A trip to Ubud should be on every island itinerary, so here are our fave stays in one of Bali’s lushest neighbourhoods...
As much as we love the sand in our toes and sea salt in our hair, the breathtaking rainforests and jade-hued terraces of Ubud mean we’re regularly swapping our sunbeds for a lush jungle perch. Dotted with mystical ancient temples and some of Bali’s very best restaurants, Ubud is an absolute must for every island itinerary.
A welcome respite from South Bali’s urban buzz, Ubud is where you’ll find postcard-perfect jungle views, laid-back boho vibes, yoga studios on every jalan and more healthy vegan cafes than we can shake a coconut at – plus plenty of epic Ubud bars and restaurants for good measure. It’s also where art, culture and spirituality reign supreme, luring digital nomads, wellness lovers and sybarites alike from all around the world…
So, to help you on your island adventure, we’ve rounded up the very best places to stay in Ubud. From boutique bohemian hotels to luxurious jungle abodes, here are the best hotels and resorts in Ubud for every budget.
WHERE TO STAY IN UBUD: THE BEST HOTELS & RESORTS FOR EVERY BUDGET
Editor’s Picks: Ubud’s Top 3 Hotels
1. Kappa Senses Ubud – best new resort
You’ll love it because… Kappa Senses Ubud is so much more than ‘just’ a luxury resort – it’s all about creating experiences amidst an eco-friendly and socially responsible two-hectare retreat. But that’s not all. You can stay in the resort’s peaceful village of private pool villas (Danu Retreat), centred by the internationally-acclaimed Spa by Clarins. Or, stay in the lush surrounds of Danu The Jungle, where modern suites are suspended above the river pool. We love how the resort’s design seamlessly integrates the great outdoors into its calming indoor spaces, and how you can personalise your stay by joining one of the many signature activities, spanning culture, gastronomy, spirituality and so much more. Try the coffee-roasting workshop, take a stroll to nearby villages, or join in on ceremonial offerings in the resort’s onsite Hindu temple. And whatever you do, you’ll want to dine at The Epicurean Nests – AKA the resort’s delectable restaurants. Feast on semi-gastronomic specialities at Kokokan, try Mediterranean-inspired bites at Kelapa restaurant, or explore the fascinating cuisines of the Majapahit Empire at Kepuh. Yep, this is so much more than ‘just’ a luxury resort…
Kappa Senses Ubud, Kappa Senses Ubud, Jl Taman Sari, Banjar Tanggayuda, Kedewatan, Ubud, [email protected]
2. Mandapa, a Ritz Carlton Reserve – best luxury hotel
You’ll love it because… Mandapa, meaning “temple” in Sanskrit, is a shrine-like resort that unites Man with Mother Nature. Hanging atop the breathtaking Ayung River, hugged by the mystical rainforest, this world-class village-like Ritz Carlton Reserve is home to ultra-luxe, river-view suites with private terraces and spacious pool villas with a garden and an outdoor shower. In the hotel’s four nature-bound dining spots, you can fine-dine on organic Mediterranean-European cuisine in a bamboo shala by the river, treat yourself to a romantic, tailor-made dining experience by the rice fields, or munch on light bites while gazing out over untouched greenery, dipping your toes into the cool infinity-pool as you go. It’s tropical indulgence at its very best.
Mandapa – a Ritz Carlton Reserve, Jl Kedewatan, Banjar Kedewatan, Gianyar, Ubud, p. +62 361 4792 777.
3. 11 on Kajeng – best boutique hotel
You’ll love it because… Vintage glamour meets the elegance of Indo-Balinese decor at this breathtaking boutique hotel. Sitting on a quaint little street just footsteps from Ubud’s most famous destinations, 11 on Kajeng is a hidden gem that deserves to be found. Step through the tropical entranceway and into this oasis of calm, where just a handful of luxurious suites and villas fringe a serene pool area and intimate bar. Within the private villas, enormous four-poster beds soar as high as the lofty ceilings, and rustic-chic chandeliers hang above lava stone floors and soft, silky cotton jacquard linens. We love, love, love the regal and sophisticated interiors, which seamlessly flow to the exotic gardens, where a floating breakfast can be served each morning. All of this glamour, and yet it somehow feels like home…
11 on Kajeng, Jl Kajeng No. 40, Ubud, p. +62 813 3829 1991, e. [email protected]
SPLURGE STAYS
Luxurious hotels & resorts in Ubud that are worth your Rupiah
4. COMO Shambhala Estate – best for world-class health & wellness
You’ll love it because… COMO Shambhala Estate isn’t just a luxury resort, nor is it simply a top-notch health retreat. Instead, this staggering 23 acre, ultra-luxe holistic sanctuary is a splendid combo of the two. Perched on the steep gorge of the sacred Ayung River, a typical day at COMO Shambhala Estate includes a range of complimentary wellness programmes to shake up your chakras, such as yoga, Pilates, meditation, Qigong and aqua therapy in the 25m-lap hydrotherapy pool. Or, simply zone out in the resort’s very own natural springs, or in one of the luxury suites and villas that feature large terraces, some with their own pools…
COMO Shambhala Estate, Banjar Begawan, Desa Melinggih Kelod, Payangan, Gianyar, Ubud, p. +62 361 978 888 / +62 811 3821 4845, e. [email protected]
5. Capella Ubud – best for luxurious glamping
You’ll love it because… Capella Ubud is a jungle-tangled haven that adds an ultra-luxe twist to the fun and adventure of camping. A stay here begins with a welcome duffle bag containing your camping essentials before proceeding to a suspension bridge that leads you to your luxurious Dutch-style ‘tent’. Hovering above the steep terrains of Ubud’s Keliki Valley, there’s nothing quite like spending an evening dipping into your own private salt-water plunge pool, sipping on hot chocolate and toasting marshmallows by the campfire – all before retreating to your gorgeous glamping abode. And psst – foodies, you’ll love Capella’s neck-to-tail signature restaurant, Api Jiwa. It’s no surprise then that in 2020, Capella Ubud was named the Best Resort in the World, in Asia, and in Indonesia by Travel + Leisure!
Capella Ubud, Jl Raya Dalem, Banjar Triwangsa, Desa Keliki, Tegallalang, Gianyar, Ubud, p. +62 361 2091 888, e. [email protected]
6. Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan – best for an award-winning stay
You’ll love it because… Four Seasons Sayan was named the No.1 Hotel in the World in 2018 by Travel + Leisure, so you’re guaranteed a wow-worthy stay here. It’s an oasis of utmost luxury in a lush, jungle setting, nestled between two sacred rivers and hidden behind a jungle canopy. This six-star sanctuary is fronted by a show-stopping footbridge that’s fringed by sky-high lily ponds – perfectly sheltered from the outside world. Wind your way through this enchanting forest, past the jungle-facing restaurant, and you’ll find just a limited number of suites and private villas fit for the VIPs (with their own private plunge pools and deep soaking tubs). Unsurprisingly so, the resort’s global rep has attracted A-List guests like the Obamas and the Kardashians…
Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan, Jl Raya Sayan, Sayan, Gianyar, Ubud, p. +62 361 977 577.
7. Hanging Gardens of Bali – best for the ‘grammers
You’ll love it because… Hanging Gardens is simply picture-perfect. Perched high up on the wild green valley of the legendary Ayung River with a magnificent jungle backdrop, be ready to constantly whip out your iPhone as the views here change throughout the day. From bright and sunny mornings reflecting over that iconic infinity pool, to misty afternoons, cotton-candy sunsets and clear starlit nights twinkling above the deep dark jungle below – you get to fill your Insta feed with Mother Nature’s best bits. All of this before we’ve even mentioned the resort’s spectacular architecture that spans from the sprawling lobby, all the way to the staggering 1000 sqft. rooms that come with their own private pools…
Hanging Gardens of Bali, Desa Buahan, Payangan, Ubud, p. +62 361 982 700, e. [email protected]
8. Viceroy Bali – best for resort villas
You’ll love it because… Viceroy Bali is a family-owned, five-star resort in Ubud’s “Valley of the Kings” dedicated to giving you the royal treatment during your stay – starting with its 40 award-winning, sprawling private villas, none smaller than 1,500 sqft. If you pick the Terrace or Viceroy Villas, you get an exceptional private outdoor terrace with an infinity pool and a raised daybed, overlooking the spectacular jungle ravine and the Petanu River gorge – yassss Queen! But don’t get too comfortable inside the heated plunge pool of your royal chambers… you’ll want to step outside to experience Bali’s timeless culture with Viceroy’s day tours, or devour some A-grade gourmet meals at Viceroy’s two fine dining restos.
Viceroy Bali, Jl Lanyahan, Br Nagi, Ubud, p. +62 361 971 777, e. [email protected]
9. Alila Ubud – best for jungle adventures
You’ll love it because… Alila Ubud helps you tick off every box on your Ubud bucket list – all thanks to the personal on-site leisure concierge and Alila’s signature collection of tailor-made lifestyle experiences. Spend your days exploring mystical temples and hidden treasures, learning Bali’s sacred rituals, or rafting down the energetic Ayung River. You name it, Alila Ubud will tailor it. But for the love of lazin’, you can always while away your jungle days inside the hotel’s luxe walls – floating in the dreamy sky-high infinity pool amidst treetop canopies, or lolling in your luxurious tree-house-like jungle-view villa.
Alila Ubud, Desa Melinggih Kelod, Payangan, Gianyar, Ubud, p. +62 361 975 963, e. [email protected]
10. Hoshinoya Bali – best for Japanese-Balinese fusion
You’ll love it because… Hoshinoya Bali seamlessly fuses the breathtaking natural backdrops of Ubud with Japan’s distinctive spatial aesthetics. So much so, the resort is quite literally built around Bali’s ancient ‘subak’ canals, perched atop the sacred Pakerisan river valley and enveloped by mystical jungle. Winding through the resort’s jungle boardwalk, you’ll spot geometric Japanese cabanas teetering over the valley’s edge, with flowing water all around and private villas woven into the rainforest landscape. These villas are quintessentially Japanese, with minimalistic and elegant interiors that are dotted with traditional Balinese handcrafts. Think intricate wooden engravings and delicate batik lampshades. Honouring it’s island home, you can also join cultural resort activities, like canang making or a batik workshop, before settling into a multi-course Japanese feast at the resort’s fine dining restaurant.
Hoshinoya Bali, Banjar Pengembungan, Desa Pejeng Kangin, Tampaksiring, Ubud, p. +62 361 849 3080.
MID-RANGE STAYS
Our favourite Ubud hotels that are friendlier on the budget
11. Bisma Eight – best for Balinese modernism
You’ll love it because… Bisma Eight tastefully combines artisanal Bali with ultra stylish modernism, redefining the typical “Ubud hotel” experience. A mishmash of tradition and contemporary architecture, dramatic blocks of raw-concrete house 38 beautiful suites. Inside, you’ll find oversized barrel-like bathtubs, sitting alongside unique and authentic creations from the island’s craftsmen. Step outside and the chic infinity pool nudges against Ubud’s jungle-drenched valley, where twenty-first century amenities and designer cocktails come face-to-face with the island’s untouched landscapes. If you want to experience the best of Bali whilst also lapping up alllll the luxuries of a boutique resort, Bisma Eight has got it all. And psst – you’ll want to check out The Villas at Bisma Eight too!
Bisma Eight, Jl Bisma, Gianyar, Ubud, p.+62 361 479 2888 / +62 811 388 5122, e. [email protected]
12. Hotel Dinara – best for savvy travellers
You’ll love it because… Hotel Dinara is a boutique lifestyle hotel that blends contemporary designs with traditional Balinese accents. It’s designed for savvy travellers who want the very best of both worlds: a cultural island experience with stylish home comforts too. And with just 30 luxury rooms and two private pool villas, the hotel is a quiet and quaint place to call home, topped off by the warm and friendly hotel staff. We love the customised furnishings, hand-dyed textiles and the silhouetted scenes of Balinese village life on the walls – these unique features mean you’re never far from the breathtaking work of Bali’s artisans. And to really get a taste of Bali’s traditions, the hotel also offers cultural experiences for your Ubud itinerary, like cooking classes, purification rituals and even lessons on how to make Balinese offerings. After your full day of adventures, you’ll then want to head to Hotel Dinara’s nurturing spa or delicious Melali restaurant to refuel and recharge before another day in paradise…
Hotel Dinara – Ubud, Jl. Sri Wedari No. 58, Ubud, p.+62 361 908 5091 / +62 813 3711 6490, e. [email protected]
13. Fivelements – best for vegans & vegetarians
You’ll love it because… Fivelements is a serene, fully vegetarian eco-resort that has won the hearts of free-spirited luxury travellers everywhere. This boho-chic, sustainable abode of nine bamboo suites – named after the five elements of the Balinese world – sits in tranquil contrast to the frenetic outside world. Ain’t nobody killing your vibe here as you get busy with some of the many holistic wellness programs available. There’s everything from modern to traditional healing practices, including Chakra balancing, Prana healing, holistic massage, reflexology, sacred arts ceremonies as well as Balinese purification rituals. Zen mode is officially ON.
Fivelements, Puri Ahimsa Banjar Batur Rening, Mambal, Ubud p. +62 361 469 206 / +62 811 3332 0036, e. [email protected]
14. The Ubud Village Resort & Spa – best for couples
You’ll love it because… The Ubud Village Resort is a haven of tranquility and romance. The 14 acres of lush, hilly land is home to a collection of enchanting villas with private gardens, perfect for quiet evenings and outdoor tub-soaks to keep cool in Bali’s balmy climate. Throughout the “village” resort, coconut palms, manicured lawns and lotus ponds frame a central infinity pool, overlooking the ever-present and emerald green rice terraces all around. Traditionally designed and with sustainability as a focus, The Ubud Village is all about celebrating the beauty of nature and Bali’s enchanting culture. This beautiful spot is just 10 minutes from Ubud’s centre, making it the perfect base for couples to escape while exploring the local sights. They even have a sister property in downtown Ubud if you’re after a boutique hotel in the heart of it all…
The Ubud Village Resort, Jl Raya Nyuh Kuning, Pengosekan, Ubud, p. +62 361 978 444 / +62 361 971 333, e. [email protected]
15. Kaamala Resort Ubud
You’ll love it because… You’ll never know you’re in the very heart of Ubud when you look out to the rice fields and verdant jungle at Kaamala Resort. That is, until you realise all of Ubud’s best cafes and attractions are just minutes away. This downtown urban resort is designed for couples in mind, with dreamy bathtubs in every room and private pool villas too. It’s also home to the revered Wild Air restaurant, which overlooks the resort’s infinity pool, where cultural happenings take place throughout the week. We love the sleek and modern design of the resort, which is matched by homely furnishings like hammocks, cosy blankets and shaded daybeds…
Kaamala Resort, Jl Bisma No 888X, Ubud, p. +62 361 908 7183 / +62 821 2345 9689, e. [email protected]
16. Aksari Resort Ubud
You’ll love it because… Aksari Ubud is away from it all, perched on the edge of the jungle where only the sounds of tweeting birds and tropical fauna can be heard. In fact, the entire resort seems to trickle down the valley, with multiple infinity pools (and even a jacuzzi!) alongside a string of private villas that face out to untouched nature and the rushing river below. And to match its natural surroundings? The resort is made from bamboo, wood, alang-alang and local stone, topped off with luxe amenities like free-standing bathtubs, giant squishy beds and Netflix plugged into every TV. Our top tip? Book a Balinese massage at the al fresco jungle spa, before a theatrical dinner at the signature Kojin Teppanyaki restaurant…
Aksari Ubud, Jl Raya Desa Kenderan No. 88x, Ubud, p. +62 361 479 3349 / +62 822 1302 2899, e. [email protected]
17. Komaneka at Monkey Forest – best for both worlds
You’ll love it because… Komaneka at Monkey Forest allows you to experience the best of Ubud’s two personalities: the hustle and bustle of the city centre, and the peace and quiet of the jungle. You see, this hotel sits in the heart of Ubud, just a short stroll from the cafes, restaurants, shops, spas, activities and other touristy hotspots, including the ever-popular Monkey Forest. Yet upon entering the tranquil gardens of this hidden gem, you’ll feel an entire world away from the buzzing streets beyond, veiled by a wild green rainforest. You can just as easily venture out to downtown Ubud’s frenetic buzz, or escape it all with a leisurely stroll…
Komaneka at Monkey Forest, Monkey Forest St, Gianyar, Ubud, p. +62 361 4792 518 / +62 813 3716 0676, e. [email protected]
18. Sandat Glamping Tents – best for affordable glamping
You’ll love it because… Sandat Glamping embraces nature through camping, but in a much more comfortable and plush setting (be gone, flyaway tent ropes!). Home to five dazzling safari-style tented suites (with their own private pools) and three eco-luxe cabins AKA lumbung, this dreamy boutique resort also has an infinity-edged main pool for you to swim above the verdant terraced rice fields. And if you’re looking to get out of ‘camp’ and explore Bali’s effervescent highlands, Sandat Glamping can arrange your island activities too.
Sandat Glamping Tents, Jl Subak Sala Banjar Sala, Ubud, p. +62 361 9083 222 / +62 821 4408 1998, e. [email protected]
19. Alamdini Resort – best for a weekend escape
You’ll love it because… Alamdini Resort has got it just right, offering both rest and play in the heart of Ubud. You can hide away from the busy streets of downtown Ubud in one of Alamdini’s spacious suites, breathing the earthy fresh air as you gaze into a dreamy green landscape from your private patio. Or, just a hop, skip and a short stroll away, you can find yourself smack bang in the middle of Ubud’s most popular attractions, shops, cafes and spas – all within walking distance from the hotel. Tranquil jungle hangs or urban Ubud vibes? You decide.
Alamdini Resort, Jl Bisma Ubud, Ubud, p. +62 361 972 516, [email protected]
20. Outpost Penestanan – best for co-living
You’ll love it because… Outpost Penestanan is where digital nomads, creatives and global citizens alike can co-live under one roof. Simply hang by the pool with likeminded talent, or burn the midnight oil exchanging groundbreaking ideas at Outpost’s award-winning coworking space. Designed to feel like home, as soon as you step inside this lush and modern sanctuary, you’ll find green spaces and earthy tones alongside all of your creature comforts. It’s a place where you can start your day with an early morning swim, then grab your laptop and get working on the rooftop deck – or simply graze with fellow co-livers in the communal kitchen, or at any of Ubud’s nearby cafes and restaurants.
Outpost Penestanan, Jl Penesteran, Sayan, Ubud, p. +62 361 9080 584 / +62 812 3675 1687, e. [email protected]co.
21. Bambu Indah – best for eco-conscious travellers (Temporarily Closed)
You’ll love it because… Bambu Indah celebrates sustainability and nature in all its glory, making it the perfect eco-friendly destination for the island’s earth-lovers. Meaning “beautiful bamboo” in Indonesian, Bambu Indah is an upscale bamboo wonderland of restored antique Javanese bridal homes. Located in Bali’s leafy centre, this rustic retreat has taken great care to conserve and blend in with its natural surroundings – from the thatched bamboo reception and lodgings, to the rickety stone paths, soaring black bamboo sculpture and rock-lined natural springs. Nearly every room has breathtaking views over the Sayan Ridge and the scatter of rice fields all around, and you won’t find TVs in the rooms either, because who needs television when nature’s 24/7 soundtrack provides all the entertainment necessary?
Bambu Indah, Jl Baung, Sayan, Gianyar, Ubud, e. [email protected]
AFFORDABLE STAYS
Casual, budget-friendly hotels & guesthouses in Ubud
22. Bisma Cottages – best for affordable Bali-style bliss
You’ll love it because… Bisma Cottages is where you can soak up a truly Balinese stay experience – with every creature comfort included. With its delightful one- and two- bedroom Balinese joglo-style rooms (all air-conditioned and spacious), this quaint accommodation has everything you need. Pretty stone pathways wind past tropical gardens to the private wooden cottages, where breezy balconies invite you to kick off your shoes and soak up the sounds, smells and surrounds of ‘real’ Bali. Located along Jalan Bisma, you’re surrounded by utmost serenity, yet literally a ten minute walk to downtown Ubud. Stroll the cultural streets, then retreat to this lush haven, centred by a shared swimming pool where you can feast on a floating breakfast. Our top tip? Stay in the second-floor suite, with its sun-soaked bathtub overlooking the beautiful rice paddies beyond…
Bisma Cottages, Jl Bisma No. 35, Ubud, p. +62 812 3896 0803, e. [email protected]
23. ARTOTEL Haniman – best for solo travellers
You’ll love it because… Artotel Haniman is a playful, boutique hotel of only 22 artsy rooms. It is simply perfect for solo, quirky travellers looking for an easy, affordable and convenient place to slumber – all the while exploring the wonders of Ubud. Just a short walk away from the town’s iconic Monkey Forest, Yoga Barn and Pura Taman Sari, this hotel has become popular with travellers from all walks of life, complete with a charming on-site café and its funky, chilled out vibe.
ARTOTEL Haniman, Jl Jatayu Desa Padang Tegal, Ubud, p. +62 361 908 3470 / +62 812 4633 2800, e. [email protected]
24. Tegal Sari – best for your budget in the rice-paddies
You’ll love it because… Tegal Sari has managed to land itself a premium address, without the hefty price-tag. While most Ubud guesthouses cosily cram the central streets one after the other, Tegal Sari is blessed with a fresh and open outlook over unspoilt rice paddies. Take advantage of this breathtaking scenery by waking up early to watch Balinese farmers work the fields as the sun begins to rise, while chirping birds and quacking ducks serenade the scene beyond your balcony. While you won’t find any fancy frills and upmarket facilities here, there’s something so peaceful about having your breakfast and morning Bali coffee at a family-run, humble abode…
Tegal Sari, Jl Raya Pengosekan, Padang Tegal Ubud, p. +62 361 973 318 / +62 812 3781 4866, e. [email protected]
25. Biyukukung Suite & Spa – best for simplicity
You’ll love it because… Biyukukung Suite & Spa is a simple and traditional stay with thatched rooftops, private outdoor terraces and a bright blue swimming pool at its heart. The rooms here are authentic, village-like abodes, surrounded by sweeping views of lush, green rice fields. It’s a well-kept secret amongst Bali’s expat crowds, with the bamboo houses being a firm favourite for a staycation, thanks to the floor-to-ceiling windows that peer directly out over the emerald horizon. And the kicker? It’s just minutes from the city centre, with its own on-site affordable spa, too.
Biyukukung Suite & Spa, Jl Sugriwa No. 89, Ubud, p. +62 361 978 976, e. [email protected]
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