A first look at the newly-opened Raffles Sentosa Singapore
Singapore isn’t the first city that comes to mind when one seeks a quiet escape. Even when cocooned within some of the city’s most lavish and opulent hotels, the hustle and bustle never feels that far away.
The story is, of course, a little different in Sentosa. The island resort has a rhythm of its own, offering a more languid and leisurely ambience for those who know where to find it. With the opening of Raffles Sentosa Singapore, holidaymakers seeking a lavish yet intimate affair now have another option to add to their lists.
Set across 100,000 square metres of tropical greenery, Raffles Sentosa Singapore positions itself as a retreat in the truest sense of the word. Unlike the colonial-styled grandeur of its sister property in the city, the idyllic property is a sprawling resort that boasts 62 villas, each with its own pool and terrace.
Designed by renowned studio Yabu Pushelberg, the villas—ranging from the one-bedroom 211 sq m villa to the four-bedroom 650 sq m Royal Villa—offer a degree of seclusion rarely found in Singapore. Adding to this effect are floor-to-ceiling windows that open up to dense foliage, with the use of natural textures softening the line between indoors and out.
While the Royal Villa, with its four bedrooms and stunning living area, catches the eye, the simplicity and sophistication of the one-bedroom villas offer an appealing sense of calm and seclusion, accentuated by the flora and fauna that surrounds. What is most impressive here is how the foliage looks pristine without feeling overly manicured. There’s a pleasant organicity about the way nature envelopes each villa, with the leaves of towering trees peeking over the top of the walls.
Interestingly, the resort’s sprawling and undulating arrangement of its villas lends it an almost Mediterranean-esque allure. As one travels through the resort (preferably via the resort’s buggy service) the grey-washed stone walls and winding pathways provide a touch of visual intrigue.
Beyond its design, Raffles Sentosa Singapore promises a level of privacy and service that aligns with the brand’s reputation for refined hospitality. Raffles butlers provide discreet, intuitive assistance, while the resort’s five dining venues offer a range of culinary experiences—from modern Italian at Empire Grill to Cantonese specialities at Royal China, and an omakase experience at Iyasaka by Hashida.
Meanwhile, the Raffles Room continues the brand’s tradition of afternoon tea, with the Chairman’s Room, an intimate speakeasy-style bar, serving an extensive selection of whiskies and cognacs.
