Alila Villas Uluwatu

Tucked away in the south of Bali on the Bukhit Peninsula, Uluwatu provides a more relaxed Balinese experience with sea views that seemingly expand forever and crashing waves straight out of a surfers dream.

Perched atop a panoramic plateau on the top of limestone cliffs, Alila Villas Uluwatu is an effortlessly stylish, eco-friendly setting, designed architecturally to complement the views over the Indian Ocean. The essence of Bali is felt throughout with its modern design embracing the surrounding environment, filled with natural stone, wood, rattan and calming running water. Embracing nature while maintaining privacy and a calming flow, as well as being a sanctuary of calm, this is a real design gem. This is exactly how I want my dream house to be.

The all-suite private pool villas are each designed with minimalist interiors and seductive outdoor spaces. Privacy is felt throughout, from the closing of the stunningly large wooden door to the private pool and lounge areas, you feel as though you have Bali all to yourself. Attention to detail is taken to a new level with the ‘his’ and ‘hers’ bathroom areas coming with their own matching toiletries. But the highlight of the room was the inside lounge area in front of the pool, the perfect spot to relax and unwind from a long flight.

Mornings begin with yoga in one of the birds nests perched high above the cliffs, with the sound of the crashing waves below effortlessly assisting you to let go and tune into your zen, while setting the perfect tone for the relaxing day ahead.

The spa continues the natural design and privacy of the rest of the hotel, with their Balinese massage working as the perfect cure for a long flight.

There are two restaurants, The Warung serving Indonesian cuisine and featuring the most impressive table I’ve ever seen. This is also the place to go for sundowner cocktails on the terrace with a perfect view of the sky show of colours.

Cire has more international cuisine, with tables positioned so that everyone can look out and enjoy the magnificent views of the never-ending sea. Staying over New Year, we were treated to a sumptuous 8-course vegan journey, creatively put together by their part-time vegetarian chef. They created a fantastic vegan breakfast menu and were able to alter dishes so we didn’t run out of options during our stay.

The views over the sea as the sun sets and the sky turns that magical Balinese shade of pink were the real highlight for me. Looking out across the cliffs and down to the crashing waves below is a truly unique experience, with Alila Villas Uluwatu proving the perfect setting to enjoy the best of Uluwatu.