The Best Hotels to Book in Ubud, Bali
![Savour serene surroundings from an intimate base in Ubud](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/20x11/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/como-uma-ubud-h-e1612120767342.webp)
As the yoga capital of Bali, many travellers flock to Ubud to practice their sun salutations with some of the world’s leading practitioners. While here, make sure you explore the Sacred Monkey Forest, watch a traditional gamelan performance or explore the arty cafes. To make the most of your visit, here are the best places to stay – including villas and boutique hotels – in Ubud.
1. Fivelements
Hotel, Resort
![Hot tub amid greenery on wooden decking under bamboo roof at Fivelements; a four-poster bed in the room behind](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/fivelements.webp)
Shrouded in dense jungle foliage along the Ayung River, Fivelements offers a luxurious dose of wellness-centric relaxation. This eco-conscious retreat provides ancient Balinese healing treatments in their award-winning facility, with personalised retreat programmes ranging from holistic detoxes to gastronomic journeys. Suites constructed from bamboo with traditional thatched roofs sit right along the river, illuminated by candlelight and the stars above. When it comes to rejuvenation, it can’t be beaten.
2. Tanah Gajah
Hotel, Luxury
![Shaded armchair and four massage tables on wooden decking by an outdoor pool with trees behind at Tanah Gajah](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/tanah-gajah.webp)
Rice fields and undulating hills covered in thick greenery surround Tanah Gajah — an art-focused luxury resort right next to Ubud’s noteworthy Goa Gajah temple. As the former estate of Hendra Hadiprana, a well-respected Indonesian art collector, the grounds are filled with bespoke works of Balinese artworks from his collection. Between lotus flower-filled ponds and misty sunrises over Mount Agung, the natural surroundings are top notch.
3. The Purist Villas
Spa Hotel, Luxury
![Shaded sofa, table and four cushioned chairs by an outdoor pool at the Purist Villas](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/the-purist-villas.webp)
Just a few minutes north of central Ubud, the Purist Villas are 18 stunningly designed lodgings, each with its own unique lure. Choose between an antique wooden Joglo (Javanese style home) atop the hillside — or opt for a bamboo villa with a private pool and garden, concealed behind natural stone and wooden walls. Specialised Ayurveda treatments are always within reach at the Purist Spa, along with complimentary yoga classes.
4. Hanging Gardens of Bali
Independent Hotel, Luxury
![A wooden terrace at Hanging Gardens of Bali has a mirror-link infinity pool overlooking jungle, plus soft sofas and loungers](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2020/12/40554d69.webp)
Often Instagrammed and always dreamt of, Hanging Gardens of Bali has become very well-known among luxury enthusiasts, travel bloggers and influencers. Living up to its namesake, this resort features a series of pools that are perched right on the edge of a lush valley below. Ample wedding event offerings and candlelit in-villa dinners make it quite the place for romance and honeymooners. Expect to be greeted with tropical fruits daily, such as mangosteen and snake fruit.
5. Bali Bohemia Huts
Boutique Hotel
![Greenery and water feature sculpture at the centre of an outdoor pool at Bali Bohemia Huts; there is a bridge over the water](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/bali-bohemia-huts.webp)
Quirky jungle charm and a community-centred mission are two ways that Bali Bohemia Huts sets itself apart from the others. Original works from Balinese artists adorn the walls alongside colourful mirrors, textiles, and patterned flooring. Step over the pool’s mini bridge to reach free breakfast at the on-site restaurant, and don’t be surprised if you see some monkeys along the way. Well-known for their hospitality, the team here is lauded for keeping guests comfortable – it’s one of the friendliest boutique hotels in Ubud.
6. Komaneka at Monkey Forest
Suite Hotel
![Outdoor pool flanked by shaded seating area with tables and chairs, plus two shaded loungers at Komaneka at Monkey Forest](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/komaneka-at-monkey-forest.webp)
Once a residence for artists behind the renowned Komaneka Gallery, this homey accommodation offers a comfortable, intimate stay. Immerse yourself in the earthy, traditional Balinese architecture – the suites here either overlook rice paddies or have their own private plunge pool. Dip in the outdoor infinity pool or indulge in a massage and Indonesian salt scrub at the Pandan Wangi Spa. Vegans are also well-catered for in the Garden Terrace Kitchen.
7. Alila Ubud
Boutique Hotel
![Outdoor swimming pool flanked by many shaded loungers and a forest of green trees at Alila Ubud](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/alila-ubud-infinity-pool-14.webp)
Perched on the banks of the sacred Ayung River and designed to resemble a Balinese village, you feel truly part of the landscape here. One of its best features is the award-winning pool overlooking Ubud’s lush rice paddies. If you’re on a romantic sojourn, treat your other half to a three-course meal by candlelight at the pool, complete with butler service – or join the chef for a culinary tour of the organic on-site garden.
8. Bisma Eight Ubud
Hotel
![Living room with black chairs around a circular table, plus a sofa at Bisma Eight, with double bedroom in the background](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2017/07/bisma-eight-canopy.webp)
This boutique hotel in Ubud has just 38 suites, which means the hotel never feels crowded. Wander down the serene minimalist hallway to the infinity pool, which has panoramic views across the verdant jungle. In the afternoon, poke your head into the cosy Library cafe. Order afternoon tea and you’ll be treated to a free latte art class. Come nightfall, dine at the upscale Embers restaurant where Mediterranean fare, like king prawn risotto, attracts visitors from across Ubud.
9. COMO Uma Ubud
Suite Hotel, Spa Hotel
![Outdoor pool flanked by several shaded loungers and many tall trees at COMO Uma Ubud](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/como-uma-ubud.webp)
The intimate, warm atmosphere at Como Uma Ubud will make you feel like you’re in a rural country home. Opt for your own individual villa with a private pool and four-poster bed. Exceptional service marks this hotel out from the rest, alongside the daily activity schedule, which includes cooking classes, rafting and volcano tours. In true Ubud style, you can indulge in the hotel’s Shambala Retreat, which offers yoga in an open-air jungle pavilion, chakra healing and traditional Indonesian body massage.
10. SenS Hotel & Spa
Hotel, Spa Hotel
![Outdoor pool in between the buildings of SenS Hotel & Spa, with plants to the side and loungers at the end](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/sens-hotel-spa.webp)
Right in the heart of downtown Ubud, SenS places you close to the Ubud Royal Palace, Sacred Monkey Forest and arty shops and cafes. The hotel is centred around a courtyard pool with traditional Balinese decoration. Treat yourself to a couples massage in the spa or tuck into comfort food (think burritos and pizza) at the Yonne Cafe and Bar.
11. The Mansion Resort Hotel and Spa
Hotel, Spa Hotel, Resort
![Several cushioned seats under parasols, plus tall trees by an outdoor pool with steps at the Mansion Resort Hotel and Spa](https://cdn-v2.theculturetrip.com/10x/wp-content/uploads/2021/01/the-mansion-resort-hotel-and-spa.webp)
Spread out at this expansive resort complex on the Sayan Ridge, just a few minutes’ drive from Ubud town centre. Just to give you an idea of the size of the aptly named Mansion – there are six pools to choose from. A real highlight here is the award-winning spa and wellness centre, which has a crystal healing pool, yoga workshops, traditional treatments, and, rather strangely, a cosmetic dentistry clinic. The main restaurant, Indochine, serves up Asian specialities by candlelight.
Sarah Lempa contributed additional reporting to this article.