I don’t think I need to explain how much of a sucker I am for a Balinese getaway (case point here, here and here). With its close proximity to Oz, and those you’d-be-crazy-not-to-buy flight specials, I’m always looking for an excuse to board a plane and live like a queen in Bali. So when the opportunity arises to check out Barong Ubud Resort & Spa, I don’t have to think twice.
A yoga-lovers paradise (if you will), Ubud is located approximately an hour-and-a-half drive from the hustle and bustle of Seminyak, and easily accessible by shuttle, taxi or private driver.
| Hot tip: Negotiate a price with a driver if you’re travelling from Seminyak to Ubud. We offered 200,000IDR (approx AU$20) which is very reasonable as it gives us the chance to stop and shop for silver goodies in the Celuk area along the way. |
Barong Ubud Resort & Spa
Walking through the resort’s lush tropical gardens to our room, it’s easy to see why people flock to Ubud to zone out and recharge the batteries. I already feel re-energised as I walk through the grounds, but the real Zen lies inside my room.
Inviting, isn’t it?
Relaxation is key at this resort, from the fully private superior bungalow complete with an outdoor setting overlooking our very own gardens, to the four poster twin bed (perfect for two friends travelling), and the marble bathroom with sunk in bath, they really do know how to wow the stress out of any worked-up traveller.
In true Zen style, we nourish the body with a quick bite to eat at the resort’s restaurant before we venture out to the streets. The restaurant, located at the front of the resort, provides a tranquil setting for ‘body-nourishing’ overlooking the tropical entrance and resident fish.
Filling up on Indonesia goodies leaves us plenty of energy to explore the surrounds, and believe me when I say, there is plenty to explore.
Monkey Forrest
A trip to Ubud wouldn’t be complete without visiting the cheeky little monkeys that roam freely in Ubud Monkey Forest. This sacred natural reserve is home to more than 300 Macaque monkeys who aren’t afraid to come and say hello.
| Hot tip: Keep all jewellery and cameras far from their reach… they’re more drawn to bling than Brynne Edelsten. |
White Water Rafting
Making sure we explore the very best of Ubud, we buckle up our hard hats, chuck on a lifejacket, and hike down the hills surrounding the spectacular Ayung River, ready to battle the waves head on. Despite being a relatively calm day on the waters, it gives us the opportunity to see Bali from a different angle, and explore its spectacular natural beauty close up.
Nightlife
Ubud may not carry the bustling nightlife found in Seminyak and Kuta but it certainly isn’t one to shy away from a great night out. Make your way to Ubud Palace open stage from 7.30pm, and get ready to be entertained with one of the many cultural dance performances. We caught view of the Legong Dance which was totally awe-inspiring, before calling it a night and returning back to our haven at Barong Ubud Resort & Spa.
