Nyepi 2016 is just around the corner, so make sure you’ve planned ahead where to stay during this very special 24 hours of forced quiet time when you can’t leave your villa or hotel. The celebration of the Balinese New Year in the Hindu Lunar calendar – known also as the “Day of Silence” – falls on 9th March this year, and is a day committed to meditation [unlike us, the Balinese Hindus do not celebrate the coming of the new year with a lavish party!].
Nyepi Festival is a truly wonderful celebration to experience at least once in your life! The whole island [even the airport] shuts down for 24 hours as no activities are allowed – no travelling, transport, work, sound, or light. The day before Nyepi Day, an evening parade of Ogoh-Ogoh [large, paper mache demons] is performed through the villages, and is symbolic in chasing away evil spirits. Then, for a whole day and night, the entire island falls utterly silent as everyone must stay indoors to reflect on the year ahead! So where should you stay over Nyepi Day in Bali for some rest, relaxation and refuge? Take a look at our best picks:
Banyan Tree Ungasan, Ungasan
This beautiful resort oozes high quality modern living mixed with old-world Balinese charm, and is the perfect place to seek solace during the Nyepi Festival. Keep busy with the resorts various facilities – spend the day in peace with a good book in their Library, or pop into their state of the art gym for a work out. Plunge into their gorgeous infinity pool and lap up the silence with a relaxing swim, or head to their luxury Spa for a soothing massage. There is plenty to love at the Banyan Tree to keep you busy during Silent Day.
Banyan Tree Ungasan, Jalan Melasti, Banjar Kelod, Ungasan, p. +62 (0)361 300 7000.
The Laguna Resort Bali, Nusa Dua
The Laguna Bali offers a serene escape for Nyepi – this stunning resort in Nusa Dua stretches over 5000 square meters and is encircled by seven turquoise blue lagoons and pools – the perfect tropical escape to spend two captivating nights of Nyepi. Their special Silent Day offer includes a stay for 2 nights, daily breakfast and a one time buffet dinner at the revamped Banyubiru on the night of Nyepi [9th March]. And if that wasn’t enough, they are also throwing in a one time complimentary one hour massage – to really help you quiet the mind and soul. Sounds idyllic to us! Relax by the pool and let the hot Balinese sun-kiss your skin, whilst you unwind with a cocktail or indulge in fantastic food in gorgeous surroundings. There is much to do at The Laguna Bali to keep you occupied whilst the Island of the Gods shuts down for the day!
The offer starts from USD225++ per night for a Deluxe Garden View for guests checking in on 08 March 2016 and checking out on 10 March 2016.
The Laguna Resort Bali, Kawasan Pariwisata Nusa Dua Lot N2, p. +62 (0)361 771 327.
The edge, Uluwatu
The edge is an exclusive private villa, located in the traditional village of Pecatu. From the moment you arrive to the moment you leave, you will experience a professional and personalised dedicated butler service, making you feel like royalty! The 800 square metre villa has plenty to keep you busy during the Day of Silence – natural stone plunge pool, sunbathe on the outdoor deck, and dine in the comfort of your own space, overlooking breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean.
The edge, Jalan Pura Goa Lempeh, Banjar Dinas Kangin, Pecatu, p. +62 (0)361 847 0700.
The St.Regis Bali Resort, Nusa Dua
This award-winning resort, nestled in Nusa Dua’s gorgeous white sand enclave, is a fabulous place to stay in Bali, and the perfect magical getaway for the Silent Day. During Nyepi Festival some of the facilities will be closed [for instance, there will be no transportation services to and from the resort, and televisions will not be available] but you will be able to spend your day lounging by their splendid pools, including their lagoon! The St.Regis Bali Resort have a special Nyepi Day package to really help you ring in the new year – stay in a suite or villa [with 25-hour bespoke butler service!], enjoy the delicious daily breakfast, plus a one-time dinner at Boneka restaurant on the night of Nyepi. And if that wasn’t enough, you can also indulge in freshly baked scones, traditional finger sandwiches, homemade pralines [and so much more] at Afternoon Tea at King Cole Bar! Sounds good to us! Relax, unwind and enjoy the Silent Day in the comfort of this stunning resort.
The tranquil Nyepi luxurious getaway rates start from USD540++ per night to stay in a St. Regis Suite for guests checking in on 08 March 2016 and checking out on 10 March 2016
The St.Regis Bali Resort, Kawasan Pariwisata, Nusa Dua, Lot S6, PO Box 44, Nusa Dua, p. +62 (0)361 8478111.
Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort, Kuta Beach
Located next to Beachwalk shopping mall, this high-end resort is a minute’s walk from Kuta Beach. To mark the special holiday, Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort are offering special room offers and many entertaining activities for all, including a Big Screen Cinema [in the Sahid A Ballroom for the adults and older kids, and in the Sita Room for the young ones]. Relax on pillows and bean bags and munch your way through the a la carte snack menu whilst watching Box Office movies all day! If that doesn’t float your boat, there will be various games on offer [such as ping pong, darts and billiards], plus plenty of activities for the kiddies to enjoy at Play@Sheraton and Rama Room, including games, face painting, creating face masks, computer games, and more! And [yes, it doesn’t end there!], all guests are invited to enjoy 30 minutes complimentary massage added on to their treatment of at least 45 minutes at the Shine Spa, plus,, for all the yogis out there come and join in the sunset yoga activities at the courtyard area from 5.30pm to 6.30pm. Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort is the perfect destination for families looking to welcome the Caka New Year.
Room Offers: Simply Nyepi (including daily breakfast for 2 adults and 2 children), starting from IDR 1,875,000++ per night, Nyepi Stay and Dine (including daily breakfast and dinner on March 9th for 2 adults and 2 children), starting from IDR 2,025,000++ per night.
Sheraton Bali Kuta Resort, Jalan Pantai Kuta, Kuta Beach, Kuta, p. +62 (0)361 846 5555.
Double Six Hotel, Seminyak
This luxurious hotel in buzzing Seminyak screams style and comfort. Whilst Bali shuts down to celebrate their New Year, you can relax in the pure comfort of your own suite – especially as Double Six Hotel is offering a special Nyepi discount on your stay! If you stay over the New Year, you will get a free upgrade to an ocean view suite! Plus lots of other benefits, including a complimentary bottle of wine on arrival [yes please!], daily a la carte breakfast for two and one set menu lunch [with a glass of wine each] for two, at the Seminyak Italian Food Restaurant, 15% discount at Acqua Perla Spa [to pamper yourself], 10% off the a la carte menu at Chez Gado Gado Restaurant, and if that wasn’t enough, you will also get complimentary use of the Double Six Owner’s Lounge [the departure lounge] – the perfect end of holiday treat!
IDR 5,500,000++ for two nights, minimum two nights stay required over 8-10th March, valid for Indonesian KTP/KITAS/KIMS holder only.
Double Six Hotel, No. 66, Double Six Hotel, Seminyak, p. +62 (0)361 730466, e. [email protected]
Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua Beach Resort, Nusa Dua
The Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua Beach Resort is a mix of French elegance and unique Balinese culture – the perfect beachfront paradise to relax in whilst Nyepi Festival takes place. Relax in their gorgeous landscaped pools, take a leisurely walk along leafy pathways, unwind with soothing treatments at So Spa or indulge your taste buds at the resort’s fab restaurants. Take advantage of the quiet on the 9th March and truly unwind in luxury.
Sofitel Bali Nusa Dua Beach Resort, Lot N5 Nusa Dua Tourism Complex, Nusa Dua, p. +62 (0)361 849 2888.
Four Points by Sheraton Bali, Kuta
Four Points by Sheraton Bali, located close to the beach and just steps away from great shopping, vibrant nightlife and local attractions, are offering a fab Nyepi package in celebration of the New Year. Come and enjoy the day of peace and quiet and stay for two nights, in the Deluxe Lagoon View room, and indulge in daily breakfast, a welcome popsicle, and a buffet dinner on the 9th March.
Four Points by Sheraton Bali, Jalan Benesari Banjar Pengabetan, Kuta, p. +62 (0)361 849 6606.
Four Seasons Resort Bali, Jimbaran
The Four Seasons Resort Bali is the perfect hideaway whilst the Nyepi Festival takes place on 9th March – traditional, timeless and oozing authentic Bali, we can’t think of a better luxury resort to spend the day of silence in. Head to their luxury spa for a body scrub, some energizing yoga or an traditional Balinese massage. Play some tennis, or take a dip in their lush rooftop pool. There is tonnes to do at this resort – you can’t get bored here!
Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay, Jimbaran, p. +62 (0)361 701 010.
Courtyard by Marriott Bali Seminyak, Seminyak
Courtyard by Marriott Bali Seminyak, located in snazzy Seminyak, has plenty to help you welcome in the new year! Refresh yourself with a beverage at their swim-up Pool Bar in the lagoon pool, or relax in the peace and quiet by treating your body, mind and soul to a body treatment at Zanti The Retreat. However you feel like joining in the festivities, there is something for everybody here.
Courtyard by Marriott Bali Seminyak, Jalan Camplung Tanduk No 103 SP, Dhyana Pura, Seminyak, p. +62 (0)361 8499 600.
Mantra Sakala Resort & Beach Club, Nusa Dua
Located on the beautiful sands of Tanjung Benoa, you can choose from villas or suites at this lush hotel. Disconnect with the world and reconnect with loved ones at this wonderful resort, by enjoying their world-class facilities [including the Wellness Spa, Health Club, lagoon pool, Sakala Beach Club, and the little ones can even head down to the Kid’s Club for the day!]. Get in to the Nyepi spirit and switch off from the world at Mantra Sakala Resort & Beach Club.
Mantra Sakala Resort & Beach Club, Jalan Pratama 95 Tanjung Benoa (Nusa Dua Peninsula), p. +62 (0)361 775 216.
Peppers Seminyak, Seminyak
This villa resort is locating in the hustle and bustle of busy Seminyak, yet it knows a thing or two about quiet relaxation time – when the occasion calls for it. Whether you choose to spend Nyepi in solitude or with friends, Peppers aims to please. Surrounded by beautiful coastal gardens and peaceful lotus ponds, the villas are chic and stylish, featuring private pools, sundecks with reclining loungers, indoor/outdoor marble bathrooms with generous sunken baths and living and dining areas with fully equipped gourmet kitchens. We can’t think of a better way to enjoy some quiet time with friends and family for Nyepi, especially with their Nyepi Day special offer! Stay in a private pool villa for the ultimate relaxation, and included is daily breakfast, a lunch at The Laneway Restaurant, plus a $75 voucher to use at The Laneway Restaurant & Spa!
Peppers Seminyak, Jalan Pura Telaga Waja, Petitenget, Seminyak, p. +62 (0)361 730 333, e. [email protected]
The Mulia, Nusa Dua
The Mulia, Mulia Resort & Villas invites you to experience the serene side of Bali and share in the remarkable spiritual ‘day of silence’. Nothing goes better with silence than a meditative session of yoga so join a Kapha Yoga meditation to clear the mind, body and spirit, or retreat to the Mulia Spa Mulia Spa for a full-day or half-day spa experience [complete with wellness cuisine and training regime that is designed to nurture and restore your well-being]. Experience your first Silence Day at The Mulia, Mulia Resort or Mulia Villas and nourish your body and soul.
The Mulia, Jalan Raya Nusa Dua Selatan, Nusa Dua, p. +62(0)361 302 7777.
Grand Nikko Bali, Nusa Dua
Grand Nikko Bali, located on the top of a 40-meter cliff, is the perfect escape destination when the entire island of Bali will come to a complete standstill for a day, and what’s more is they are offering a special Nyepi package! Stay for two nights with a free upgrade, daily buffet breakfast and a themed buffet dinner. Spend your days relaxing in your room, or enjoy this stunning resort’s many facilities – take a dip in their pool, take a slide down their 30m waterslide, or relax in the Mandara Spa.
Silence Day Getaway rates start at IDR 1,688,000++ per room, per night for Garden View Room. Valid from March 8th – 10th, 2016, for a minimum of two nights stay. Reference code NYEPI16.
Grand Nikko Bali, Jalan Raya Nusa Dua Selatan, Nusa Dua, p. +62(0)361 773 377.
W Retreat & Spa Bali, Seminyak
The W Retreat & Spa Bali is lush living, in the heart of busy Seminyak, and is the perfect haven for the Day of Silence. Choose from fabulous private villa complexes or designer hotel rooms, and eat, drink, swim, work out, and pamper yourself to your hearts content – with so much to do there is no need to leave the resort! A little slice of stylish heaven!
W Retreat and Spa Bali, Jalan Petitenget, Seminyak p. +62 (0)361 3000 106.
Hard Rock Hotel Bali, Kuta
Nestled within tropical paradise is the uber cool Hard Rock Hotel Bali, located in the heart of buzzing Kuta. The creativity and energy of this hotel is second to none, with rooms and suites that reflect Rock ‘n Roll legends and culture! There are six places to grab a bite to eat, plus the Lil’ Rock Kids Club, TABU Family Entertainment Center, Boom Box Recording Studio, Rock Spa, Body Rock fitness center and a Rock Shop. You won’t get bored here! What’s more is, the Hard Rock Hotel Bali invites you to ring in the New Year with a range of exciting activities specially prepared you! Be mesmerized during Bali’s one of a kind Day of Silence by watching the Ogoh-ogoh Parade, Melasti Ceremony and all the Kuta Beach festivities from the 8th – 10th March 2016, plus special offers on a stay at the hotel, including a unique Nyepi Day lunch for you and the family.
IDR 1,200,000++ per night for a Deluxe Room, including daily breakfast, or IDR 1,180,000++ per night, including daily breakfast and a one time Nyepi Set Lunch for 2x adults and 2x children under 12 years old. Third person surcharge at IDR 700K++ per night inclusive daily breakfast. Stay minimum 2 consecutive nights between 9th-10th March 2016.
Hard Rock Hotel Bali, Jalan Pantai, Banjar Pande Mas, Kuta p. +62 (0)361 761 869.
Villa Kubu, Seminyak
Enjoy the Day of Silence from the comfort and privacy of your very own one bedroom or two bedroom villa with Villa Kubu’s two night package for 8th – 10th March! Your stay will start as it means to go on, with a pick up [and drop-off] from the airport in a luxury private vehicle. When you arrive you will be greeted with a refreshing cold towel and welcome drink. And so your holiday begins! Take in the beautiful sights of the special flower arrangements, graze on fruit from the delicious fruit basket, and then relax as you are treated to a welcome massage! During your stay you can also enjoy a lunch and poolside dinner, with the option to have it served in the privacy of your own villa or at The Oasis Restaurant & Bar. Sounds like the perfect escape to us!
IDR 6,669,000++ for two people sharing a Deluxe One Bedroom Villa, or IDR 11,124,000++ for a Two Bedroom Villa.
Villa Kubu, Jalan Raya Seminyak, Gang Plawa No. 33F, Kuta, p. +62 (0)361 731 129.
Top image: Nyepi Day