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March 5, 2020

Off the Tourist Trail in Bali – Central Bali

Once the beaches and parties in the south and the yoga cafes in Ubud start to tire, Central Bali is a great escape. Here you’ll find dramatic volcanoes, lush plantations, stunning crater lakes and mystical temples. The higher elevation also means that the temperatures are much cooler than other parts of Bali. For trekkers, nature lovers and those simply looking for a mountain hideaway, the highlands are the place to be.

To escape the crowds in Ubud, head north and slightly east to Tampaksiring where you will find two fascinating historical sites. Gunung Kai is an 11th-century temple complex and the burial site of King Anak Wungsu and his many wives built on the banks of the pretty Pakerisan River. Tirta Empul temple dates back to the 10th century, and the Balinese believe that the waters in the hot springs and bathing pools here will cleanse the body and the soul.

Drive north of Tampaksiring, and you’ll reach Kintamani, a network of traditional mountain villages resting along the rim of the Mount Batur caldera. Visitors will find many cafes and restaurants with stunning views across the lakes and lava fields here, although the touts along the main road can be particularly aggressive.

If you really want to see breathtaking views, get up before the sun rises to climb Mount Batur. The 2-hour trek is relatively easy, and when you see the rays of sunlight slowly washing over the neighbouring volcanoes and valleys, you can see why Bali is often called ‘the Morning of the World’.

Kintamani is also home to Pura Ulun Danu Batur, one of the holiest of the nine directional temples of Bali. The temple is dedicated to the goddess of Lake Batur, who also happens to be the protector of all water and irrigation in Bali. Visit on a ceremonial day, and you will see lavish decorations and hundreds of Balinese people giving offerings and praying at the shrines.

To the west of Kintamani lies Bedugul, another elevated region that contains many small villages surrounding the three crater lakes of Bratan, Buyan and Tamblingan. This area is known as the fruit and vegetable basket of Bali, as there are many plantations and fertile fields in the valleys and on the slopes of the mountains. The town of Bedugul is at the centre of it all, and this is where you will find the beautiful Bali Botanical Gardens, as well as a bustling traditional market selling everything from fresh strawberries to handicrafts to tiny bunny rabbits.

Bedugul is an outdoor playground for trekkers, as there are many scenic trails through the forests and valleys. Explore Munduk to take in lush, hilly plantations and a dramatic gushing waterfall, Jatiluwih to see vast expanses of emerald green rice terraces, Mount Batukaru for steep slopes and the mystical Pura Luhur Batukaru temple or Angseri for soothing hot springs. Pura Ulun Danu Bratan is also a must-see temple, as it rests on the shores of Lake Bratan and almost looks as though it floats directly on the water. The black tiers of the temple make for a majestic sight reflecting in the blue waters of the lake and backed by misty mountains.

Where to Stay

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Bond Bali

Bond Bali accommodates 10 guests across its five bedrooms and boasts amenities such as a 16-metre cantilevered infinity pool, a distinctive spa, two fully air-conditioned living rooms, and various outdoor spaces for activities like yoga, meditation, as well as events and celebrations. More than just a luxurious retreat, Bond is a thoughtfully designed environment that encourages an open mind, creativity, and a seamless connection with nature. It serves not only as a lavish setting for guests but also as a space fostering a profound connection to the natural surroundings, offering a liberating environment for relaxation and exploration.

 

 

Hartland Estate


Situated on the enchanting Sayan Ridge overlooking the Ayung River, Hartland Estate is an awe-inspiring five-bedroom villa crafted to harmonize effortlessly with its lush environment. Comprising a collection of reclaimed teakwood structures cascading along the hillside, each boasting private balconies and gardens, the villa provides a seamless integration with nature. The 26-meter infinity pool, filled by a natural spring, appears to flow gracefully over the ridge’s edge. Noteworthy attributes include a meditation gazebo, organic vegetable and herb gardens, along with elegantly designed semi-outdoor bathrooms featuring expansive stone bathtubs and refreshing rain showers.

 

The Lodge at Capella Ubud


Nestled within the lush rainforest of Keliki Valley, a short distance from Ubud, The Lodge at Capella Ubud presents an exclusive two-bedroom retreat. Elaborate oriental designs harmonize with opulent wooden elements and vintage furnishings, while the private pool mirrors the enchanting jungle vistas. As an integral component of the acclaimed Capella Ubud resort, The Lodge contributes to the resort’s prestigious standing, having received numerous accolades such as recognition in the Travel + Leisure World’s Best awards.