Forested volcanic mountains, rice paddy fields, beaches and coral reefs are just some of the attractions that lure tens of thousands of tourists to Bali each year. The Indonesian island is particularly popular with young backpackers, but also draws its fair share of luxury travellers too, along with families thanks to its idyllic beaches and calm waters.
To cater for the diversity of its visitors, Bali offers a huge variety of accommodation options, ranging from youth hostels through to ultra-luxury hotels. Among the choices are a sprinkling of all inclusive hotels and resorts where the price of your stay will normally include three meals a day and access to a range of amenities. Here are five of the best.
Samabe Bali Suites & Villas
FROM £291/ NIGHT
Just seconds from the nearest beach, this five star property features a range of luxurious suites and villas, all of which come with their own dining area, dressing room, terrace or balcony, and large living space, along with practical amenities including a minibar, electric kettle and flat-screen cable TV. Elsewhere in the resort, guests can make use of two restaurants, an outdoor pool, a spa centre and a gym. There’s also 24-hour front desk and butler service, an on-site currency exchange service, business centre and tour desk. Watersports can be arranged at the resort too. The sandy beaches and 18-hole golf course of Nusa Dua are a 15-minute drive away.
Villa Ley
FROM £223/ NIGHT
Also very close to the beach, this 4-star apart-hotel is a notch down in terms of luxury but still has plenty of great amenities, including a large outdoor pool and a state-of-the-art spa. All apartments come with a flat screen TV and DVD player, a kitchenette with a microwave and toaster, a private bathroom and, open living and dining areas overlooking the pool. Free WiFi is available throughout the property and there’s also free private parking. The acclaimed beachfront destination of Ku De Ta, with its chic dining and nightlife spots, is just one mile away.
Shanti Toya Ashram
FROM £118/ NIGHT
For an unconventional Bali experience that includes all meals, this retreat centre offers a tranquil – and for some mind-altering – atmosphere in which to find your true self. To help create the right ambiance, there’s an outdoor swimming pool and a pretty garden. Guest rooms are air-conditioned and come with a wardrobe, a seating area and a terrace, some with garden views. Food is vegetarian or vegan, in keeping with the principles of the retreat. On-site parking is available and there’s also free WiFi. The town of Ubuda, known for its traditional arts and crafts scene, is just over 7 miles away.
Grand Mirage Resort & Thalasso Bali
FROM £159/ NIGHT
An award-winning restaurant, a pool with a swim-up bar and an array of activities are just some of the standout features at this 5-star hotel, located close to Nusa Dua Beach beach. Some of the things guests can do during their stay include watersports using equipment owned by the hotel, cooking lessons and guided bike tours. There’s also a busy programme of cultural events, including bonfires and traditional dances. Guest rooms come with an LCD TV, safety deposit box, tea/coffee maker and private bathroom. Benoa Harbour, popular with tourists, is a short drive away.
Kinaara Resort & Spa Pemuteran Bali
FROM £51/ NIGHT
Situated in the tranquil fishing village of Pemuteran in northern Bali, this 4-star hotel offers great value thanks to its slightly remote location compared with other properties in this list. But that’s not to say it’s short of amenities, with an outdoor swimming pool, a spa and a restaurant serving a mix of Indonesian and international dishes available to guests, along with 24-hour front desk and a dedicated tour desk for arranging excursions. Guest rooms feature a seating area, a safe, a fan, an electric kettle, and a private en suite bathroom. Free parking is available on-site. There’s a restaurant and a minimarket a few minutes’ walk away and the beach is also nearby.
