Earth-friendly architecture, sustainable furnishings and untouched nature at every turn – these are the very best eco resorts in Bali...
When it comes to responsible travel and lowering your carbon footprint, Bali is a dream come true for eco-conscious travellers. Here on our beloved tropical island, we have everything from zero-waste bars and farm-to-table restaurants, as well as island brands that use recycled plastic, and of course, endless adventures in the great outdoors. Naturally then, Bali is also home to a plethora of sustainably-conscious five-star hotels and resorts, from bamboo abodes hidden in the jungle, to world-class hotels that are paving the way for the future of sustainable travel. So without further adieu, these are the very best eco friendly resorts in Bali that get two green thumbs up from us.
THE BEST ECO FRIENDLY RESORTS IN BALI
1. Bambu Indah
Award-winning and jungle-hugged, Bambu Indah is Bali’s iconic bamboo-built boutique resort on the outskirts of Ubud. Founded by nature and art lovers, the resort adapts an ecologically-mindful ethos, from the sustainably designed bamboo houses and naturally filled pool and pond, to the waste recycling system, citronella insect repellent and 100% natural and organic bath products. Take your pick from the uniquely designed bamboo houses, like the Moon House shaped like a crescent moon, or the Tree House that’s nestled between the branches of two sturdy Banyan trees. Psst… You can even score a day pass to explore the stunning grounds and dine at the riverside Warung restaurant.
Bambu Indah, Jl Baung, Sayan, Ubud, p. +62 812 3834 3174, e. [email protected]
2. Capella Ubud
A luxury glamping resort perched in the jungles of Ubud, Capella Ubud is a one-of-a-kind destination with jaw-dropping views and one- and two-bedroom tents with private salt water pools. The resort is also home to award-winning al fresco restaurants overlooking the treetop canopy, as well as a rainforest-cocooned spa tent specialising in bespoke treatments, and a daily itinerary of Capella-curated cultural experiences. As nightfall beckons, settle down by the fire beneath the stars for Balinese folklore and tales told by the camp guru. It comes as no surprise that Capella has been awarded the “No. 1 Best Hotel Brand in The World” by Travel + Leisure…
Capella Ubud, Jl Raya Dalem, Banjar Triwangsa, Ubud, p. +62 361 2091 888, e. [email protected]
3. Buahan, a Banyan Tree Escape
Hugged by greenery in Bali’s hidden enclave of Buahan, a 40-minute drive from Ubud, Banyan Tree Escape invites you to experience a different way of being. This award-winning, adults-only oasis is the perfect hideaway for those looking to completely disconnect from the world and immerse in nature. Each of the barefoot-luxury villas come without any walls or doors, offering the most captivating setting to truly take in Bali’s beauty. Our fave has to be the Seven Peaks Pool Bale, perched sky-high for breathtaking sunrise views and an unobstructed panorama over Bali’s seven majestic mountains. Top tip: you can add-on daily meals and snacks, as well as outdoorsy adventures (like foraging!) to learn all about the surrounding native greenery…
Buahan, a Banyan Tree Escape, Jl Banjar Selat, Buahan Kaja, Payangan, p. +62 361 620 8181, e. [email protected]
4. Ulaman Eco Luxury Resort
Nature meets luxury at Ulaman, one of the most beautiful eco resorts in Bali. The resort boasts sustainably-made villas designed with the environment in mind, with untouched greenery on your doorstep. Each villa is a state-of-the-art bamboo wonder, decked out in modern amenities, as well as a private pool and a bespoke wooden bathtub. Make full use of the tranquil space and spend the day practicing yoga and meditation, or bliss out with a spa treatment to the sounds of a flowing river and crashing waterfall. And whenever you need to refuel, head to the lotus-shaped bamboo restaurant for world-class gastronomy…
Ulaman Eco Luxury Resort, Buwit, Kediri, Tabanan, p. +62 812 3858 0063, e. [email protected]
5. Alam Mountain
Escape to Alam Mountain and experience the magic of ‘old Bali’, nestled on the jungle-covered slopes of the sacred Mount Adeng. This luxury, eco-friendly villa is a “bridge to nature”, where you can immerse in local culture and majestic volcano vistas. The villa’s two cottages are built using antique wood, hand-collected from around Indonesia. Each cottage houses a master bedroom with an en-suite bathroom and walk-in wardrobe, plus open-plan living and all the modern amenities you need. Bask on the terrace in the fresh mountain air and sweeping views, before feasting on farm-to-table dishes and secret Balinese recipes, whipped up by your own private chef using ingredients harvested from the resort’s garden (top tip: try the in-villa cooking class!). Spend your days in the great outdoors with guided treks through rice fields and nearby farms, before retreating to your mountain abode for an evening of stargazing…
Alam Mountain, Jl Gunung Adeng No. 10x, Munduk Lumbang, Baturiti, Tabanan, p. +62 817 470 4403, e. [email protected]
6. Potato Head Suites & Studios
So much more than just an eco-friendly hotel, Desa Potato Head is a creative village that’s dedicated to sustainable living. For absolute beachfront views, we love the Potato Head Studios. But our favourite has to be the Potato Head Suites which combine ancient craftsmanship and modern aesthetics. You’ll find sustainably-made and upcycled furnishings, naturally dyed textiles and heritage decor, as well as eco-friendly amenities like zero waste kits, refillable sunscreen, natural soaps and biodegradable slippers. Go for the two-bedroom Katamama Suite with its own rooftop jacuzzi, and make it a date at the zero-waste restaurant, Ijen, or at Tanaman, the wholly plant-based restaurant that honours local flora…
Potato Head Suites & Studios, Jl Petitenget No. 51B, Seminyak, p. +62 811 3800 7979, e. [email protected]
7. Mana Earthly Paradise
Run by an award-winning NGO, Mana Earthly Paradise is a humble collection of eco-villas committed to leaving minimal impact on the environment, all thanks to its sustainable practices and regenerative designs. Think rainwater harvesting, solar energy, recyclable mattresses and furnishings made with reclaimed and upcycled wood. They even use local plastic-free detergent for laundry! Choose from the Double Villas fit for a travelling couple, or for families, check out the Deluxe Double Villas or the Family Villa with two cosy bedrooms. There’s even a dorm-style room for solo travellers looking to make new conscious friends. And did we mention, profits go toward funding change-makers across Asia Pacific?
Mana Earthly Paradise, Jl Raya Sayan, Banjar Mas, Ubud, p. +62 361 908 7788 / +62 811 380 9788, e. [email protected]
8. Suarga Padang Padang
Consciously designed to seamlessly blend into Uluwatu’s landscapes is Suarga Padang Padang; a sustainable boutique resort with iconic bamboo architecture. The resort offers eco accommodation right above Padang Padang Beach and Bali’s premier surf breaks. It’s all about a different kind of luxury here, the kind where there’s comfort and indulgence without leaving a negative impact on the environment – from the sustainable building materials sourced locally, to the ocean breeze carefully directed for natural ventilation. There are 36 unique rooms, pavilions and villas to choose from, generously spread across 1.5 hectares of resort grounds, each decked out in indigenous aesthetics and antique decor. And let’s not forget the resort’s world-class restaurant, Dugong Lounge & Bar – one of the best restaurants in Uluwatu.
Suarga Padang Padang, Jl Pantai Labuan Sait, Banjar Dinas Labuan Sait, Pecatu, Uluwatu, p. +62 361 472 5088 / +62 811 399 1199
9. Fivelements
More than just an eco resort, Fivelements is a holistic wellness retreat centre that stretches alongside the sacred Ayung River. This award-winning venue is all about eco-conscious living – be it in its regenerative designs, natural ventilation, sustainable building materials sourced locally, proper waste management, and even the restaurant’s plant-based cuisine. Choose from the breezy one- to two-bedroom suites (some with private pools!), each surrounded by lush gardens, with the ever-present sounds of nature throughout your vacay. And the best bit is, the resort goes above and beyond with signature wellness programmes and spa treatments using all-natural products and traditional healing rituals.
Fivelements, Banjar Batur Rening, Mambal, Abiansemal, p. +62 361 469 206 / +62 811 3332 0036, e. [email protected]
10. Grün Resort Uluwatu
Nature is the name of the game at Grün Resort Uluwatu. Nestled atop the hills of Bali’s southern peninsula, Grün is a family-run boutique resort that marries luxury and sustainability. Home to originally designed treehouses and studios surrounded by greenery, you’ll get ‘cabin in the woods’ vibes at this intimate destination. We love the two-storey Treehouse Villa, with two bedrooms, naturally-lit dining and living rooms, and a patio where you can sit back and watch Bali’s golden sunset. Be sure to feast at resort’s The Octagon restaurant, and spend your days at La Cima; the sky-high lounge, restaurant and pool with 180-degree views of the surrounding forest…
Grün Resort Uluwatu, Jl Pura Kulat, Pecatu, Uluwatu, p. +62 811 385 9268