Hadag flew to the alluring island of Bali to spend a few days at the magnificent Umana Bali, LXR Hotels & Resorts.
Bali. It is a location on almost every true adventurer’s bucket list. Just the name of this magical island is enough to invoke visions of lush tropical forests, pristine white-sand beaches, clear sparkling waters and an endless blue sky.
Recently, Hadag received an invitation from the luxurious Umana Bali, LXR Hotels & Resorts to visit this exclusive spot in Ungasan at the southernmost tip of the island.
Breathtaking Bali
Approaching by air, we were mesmerised by the location and what was to be our home for the next few days. As far as tropical islands go, this enchanting piece of the Earth ticks all the boxes required to be called a true paradise.
After touching down, we breezed through customs and were welcomed by a full limo service that whisked us toward our destination.
The Resort
A short drive through winding roads lined with abundant vegetation, and we found ourselves at the grand lobby of Umana Bali, LXR Hotels & Resorts.
In this high-ceilinged open area, the green surroundings, artistry and architecture merge to create a gallery-like space that seamlessly blends the island’s past with its present. We were captivated by the striking metal and hand-blown chandelier, along with all the other details telling the story of Bali’s rich cultural heritage.
Greeted by the friendliest of staff and a delightful drink prepared using the local marigold flower, we felt well taken care of from the moment we arrived. We barely had the chance to greet all the welcoming faces before our check in was complete and we were soon being escorted to our villa by Richard, our dedicated curator.
Umana Bali, LXR Hotels & Resorts boasts some of this world-famous destination’s most stunning ocean views and 72 luxuriously curated villas. The resort’s layout features cascading terraces atop limestone cliffs, reminiscent of uma, or ancient rice paddy fields, from which it gets its name.
The lavish retreat also houses a grand ballroom, a large meeting room, a beautiful chapel overlooking the Indian Ocean, a main infinity pool and a kids’ club. A holistic spa contains sanctuary rooms, a relaxation area, an indoor yoga pavilion, a sauna, a steam room, hot and cold plunge pools and an outdoor spa pool. Additionally, a fitness centre is open 24 hours a day for all guests.
Ocean Pool Villa
Our one-bedroom Ocean Pool Villa was 403sq/m of pure luxury. Moving through our spacious living area, we were met by an openair paradise adorned with stunning views and a Balinese bale – a straw roofed structure.
Every villa in the resort has its infinity pool, and we took full advantage of our 10-metre version on many occasions throughout our stay. We loved the natural light illuminating the marble bathroom, featuring a rainfall shower and deep soaking tub. There was also a second shower located outside.
Haute Cuisine
Umana Bali, LXR Hotels & Resorts boasts a diverse range of first-class, in-house restaurants and bars. The hotel sources 80% of its produce from local farms and its hydroponic herb and vegetable garden. This means the freshest and most appetising dining experiences imaginable for all guests.
On our first evening, we experienced The Commune, a location we would come to know quite well during our stay. Although the restaurant offers an eclectic mix of international, Asian and local cuisine, we opted for the Balinese dishes, sampling many on our first night. We were hugely grateful that we did. We were fortunate enough to revisit this venue for breakfast, enjoying a semi-buffet style meal consisting of fresh fruits, juices, yoghurts, granola and pastry options. There was an egg station and additional hot selections for those who wanted a more substantial early meal. These scrumptious extras were made up mostly of rice and chicken. As guests, we could also order anything we liked from the à la carte menu.
Oliverra, is a high-end restaurant perched on a cliff with stunning Instagrammable terrace views of the ocean. This idyllic venue is where we dined during a mesmerising sunset on the second night of our stay.
Specialising in Mediterranean cuisine, Oliverra proved to be a real gem. The grilled scallops and octopus were the standout dishes for the evening, as was the perfectly cooked steak – one of the best we’ve tasted.
Beach Club
As the resort is positioned on a steep cliff, we had the privilege of being driven by car to the famous Melasti Beach below. Five to seven minutes after leaving the hotel, we had our toes in the white sand, feeling the warm ocean lapping against our ankles.
Offering Japanese and Peruvian cuisine, Uma Beach House sources its ingredients from the local fisheries of Sanur and farms around the Ungasan and Kintamani areas. We were once again spoilt by what was placed in front of us. A truly delectable dining experience.
Picturesque Village
Walk One of the activities organised for us during our stay was a village walk. This experience took us past paddy fields and through the local town. We took in the traditional Balinese houses and the many temples scattered around the area. We passed schools with little kids dressed in adorable pink uniforms who were quick to greet us with big smiles.
Lucky enough to eat a traditional breakfast in one of the houses we encountered, we sampled a couple of firsts. The meal started with Klepon, a local sweet made with rice dough and what we can only describe as coconut pockets filled with sugarcane syrup and coffee. Next was a plate of steamed rice and Chicken Lilit, which is like a chicken kebab. A second chicken dish mixed with sambal matah meant a chilli flavour that left a great taste in the mouth. Overall, this was a novel and interesting experience for us.
Balinese Massage
After the village walk, we indulged in a relaxing spa treatment – perfect timing!
As we stepped into the beautifully designed spa, we were warmly welcomed. After filling out a brief form regarding our general health, preferred massage pressure and focus spots, we were led to the treatment area. Our experience began with a soothing foot wash, setting the stage for the ultimate relaxation. What followed was 60 minutes of pure bliss – a perfectly executed Balinese massage with aromatic oil that not only eased our muscles but also rejuvenated our souls.
Culture Cooking Class
Umana Bali, LXR Hotels & Resorts offers a range of curated experiences for guests and the one activity that we will forever cherish, as dedicated foodies, was a cooking class where we excitedly learned to make the meal we had eaten on our village walk.
We took great pleasure in discovering the authentic recipe for Chicken Lilit, a special dish made for celebrations. Next, we were shown how to combine the chillis, shallots, lemon grass and several other ingredients to create sambal matah. Once mixed, this delicious condiment is cooked as hot coconut oil is poured over it. We fell in love with it and even requested some of the local chillis to try it at home.
On this note, coffee lovers should book the coffee tasting experience, during which a seasoned barista will take you through a journey of aromas and flavours featuring local beans and a variety of blends.
Fabulous Floating Breakfast
Amongst the other memorable activities we enjoyed during our stay was the delightful floating breakfast.
Slipping into our private pool on a warm and sunny morning, we once again ordered the Indonesian option as we had by now fallen in love with the local cuisine. This was a memorable way to appreciate our final meal at the resort before taking our leave of this magical island which has carved a place in our hearts.
Please visit Hilton.com/en/hotels/dpsolol-umana-baliresort for more information.
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