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A MODERN GUIDE TO LIVING YOUR LIFE WELL
The Most Beautiful Hotels in Bali
Bali is an incredibly beautiful island and without a doubt one of my favorite places in the world. There are so many stunning luxury hotels in Bali and I’ve been lucky enough to stay at a fair few of them, so I decided to write a guide to the best Balinese properties to help you decide where to stay. I’ve divided up the properties by area, since there are so many fantastic destinations in Bali.
Seminyak
Seminyak is Bali’s swankiest neighborhood, filled with classy boutiques, upmarket restaurants and, of course, luxurious hotels.
The W
The W is a fun, fresh hotel and I definitely recommend staying here if you’re looking to party in Bali. It’s such a cool place with a young, fresh and colorful vibe. There’s always something going on here, including live DJ sets or the incredible bottomless Sunday brunch at Starfish Bloo. However, you’ll also have plenty of opportunity to relax in the spa, where you can find new and innovative treatments alongside traditional Balinese rituals.
Oberoi
I absolutely loved my stay at The Oberoi. It’s close to all of the area’s best nightlife, and yet it offers guests a serene, luxurious and authentic stay. I fell in love with the traditional Balinese architecture at the property and I felt like I gained a new appreciation for the island’s culture whilst staying here. The staff were incredibly warm and friendly, the food was absolutely incredible and the private stretch of beach is wonderful.
The Legian
Located on Seminyak beach, The Legian is a member of the Leading Hotels of the World group and offers guests a tranquil and culturally rich stay. One of the things I love the most about this property is its Wellness Garden. This is where the gardeners grow fresh ingredients, such as herbs, spices and teas. These are then used in the hotel’s bars and restaurants. This property is committed to helping guests maintain a healthy lifestyle whilst on vacation. However, if you want to indulge then I highly recommend a visit to the Ocean Champagne Bar at sunset.
Canggu
Canggu is Bali’s hipster paradise. Once a quiet fishing village, it’s now home to many of the island’s coolest cafes, top gyms and hottest nightlife spots.
COMO Uma Canggu
Whether you’re travelling to Bali to relax, party or kickstart your wellness journey, you’ll be well catered for at COMO Uma Canggu. This gorgeous property boasts a beautiful modern design that creates a sense of idyllic luxury. You can party at the sleek COMO beach club or partake in the Shambala wellness retreat, which I included on my list of the best wellness retreats in Bali. This property has everything you could want from a five star luxury escape Bali.
The Slow
With modern, minimalist suites that are nothing short of an Instagrammer’s dream, this sleek and stylish property perfectly embodies the essence of Canggu. This artsy boutique property is the brainchild of director and designer, George Garrow, and his model wife, Cisco. Together, they created a property that celebrates art, relaxation and Californian wine (which is something of a rarity in Bali.)
Hotel Tugu
Culture is the name of the game at Hotel Tugu. This property does more than just pay homage to tradition – it’s built around it. The property focuses on Indonesian folklore and boasts a vibrant, dramatic design, as well as a carefully curated collection of Southeast Asian antiques.
You’ll find authentic Indonesian spa treatments at the Waroeng Djamoe Spa. I highly recommend the Balinese or Javanese Pijitan treatments, which can last for up to five hours – talk about a pampering sesh! You can also participate in a yoga or meditation lesson or my favorite Djamoe class, in which you’ll learn about Indonesian herbs and spices and learn to make Jamu, a popular Indonesian health tonic.
Ubud
Ubud is often referred to as the spiritual centre of Bali. Known for its rice terraces, waterfalls and temples, Ubud is the perfect place to rest, relax and look after your wellbeing.
Four Seasons Sayan
One of my favorite properties in the world, the Four Seasons Sayan is a true feat of design. I’ve been to Bali six times and I can confirm that there’s nowhere quite like this place.
Located in the heart of the Ubud Jungle, this property is Instagram-famous thanks to its amazing rooftop koi pond. Better still, though, is the warm and thoughtful service that you receive from the second you set foot in the premises. Oh, and the food. I still dream about it!
I stayed in a two-storey, one-bedroom villa with a gorgeous private infinity pool overlooking the lush green jungle. The decor was rustic, yet elegant with lots of hand-crafted items. Best of all, there was a pillow menu with four different types to choose from.
Definitely visit the Sacred River Spa for a treatment whilst you’re here, too. Each guest gets a private treatment villa all to him or herself, and the rooms overlook a scenic waterlily pond. There were so many options available that it took me a while to choose, but I eventually settled on a two-hour massage that got rid of ALL the tension in my shoulders. After the massage, we then got to participate in a smudging ritual to clear our chakras and a sound healing bowl ceremony. I’ve never been so relaxed!
Natya Resort
Nestled in the Oos River Valley just 15 minutes outside of Ubud, the Natya Resort is the perfect choice for guests looking for peace, privacy and to learn more about Balinese culture. Its luxury villas and suites put a modern spin on traditional Balinese decor, with traditional woven pillows and throws, and intricate gold leaf details. You’ll also enjoy a stunning private infinity pool which overlooks the verdant Ubud jungle where you can even treat yourself to a wonderful floating breakfast.
Viceroy
The Viceroy won the title of #1 Resort in the World from Conde Nast Traveller in 2018. In fact, it’s the only Bali resort to have earned the title! It’s a true tropical sanctuary that will satisfy even the most discerning of luxury travellers – such as myself! This property celebrates elegant Balinese design and offers guests an unparalleled wellness experience at the gorgeous Lembah spa. There are also some fantastic adventure experiences on offer, too, such as hiking Mount Batur at sunrise, kite making and traditional Balinese dance lessons.
Uluwatu
Uluwatu is home to the most beautiful beaches in Bali. It’s a quiet and peaceful area where you can relax, soak up some rays or even go surfing if you feel brave enough to take on the choppy Ulu waves!
La Cabane
La Cabane is a collection of boutique Balinese bungalows and there’s something to suit every budget. I stayed in the Lua bungalow, which featured an outdoor bathroom where you could even glimpse a monkey or two! The standout feature of this property, though, is the gorgeous pool which overlooks the picturesque cliffs and ocean. The staff here are also incredibly friendly and will do everything they can to make sure your stay is perfect.
Bulgari Resort
I’m not exaggerating when I say that the Bulgari Resort in Uluwatu is one of the most exclusive resorts not just in Bali, but in the entire world. It’s opulence redefined.
The one bedroom villas are incredible or if you’re travelling in a group, the signature Bulgari villa offers guests a private cinema, a meditation pergola and spa treatment room. Meanwhile, the resort’s three and five bedroom mansions feature a private elevator and a two-tier infinity pool.
As if all of this weren’t enough, there are some incredible activities available to guests. This includes helicopter rides, a purifying ceremony, cooking classes and day trips to Ubud.
Jimbaran
Popular with families and beach lovers, Jimbaran is famed for its amazing seafood and relaxed vibe. It’s the perfect place to kick back, relax and catch some rays.
Four Seasons Bali Jimbaran
The Four Seasons Jimbaran was designed to resemble a traditional Balinese village. This property proves that luxury and authenticity can and do co-exist peacefully. This property provides wonderful cultural experiences in a stunning setting, allowing guests to deeply appreciate Balinese culture whilst living in the lap of luxury.
Each private villa boasts its own beautiful pool, but I would highly recommend spending a day or two relaxing by the enormous main pool too. It’s an absolute masterpiece and I was actually lucky enough to be able to enjoy it all to myself!
I have to mention the wonderful floating breakfast that I enjoyed, too. It’s a quintessential Bali travel experience and the basket that the team prepared for me was simply beautiful. I also had an amazing time at the cooking school. I was especially impressed because I learned that this resort sources as many of its ingredients as possible from local markets and farmers. It’s always great to see an international hotel brand supporting local businesses.
Jimbaran Puri, a Belmond Hotel
This oceanfront property is a beautiful Balinese oasis situated right on one of the island’s most pristine stretches of beach. The luxury cottages are incredibly charming, whilst the spacious two-storey pool villas are perfect for groups or families. All accommodation is designed in traditional Balinese style with gorgeous bathrooms that feature sunken terrazzo tubs.
The food at the Nelayan restaurant is absolutely wonderful. It’s the perfect place to get a taste of Jimbaran’s famous seafood. Meanwhile, I have to mention the enormous pool, which is always pleasantly warm because the floor is made from dark Javanese stone. It also features fountains which are reminiscent of a Balinese water temple.
East Bali
I highly recommend exploring East Bali whilst you’re on the island. It’s far quieter than the South, and really allows you to connect with authentic Indonesian traditions and culture.
Samanvaya – Sidemen
Sidemen is arguably Bali’s most beautiful hidden gem, with lush rainforests, local markets and stunning rice terraces.
Samanvaya is a stunning resort which attempts to make guests feel at one with nature. Surrounded by temples, cultural sites and tropical rainforests, Samanvaya offers an exotic experience that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the local area.
The gorgeous on-site Ananda Spa offers authentic Balinese treatments to balance body and mind. This includes chakra, crystal healing, yoga and of course, massages. Meanwhile, at the Rice Barn restaurant there’s an incredible selection of local dishes, including rendang curry, sate lilit and chicken sambal matah, as well as plenty of western favorites such as pizza!
Shunyata Villas
Shunyata is an eco-luxe resort atop hillside of east Bali, offering guests ultimate seclusion and ocean views. The villas are light and airy, with plenty of space and privacy – you’ll feel like you’re in your own little world. The main oceanfront infinity pool is absolutely spectacular and the sunsets from here will take your breath away.
There are also plenty of wellness packages available, ranging from 4-14 days. If you’re looking to renew your commitment to your health and wellbeing, I highly recommend a wellness retreat at Shunyata. This property is truly committed to wellness and you’ll emerge feeling reborn!
North Bali
Munduk Moding Plantation
They say that authenticity is the new luxury, and the Munduk Moding Plantation in Bali offers both. Travelers get to enjoy luxurious accommodation whilst staying in a working coffee plantation. This property is ideal for anyone who wants to see a less touristy side of Bali and relax in the heart of the jungle.
Each villa boasts beautiful Balinese decor, as well as floor to ceiling windows so that you can soak up the incredible views of the surrounding coffee trees, rice fields and mountains. As a wellness-focused traveler, this uber-serene property was perfect for me.
Spa Village Resort Tembok
This amazing resort allows guests to discover the ‘real’ Bali – the one that existed before tourists began flooding in. The untouched paradise of Tembok is a perfect place to do this. The place is steeped in fascinating history and epic folklore. This is a fantastic place to discover more about the heritage and culture of northern Bali, through traditional dance, therapeutic spa treatments, original cuisine and art.
If this list of properties has you desperate to travel to Bali, then I have good news: it’s possible right now. Check out this article to find out more, and don’t miss my ultimate Bali expat guide, either.
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