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UNGASAN, BALI: A gong’s sonorous sound echoes as I step out of my car and walk into Umana Bali’s lobby. As though heralding the arrival of a new guest, my eyes are drawn to the intricate chandelier above me; pieces of handblown glass, and mini metal fans dancing in harmony above a water feature.
“The lobby’s centrepiece draws inspiration from the intricate Balinese dance of Legong Keraton, also known as Kraton (Dance of the Palace),” Vice President of Luxury Brands at Hilton APAC, Candice D’Cruz, says of the traditional dance characterised by intricate finger movements, complicated footwork and expressive gestures. “Metal rings represent the dancers’ fluid motion, while hand blown glass petals mimic their ornate headdresses, evoking the ethereal grace of the performance.”
Upon check-in, I’m issued with a Tridatu bracelet. The three-coloured bracelet symbolises the Lords of Hindu belief: Brahma (red), Vishnu (black), and Shiva (white). This combination is believed to represent a balance of the three fundamental forces that govern life: creation, maintenance, and destruction. Indeed, within minutes of setting foot inside this new hotel, you not only feel a sense of calm but a sense that despite the sleek and modern design, spirituality and tradition is at this property’s core.
“As the first Southeast Asia resort in the exclusive LXR collection, it was imperative that Umana Bali conveyed the brand’s celebration of personal adventure whilst serving as a luxurious base for immersive experiences,” says D’Cruz. “The architecture, landscape, and interior teams from renowned design firm WATG and Wimberly Interior came together to reimagine a sanctuary that facilitates personalised rest and rejuvenation with local lore and artistry, all woven to create a sense of luxury.”
The newly opened five-star Hilton-managed resort, is perched on the island’s southernmost tip and boasts some of the destination’s most stunning ocean views. With 72 luxuriously curated villas with private infinity pools, the resort is laid out in cascading terraces atop limestone cliffs, reminiscent of ‘uma’, or ancient rice paddy fields, after which it is named. It’s this exclusive positioning that puts the property on the top of our must-stay list—this and the size of the in-villa pools, and the service from the hotel’s staff. From the turn-down service, to the Kue Lapis—a traditional Balinese dessert—delivered to the room in the evening, the hospitality is truly unmatched.
“The service in Bali is truly in a class of its own, largely because it reflects the cultural values of the Balinese people,” explains D’Cruz. “They take pride in creating an atmosphere that evokes feelings of being hosted in local homes, with their warm hospitality, attentiveness, and genuine care shining through and creating an unrivalled guest experience.”
STAY
Spacious, modern villas with one, two or three bedrooms await. Each boast marble bathrooms with a deep-soak tub and indoor and outdoor rainfall showers. The natural light that beams into the bathroom makes you feel as though your showering amongst nature, too. While the fluffy pillows and stunning vistas are wonderful, it’s the size of the private infinity pools in each villa that are a true standout. In the one-bedroom villa, there is a 10-metre pool. In the two-bedroom, a 12-metre. And in the three-bedroom, a 25-metre! It is the ultimate in luxury and exactly what you want and need on a well-deserved holiday. (Just keep your doors closed in case monkeys are roaming!)
Always mindful of the environment and the people within it, the property sources local materials like Javanese marble and rattan, and has developed eco-friendly amenities including vanity kits made from recycled banana-leaf paper, coconut-shell boxes, and natural slippers woven from pandan and mendong fibres.
EAT
Umama Bali’s clifftop restaurant, Oliverra, boasts a stunning menu set against a backdrop of the ocean. The dress code is ‘resort elegance’ and by the Jacquemus-esque design, we can see why. A unique dining experience which highlights Mediterranean-inspired cuisine with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, the food blends international flavours with a touch of Bali’s tropical charm.
“Oliverra is well-loved for its sun-drenched interiors and breathtaking ocean views, as well as its diverse array of Mediterranean dishes,” says D’Cruz. “Guests can enjoy taking in the dramatic sunsets on the al fresco terrace as they tuck into fresh, bright flavours that incorporate those local ingredients.
“Oliverra is poised to become not just a favourite dining spot but a must-visit culinary landmark in Bali.
For breakfast, you simply must visit Commune. With a smorgasbord of options to eat, I recommend trying the local noodles followed by a local dessert. (I had to keep some fresh milk on hand to cope with the spice but eating the way locals do will always out-do a poached egg.) If you see them, try the Dadar Gulung as a post breakfast dessert. It’s a green pandan-flavoured pancake with sweet glazed coconut. Perfect with a cup of tea or a ginger, turmeric, lemongrass, pandan, cinnamon and clove shot, also on offer.
DO
At Umana Bali, there are many activities which help you understand Bali’s rich culture. Cooking Classes take place in Commune daily and the Wine Tasting in the cellar is phenomenal. But it’s the Village Walk, which is conducted at 7am when the humidity is still bearable, that is perhaps the most eye-opening.
“The Village Walk celebrates the lively characters and vibrant culture that weave the tapestry of Ungasan,” says D’Cruz. “It’s more than just a stroll; it’s a story-worthy adventure where guests are welcomed with the warmth and generosity of the locals, uncovering the human side of the island’s hidden gems.”
On the walk, you will meet the Bu Kadek, who invites you into her traditional Balinese home for coffee and a snack.
“Our guests can savour an authentic Balinese breakfast and freshly brewed Balinese coffee while admiring the stunning architecture of her traditional abode,” says D’Cruz. “This immersive experience offers a deeper understanding of local culture and a heartfelt connection to Bali’s heritage.
“While many resorts offer cooking classes or wine tastings, few connect guests to the very heart of the people,” she continues. “Our offerings go deeper, including sacred rituals led by temple elders and priests who conduct soul purification ceremonies and blessings—transformative experiences that resonate profoundly in the spiritual setting of the Island of the Gods.”
RELAX
If you do visit The Lohma Spa, be sure to ask for the signature authentic Indonesian massage. It uses energies from gemstones to revitalise the body, a must for Australians flying in and out. It was without-a-doubt the best massage I have ever had in Bali. Ask for Nindi.
“With more guests placing wellness as a priority when they travel, it has inspired us to think beyond facials and body massages,” says D’Cruz. “At The Lohma Spa, holistic ancient healing traditions and energised gemstones set the pace for positive transformation, as do holotropic breathwork and sound healing.”
The property also includes a huge sauna sanctuary, two pools for guests, a steam room, hot and cold tubs and a relaxation area.
While the gong doesn’t sound when you check out, that newfound deep sense of calm echoes within you for a few weeks post stay.
THE DETAILS
Umana Bali
Jl. Melasti, Ungasan, Kec. Kuta Sel., Kabupaten Badung, Bali 80364, Indonesia
+62 361 3007000
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