Nestled high above the majestic Ayung River in Bali’s central foothills, Alila Ubud is a place as picturesque as a postcard. With breathtaking vistas at every turn and a limitless supply of fresh skies and plush flora, Ubud provides the ultimate space to connect with nature and ones self. Opting to explore the full beauty of Bali, Indonesia, we boarded a 9-hour flight from Dubai to Denpasar Airport, flying direct with Emirates Airlines and were greeted by our Alila Concierge for a leisurely 50 minute drive to the property. Enter, the emerald rainforest…  Alila’s hillside retreat offers an unparalleled escape from the ordinary, where every moment is a journey into the lush embrace of nature. Perched on wooden stilts at forest canopy level, each Terrace Tree Villa is designed to mimic a treehouse floating high above the valley. Having experienced some of Indonesia’s most beautiful hotels, this has to be our favourite room category and setting for a truly ethereal stay. As the sun rose and set each day, the jungle swayed and gently graced us with an abundance of tranquility and calm, its rays soaring over banyan and coconut trees, surrounded by peaceful views of alang-alang plantations and rice paddies. Pair this with Alila’s undeniable hospitality and excellent culinary offering and you have found the ultimate respite for a romantic escapade or friends trip.  The Terrace Tree Villa provides a spacious haven to while away the day, with large bay windows, a grand four-poster bed, spacious bathtub and continuous views of lush forest. One of our favourite past times, was to sit with a freshly brewed coffee, amidst gentle rainfall and spot monkeys as they toed and froed outside; some even passing by to say hello.  With two signature restaurants, Plantation and Cabana Lounge, the guest experience is intimate and inviting, yet relaxed. By the end of our stay, we knew the culinary team with familiarity and they knew our dietary preferences to a tee.  PLANTATION As their main dining restaurant, where breakfast is served, Alila Ubud’s Culinary Team passionately prepares authentic Balinese cuisine and farm-to-table Western tasting menus inspired by seasonal ingredients, sourced locally or harvested from our organic garden. For breakfast, there are interesting daily menus to choose from, with an organic fruit station, fresh juice display and delectable patisserie baskets brought fresh-to-the-table that would rival a Parisian bakery. For evening occasions, a well-selected wine list is available to showcase the open Balinese-style dining venue with central bar, towering coconut pillars and traditional alang-alang roof. Be sure to enquire about the special occasions and live shows lined up to witness stunning Balinese dancers, artisan performances and age-old rituals performed as you dine late into the evening, under the stars.  CABANA LOUNGE The Cabana Lounge is an intimate social space for daytime relaxation, while mood lighting on the two-story-high Karangasem Terracotta Brick features wall that inspires an air of sophistication, perfect for enjoying evening cocktails. Guests can choose from a newly composed cocktail menu serving up an enviable selection of creations featuring cold-pressed juices, local ingredient infusions and playful presentations.  Guests can enjoy the gorgeous infinity swimming pool and SPA ALILA when staying on property. Alila Ubud takes relaxation to a new level of indulgence with a Rainforest Spa Experience that unfolds within a blissful cocoon of tranquility and beautiful valley views, encompassing spa rejuvenation and culinary refreshment.  Aside from relaxation and awe-inspiring views, Alila Ubud’s leisure concierge presents a range of Alila Journeys and excursions, to explore Ubud’s rich culture. Embark on a journey into the heart of Bali to take in some of the island’s most spectacular landscapes and majestic sights. Marvel at the Tegalalang rice terraces, crafted to follow the natural contours of the mountain, before visiting the holy springs of Tirta Empul, Bali’s sacred water temple. You will venture into the world of Balinese coffee and tea, and sample aromatic spices unique to Indonesia. At your final destination, the summit of Mount Batur, your breathtaking view will encompass towering Mount Agung in the distance, rice paddies, rolling hills, and Lake Batur, Bali’s largest lake.  One of our favourite day trips was to Penglipuran Village, which is a beautifully preserved, traditional village in Bali, whose houses are set back behind arched entrance gates and laid out according to the Balinese philosophical concept of Tri Hita Karana. With our incredible Alila guide and a fountain of historical, local and culture-filled knowledge, seeing the superb dwellings of Balinese homes in their untouched setting was a charming experience.  Nearby, the 11th century Kehen Temple marvels with its commanding set of steps, carved sandstone statues and serene inner courtyard. Be sure to get your photo overlooking miles of Balinese vistas, and feel at one spiritually as you soak up the essence of Balinese culture.  To experience the beauty of Ubud with Alila Hotels visit AlilaHotels.com |
