TUCKED AWAY IN BALI-XURY (WHERE TO FIND THE BEST HIDDEN RETREATS IN BALI)

Outstanding. Exceptional. Unique. Bali`s strength lies in fine art, design and architecture. These are best manifested in the island`s superb resorts, eco-retreats, and private villas; whether built atop a cliff edge – contemporary homes with open ocean vistas, on a sugar-soft strand – sunset-residences with pool lounges, or in a picturesque rain-forest-seclusion – the ultimate Balinese hideaways,  whichever you favour it surely won`t lack for refinement and high-style. It is not a secret that Bali effortlessly wraps thousands of visitors around its little finger every year.

The Hanging Gardens in Ubud is one of the world`s most stylish resort

THE WORLD`S BEST ISLAND

Bali undoubtedly offers luxury one of a kind – a harmonic blend of innovation and rustic beauty that cannot be found anywhere else on earth. Some people believe that Bali is a magical island – a place where one`s dreams come true. Whether this is so, remains a question until you travel yourself.

What is certain though is that Bali was awarded the world`s best Island and the most popular tourist destination on Earth.

Ubud`s hotels offer fine ‘Jungle’ dining at its best

THE MANY FACES OF BALI

Bali is the most universally loved island on our planet. And even though it has almost become a cliché there is not much to disagree with. Indeed, the Balinese style is intriguing; chill-out lounges, infinity pools, indulging massage and spa, the scent of incense and frangipani, never-ending supply of exotic fruit, scenic rice terraces, jungle temples, rolling surf and those surreal sunsets… there is so much to choose from.

Viceroy Resort, Ubud

Although Bali is mostly associated with ultimate beach escapes (and indeed it is a big part of the island`s tourism focus), there are many other ways to enjoy the distinct ambience. Whether you sip on a cocktail in an infinity pool, dine on a cliff, try some rice-field yoga or allow yourselves to be spoilt and pampered at one of the spas, the Bali-xury truly is a medicine for the soul.

Traditional Balinese bedroom

LEGIAN & SEMINYAK

Legian and Seminyak are famous twin-beachfront resorts in Bali that provide endless entertainment and friendly hospitality. Walking from Legian to Semyniak, it is a pleasant stroll along the beach dotted with fancy hotels, contemporary resorts, grand shopping malls and seaside restaurants. Expensive hotels, fine dining & pool lounges, spa and massage and great shops.

Cocoon Beach Club and Potato Head Beach Club are amongst the coolest spots for both chill-out and romance.

Seminyak Beach Resort and Spa

SANUR

One of the earliest beach hubs of Bali is particularly popular with families and couples for plenty of purpose-built attractions. Sanur is a complete opposite of Kuta; in terms of character and geographical position. Yet somehow they both are same busy.

Sanur is a busy and vibrant coastal location with shops, holiday resorts, luxurious hotels, restaurants, swimming beaches, calm waters, pretty sunsets and charming waterfront promenades, and it feels quite safe to be here. Whether it is yoga, paddle boarding, swimming, museums or markets – there is something for everybody. Couples and families will absolutely love Sanur.

Sanur Beach, Bamboo Lounge

NUSA DUA

Nusa Dua is a big Bali Tourism Development Corporation area. ‘Two Islands’ as the locals translate it, this artificially created paradise of Bali where you really do not need to worry about anything. Opulence, security and indulgence are what characterises Nusa Dua. The enclave of hotels is defined by luxury at its best; massage and spa, fine dining, wedding functions and other high-class services.

Geger Beach is dotted with upscale vacation resorts (Nusa Dua Grand Nikko Hotel)

Further south, Mengiat, Sawangan and Geger Beaches attract with their soft sands and in the north Benoa earned its fame for being the gateway to paradisiacal islands of Nusa Penida and Nusa Lembongan. Nusa Dua is a perfect all-inclusive holiday, proposal location, wedding hotspot and honeymoon destination where you choose if to dress up or stay barefoot!

Sadara Resort, wedding dinner, Nusa Dua

JIMBARAN BAY

Formerly a tiny fishing village in Bali, Jimbaran has grown into a popular resort town dotted with world class beach resorts and hotels, especially on the ridges of high ground above Jimbaran Bay a “Beverly Hills of Bali” was born.

Jimbaran Bay private villas, this is the Beverly Hills of Bali

Delightfully tranquil vibes, peaceful beaches, white stretches, safe swimming, private villas, spas and seaside restaurants filled with tourists who relish the magnificent sunsets and fresh grilled seafood is what to encounter in Jimbaran Bay. Although increasingly visited by the Western tourists Jimbaran is still fairly traditional location with lots of temples and sacred sites. It is an ideal spot if looking for seclusion and relaxing with a bit of sophistication.

Tegal Wangi, with its high cliffs, verdant slopes, crystal-clear turquoise waters and white sand decoration, surely will impress anyone. Ayana Beach Resort is one of the most celebrated holiday resorts in Bali.

Ayana Beach Resort, Tegal Wangi

ULUWATU

All fans of rugged natural beauty, beach and chill out will definitely get their satisfaction anywhere in Bukit Peninsula, where Uluwatu is the highlight. Wild surf of the Indian Ocean, golden sands, forested hills, temple-topped cliffs, secluded resorts, dramatic sunsets and phenomenal views – these are just some of the characteristic titles of the southernmost coastline of Bali.

Anantara clifftop villas, Uluwatu

Driving a scooter from Jimbaran Bay to Uluwatu is the best way to explore the coastline; Balangan Beach, Dreamland Beach, Padang Padang Beach, Bingin Beach and Uluwatu are paradisiacal beaches ideal for walking and surfing.

Apart from laid-back warungs, cosy cafes, stylish pool lounges with great views and beach lifestyle Uluwatu is also famous for its outstanding cliff temple, monkeys and traditional ‘kecak’ dance performances at sunset – a perfect way to spend a couple night.

Ungasan Karma Clifftop Resort offers the ultimate beach-seclusion

UBUD

Another ‘Eat, Pray & Love’ filming location – Ubud is an extraordinary gem; the ‘jungle town’ has become a trendy hotspot with a large community of international artists, free spirits, vegans and organic food lovers and fans of the eco-friendly environment.

Besides, it is a perfect hideaway for all nature-loving couples who look for tranquil vibe and serenity. It is hard to say whether it was the memoir by American author Elizabeth Gilbert or Julia Roberts what made Ubud so outstanding, or perhaps it is the place itself..

Private infinity pools are Ubud`s speciality

Ubud is not only alternative-friendly but also it offers a very particular luxury that indeed, cannot be experienced elsewhere. The celebrated ‘Hanging Gardens Resort’ is probably the best example of what ‘Ubud in style‘ means. The world`s famous infinity pools in the middle of jungle speak for themselves. One can choose from a wide variety of stylish resorts, eco-lodges and private pool villas, tree houses, secluded estates – all built in Balinese design on rice fields or in the rainforest.

The Hanging Gardens Resort, Ubud

NUSA PENIIDA & NUSA LEMBONGAN

Fast growing tourist infrastructure on the tiny sister-isles of Bali is a promising sign of great things to come, once Bali itself has fulfilled its potential. Rather isolated, less crowded yet fairly costly – due to dry landscapes there is not much that can be grown here and everything needs to be brought from the bigger islands.

Villa Sayang, Nusa Lembongan

Nusa Penida is the largest but it is not very developed yet. However, its neighbour, Nusa Lembongan, is an idyllic island and a tropical paradise. Almost no traffic, pristine beaches and marvellous scenery – these are to be found on Nusa Lembongan. The isle is a great holiday destination for those looking for ‘dolce far niente’ and a perfect place to put up your feet, have a cocktail at the hotel`s pool and chill.

Nusa Lembongan is actually increasing in popularity and there is a good tourist development – luxurious resorts, private bungalows and cosy guesthouses. The waters here are much cleaner than in Bali and that makes corals and marine life thrive.

Chic guesthouses can be found throughout Nusa Penida

WHEN TO TRAVEL

The best time to visit Bali is between May-October, in the dry season. Especially, fans of beach, diving and snorkelling will enjoy the clear, calm waters and bright skies in these months. The peak season is June-September, the prices go up and hotels fully booked.

Nevertheless, Bali is as enjoyable during the wet season provided you travel for relax and fun. With lower prices and pleasant temperatures, the rainy months (Dec-Feb) will definitely not prevent you from enjoying the magical Bali vibes.

HOW TO GET THERE

Fly to Denpasar.

Use the reliable Bluebird Taxi services at the airport to bring you to your hotel (unless pre-arranged).

For all international flights visit www.sckyscanner.com or www.momondo.com