Private pool villas, jungle valley views and award-winning dining – here’s why Viceroy Bali is one of the best luxury hotels in Ubud.
Ever since I moved to Bali, I’ve always loved visiting Ubud and experiencing its hidden gems. But there’s always been one name that’s topped my Ubud bucket list, and that’s Viceroy Bali. Though it’s one of the most revered, luxury hotels in Ubud, it’s actually family-owned and steeped in local culture.
It’s no hidden secret though – Viceroy Bali has won multiple awards from Condé Nast Traveler and the World Luxury Hotel Awards, and it’s one of only seven hotels in Indonesia that’s earned an exclusive spot amongst the Small Luxury Hotels of the World.
With such impressive accolades, I was so excited to finally stay at this Ubud icon for one whole weekend. And don’t worry, I’m taking you with me…
My Ubud home for the weekend: Viceroy Bali’s pool villa
Let’s start with where I stayed: the Deluxe Terrace Villa. It’s elegant and modern, but with unmistakable Balinese touches. Think high thatched ceilings, handmade furnishings and artwork painted by Viceroy’s own staff. And my favourite nook: the traditional gazebo beside the infinity pool, which overlooks the valley. It faces east, so I got to watch the sparkling sunrise from my private pool. It can even be heated for a late-night swim beneath the stars. And did I mention the double vanity in the open-plan bathroom?
While I stayed at Viceroy Bali alone, the villas and suites are perfect for couples. It’s even won a World Luxury Hotel Award for The Best Luxury Honeymoon Resort in the world.
As for families? There are two-bedroom villas, each with an en-suite bathroom, a living room, lush garden and a heated pool. I even had a sneak peek at their two-storey villa that’s soon to be launched. Trust me, you’ll want to keep your eyes peeled for that!
Daytime dining with a view at CasCades Restaurant
If, like me, you’re always wondering where to eat next, then you’re at the right place if you’re staying at Viceroy Bali. Spoiler alert: you won’t find your typical hotel buffet here…
By day, it’s all about dining with a view at CasCades, located beside Viceroy Bali’s iconic infinity pool. I started my mornings here with an à la carte international breakfast, which is for in-house guests only. I went with the Balinese Benedict (it’s served with corn fritters instead of the classic English muffins), which I paired with a fresh watermelon juice and a ginger shot. Hot tip: for an additional charge, you can have a floating breakfast in your villa’s private pool!
Here comes the good news: after breakfast, CasCades is open for everyone. Since Indonesian food is their specialty, I opted for the grilled whole snapper for lunch. It came with Nasi Bejeg shaped like a cone, and an authentic Balinese Lawar Kacang Panjang. The best bit was, I got to soak in the fresh jungle breeze and panoramic views of the surrounding valley as I sipped on my crisp white wine…
Coming with a date? I’d recommend their Balinese Rijsttafel. You’ll want to come hungry though, as it starts with two appetisers, followed by the Rijsttafel for two, which includes yellow rice and ten different Balinese dishes to mix and match! And of course, traditional desserts to finish.
Apéritif & Pinstripe Bar: The award-winning duo
The real showstopper at Viceroy Bali? The World Luxury Hotel Award-winning restaurant, Apéritif. I heard it was the best fine dining restaurant in Bali, and it truly is unlike anywhere else around. Its building for one, is an elegant colonial house with glamorous interiors inspired by the Roaring Twenties. With Michelin-trained Executive Chef and Sous Chef leading the kitchen, I just had to taste their seven-course degustation menu. I even went with a wine pairing since their wine cellar houses some of the best in the world. Plus, they’ve got an in-house Head Sommelier who trained at the prestigious Vatel in France. You can read my full review of Apéritif here!
And finally, for pre- and post-dinner drinks, head to Pinstripe Bar next to Apéritif. It’s moody and stylish circa 1930s, and the cocktails are crafted with serious attention to detail. In fact, their Head Mixologist had previously won the internationally held Campari Bartender Competition – and it shows. There’s even a pool table, piano and live jazz music every Thursday and Friday night for an authentic speakeasy vibe.
Yoga, cocktails and spa treatments at Viceroy Bali
No Ubud stay is complete without a little (…or a lot of) spa time, and Viceroy’s Akoya Spa is pure bliss, especially for couples. I tried their Balinese massage and it was heavenly. There’s also a modern gym with all fitness essentials like cardio machines and free weights, even a Terra gun if those massages weren’t enough! They even have a squash court and a ping pong table if you’re up for a friendly match.
And here’s something I really loved: the resort offers daily complimentary activities for in-house guests (like guided sunset walks through the rice fields!). I came at the right time to join their morning group Hatha yoga class, and their afternoon Social Hour at CasCades. Unlike most hotels, in-house guests can enjoy canapé-style snacks and free-flow signature cocktails, completely on the house!
These added touches prove why Viceroy Bali has won so many awards. Every detail feels thoughtful, the staff are friendly and helpful, and luxury never feels stuffy. This is one hotel in Ubud that ticks every box.
Address: Jl Lanyahan, Banjar Nagi, Petulu, Ubud
Phone: +62 361 971 777
Email: [email protected]