Amandari
Set high above the Ayung River Gorge, Amandari overlooks working rice paddy fields, and designed to look like a Balinese village, it is clear to see how the hotel embraces local traditions.
Accommodation is in 30 individual thatched roof suites, with Balinese-style stone pillars marking the entrance. The Balinese theme continues inside with the use of coconut wood and teak, and bamboo frame roofs lined with alang alang. All of the suites are walled and have their own private courtyard garden, as well as an outdoor sunken marble bath. The suites also have three sliding glass doors, making the most of the views. For all this and more, opt for one of the pool suites, which have private plunge pools.
The restaurant, constructed almost entirely out of teak, overlooks the swimming pool and Ayung Valley. The setting is spectacular and the combination of Indonesian and Western food is delicious.
As well as a swimming pool, Amandari also has a spa. It offers a wide range of treatments such as massages and manicures, as well as traditional Balinese treatments such as the Mandi Lulur. Yoga classes can also be arranged and there is a gym and tennis court.
Why We Love It
Have a massage in one of the open air massage bails overlooking the lily pond.
Como Shambhala Estate
Guests can join various 'wellness' programmes that typically last between three and seven days, or simply enjoy a bespoke health retreat at their own pace.
Yoga, pilates and tai chi classes are held daily in open-sided pavilions, and there is a wide selection of Ayurvedic treatments, massages and Balinese-inspired therapies to choose from.
Activities include river rafting and guided hiking or mountain biking through Bali's landscapes of volcano, forest and hills, taking in the villages, temples, rice paddies and jungle that surround the resort. The Estate also has a swimming pool, climbing wall, all-weather tennis court, outdoor 'jungle gym' and a fully air-conditioned indoor gym with a fitness instructor.
Accommodation at Como Shambhala Estate is in villa-style rooms and suites dotted around the grounds, all of which feature internet access, DVD and CD players. Some also come with their own private pools. Dining focuses on organic, fresh and nutritional cuisine, which you watch being prepared in the restaurant's open kitchen.
Why We Love It
The flagship of the Como Shambhala collection of properties offers peaceful, luxurious accommodation together with a holistic approach to healthy living.
Uma by COMO, Ubud
From its hillside position, the hotel overlooks the terraced rice paddies of the Tjampuhan Valley, with the Oos River below.
The thatched rooms and suites come in a variety of styles, including garden rooms and pool suites with private infinity-edged plunge pools. All rooms have DVD players and broadband internet access.
Facilities at Uma Ubud include a 25-metre swimming pool, gym, sauna, steam room, library and a spa offering a variety of treatments based on Asian traditions. The restaurant serves wholesome, southeast Asian-inspired food using local organic ingredients wherever possible.
The hill town of Ubud is the cultural hub of Bali, and English-speaking guides are available for excursions to the region's temples, galleries and museums. Other activities on offer include mountain biking, white-water rafting, and guided treks among the hills and volcanoes of this beautiful island.
Why We Love It
There is a complimentary guided walk through the hotel's fields, coconut palms and banyan trees, followed by a complimentary daily open air yoga class.
