with kids, and there are many free activities for all ages offered daily on-site, including fitness and cultural classes. Events spaces, including six meeting rooms and a wedding chapel with ocean views, are also available. Wi-Fi is offered free throughout the property.