A Tranquil Retreat: Alila Uluwatu, Bali – Hotel Review

Set along the dramatic limestone cliffs of the Bukit Peninsula along Bali’s southernmost edge, Alila Uluwatu is a peaceful escape with panoramic ocean views. Ensconced amid lush greenery, the resort’s minimal design serves as a serene backdrop for a relaxing getaway  where you can do as little or as much as you like.

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Hotel Review: Alila Uluwatu, Bali

STAY

From its perch on a dramatic clifftop along the south-western tip of Bali, Indonesia, Alila Uluwatu is all about peaceful seclusion. Dressed in subtle shades of cream and ivory, which are revealed through natural textures like volcanic stone and teak wood, each of the 64 open-plan villas are modern minimalism at its best – a private sanctuary complete with its own pool, cabana, and the option for an outdoor shower for seamless indoor-outdoor living.

One Bedroom Pool Villa

Surrounded by tropical greenery, these villas cascade down a lush slope towards the resort’s main facilities, which include an infinity pool, a restaurant and a bar, all with spectacular Indian Ocean views. Not to mention the tranquil spa, which offers a menu of treatments that focuses on local Balinese techniques that uses products created by local artisans using earth-friendly ingredients. In other words, Alila Uluwatu is an ideal escape for those looking to relax and unwind on an island well-known for its traffic-heavy urban chaos.

One Bedroom Pool Villa

DO

Located on the Bukit Peninsula, Bali’s southernmost point, Alila Uluwatu is well-placed to showcase the beauty and culture of the island. Explore the beguiling coastline by foot or by bicycle, take a surf class, or explore the depth of Balinese culture with a guided tour of three of the lesser-visited temples on the island, visit local markets, take a cooking class, or immerse yourself in the indigenous Bali lifestyle by learning to craft Canang Sari, the traditional Balinese offering of gratitude to God.

For the more active, there is a fully-equipped fitness centre, aerial yoga classes, and stand-up paddle boarding. Or simply laze by the infinity pool against panoramic ocean vistas – after an indulgent treatment at Spa Alila, of course.

Cliff Edge Spa Cabana

EAT

Alila Uluwatu offers a variety of dining options that show off the best of Balinese and international cuisine, using fresh, seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. In a dramatic spot overlooking the cliff edge, start your evening at Sunset Cabana Bar against dusky orange skies with a signature cocktail – like the Segara, a gin and seaweed concoction served in a seashell – paired with a menu of small Asian-inspired bites to whet your appetite.

Sunset Cabana Bar

From there, head to Warung – which serves a casual Indonesian sharing menu inspired by casual food stalls – or CIRE, where an international menu ranging from pan-Asian to Mediterranean cuisine is served against panoramic ocean views. The breakfast here is particularly inventive, with dishes like the panko fried egg omelette katsu sando or the moreish breakfast sausage slider served in a buttermilk biscuit.

CIRE Restaurant

THE FINAL WORD

With a focus on sustainability and respect for local culture, along with minimal design and excellent food and dining options, Alila Uluwatu perfectly encapsulates the brand’s ethos. Pair this with an unrivalled setting along the cliffs of Bali, and your stay here is an escape into a tranquil sanctuary, far removed from the hustle and bustle of Bali’s more urban locations. 

BOOK IT

Rates at Alila Uluwatu start from £673 per night for a one bedroom villa, not including breakfast. alilahotels.com