Stay here: Capella Singapore

What’s the deal

From the moment you enter the grounds of Capella Singapore , you know you’re in for something special. Set on 30 acres of lush rainforest on Sentosa Island, the resort is centered around two restored colonial buildings, where your escape truly begins. Extending from these architectural wonders, 72 spacious rooms and suites offer luxurious accommodation, alongside 38 villas and two grand manor houses located within the resort’s manicured grounds. 

Every aspect of the resort’s design is stunning, seamlessly blending modern aesthetics by designers Jaya Ibrahim and André Fu with the site’s colonial heritage. Meanwhile, two infinity pools and a lap pool perfectly harmonise with the surrounding landscape.

The resort boasts two incredible restaurants – Fiamma, a dining concept in collaboration with chef Mauro Colagreco, and Cassia, which presents a menu of authentic Cantonese delights. And then there are the bars. The Pineapple Room is tucked away in the main building and comes alive in the evening with its thoughtfully curated menu of cocktails, while Bob’s Bar boasts an extensive selection of rums, including one made exclusively for the hotel by distiller Richard Seale, and looks out over a skyline of green jungle and never-ending ocean. Guests are also invited to enjoy complimentary light snacks and refreshments in The Living Room, located above the hotel lobby.

Why stay 

Despite being just minutes away from downtown Singapore by car, this resort feels worlds away. Everything about this property beckons guests to unwind and enjoy the exceptional amenities on offer. 

I stayed in a one-bedroom garden villa, complete with a private plunge pool and wrap around terrace. In fact, the villa is so well equipped you’d be forgiven for never leaving your room during your stay. A luxurious king size bed looks out over your private terrace, which is enveloped by a spacious yet cosy lounge area and a light-filled bathroom which features a rain shower, walk-in wardrobe, and a door that leads to an outdoor shower and bathtub – perfect for a warm soak under the stars.

If you do decide to leave your room to explore, Palawan Beach is just steps away. After a dip in the ocean, rent a bike and cycle the length of the island – a leisurely 40-minute or so loop. There are also Capella Culturists on hand to create a bespoke itinerary for you, whether you’d like to take part in an intimate rum tasting in Bob’s Bar, explore the hotel’s art collection and history or head into the city for a curated art tour. 

Cathay editors say…

“Every day at 6pm, guests are invited to take part in a ceremony at Bob’s Bar that pays homage to the resort’s history as the home of British officers of the Royal Artillery. Though rather than marking the end of the day with the bosun’s whistle (or ‘call’), these days it’s celebrated with a toast of homemade Grog. Cheers!”