In 2021, there were roughly 78 five-star hotels in Bali in 2021, according to one report. Since then, that number would’ve only increased as the Indonesian island aims to welcome 4.5 million international tourists this year and races to build the infrastructure to support that.
Travellers wanting to book a stay in Bali that’ll induce Instagram envy will be spoilt for choice. From resorts tucked into the rainforest to those teetering at the edge of soaring cliffs, Bali has many such stays. Ahead are seven of the very best.
AYANA Resort Bali, Uluwatu
As far as Bali resorts go, AYANA Resort Bali is practically an institution. Open since 2009, it’s located in Central Jimbaran on 90 hectares of tropical gardens, overlooking Jimbaran Bay. The resort is home to a whopping 12 pools and 19 dining options, including the well-known Rock Bar. The resort even has a spa, tennis court, and 18-hole putting course. Each of the rooms and suites here feature traditional wood carvings that celebrate the artisan culture of Bali.
Bulgari Resort Bali, Uluwatu
Perched on a cliff in Uluwatu, Bulgari Resort Bali offers views of the Indian Ocean, as well as a 1km-long private beach, accessible only through the resort’s inclined lift. The property also has a spa, 24-hour fitness centre, and infinity pool. For a real treat, book the Bulgari Villa, a 1,300sq space with two bedrooms, living room and dining room, cinema and 20-metre pool.
The Edge, Uluwatu
If you’ve ever seen photos of people in a glass bottom pool that looks down onto the Indian Ocean, that’s The Edge in Uluwatu. Every villa at the resort has a kitchen and 24-hour butler service. Many also have wrap-around plunge pools and gardens. Even if you don’t want to splash out on a stay here, you should still book a cabana at the day club, oneeighty, where you can access the pool and order lunch or snacks from the resort’s menu.
Padma Resort Ubud, Ubud
Overlooking the forest of Payangan, Padma Resort Ubud has 149 rooms, a spa, and an infinity pool. Catch daily returns transfers to Ubud, explore the resort’s property, including a jogging track and bamboo bridge or simply stay in your room. The Premier Club Room has artisan-crafted furnishings and a freestanding tub and gives you access to the Club Lounge where you can enjoy evening cocktails as you gaze at a bamboo forest and, beyond, Mount Agung.
Mulia Resort and Villas, Nusa Dua
Mulia Resort and Villas and The Mulia are celebrity favourites with Shay Mitchell, Kate Bosworth, and Liam Payne all having stayed. The property has 526 rooms and suites and 9 venues, including Soleil, known for its Sunday Brunch and Sky Bar where you can have high tea or sunset drinks. At The Mulia, all guests have butler service and are treated to complimentary high tea.
COMO Uma Canggu, Canggu
In the last decade or so, Canggu has become one of Bali’s fastest-growing areas, now filled with photogenic cafés and bars, dozens of hotels, and a handful of co-working spaces. COMO Uma Canggu opened in 2018 with 119 rooms and suites, looking out over its lagoon pool or the Canggu coastline and 12 three-bedroom duplex COMO Penthouses. Each has its own rooftop pool and private butler.
Capella Ubud, Ubud
Capella Ubud consists of 23 tented villas spread throughout greenery in Balinese artist village Keliki. A welcome duffel bag with camp essentials is given to guests on arrival, and breakfast is served in the common area, Mads Lange. Conveniently, the hotel provides return transfers to Ubud centre daily. Though, with a spa specialising in anti-aging treatments, The Armory, a tented gym, and The Cistern, a 20-metre rainforest pool, you might not want to leave.
Related: 10 Hot New Hotels That’ve Opened in Bali Since You’ve Been Gone
Related: Breaking News: Bali Isn’t the Only Island in Indonesia — 5 Others to Visit Instead
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