Why we like it
- Secluded on a hillside, it has the feel of an ancient Balinese retreat
- The infinity pool is reputed as one of the world’s best, with stunning views of the Ayung Valley
- An intimate hotel with just 56 rooms, including 12 hidden villas
- The Plantation Restaurant serves creative and unique dishes
- Sustainable tourism is a hallmark of the Alila collection
About Alila Ubud
Located just 15 minutes from Bali’s cultural heart, Alila Ubud resembles a small, traditional village nestled in the hillside amid lush jungle and a resident family of macaques. The views from Alila are simply astounding: from exotic jungle to emerald paddy fields, this is your front row seat to the ‘real’ Bali. The rooms at Alila are inspired by local villages and interiors reflect a traditional style, standing above a ravine on stilts like tree houses, or set into the banks of the river valley. Natural, local materials have been used wherever possible, but there’s a definite sense of style here. Smooth plaster and concrete vie with thatched roofs; ornate terrazzo tiles meet crushed rock, and wood marries perfectly with glass. The rooms are split into Deluxe and Superior; Superior rooms feature private balconies with daybeds on the upper level, while Deluxe rooms on the ground floor boast individual garden terraces and a back courtyard with an open-air bathroom and shower. The 12 villas are separated into Valley, Pool or Terrace Tree, offering a choice of hideaways. Each villa offers masses of space and stunning views; our favourite is the Pool Villa, with a large private swimming pool and a large open-air bathtub that’s the best seat in the house for watching the monkeys swinging through the trees.
Facilities include one of the best infinity pools we’ve ever seen, shooting out over the jungle with incredible views of the River Ayung Valley. There’s also an Art Gallery, a library and TV lounge, and a range of activities such as yoga, tai chi, Balinese dancing, cycling and trekking to keep you occupied. One of the highlights of Alila is the Spa, which blends ancient Asia healing techniques with age-old beauty recipes. Nearby you’ll find art galleries, museums, temple festivals and traditional villages to explore.