Our Top 10 – Outdoor Bathrooms – Worldwide Luxurious Havens for Ultimate Relaxation

Our Top 10 outdoor bathrooms in South Africa, Kenya, Sumba Island, Bali, Maldives, and Seychelles

Outdoor bathrooms, where you can enjoy the fresh air, freedom, and ideally also have magnificent views, are on top of our list, apart from the private pools, when we travel. Here are the Top 10 most impressive outdoor bathrooms that we have come across on our travels so far:

1. Bambu Indah, Ubud, Bali

WOW factor: Open bathroom high up with a spectacular view  
The view from the bathtub in the Copper House at Bambu Indah is sheer madness. The bamboo tree houses are truly unique in their design. The open bathroom, almost directly on the slope, has a hand-hammered copper bathtub, an outdoor shower, and a stylish vanity.  (Our review >>)

What is special about the bathtub, you might ask? True to the sustainability concept, it has holes at the bottom that fills and empties it.

2. MAIA Luxury Resort & Spa, Mahé, Seychelles

WOW factor: Huge outdoor bathtub with great ocean views 
The bathroom at the MAIA with its huge outdoor bathtub, almost as big as a plunge pool,  the ancient faucets, the exquisite Hermès toiletries, and the outdoor glass shower is extraordinary! To have a bath with such a spectacular view is a once in a lifetime experience!  It is incredibly romantic in the evening, once the butler has run the bath and lighted all the candles. (Our review >>)

3. Nihi Sumba, Sumba Island, Indonesia

WOW factor: Dreamlike ocean view in the open bathroom 
The bath and shower experience at the Villa Mendaka at Nihi Sumba is completely outdoors. From the outdoor shower, reminiscent of Africa, and the bathtub you have a fantastic ocean view, and at night you can watch the star-filled sky. A dream come true! (Our review >>)

4. HillsNek Safari Camp, South Africa

WOW factor: Wildly romantic outdoor shower in the wilderness 
The bathroom in the family-run safari lodge with only four tents in the Amakhala Game Reserve offers a safari experience like no other! It is unbelievably romantic to unwind in the tub with a view of the beautiful natural scenery, or to take a shower in the middle of the nowhere! (Our review >>)

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5. Fivelements Puri Ahimsa, Ubud, Bali

WOW factor: flower bath in the lava stone bathtub with a river view 
The open bathroom in the award-winning healing and wellness retreat, Fivelements is a fabulous Balinese experience! In the huge lava stone bathtub, that even shines in different colors at night, you can relax while overlooking the Ayung River. If you would like to have a bath experience extraordinaire, you can even order a flower petal bath at the spa. The bath products are all made from ingredients grown by the local farmers. (Our review >>)

6. Kayumanis Ubud Private Villa & Spa, Bali

WOW factor: Tropical bath with outdoor shower made of stone 
The open bathroom at the Kayumanis Ubud with its rustic outdoor shower, the freestanding tub among the greenery and the great care products are delightful! Enjoying a rose petal bath in the evening is extremely romantic. (Our review >>)

7. Le Domaine de L´Orangeraie, Seychelles

WOW factor: Romantic outdoor bath in the tree house 
The ingenious open bathrooms of the Villa de Charme tree houses at Le Domaine de L’Orangeraie are impressively stunning with outdoor showers and stone basins. You have the most beautiful ocean ​​views from Villas 224 and 234. The lighting in the evening creates a soft, romantic atmosphere. (Our review >>)

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8. Denis Private Island, Seychelles

WOW factor: Open outdoor bathroom with a small garden 
An absolute highlight on Denis Island is the open outdoor bathroom with open outdoor shower. In the bathtub, you can listen to the birds and gecko’s chirping and get away from it all. (Our review >>)

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9. Coco Palm Dhuni Kolhu, Maldives

WOW factor: Elegant outdoor bathroom with tropical -flair 
The absolute highlight of Villa 28, next to the pool, is the open-air bathroom! The design is striking and extraordinary! Although it does not have a bathtub, it has an amazing plunge pool. (Our review >>)

10. Mandhari, Kenya

WOW factor: Open outdoor bathroom with a tree as focal point
The key feature of the Mandhari Lodge is the open-air bathroom with outdoor shower and vanity! Incorporating nature into the design, with the tree in the middle as a focal point, is so cool! It does not have a bathtub, but a stunning pool with breathtaking views into the vastness of the Kenyan landscape. (Our review >>)

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Fivelements Puri Ahimsa, Ubud, Bali – an Exclusive Eco-Wellness Retreat with Gourmet Vegan Cuisine

Wellness for body, mind and soul

This award-winning healing and wellness retreat has won over 30 awards and is located directly on the sacred Ayung River, just outside Ubud. Surrounded by beautiful nature, you can stay in one of nine luxurious and romantic suites and spend your days relaxing and recuperating with a variety of spa and healing treatments. Guests from all over the world come here to take advantage of the retreat’s healing therapies.

The eco-friendly retreat was opened in 2010 and is built like a small Balinese village. Even when it is fully booked, you are still surrounded by perfect tranquillity.

It is the ideal sanctuary to escape the stresses of modern day life, eat healthily and take care of your body and soul in an environmentally conscious surroundings. Perfect for a romantic getaway and for taking some time out to focus exclusively on healing and well-being.

Interview with General Manager Sang Made Parmana

 love in action”, a vision of learning to love and respect life

The retreat offers customized healing programs, blessings and rejuvenating spa therapies inspired by the ancient Balinese wisdom of releasing negative energy and harmful toxins from the body, mind and soul.

As part of the holistic healing experience, menus are inspired by living raw foods and sacred art practices such as meditation, martial arts and yoga are offered. The retreat aims to raise health and well-being to a whole new level.

We invite you to step inside and enjoy the beauty and pleasure of feeling nourished, loving your life, adoring yourself and accepting the world, being present, generous and grateful every day.

The large pool and heated hydrotherapy pool for Watsu water therapy sessions ensure complete relaxation.

Restaurant “Sakti Dining Room”

The Sakti Dining Room with its spectacular bamboo architecture is set in the midst of tropical gardens and koi ponds. The kitchen is dedicated to providing high-energy and innovative healing with its “Living Foods” concept, which includes raw vegan food and other easy-to-prepare, plant-based dishes.

The menu includes vegetarian soups, dahls, super-food salads, delicious raw desserts, fresh juices and smoothies.

With its vitamin and nutrient-rich kitchen, the restaurant has already won countless awards. We never thought that vegan food can be so tasty. But that it was – one artwork on a plate after the other and all so yummy!

Breakfast

Organic vegetables from the local garden are mainly used and the retreat supports local farmers and sustainable agriculture.

Lunch

Signature Chef’s Specialty Tasting Menu

The chef’s specialty tasting menus for lunch and or dinner with 3-, 5- or 7-course meals, are highly recommended.

Drink: Healing Root Elixier (Tumeric, Coconut Water, Tamarind Paste, Sweetener)
1st Course: Asian Salad (Cucumber Cup, Mix Salad, Pickles Carrot, Spiced Pumpkin, Herbs from our local Garden and Ginger Miso Dressing)
2nd Course: Purple Potato Medallion (Medallion made from purple Sweet Potato, Caramelized Onion Shell, Grilled Vegetable, Caramelized Portobello Mushroom, Beet Gel and Balsamic Reduction)
Dessert: White Chocolate Panacotta (Spirulina Crumble, Coconut Whipped Cream, Passionfruit Sorbet, Nut free Panacotta and Raspberry Sauce)

Dinner

Eco-Luxury-Suites

The distribution of the nine luxurious suites resembles that of a small village and they blend harmoniously into the tropical environment. They offer spacious, airy wooden verandas with beautiful views of the lush green landscape, waterfalls and the river.

The cozy bamboo suites have high ceilings, huge glass fronts, a sofa corner, recycled wooden floors, stunning open bathrooms with massive volcanic stone bathtubs on its own terrace.   Some of the villas also have their own private pools.

The suites are named after the five elements: Pertiwi (earth), Apah (water), Teja (fire), Bayu (air) and Akasa (space).

The bath products are made from natural ingredients by local farmers.

If you would really like to treat yourself, you can even order a pampering flower bath at the spa.

Afternoon tea can also be served in your suite as the terrace offers impressive views of the river.

The lighting is controlled by the use of an iPad and for example, allows for color therapy lighting in the bathtub in the colors of the seven chakras. Especially romantic in the evening!

Sustainability

The Fivelements promotes sustainability and environmental protection in many ways.  For example, the use of LED lighting saves 95% in electricity and the use of environmentally friendly ventilation fans saves about another 50%. The vast gardens are irrigated with rainwater and grey water is treated and recycled.

Healing Village

The beauty salon offers detoxifying body scrubs, relaxing aromatic baths, facials, manicures or pedicures. All beauty and spa products use natural medicinal plants and organic super ingredients.

Fivelements Sakti Ritual

This is a wonderful ritual to indulge in, especially for couples and it includes a footbath, followed by a  deep muscle relaxation body massage and a remineralizing crystal sea salt scrub with healing basil and lemongrass.

The scrub is then followed by a revitalizing bathing ritual consisting of five powerful healing substances: lemongrass for circulation, Balinese orange and lime provide the essential vitamins, while Pandan leaves and ginger awaken the senses and cleanse your head.

“Our Core Values: Sathya, Truth | Dharma, Right Conduct | Prema, Love | Shanti, Peace | Ahimsa, Non-Violence | K’shma, Forgiveness”

Sandi Prana Massage with Pak Gede
This healing massage is done by Balinese healers and is extraordinary! It is based on ancient wisdom passed on from one generation to the next. It is a combination of meditation, deep healing reflexology, acupressure and prana energy that is used to cleanse the body of toxins and energy blockages and it improves blood circulation and brings body, mind and soul in balance again.

The massage can be painful at times and bruising might even occur, but the results are so worthwhile. I had some very stiff deep muscle tension that Pak Gede released. Really amazing!

Fire Blessing Ritual

During the Balinese Fire Blessing Ritual, negative thoughts or unwanted energy are offered to the fire to be cleansed and transformed into more positive energy. The ritual also helps you to let go of unwanted aspects of your life.

This ancient ritual begins with meditation in the Agni Hotra ceremonial fire space, while you are listening to the hotri or ceremony priest, as he rings the Balinese bell, chants Sanskrit mantras and offers ghee and grains to the fire to evoke the Divine and blessings of health.

After lighting the fire, you are invited to make offerings of rice to the fire, the symbol of divine light, and to recite a mantra. The ceremony ends with a silent meditation. We found the Fire Blessing Ritual very moving!

Our tip: Once a month, on the day before full moon, a Full Moon Fire Ceremony – Agni Hotra takes place. If you are able to schedule your visit around this date, you should definitely do so, to experience this transforming healing ceremony. You can also attend The Fire Blessing Ritual without staying at the hotel. The Fire Blessing Ritual is €22- per person and includes a 3-course Gourmet Chef’s Tasting Dinner.

Behind the Scenes

We were allowed to look over Chef Joao’s shoulder while he prepared his amazing vegan art on a plate. You really have to see and taste it!

The Chef’s recipe for Ginger Miso dressing
15gr ginger juice, 50gr miso, 40gr lime juice, 20gr tamarind, 50gr olive oil, 120gr sunflower oil, 20gr honey, 40gr water, 1/8 tsp guar gum
(Mix all the ingredients except the oil together. Then slowly add the oil while stirring continuously.)

Activities

Exercise plays an important role in well-being. To improve the delicate balance between body and mind, the Fivelements offer yoga, meditation, drama, visual arts, dance, aikido, culinary courses, cleansing ceremonies, blessings and silent retreats to their guests.

Tantra Healing Yoga, Yin Yoga, Yin & Yang Yoga, Vinyasa Flow, Gentle Hatha Yoga, Ananda Meditation, Sacred Arts Healing, Expressive Arts, Cooking Classes, Nature Walks, Cycling, Beauty and Healing treatments, Healing Journeys, Fire and Water Blessing Rituals are available.

 

If you feel like being more active: A rafting tour ends directly in front of the suites.

Ubud

The beautiful and mystical town, Ubud, is definitely worth a visit. One of the hotel’s drivers will drop you off in town and there are local drivers on nearly every street corner that will gladly take you back. In the heart of Ubud you can do some really nice shopping, experience the local culture, go to the spa and have a bite to eat.

Conclusion

I have always wanted to visit the beautiful Fivelements. And it exceeded my expectations – it was relaxing and wonderfully romantic! The suites have loads of privacy, the huge bathtub and the great open bath are beautiful. The vegan cuisine was surprisingly more than just delicious and the treatments on offer at the spa are extraordinary and regenerates body, mind and soul. Fivelements is the perfect place to get to know different Balinese rituals, spend some romantic time-out or for your honeymoon.  In this serene space surrounded by beautiful nature, you can relax completely, find inner peace and leave everyday life behind.

Room: There are nine suites in total, two of them have their own pools: One with one bedroom and the other with two bedrooms.
Transfer: About 90 minutes from Denpasar airport, 60 minutes from Seminyak Beach and about 30 minutes from Ubud center.
Air Temperature: 21.5 – 32.5 degrees Celsius
Best Travel Time: Dry season:  May – October; Most popular: June – September; Rainy season: November – April (mostly just short rain showers, but it is also cheaper then)
Flight duration: With Emirates from Germany to Denpasar with a stopover in Dubai, for example, the flight time is approximately 15.5 hours.
Time difference: CET +8 hours
Price: From 220 EUR including breakfast. The Rejuvenation Retreat (Panca Mahabhuta) is available from 2400 EUR for 3 nights including full board, spa treatments and wellness therapies (more Info)
Special features: exceptional spa treatments, excellent vegan cuisine, beautiful suites with stunning bathtub on the terrace
Perfect for: couples, nature lovers, romantics, honeymooners, eco-tourists

Sakti Dining Room
7:00 – 11:00 | Breakfast
11:00 – 15:30 | Lunch
15:30 – 18:00 | Afternoon tea & snacks
18:00 – 22:00 | Dinner (last orders to be placed by 21:30)

Fivelements, Puri Ahimsa Banjar Baturning
Mambal, Bali, Indonesia 80352
+62 361 469206
contact@fivelements.org
www.fivelements.org

Professional Spa and Wellness Awards 2017 – Worldwide Health & Wellness Destination of the Year
AsiaSpa Awards 2016 – Destination Retreat of the Year 2016 – Rejuvenation Retreat Panca Mahabhuta
Luxury Travel Guide Awards 2016 – Luxury Wellness Retreat of the Year
World Luxury Restaurant Awards 2016 – Best Gourmet Vegan Cuisine
AsiaSpa Awards 2015 – Spa Cuisine of the Year
Lux Hotel & Spa Awards 2015 – Best Wellness Retreat – Indonesia
Luxury Travel Guide Awards 2015 – Luxury Wellness Retreat of the Year
World Spa Awards 2015 – Indonesia’s Best Wellness Spa
AsiaSpa Awards  – Spa Cuisine of the Year at 2014
AsiaSpa Awards – Spa Retreat of the Year at 2013
AsiaSpa Awards – Eco-Spa of the Year at 2012
AsiaSpa Awards – Destination Spa of the Year at 2011

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Please note: We funded our stay at Fivelements ourselves. Many thanks for the Sakti ritual, the fire blessing  and the Chef’s Lunch!

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Bambu Indah, Ubud, Bali – The Special Eco Boutique Hideaway by John Hardy

Luxury, Organic Cuisine & Sustainable Bamboo Design

Responsible lifestyle in harmony with nature, sustainable bamboo design combined with luxurious comfort and loving service – that is Bambu Indah (beautiful bamboo). This eco-chic hotel is extraordinary and also environmentally friendly. It is located in Sayan, on the edge of Ubud and close to the Ayung River shore. Since 2005 eleven restored Javanese bridal houses and two open Bamboo tree houses provide unique and individual overnight accommodation.

John Hardy (jewelry designer and co-founder of the extraordinary “Green School“) and his wife Cynthia founded Bambu Indah. Initially, it was the Hardy family’s private, but their guests were so thrilled after visiting it, that they decided to extend and remodel it into a hotel.

Organic Kebun (Organic vegetable and herb garden)

John’s son, Orin Hardy, designed and created the gardens at Bambu Indah. Traditional Balinese rice, organic vegetables, herbs and flowers are grown in the gardens on the estate and used daily in the kitchen.

Only natural fertilizers including compost made from the estate’s organic waste are used. Vegetables, coffee, tea, beer and wine are sourced from local producers.

Minang House

The Minang House, the Sumba House, the restaurant’s kitchen, dining furniture and the new bamboo tree houses were all designed and built by John’s daughter, Elora Hardy, and her Ibuku team.

The unique Minang house does not have a single straight wall and is used for Morning yoga, private dinners and special events.

It was built in Sumatra in just 90 days by the Ibuku team out of black bamboo based on the model of a large clan house (Minangkabau rumah gadang). Each curve of the roof has the exact symmetry of a rising full moon.

Kolam (Swimming Pond)
This sustainable pool was constructed without any cement.  Instead, it was built using recyclable polyethylene, lava stones and a vegetation regeneration zone, which naturally cleanses, filters and oxygenates the water and nurtures beneficial bacteria.  To protect the impact on the environment, no chlorine or algicides are used. A deep pool cleaning takes place once a month at full moon to rid the pool of any algae. (You can find the scheduled pool cleaning days here.)

Bamboo observation deck 
You can climb this chic tree house if you wish to go up higher or if you are just seeking some peace and quiet.

Africa Deck
From this deck, you have a fantastic view of the surrounding landscape. It is also the ideal spot to watch the sunset in a cozy beach chair while enjoying a drink from the small bar.

The Bamboo elevator is extraordinary! It takes you through the mountain to a lower level close to the river, where the tree houses and the other pools are located.

Crossing the bamboo suspension bridge and following a narrow path along the river we reached our treehouse – the Copper House.

Bamboo Tree Houses (Back-to-Nature)

Copper House (and Moon House)

A long stone staircase brings you to this tree house in the heart of the rain forest. Just entering it is already such a special experience. The view is simply stunning!

The Copper House and the Moon House (which is a bit lower behind the spring water pools), are built entirely from bamboo. Bamboo is strong, flexible and extremely environmentally friendly.

The tree houses have hand-hammered copper bathtubs, walk-in showers, special beds with built-in air conditioning, minibar and comfortable seating areas.

The views from your bed and the bathroom are overwhelmingly beautiful. The design is unique and truly exceptional. To have the privilege to stay in a semi-open tree house and fall asleep with the sounds of nature is a dream come true! The design is also from Elora Hardy and her Ibuku team.

At night the mosquito net is closed. The air conditioning is in the bamboo tubes above the bed. You only see the small air holes.

“If the view from your window feels a bit less spectacular than the one you had at Bambu Indah, I sincerely apologize.” -Diane, Manager

The bathtub is extraordinary: it has holes at the bottom that fills and empties it again.

Javanese Teak Houses

Every home at Bambu Indah is unique. The Javanese teak wood houses were traditional homes built by Indonesians over 100 years ago. Originally, they served as bridal houses to the Javanese noblemen. They were handpicked by John Hardy before being carefully dismantled, relocated to Bambu Indah and lovingly restored. One even has a glass floor (Udang House).

Padi House

Kuning House

Kolam House

Manis House

Jawa Lama House

Elora and Orin House

Spring water pools at the river

The natural spring water pools down at the river offer various areas to swim and relax.

There is even a small restaurant for drinks and snacks.

Restaurant Dapoer

The Dapoer restaurant serves traditional Indonesian dishes and homemade bread, cereals, jams, teas and desserts. All served with fresh and sustainable ingredients from Bambu Indah’s gardens.

Bambu Indah strives to produce all vegetables and herbs on-site, but some products are bought from local farmers and producers. Local products mean less time in transit and fresher, more nutrient-rich food. Products purchased locally also support the local economy.

For breakfast you are spoilt for choice, for example, there are homemade Bubur Bali (Balinese porridge), cereals, homemade breads, jams, egg dishes and fresh seasonal fruit.

Romantic dinners
There are countless options when it comes to romantic dinners. Whether in the traditional Bale Kuno, on the deck of your treehouse, on the A frica deck or with lots of candles and fire down by the river – Bambu Indah is the perfect place for any special occasion. (Special Dinner – Menu)

The loving decoration of our table was incredible!

“We know what it’s like to do amazing things.”

Our menu: Summer rolls, Garden fries (fried vegetables), Beef rendang, Tofu sisit, Dadar gulung (green pancakes) and Chocolate coconut balls.

Honeymoon & Weddings

The ambiance at Bambu Indah is one of calm and romance. From intimate and private couple only ceremonies to memorable 200-guest weddings, anything is possible. You can find more information on weddings here:  Bambu Indah Weddings.

Romantic firelight dinner on the river

Spa

Unfortunately, we imagined our In-Balance Duo Massage with two therapists, differently. We did not find the massage very relaxing and are therefore unable to recommend it unconditionally.

Ibuku by Elora Hardy

John Hardy established the Green School in 2006. His daughter, Elora Hardy, inspired by the highly qualified local craftsmen, founded her own design company, Ibuku in 2010. This group of like-minded designers and architects would like Bali to become a global center for sustainable design. The Green Village also by Elora, offers sustainable living in exceptional bamboo villas.

On a guided tour you can visit the Green School, the Green Village and the Bamboo Factory. Very interesting!

Conclusion

Bambu Indah has extraordinary romantic flair. The environmental awareness and sustainable design concept are exemplary and impressive! Their attention to detail is seen and felt everywhere. The Tree houses are spectacular and the Teak houses, the restaurant and the pools are exceptional. Preferably one would like to stay in a different house every night. Guests are not treated as guests, but as friends. We found it magnificent and would like to visit Bambu Indah again!

Rooms: 11 Teak houses and 2 Tree houses (another one is under construction)
Transfer: About 1 – 1.5 hours (depending on traffic) from Denpasar airport
Air Temperature:  21.5 – 32.5 degrees Celsius
Best Travel Time: Dry season: May – October; Most popular: June – September; Rainy season: November – April (mostly just short rain showers, but it is also cheaper)
Flight duration: For example: with Emirates from Germany to Denpasar with a stopover in Dubai: flight time approximately 15.5 hours
Time difference: CET +8 hours
Price: From USD 150 / night including breakfast and afternoon tea
Activities: Sunset Cocktails, Morning Yoga, Green School Tour, Green Village Tour, Bamboo Factory Tour, John Hardy Jewelry Factory Tour, Village Walks, Blessings, Ceremonies
Special features: Extraordinary accommodation, exceptional bamboo design, big freshwater pools, great food
Perfect for: Couples, nature lovers, romantics, ecotourists

Bambu Indah
Ubud, Bali, Indonesien
Phone +62 (0) 361 977 922
WhatsApp +62 812 38 34 31 74
reservations@bambuindah.com
www.bambuindah.com

Bambu Indah – The Experience

Slow Food Bali – Snail of Approval 2014, 2015 (5% of ingredients are produced in Indonesia, sustainable waste management and fair pay for employees)

HICAP Sustainable Hotel Awards 2013

Green School Bali – the innovative school made from bamboo by John Hardy
Green Village Bali – spectacular & sustainable Bamboo villas by Ibuku

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Please note: We funded our stay at Bambu Indah ourselves.  

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Green Village, Bali – spectacular & sustainable Bamboo villas by Ibuku-Team

Sustainability & innovation inspired by nature

The Green Village in Bali close to the Ayung River offers sustainable and comfortable lifestyle to nature lovers, entrepreneurs and celebrities from all over the world.

Ibuku by Elora Hardy

Elora Hardy, daughter of the Canadian jewelry designer and visionary John Hardy, grew up in Bali and learned to appreciate and love the exceptional (artistic) skills of the Balinese craftsmen. She founded her own design company Ibuku in 2010. With this amalgamation of craftsmen, architects, engineers and designers, she would like Bali to become a global center for sustainable design.

The Green Village was created in collaboration with her father, who also founded the Green School in 2006. Today it offers sustainable living in twelve unique and exceptional bamboo villas.

For the construction of the bamboo villas, no plans were drawn, but instead, they made models from bamboo. You can even learn how to build the models and bamboo houses in workshops that they host (Model Making Class + Bamboo Construction Workshop).

Bamboo is one of the world’s most sustainable and versatile building materials with a steel-like tensile strength. After only three to five years of growth, it is ready to be used.

In Ibuku’s bamboo factory, Balinese and Javanese bamboo are prepared for construction by undergoing months of special preserving processes. A house built from bamboo can last a lifetime.

You can buy or rent these gigantic and beautifully designed bamboo houses.  Who would not like to live in such close proximity to nature? For us, it would certainly be a dream come true.

The furniture and the complete interior are handcrafted from local, natural materials.

The villas offer unique design, comfort, a lifestyle amidst beautiful vegetation and with the open design, a lot of daylight and at the same time, many refined design elements.

The Green School, Green Village and Bamboo Factory can be visited on a guided tour. Extremely interesting!

An overnight stay at the unique eco-boutique hotel, Bambu Indah, by John Hardy, is definitely not to be missed.  Elora Hardy also designed the new bamboo tree houses.

You can also book these extra-ordinary villas at Airbnb.

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Please note: We funded our Green Village Tour ourselves. 

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Green School, Bali – the innovative school made from bamboo by John Hardy (+ video)

450 students, 33 nationalities & 50 bamboo houses

John Hardy realized his vision by building the future-orientated Green School in Bali. It is impressive, not only the architecture, but also the concept behind it, is remarkable! Everyone would like to be a child again at Green School!

The “green” school is a non-profit, private and international school with a future-orientated concept, built sustainably from bamboo. Sustainability, conservation, education, community support and promoting the children’s individual talents, are the foremost priorities.

John Hardy, the Canadian jewelry designer, conservationist and visionary, first came to Bali in 1975 and together with the talented Balinese craftsmen he produced his famous jewelry.  Here, he also met his future wife, Cynthia.  Together they founded Green School in 2006.

When the time came for his children to go to school, there was no suitable school in the area, so he decided to build his own. Green School opened in 2008 with 90 students. Today there are 450 students from all over the world. Among them, there are also more than 30 Balinese students, that qualified for scholarships.

“I wanted to stay in Bali,” John Hardy told me, “and I didn’t have anywhere to send the kids.” -John Hardy

With the construction of the school, he also wanted to show people how to build sustainably with bamboo and at the same time motivate the local communities to live sustainably. Bamboo grows quickly and by using it as a building material, the exploitation of the rainforests can be reduced.

Green School Tour

There is so much to tell about Green School! But it is best is, to have a look for yourself on a Green School Tour! (Admission fee USD 14)

“You have to visit Green School Bali to truly experience the uniqueness of such an inspiring, educational and architectural vision come to life”

The water in Green School comes from the Ayung River and is cleaned in a water treatment plant. The people from the local community can also fetch water from here free of charge.

 

The pathways at Green School are more than just somewhat uneven, even though there are so many children running around, but there is a good reason behind that too!

“You have to be mindful, where you’re going” – John Hardy

 

 

Every day 500 students enjoy a fresh and healthy lunch. Almost 60% of the ingredients are cultivated in the Green School’s gardens. They grow the following: Rice (Nasi), Tomatoes (Tomat), Beans (Buncis), Sweet Potatoes (Ubi), Cucumbers (Timun), Potatoes (Kentang), Spinach (Bayam), Manioc (Singkong), Eggplant (Terong), Cabbage (kol), Jackfruit (Nangka) and pumpkin (Labu).

They get fresh eggs from their own chickens. The kids also learn entrepreneurial skills. They buy chickens with their savings, feed them and then sell the eggs at the local market.

The children are encouraged to be more curious, dedicated and passionate about the environment and in the fight to help save our planet.

To teach the community how to recycle, they are prompted to bring their garbage to the school. For 5 kg of garbage per month, their children can then attend free English lessons!

There is also plenty of fun. The mud pit is very popular with the children. “Mepantigan” is a form of Balinese martial arts. It also draws upon Balinese drama, fusing fighting with the performing arts.

Tanja, a former student at Green School, was our tour guide.

You can find many more interesting facts in the Green School Heartbook.

A community of learners making our world sustainable

There is a maximum of 17 students in a class with three teachers.

The students even have their own pool in the river!

The Cathedral is the most significant building on the school grounds and was built within six months. Anyone who donates more than $ 100 to the school, can even have their names inscribed in one of the bamboo canes.

John Hardy´s Dream

Interesting interview with John Hardy

Green School Bali
Jalan Raya Sibang Kaja, Banjar Saren
Abiansemal, Badung, Bali 80352, Indonesia
www.greenschool.org

“Greenest School on Earth” Award by U.S. Green Building Council – 2012
Aga Khan Award for Architecture –  finalist 2010

We also visited the unique eco-boutique hotel Bambu Indah by John Hardy. Here you have the privilege of staying in the beautiful Bamboo tree houses and you can also book a Green School Tour.

Do you like this article? Then make our day and share it, please!
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Please note:   We funded our Green School Tour ourselves. 

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Kayumanis Ubud Private Villa & Spa, Bali – a tropical luxury hideaway

… where life is a private celebration!

Lush, tropical greenery, luxurious pool villas, loving people and plenty of romance – Kayumanis Ubud is the perfect place to relax, enjoy and celebrate special romantic events.

We started our tour of Bali at the Kayumanis Sanur and spent the last days of our trip at the Kayumanis Ubud – another beautiful boutique hotel that is part of the local Kayumanis Group.

The area in and around Ubud, the mystical center of Bali, is magnificently green. You are surrounded by beautiful Frangipani and Cinnamon trees, colorful flowers and many other tropical plants. It is precisely the same scene that greets you at the green Kayumanis oasis. Kayumanis Ubud has 23 pool villas catering for couples and honeymooners especially (only children over the age of 12 are allowed).

Kayumanis Ubud is located in the Sayan Village on the outer edge of enchanting Ubud, in the heart of a tropical forest and overlooking the Ayung River.

The design of this boutique hotel is based on that of a typical Balinese village. It is very spacious, has typical Balinese doors, (volcanic) rocks, tropical plants and many romantic lanterns. The hotel has a unique and romantic atmosphere.

Deluxe Villa “Meranti”

Upon entering the villa, it is customary to wash each other’s hands three times with the blossom water from the trough, in order to immediately leave any negative energy outside.

 

We stayed in the beautiful Villa Meranti. It is 350 square meters in size and the design is dedicated to the culture of the neighboring island of Java.

We were overwhelmed by our villa! We had a whole house with garden and pool all to ourselves – pure luxury!

The large pool sheltered by a roof of leaves, beautiful flowers, the spacious and tasteful outdoor living area with outdoor kitchen, romantic bedroom and chic open bathroom with an outdoor shower – simply beautiful!

 

 

 

 

 

 

In this villa you feel as if you are in a great tropical garden – it invites you to enjoy nature and relax!

Great inclusive services at the Kayumanis Ubud:

  • Begrüßungsgetränk und kühles Handtuch bei der Ankunft
  • Great inclusive services at the Kayumanis Ubud:
  • Welcome drink and cool towel on arrival
  • 30-minute back and shoulder massage
  • Daily breakfast in the Dining Corner Restaurant or in the seclusion of your villa
  • Minibar replenished daily with soft drinks, beer, mineral water and homemade cookies
  • Daily complimentary high tea from 2.30 pm – 5.30 pm either in your villa or in the restaurant
  • Fresh fruit basket daily
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Shuttle service within Ubud
  • Free transfer to and from the airport
  • 24-hour Butler service

The large pool has been designed beautifully and is surrounded by lush vegetation. It is a green haven.

Of course, there are also walls for privacy, but even these are overgrown with greenery and blend into the surroundings perfectly.

The modern, yet traditional Balinese style with cozy furniture, warm, natural colors and great batik patterns are comfortable and very tasteful.

Afternoon tea

Delicious afternoon tea is served, either in your own villa or at the restaurant daily from 14:30 to 17:30. Different treats are offered every day, from sweet to savory. It’s definitely not to be missed.

The bedroom is styled in warm shades of brown and has a romantic four poster bed and a writing desk in front the window. It has a feel-good atmosphere.

We love open bathrooms! And this bathroom with its rustic outdoor shower, freestanding bath and great skin care products is pretty amazing!

The villa is particularly romantic in the evening. Thanks to the tropical climate, it is still wonderfully warm at night, so you can really enjoy the outdoor living area and the pool.

Breakfast at the Villa

What a special luxurious indulgence it is to have breakfast in your own villa – whenever you feel like it!

Jungle-Pool

 

The huge infinity pool is reached after crossing a long bridge and walking along a picturesque path through the forest, past the charming spa.

It lies idyllically in the heart of the forest, overlooking the Ayung river and is surrounded by large Palm and Cinnamon trees.

Jungle-Spa

The treatments and rituals in the Kayumanis Spa seek to align body, mind and soul.

The beautiful Spa is located isolated on a hill and has five open double treatment pavilions on stilts.

The individual pavilions lie nestled in the beautiful, natural tropical scenery. The atmosphere itself is impressive and balm for the eyes and soul! And as soon as they start with the great massages, the body is also spoiled. Pure relaxation!

Kayumanis Massage
This signature treatment is exclusive to Kayumanis and involves a unique combination of Balinese massage, lomi lomi and therapeutic massage. It concentrates on the back of the body working from the toes up to the shoulders to improve flexibility, release soft tissue toxins and energy blockages and induce deep relaxation.

Spa Menu

The signature treatment begins with a soothing aroma footbath and continues with a relaxing head and body massage that combines shiatsu and acupressure techniques.

The massage was awesome and incredibly relaxing!

The therapists were so sweet and very professional! I had an injured foot and they lovingly took care of it. While I had my massage, they even made a cooling poultice and put it on my foot.

With freshly brewed Ginger tea and homemade biscuits, we found perfect relaxation!

Dining Corner Restaurant

The all-day dining restaurant has a private pool and impressive views of the forest and the river valley. Classic Thai and Modern Western Cuisine made with fresh ingredients are served.

Whether breakfast, lunch or dinner – the food was delicious!

In the evening floating candles and lanterns magically creates a very romantic atmosphere. Perfect for special occasions and romantic evenings in nature!

It is also very nice to dine in your villa, but with such great ambiance and the loving service, one should actually go to the restaurant!

Honeymoon & Wedding

It is quite simply the perfect place for your honeymoon! Whether a delicious honeymoon cake, a relaxing bath with rose petals, small gifts or the many different possibilities for a romantic dinner – it does not get more romantic than this!

And if you would like to get married here, there are many possibilities: On the river in the Kayumanis Ubud, on the beach in Kayumanis Nusa Dua or surrounded by palm trees in the Kayumanis Jimbaran – just magical!

You can get more info on weddings and wedding décor here: Weddings at Kayumanis

Excursion Tips

Ubud
Ubud is the cultural and the mystical center of Bali. It is strongly rooted in traditional Hindu customs.

A good starting point for a shopping tour is the Art Market, opposite the Ubud Palace. From here you can explore Main Road. We were there for hours and discovered only a small part of what can be seen. Our tip: A tour into Hanuman Street is definitely also worthwhile. Do give the small roadside spa’s a try. We treated ourselves to a (French) Pedicure for only 5 EUR. It was perfectly done for this unbelievable price!

There are many amazing boutiques which showcase incredible craftsmanship in Ubud. We were particularly intrigued by the FITA Art Shop with its handmade bags and jewelry.

Ubud has become more touristy in recent years, but it still has loads of charm! The hotels provide wonderful employment opportunities to the locals. People who previously just had to live from rice cultivation or traditional painting can now work in the hotels. The boutiques, local drivers and many of the restaurants obviously also benefit from tourism. The traffic in the narrow streets is indeed at times congested, so make sure to take this into consideration.

Bangkiang Sidem Trek
If you would like to see more of the area surrounding of Ubud, you can go hiking on the Bangkiang Sidem Trek. A driver from Kayumanis took us to the starting point and fetched us again at the endpoint, near the Main Road in Ubud, an hour later.

During the hike, we went past a typical Balinese home and were even allowed a look inside.

The houses are really big and very impressively built. Each house has its own temple, they cook on an open fire and several generations usually live together. At a wedding, it is nothing special to celebrate with 1000 guests.

Conclusion

The loving employees are the heart of Kayumanis. They make your holiday here a once in a lifetime experience. It was really amazing how they took care of us! They won our hearts completely and made our stay unforgettable!

Not only the staff, but the entire atmosphere, the great tropical pool villas, the yummy food, the award-winning spa and the tropical ambiance, left us raving about Bali! The Kayumanis Group did not only create something great for guests here, but also for the employees. They are encouraged and supported and for many, it is an amazing opportunity to further themselves. The warm smiles and hospitality are already in their blood. The Balinese really is great and kindhearted people! We miss our Kayumanis family!

Rooms: 23 Villas each with one to three bedrooms
Transfer: About an hour to an hour and a half from Denpasar airport, depending on traffic
Air Temperature: 21.5 – 32.5 degrees Celsius
Best Travel time: Dry season: May to October; High season: June to September; Rainy season: November to April – mostly short rain showers, but it is also cheaper then.
Flight duration: For example: With Emirates from Germany to Denpasar with a stopover in Dubai, the flight time is about 15 and a half hours.
Time difference: GMT +8 hours
Price: From 780 EUR / night including breakfast, massage, afternoon tea and a minibar
Activities: Full Moon Blessing Dinner, Market Tour & Cooking Class, Night Market, Trekking, Cycling, Rice Field Walks, Shopping, Yoga
Special features: Beautiful pool villas with stunning outdoor living areas, warm-hearted butler service, idyllic location in the forest on the Ayung River
Perfect for: Couples, nature lovers, romantics, honeymooners, weddings

Kayumanis Ubud Private Villa & Spa
Sayan Village, P.O. Box 777
Ubud, Bali 80571, Indonesia
Telefon: +62-361 972 777
Fax: +62-361 972 660
experience@kayumanis.com
www.kayumanis.com

World Luxury Hotel Awards – 2016, 2014
World Boutique Hotel Awards – 2016
TripAdvisor Traveller Choice Awards  – 2016, 2015
World Luxury Spa Awards – 2016
Condé Nast Johansens Spa Awards for Excellence – Best for Service – 2016
Indonesian Tatler Best Restaurants – 2016
Indonesia Travel and Tourism Awards – 2014, 2015, 2016
World Luxury Spa Awards – Nominee 2015
TripAdvisor Traveller Choice Awards – No. 1 Villas 2015
Condé Nast Johansens Spa Awards for Excellence – 2014
Crystal Awards Asia Pacific – Best Boutique Hotel Spa – 2009

Do you want to stay at the beach? Then visit Kayumanis Sanur Private Villa & Spa, Bali – Outdoor-Living, Luxury & Wellness

Kayumanis Ubud and Nusa Dua are perfect for couples and honeymooners (only children over the age of 12 allowed). Kayumanis Sanur and Kayumanis Jimbaran are perfect for couples and families with small children.

Did you like this article? Then make our day and share it!

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Please note: Our stay was sponsored by Kayumanis. Thank you very much! Nevertheless, the opinions expressed in this article is as always, 100% our own!

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Kayumanis Sanur Private Villa & Spa, Bali – Outdoor Living, Luxury & Wellness

Luxurious pool villas with wonderful service

Bali is a dreamlike island in the Indian ocean with fascinating culture, impressive scenery and wonderful people. We immediately lost our hearts to this beautiful tropical island!

We started our tour of Bali at the wonderful Kayumanis in Sanur. It is one of four beautiful boutique hotels in the local Kayumanis Group. We were picked up at the airport by the hotel’s private limousine and it took about half an hour until we reached Kayumanis Sanur, situated close to the beach.

The idyllic boutique hotel only has 11 villas – each with a private pool, butler service and many great extras.

After a warm welcome with fresh flowers and a refreshing drink, we entered a peaceful oasis! The architecture in the traditional Balinese style amidst tropical vegetation is very harmonious and radiates peace and tropical beauty.

“Where life is a private celebration.”

Pool Villas

Our personal Butler Adi took us to our villa, Jegogan. Each villa is named after a traditional Balinese musical instrument.

What makes Kayumanis so special, is its wonderful staff. Their smiles and loving attentiveness truly make your stay an unforgettable experience! The staff are mostly from the surrounding areas and encouraged and supported by Kayumanis.

Great inclusive services at the Kayumanis Sanur:

  • 15-Minute head, shoulder or foot massage
  • Daily breakfast in the Gong Restaurant or in the privacy of your villa
  • Daily traditional afternoon tea in the Gong Restaurant or in the privacy of your villa
  • Mini-bar filled daily with soft drinks and homemade biscuits
  • Fresh, tropical fruit basket daily
  • Transfer to and from Sanur and the beach
  • 24 Hour Butler service

The beautiful and spacious villas (from 400 square meters) each has one, two or three bedrooms, a private pool, a minibar, a chic outdoor living room with dining area and an outdoor kitchen.

“Space, Service & Privacy”

Our absolute favorite area was the outdoor living room with beautiful and stylish Balinese furniture. As it is always tropical warm in Bali, you can enjoy the outdoor area day and night. Simply brilliant!

The bedroom is romantic and tastefully decorated in natural neutral shades. The view from your bed overlooking the pool is especially beautiful.

The bathroom with its dark colors and stylish lighting radiates romance. Above the bath, there is a slight opening in the roof that enables you to hear the birds twittering whenever you take a bath or shower.

If, as in our case, your luggage should arrive late, there are even toothbrushes in the bathroom – it was my saving grace!

On the second floor there is a tasteful reading and study area decorated with a lot of attention to detail and some books, even some in German, attentively sought out just for us.

At Kayumanis you can have breakfast whenever you feel like it, there is no set time frame. And you have the choice of having breakfast in the restaurant or in the comfort of your own villa. It is especially romantic to have breakfast for two at your villa’s own private pool! To snack on in between meals, freshly baked biscuits (recipe included) are always available.

At breakfast, there is a huge selection to choose from. Whether you prefer a Continental, an American or a typical Kayumani breakfast with Cinnamon Toast, Balinese coffee or porridge – everything is really delicious!

Another highlight is the Afternoon tea. It is included in the price, as is the mini-bar filled with water and soft drinks.

Gong Restaurant

In the award-winning Gong Restaurant, under the direction of Chef Denny, the finest Balinese cuisine is served. Only fresh market ingredients and local herbs and spices are used.

Executive chef Denny is very talented and has worked himself up from being a simple cook to an award-winning head chef. He served us a very delicious 3-course Italian-Balinese fusion style meal.

The open restaurant, surrounded by tropical gardens, is a gourmet haven. With its many lanterns, it is extremely romantic in the evening.

Everything we tried was quite simply superb!

The tasty dishes, romantic atmosphere, stylish design with great colors and patterns and the exceptional staff, ensure that dining here is an extraordinary experience! Perfect for some romantic time!


(Our names in Indonesian)

The restaurant is also named after a Balinese musical instrument. Suitably, there are Balinese live music performances in the evening.

There is also a small boutique where you can buy some souvenirs and memorabilia.

Spa

In the beautifully designed spa, traditional Balinese healing and beauty treatments are offered. Since every guest is entitled to a free mini massage, everyone can experience relaxation pure. Really great!

Only natural ingredients, such as indigenous herbs, spices and plants are used.

After a soothing footbath, we indulged in a wonderful and relaxing massage. Highly recommended!

Sunrise Breakfast

If you like, you can even enjoy a sunrise breakfast on the beach. You have to get up early, but it is worth it!

Oka brought along everything we could wish for, even egg dishes!

Kayumanis Sanur has its own small beach with sunbeds and parasols. By car, it is a mere 10-minute drive.

Sanur

Thanks to the hotel’s private transfers, you can even go shopping in Sanur. Hardy’s Mall is well worth a visit when you are interested in buying clothes, beautiful wooden figures and all sorts of souvenirs at good prices. There are also many small boutiques with local precious things. For the return trip, you can arrange a meeting point beforehand with the hotel’s driver or you simply send him a pic of where you are and he then picks you up there. Wahoo!

Conclusion

Kayumanis Sanur is a wonderful place to relax and unwind. It is situated in a quiet, beautiful corner on the south coast of Bali. The loving staff, the delicious gourmet food and the large beautiful pool villas with their extraordinary outdoor living areas, in particular, make Kayumanis Sanur a truly unique and special place.  We felt so comfortable here.  Even the jet lag was not bad at all because we immediately were so relaxed! We found the many extras, personalized service and the endearing little details quite unique! Very romantic with loving attention paid down to the last detail!

Rooms: 11 Villas with one to three bedrooms
Transfer: About 20-30 minutes from Denpasar airport depending on traffic
Air Temperature: 21.5 – 32.5 degrees Celsius
Water Temperature: 27- 29 degrees Celsius
Best Travel time: Dry season: May to October; High season: June to September; Rainy season: November to April – mostly short rain showers, but it is also cheaper then.
Flight duration: For example: With Emirates from Germany to Denpasar with a stopover in Dubai, the flight time is about 15 and a half hours.
Time difference: GMT +8 hours
Price: From 560 EUR / night including breakfast, welcome massage, afternoon tea and minibar
Romance-Highlights: Sunrise breakfast on the beach, lunch on the beach, romantic candlelight dinner, BBQ dinner
Activities: Cooking classes, Rice field walks, Shopping
Special features: Beautiful villas with great private pools and extraordinary outdoor living areas, butler service, excellent cuisine, not far from the beach
Perfect for: Peace seekers, romantics, honeymooners, couples, families

Kayumanis Sanur Private Villa & Spa
Jalan Tirta Akasa No. 28
Sanur 80227
Bali, Indonesia
Phone: 62 361 270 260
Fax: 62 361 270 262
experience@kayumanis.com
www.kayumanis.com

Southeast Asia’s Best Classic Hotel – Boutique Hotel Awards 2017
World Luxury Hotel Awards – 2016, 2014
World Boutique Hotel Awards – 2016
TripAdvisor Traveller Choice Awards  – 2016, 2015
Indonesian Tatler Best Restaurants – 2016
Indonesia Travel and Tourism Awards – 2014, 2015, 2016
TripAdvisor Traveller Choice Awards – No. 1 Villas 2015

Kayumanis Ubud and Nusa Dua (Southeast Asia’s Best Honeymoon Hideaway – Boutique Hotel Awards 2017) are perfect for couples and honeymooners (only children over the age of 12 allowed). Kayumanis Sanur and Kayumanis Jimbaran are perfect for couples and families with small children.

Did you like this article? Then make our day and share it!
_______________________________________________________________________

Please note: Our stay was sponsored by Kayumanis. Thank you very much! Nevertheless, the opinions expressed in this article is as always, 100% our own!

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