The Best Hotels To Book Your Stay In Bali

Despite this hotel’s name, Bali has just one season: summer all year long. The best way to enjoy the island’s sun is from your private infinity pool looking out to sea, of course. Unwind in a traditional Balinese-style thatched villa, made using local materials. Watch Bali’s award-winning chef Dayu and her team cooking up their favourite seafood recipes at Jala’s nightly à la carte dinner on-site.

Nestled in between verdant rice paddies, you’ll find the network of jungle tree houses known as Wapa di Ume Sidemen. This five-star boutique hotel offers a secluded hideaway from the bustling streets of Bali’s major towns. Soak in the flower-covered open bathtub at the Kapha Spa or take a vinyasa class in the spectacular yoga pavilion. If the pace feels a little too slow, book a white-rafting tour down the Telaga Waja River, or a hike through the Sidemen valley.

At Alila, the sliding floor-to-ceiling glass doors maximise the indoor-outdoor lifestyle, opening your cosy, wood-panelled lounge to a private terrace with ocean views. Make sure to drop by the spa for some treatments using fresh local ingredients. Afterwards, dine at the oceanfront restaurant Seasalt, named after the organic salt farmed the traditional way in East Bali.

Deciding which room to stay in at Hotel Tugu Bali is tough. The options are plenty, whether it’s a traditional Javanese timber house, a suite floating above a lotus pond or an Art Deco abode with an outdoor sunken bath. Ordinary isn’t on the menu when it comes to dining. Feast like the royal Balinese families – the sticky mango pork belly is divine – or opt for a romantic beachside picnic.

Formerly owned by Hendra Hadiprana, an illustrious Indonesia art collector, this intimate estate consists of 20 private villas, adorned with Balinese artwork. From private airport transfers to gourmet afternoon tea, no expense is spared at Tanah Gajah. At sunset, catch a hot air balloon ride to see the island from above, or watch a Kecak dance at the hotel’s own amphitheatre.

With sundecks under lush bamboo and Balinese gazebos overlooking the tropical jungle, you can unwind at The Purist’s 18 uniquely styled villas. Make sure you try the fresh, seasonal dishes at Cafe Balisimo. Spanish chef Aliwalú cooks up colourful vegan dishes, sourced locally. Those looking for adventure should book onto the guided hike up Mount Batur, an active volcano 1,717 metres above sea level, for panoramic dawn vistas.

There’s only one speed here and just two suites on offer but trust us, that’s all you need. The Pool Suite benefits from a private pool, with brilliant floor-to-ceiling windows. Meanwhile, The Grand Suite enjoys an earthy, neutral colour scheme with natural bed linen and a rainfall shower. The arty, 1970s vibe means you’ll elevate your trend levels by just being here. There’s also Old Man’s, a great beginners’ surf spot on your doorstep, if riding waves appeals.

Among Seminyak’s established chic and desirable resorts, W Bali Seminyak sparkles with glamour and class. Providing every service you could dream of, relax in the large pool area, get pampered at the spa or work out at the fitness centre. Here, you can also select some light entertainment from the library of books and DVDs, feast at one of the restaurants and let your hair down at the bar. This is the place to stay if you want to be treated like royalty.

Situated on the north side of the island, Damai Villas has the irresistible charm of being away from crowded tourist areas; this is the ultimate place to experience genuine Bali. Its dreamy setting among the hills by the coast, with views of Java’s volcanoes peaking over the distant horizon, Damai is a heavenly slice of escapism. Visit the nearby spice plantations or head out on a dolphin-watching tour from Lovina. With excellent service and facilities, including a quality restaurant and spa, embrace the bliss and expect heartache on departure from this utopian resort.

Inspired by traditional Balinese art and culture, Puri Madawi offers a comfortable stay in an authentically designed environment. With tailored customer service, activities can be booked at the hotel reception; however, located at the northern tip of Seminyak, a mere 300 metres from the beach, it is simple to stroll along the shore to go scuba diving or horse riding. If venturing out is too strenuous, the swimming pool surrounded by luscious tropical trees provides the ideal tranquil atmosphere for relaxation.