Bali’s Unique Stays: Five Exceptional Resorts

The resort’s design references local culture: the new lobby draws inspiration from legong dancers, sacred banyan trees and indigenous Bali Aga motifs. Umana caters to couples with romantic in-villa barbecues and dinners overlooking the ocean, yet it also welcomes families – its kids’ club features a hot-air-balloon slide into a ball pit. Cultural immersion comes via curated experiences such as village walks, temple tours, purifying Hindu ceremonies and Balinese cooking classes. At the Lohma Spa, the Tri Hita Karana Journey offers four hours of massage, body treatments and sound baths.

Highlights:

• Massive villas: All villas have large private pools, jetted tubs and indoor/outdoor bathing.

• Cultural design: Architecture reflects Balinese themes and the concept of Tri Hita Karana.

• Curated experiences: Village walks, temple rituals and cooking classes connect guests to local life.

• Family-friendly: A playful kids’ club and family programming balance the romantic ambiance.

  Editor’s tip: Start your evening with a Mediterranean-inspired cocktail at The Veranda at Oliverra; the bar’s burnt-rosemary spritz pairs perfectly with sunset views.

Highlights:

• Open-air living: Villas have no walls or doors; linen curtains provide privacy without blocking jungle views.

• Immersive spa: Treatments at Toja Spa take place in open pavilions and use local botanicals.

• Sustainability: The resort sources materials and ingredients locally and embraces low-impact living.

  Editor’s tip: Ask the staff to arrange a sunrise trek on nearby jungle trails. The light filtering through the mist makes for unforgettable memories.

Nature and culture are woven through the experience. Thatched-roof villas built with dark woods and open-air living spaces evoke traditional Balinese architecture. The Spa Collection offers holistic treatments inspired by Balinese healing traditions and takes place in open-air pavilions amidst the rainforest. At Three Elements restaurant, dishes like the indulgent nasi goreng satu juta – fried rice topped with lobster, scallops, pork ribs and Balinese duck curry – meld Indonesian and Western flavours. Activities range from guided hikes and temple visits to cooking classes and Balinese dance performances.

Highlights:

• Iconic pool: A free-form, multi-level infinity pool mimics the rice terraces and has become one of the most photographed pools in the world.

• Private villas: Every villa features an individual pool and gazebos with valley views.

• Cultural programming: Cooking classes, dance performances and guided hikes showcase Balinese traditions.

• Spa in the rainforest: Treatments draw on Balinese healing and take place in open pavilions.

  Editor’s tip: For a magical evening, book a floating dinner in your villa’s pool – candles flicker on the water as you dine beneath the stars.

Desa Hay’s commitment to sustainability runs deep: solar panels generate much of the resort’s electricity, recharge wells return water to the aquifer, and food waste is minimised through careful menu design and composting. Amenities are assessed for plastic content; even slippers are made from mendong and coconut husks. The restaurant Ijo serves tapas-style dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. Guests can also support the Desa Hay Scholarship Fund, which funds education for local children.

Highlights:

• Six-villa intimacy: Only six villas ensure personal service and a tranquil atmosphere.

• Eco-credentials: Solar power, water recharge wells and waste reduction are integral.

• Local engagement: The resort employs local staff and supports community initiatives.

• Dining with purpose: Ijo restaurant focuses on locally sourced, waste-minimising dishes.

  Editor’s tip: Don’t miss the swing hidden in the gardens – it’s a favourite photo spot and a reminder of childhood freedom.

The arrival sequence – along a winding driveway, through a tunnel and up stone stairs – introduces guests to a tranquil world before culminating at a viewing lounge set on a reflecting pond that frames the ocean. The architecture mixes traditional pitched roofs and timber beams with contemporary flat-roofed structures and andesite stone cladding inspired by poleng cloth and the movement of waves. Dining is a highlight: four restaurants, including concepts by Michelin-starred Chef Andrew Walsh, offer immersive culinary journeys. The Regent Club provides all-day gourmet offerings, premium drinks and cultural activities. For families, nine pools and a soon-to-open Regent Kids programme ensure that children feel as pampered as adults.

Condé Nast Traveler notes that the resort manages to feel “above the fray” while still at the heart of Bali’s buzziest beach scene. Oceanfront villas have infinity pools so close to the waves that surfers seem to glide straight into them. Suites on the ground floor offer direct lagoon access, and every accommodation features intricately carved teakwood bathtubs, outdoor showers and thoughtful touches like unlimited laundry service and Dyson hair dryers.

Highlights:

• Architectural storytelling: Traditional Balinese elements merge with modern design; andesite stone and timber panels reference local weaving and wave patterns.

• Oceanfront indulgence: Villas and penthouses have private infinity pools with panoramic sea views.

• Culinary excellence: Four restaurants, including a Chef’s Table, showcase Indonesian flavours and Michelin-level technique.

• Thoughtful amenities: Carved teak bathtubs, outdoor showers, unlimited laundry and curated minibars elevate the guest experience.

• Family-friendly: Nine pools, a kids’ programme and generous suites cater to multi-generational travellers.

  Editor’s tip: Book one of the two oceanfront penthouses for unobstructed sunsets from your private 38-foot infinity pool.