Hand-crafted, luxury experiences curated by our team—speak to our concierge to learn more
By
Niamh Walsh
on
25th September 2023
Discover Bali's extraordinary charm—the ultimate destination for the luxury traveller's soul.
Bali, an island that has long captivated the hearts of travellers seeking exotic beauty and profound culture, remains a top destination for those in pursuit of paradise. With its lush landscapes, vibrant traditions, and luxurious hideaways, it's no wonder Bali has earned its place on the bucket lists of globetrotters. In this ultimate Bali travel guide, we reveal the island's finest spots for those with a penchant for the extraordinary, as well as exploring the serenity of Sungai Jungle Villas and the splendour of Alila Ubud.
Recommended Places to Stay
Sungai Jungle Villas: A Slice of Bali's Wild Heart
The enchantment of Bali often lies in its wild, untamed beauty, and Sungai Jungle Villas is where you'll find it at its purest. Tucked away in the heart of Bali's lush, emerald-green rainforest, this exclusive retreat is a haven for those seeking solace and serenity. Each villa, thoughtfully designed to embrace the surrounding nature, offers an authentic Balinese experience while maintaining the highest standards of luxury. Read our separate review of Sungai Jungle Villas here.
Sungai Jungle Villas Main Pool
The villas are constructed from reclaimed teak wood, seamlessly blending into the natural landscape. Large windows and open-air living spaces allow guests to immerse themselves in the symphony of sounds from the jungle while indulging in the modern comforts provided. Spacious terraces boast private pools, where you can soak up the sun. It's the perfect setting for a morning yoga session or a romantic dinner under the stars.
If you crave the intersection of art, nature, and luxury, look no further than Alila Ubud. Perched on a picturesque ridge overlooking the Ayung River Valley and the lush rice terraces of Payangan, this exquisite resort is a masterpiece of design and tranquillity.
The resort's architecture seamlessly fuses contemporary minimalism with traditional Balinese aesthetics. Nestled among the verdant rice paddies, each room and villa offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. The highlight, undoubtedly, is the two-story Alila Villas, which come with private pools, a dedicated butler, and lavish amenities that redefine indulgence. Read our separate review of Alila Ubud here.
Aerial View of Alila Ubud
When it comes to dining, Alila Ubud delivers on both flavour and atmosphere. The Plantation Restaurant offers a menu inspired by local flavours and ingredients, while the Cabana Lounge offers a cosy setting for afternoon tea or sundown cocktails. Nature enthusiasts can explore the beauty of the surrounding region with guided treks through the rice terraces, visits to the nearby Ubud art galleries, or cycling through quaint villages. For a truly serene experience, immerse yourself in the resort's spa, offering a range of traditional treatments using indigenous ingredients.
Exploring Bali
Ubud
This artistic and cultural hub of Bali boasts captivating museums, bustling markets, and traditional dance performances.
When in Ubud, a visit to Ibu Oka Warung is a must for an authentic taste of Bali. This charming local eatery is renowned for its succulent Balinese-style roast pork, also known as "babi guling." Served with a delectable array of side dishes and spicy sambal, it's a culinary experience you won't soon forget. The casual ambiance and friendly staff make it the perfect spot to immerse yourself in Balinese flavours.
Address: Desa, Melinggih Kelod, Payangan, Gianyar Regency, Bali
Already recommended, this luxurious and tranquil stay in Ubud is perched on a picturesque ridge overlooking the Ayung River Valley and the lush rice terraces of Payangan.
No trip to Ubud is complete without a visit to the Ubud Monkey Forest. This lush sanctuary is not only home to a playful troop of long-tailed macaques but also houses ancient temples and moss-covered statues. Stroll through the shaded pathways, interact with the monkeys (while following the guidelines), and soak in the mystical ambiance of this natural wonder.
Ubud Monkey Forest, Ubud
Uluwatu
The dramatic cliffs of Uluwatu are home to the iconic Uluwatu Temple, perched on the edge of a sheer rock wall.
Perched on the cliffs of Uluwatu, Single Fin Bali offers a breathtaking setting for a meal with a view. Whether you're enjoying a leisurely brunch or a sunset dinner, the panoramic vistas of the Indian Ocean are nothing short of mesmerising. The menu features a range of international and Indonesian dishes, making it a perfect spot to relax and savour the moment.
Address: Jl. Belimbing Sari, Banjar Tambiyak, Desa Pecatu, Uluwatu, Bali
For a stay as dramatic as the Uluwatu cliffs, book a villa at Alila Villas Uluwatu. This luxurious resort offers modern architecture, private pools, and sweeping ocean views. Immerse yourself in tranquillity, enjoy spa treatments, and savour gourmet cuisine at CIRE, the resort's signature restaurant. It's an elegant retreat that complements the natural beauty of Uluwatu.
A visit to Uluwatu isn't complete without witnessing the Uluwatu Temple and the captivating Kecak dance. Explore the temple perched on the cliffs, and as the sun begins to set, gather at the open-air amphitheatre for the Kecak dance performance. This traditional Balinese dance, accompanied by chanting and the sound of crashing waves, is a mesmerising cultural experience.
Kecak Dance
Seminyak
For those seeking chic boutiques, world-class dining, and vibrant nightlife, Seminyak is your playground. It's the perfect place to sip cocktails at beachfront bars and indulge in a pampering spa day.
Sarong is an iconic Seminyak restaurant known for its exquisite Southeast Asian cuisine and elegant ambiance. With a menu curated by Chef Will Meyrick, this restaurant offers a culinary journey through the region's flavours. From Thai curries to Indonesian rendang, every dish is a masterpiece. The lush garden setting and chic bar make it perfect for a romantic dinner or a special celebration.
The Seminyak Beach Resort & Spa is an oasis of luxury in the heart of Seminyak. This beachfront property boasts elegantly appointed rooms, a stunning infinity pool, and direct access to the sandy shores of Seminyak Beach. The spa offers rejuvenating treatments, and the resort's restaurants serve delectable international and Indonesian cuisine.
Seminyak Beach is the place to soak up the sun, take leisurely walks along the shoreline, and enjoy the vibrant beach scene. For an ultimate pampering experience, indulge in a spa day at one of Seminyak's renowned wellness centres. From traditional Balinese massages to holistic treatments, Seminyak offers a wide range of spa options to unwind and rejuvenate.
The 'Kahyangan'
Bali, the Island of the Gods, has long held its reputation as a destination where luxury meets authenticity. In Bali, the magic of tradition and the allure of modernity merge effortlessly to create an unparalleled travel experience. So, pack your bags, leave behind the ordinary, and discover Bali's extraordinary charm—the ultimate destination for the luxury traveller's soul.
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