Where to Stay in Bali: Alila Villas Uluwatu

Where should you stay in Bali? That is one question that never fails to pop up every time the topic of Bali is brought up.

Bali is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world and it is most certainly not hard to see why judging from its magnificent beaches, picturesque scenery, affordable spa and massage treatments, and the plethora of adventure activities available.

The island caters to every type of traveller. Prefer to take it slow and indulge in a relaxing, leisurely vacation? Or perhaps you are an adventure junkie who craves for an adrenalin-pumping experience? Bali has it all.

It may have become increasingly commercialised over the years with the mushrooming of hotel and villa developments, but amidst the sea of choices, hidden gems can still be uncovered.

Voted one of the top five best beach hotels globally by Conde Nast Traveller under the Gold Standard Hotels Category, Alila Villas Uluwatu is one of the gems that JW and I discovered during our trip to Bali in October this year.

Here are 3 reasons why we would highly recommend this resort:

1. Stunning Scenery & Private Beach

Perched atop towering limestone cliffs along the southern coast of Bali, Alila Villas Uluwatu offers breath-taking views of the Indian Ocean and glorious golden sunsets that are bound to set your heart aflutter. But before we even cast our eyes on the spectacular scenery, our jaws dropped in amazement the minute we saw the entrance to the resort.

Entrance of Alila Villas Uluwatu

Remember to catch the sunrise in its full glory at The Hilltop, the highest point of the resort.

Sunrise from The Hilltop, highest point of Alila Villas Uluwatu

Otherwise, you can also pop by one of the cabanas located at The Warung, the Indonesian restaurant, for equally captivating views of the sunrise.

Sunrise at Alila Villas Uluwatu

If you are feeling more adventurous, you could also walk 600 steps down to the resort's very own private beach for unrivaled views of the sunrise and mother nature's creations.

Private Beach at Alila Villas Uluwatu

Lounging by the private beach at Alila Villas Uluwatu

Powdery sand and crashing waves at the private beach

Hardcore rock-climbing enthusiasts, including JW, would probably attempt to climb the limestone rocks lining the private beach. But of course, for your own safety, I would not recommend this activity at the beach.

After a long day of activities, retreat into your villa in the evening and catch the sunset from the daybed right beside your private pool which overlooks the Indian ocean.

2. Excellent Service

Upon arrival, we were immediately ushered to the sofa seats facing the beautiful view of the Indian Ocean, suitably framed by coconut trees gently swaying in the breeze.

While waiting for the check-in process to be completed, the villa staff also presented us with a refreshing facial mist developed by their in-house brand Alila Living, which was a very thoughtful gesture. We later found out that a comprehensive range of lifestyle products by Alila Living was made readily available to villa guests wherever they went, as long as they were within the resort premises.

The manager of the resort greeted us personally before we were introduced to our 24-hour butler. Throughout our stay, light tea-time snacks of our choice, including fruits, cookies and nuts were delivered to our villa everyday. In addition, the buggy service was prompt and punctual. All in all, the service was professional, warm and attentive without being intrusive, a fine balance that not many resorts could achieve, as we discovered subsequently when we ventured to other luxury resorts in the vicinity.

3. Award-Winning Design & Architecture

An architectural marvel that has clinched several international awards , Alila Villas Uluwatu was designed in accordance with Green Globe 21 standards by Singapore-based WOHA Architects.

Credits: CNN Traveller

The 15 hectare estate integrated traditional Balinese characteristics with environmentally sustainable design elements, resulting in a beautiful expression of contemporary design inspired by the region's savannah landscape.

Credits: I-S Magazine

The resort comprises one-bedroom guest villas and three-bedroom private residential villas with five-star facilities, including spa facilities, private tours and complimentary private yoga sessions in the morning.

Every villa is equipped with a private pool and a caged-like cabana. Villas located on higher floors, like the one-bedroom villa that we were in, also offer gorgeous views of the Indian ocean.

The one-bedroom villa is very spacious yet cozy. Not only do you feel right at home, the service and facilities, including the his and her toiletries sets, are luxurious treats that make you feel thoroughly pampered. Undoubtedly, it is the perfect place for honeymooners or couples seeking a quiet, romantic retreat away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Credits: Contemporist

The highlight of this resort would be the main pool, which comes in the form of a sprawling infinity pool that blends seamlessly with the Indian Ocean. The best time to relax by the pool or take a dip is in the morning when the sun is less scorching.

We all need a little break from life's hectic pace every now and then to soothe the mind, body and spirit. If an escapade away from the crowds is what you are after, indulge in a luxurious, pampering holiday and slip into the magical world of Alila Villas Uluwatu, where an oasis of peace and tranquility awaits.

Alila Villas Uluwatu
Jl Belimbing Sari
Banjar Tambiyak, Desa Pecatu
Bali, Indonesia

Tel: +62 361 8482166

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The author enjoys experimenting with the latest fashion trends and beauty products. An avid traveller, she also loves exploring foreign lands, immersing herself in different cultures and sharing her experiences (and photos!) with everyone. Drop her an e-mail at regina.chow@gmail.com for advertorials/sponsorships/collaborations.