Did you know that I can read minds? No, really, I can!
Alright fine, it’s not quite “mind reading,” per se, but I can predict exactly what you’re going to say the first time you lay eyes on Bali’s gorgeous beaches, crystalline waters and lush green canopy. It’s actually pretty easy, because there’s only one word that does the place justice:
Wow.
Or more accurately:
WOW!
In fact, chances are pretty good that you’ve had that reaction just looking at pictures of the place. But just in case you need further convincing, let me assure you: the best hotels in Bali are almost as stunning as the views. Below, I’ve rounded up a few of my favourites.
The Best Hotels in Bali
Set on a verdant hillside next to a cliff and overlooking East Bali’s Lombok Strait, Amankila is welcoming in every respect. From your freestanding suite, connected to the resort’s public areas and restaurants by stepped walkways, to the Beach Club, where watersports are available, you’ll feel at home — yet so very far removed from your workaday life.
Water lovers adore the two resort outriggers, designed to emulate traditional Balinese fishing craft — cruises are offered daily. Visit two of the island’s most important temples, Lempuyang and Besakih, the former of which is considered one of Bali’s “six temples of the heavens.”
Located on the sophisticated, fashionable Seminyak beach, The Oberoi, Bali is spread across fifteen acres of breathtaking tropical gardens. The hotel grounds are dotted with ancient Balinese temples, where we still present daily offerings, and boast a natural stone amphitheatre, a private dining space and the only local venue for regular Balinese dance performances.
Located atop the Petanu River gorge, Viceroy Bali offers spectacular privacy from our Deluxe Terrace Villas. Overlooking the lush Valley of the Kings, each villa’s private terrace and pool affords stunning sunrise and sunset views.
Uma Ubud becomes the company’s second inland retreat dedicated to Uma’s understated philosophy of quiet comfort in inspiring, culture-rich locations. Enjoy the adventure. At Uma Ubud, you won’t fail to fall in love. Simply listen to the life – animals, birds and people – that exudes from Ubud’s enchanted forests and mist-wrapped paddies.
Jamahal Private Resort & Spa is located on the southern tip of Bali near Jimbaran Beach. The Balinese style villas are fitted with wooden furnishings and Asian décor, include a private entrance, outdoor pool and garden.
Located in Ubud, this is a stunner of a hotel, completely secluded amongst lush forests overlooking rice paddies. With nothing around you other than vegetation and temples, this is the ideal retreat to escape the everyday. Surrounded by the Ayung River, you’ll be captivated by the grounds. With a wide range of villas in addition to rooms and suites, this is also a great choice for groups. With a spa located right by the river, the soothing sounds of natural water, plus traditional Balinese healers and treatments add to the experience.
With an eye to the ocean, this seaside resort is set upon 35 acres of land, and features an all-villa format with elements inspired by Balinese architecture. Thatched roofs, stone-walled courtyards and lush gardens abound. Infinity pools and direct access to the beach make it easy to take a dip. Engage in Balinese culture by visiting the on-site shrine, or watching a Balinese dance and gamelan performance (or, perhaps, learning traditional Balinese dance).
Along the Nusa Dua peninsula, you’ll find the island’s best golf courses here, including the Bali National Golf Club. Explore the shoreline and its white sand beaches, or take a pilgrimage to nearby Uluwatu, an 11thC sea temple at the edge of a limestone cliff. You can also indulge in Balinese spa and massage with open-air treatment areas. Suites are surrounded by stone courtyards and feature outdoor pavilions for afternoon lounging, and the traditional thatched roofs and wooden beam architectural style of the island.
