Abisena Ubud Review
Set amid emerald rice paddies, swaying palms and jungle-covered valleys in the village of Keliki, Abisena Ubud is the kind of place travellers come to Bali hoping to find — peaceful, soulful and deeply attuned to its surroundings. This adults-only retreat is more than just a hotel; it is a five-star wellness sanctuary and boutique resort where the essence of an Eat Pray Love–style journey unfolds naturally, inviting guests to slow down, look inward and reconnect.
The Entrance
The resort’s design reflects a harmonious fusion of Balinese heritage and natural splendour. Infinity pools appear to spill into the treetops, with layers of jungle unfolding towards distant mountains, creating a constant sense of immersion in the landscape. Accommodation comes in the form of stylish suites and private villas, several with their own pools, each designed to enhance the feeling of calm and connection with nature.
Hotel Gardens
Heavy rain accompanied us all the way to the resort, so stepping inside felt like entering a sanctuary in the truest sense of the word. We found refuge in the entrance lobby and restaurant upstairs where the open sides allowed us to savour the spectacular scenery while we had lunch. Once the rain subsided, a golf cart took us to our temporary abode, the Royal Suite, which now ranks as one of the best places I’ve ever stayed in.
Split Gates
The crown jewel of the resort, the Royal Suite epitomises sumptuous luxury. Elegant turquoise Balinese doors lead into an expansive open-plan living area with a kitchenette.
Royal Suite Living Room
This space is flanked by a beautiful bedroom that leads through to a dressing room and bathroom.
Royal Suite bedroom
Sliding doors in both rooms open onto an incredible balcony with a private jacuzzi overlooking a lush tropical jungle. We wasted no time stepping into it, with the soundtrack of birds, cicadas and the flowing river below setting the tone for complete relaxation.
Our private jacuzzi
The bathroom deserves a special mention. A deep, freestanding copper bathtub stands at the centre, between a spacious walk-in shower and a hi-tech toilet with motion-detected opening and closing, a heated seat and its own control panel.
Royal Suite bathroom
As much as we would have loved to spend our entire stay in this magnificent suite, there was more to see and do. The resort offers a wide variety of in-house and off-site activities, all discussed and scheduled with guests on arrival. During our stay, we learnt how to make loloh, a traditional Balinese herbal drink, and boreh, a fragrant herbal body scrub. We also attended a Balinese dance performance. Other on-site activities include cooking classes, yoga sessions on land and in water, art workshops, gym workouts and indulgent treatments at the on-site spa.
Dirasha Wellness Spa
Off-site experiences began with an early morning walk through Keliki village. Setting out soon after sunrise, we followed narrow paths winding past family compounds, convenience stores and rice fields. We also saw a tofu factory, an art school and the local cemetery. Our guide shared insights into Balinese customs and traditions throughout the walk, adding depth and context to the stroll.
Tegallalang Rice Terrace
After returning to the hotel for a hearty breakfast, we set off on a half-day Ubud tour by luxury car. Our stops included the iconic Tegalalang rice terraces, a beautiful waterfall hidden deep within the jungle, a visit to a coffee plantation, Ubud Palace and Ubud Market.
Meals at Runara Restaurant were a feast for the senses, where thoughtfully crafted dishes were served alongside panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. One evening, we experienced a Nusantara dinner. It was a culinary journey through Indonesia’s diverse heritage, with beautifully presented courses highlighting regional spices, flavours and traditional cooking techniques. Highlights were the satay ayam served on a miniature, table-top charcoal grill and the seafood nasi goreng.
Service at Abisena Ubud is genuinely warm and attentive without feeling intrusive. Staff remember your name and preferences, creating an atmosphere that feels homely, and more like being welcomed by friends than waited on.
Abisena Ubud is not about grand gestures or dramatic transformation. Instead, it offers the space to relax and unwind. The experience gently echoes the Eat Pray Love ethos: nourishment, reflection and connection — and a few days there will help you find your inner king or queen.
The Royal Suite at Abisena Ubud has spoilt me for life. Soaking in my own private jacuzzi at dawn, drink in hand, while absorbing the sights and sounds of the rainforest is a memory I will treasure forever.
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For more information, visit Abisena Ubud or book here.
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Sara Essop is a travel blogger and writer based in South Africa. She writes about family travel and experiences around the world. Although she has been to 50 countries thus far, she especially loves showcasing her beautiful country and is a certified South Africa Specialist.
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