If you are looking for an authentic taste of Bali then you need to visit Ubud. Nestled in the heart of Bali’s lush rainforest is one of the most unique resorts on the island, Hanging Gardens of Ubud. Built on 3.2 hectares of land situated near Payangan, the five star resort’s 38 villas are built into the steeply angled hillside.

Constructed in 2003 with building finishing in 2005, the concept of the villa was based around the concept of providing a haven where visitors could escape the hustle and bustle of the touristy areas of Bali. Forget the sounds of traffic and taxi horns, all you’ll hear are the gentle swishing of trees as you relax in your private villa pool.

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The owners of the resort wanted it to be a celebration of nature, a construct that fitted seamlessly into the landscape leaving a minimal footprint on the environment. Using traditional materials, local craftsmen meticulously built the villas, working with the land, rather than against it. It’s the little details which make the construction of the resort. The walkways in between teh villas are made from Paras Stone from the nearby Ayung River. A fresh leaf was picked from local fern trees and individually placed on each tile leaving a natural imprint.88 steps from the reception to the restaurant were built with Feng Shui principles in mind as these Yin Feng Shui numbers are considered to mean infinity, abundance and stability of energy.

To stand out amongst the other resorts in Bali, you need to have an amazing pool and Hanging Gardens of Ubud has one of the best. I’m talking two double infinity split level pools which  offer 180 degree views of the surrounding rainforest. Lined with Batu Chandi slate stone with walls constructed of geometric walls of solidified volcanic ash, the pools are designed in an undulating form which takes inspiration from the surrounding environment.

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The interiors have been constructed in a modern Balinese style with emphasise on natural materials. Each villa has its own private pool which looks out over the lush greenery. The in house restaurant has an emphasis on traditional Balinese food, made from fresh ingredients. Dishes have an international touch with a base focused around local flavours. Entertainment is also provided in the form of traditional dancers, music nights and performances designed to give you an insight into Balinese customs. The buffet breakfast also offers up traditional Balinese delicacies mixed in with contemporary breakfast flavours to cater for any palette.

The resort also offers a spa which overlooks the waterfalls of the holy Ayung River. It’s the perfect place to pamper yourself and relax, all while enjoying the beautiful surrounds. There is a real focus on using natural products in the spa, to ensure your skin is rejuvenated and rehydrated.

Visit the Hanging Gardens of Ubud website to book your stay or find out more information.

About The Author

Lisa Teh

Lisa Teh is the Editor-in-chief of Couturing.com, one of Australia's top fashion, beauty and lifestyle resources. She has worked on campaigns with brands including David Jones, Myer, Mecca Cosmetica, Simone Perele, Lenovo and L'Oreal. She recently appeared in Couturing's exclusive Australian Fashion Week reality web series, The Frow, alongside top industry names including Toni Maticevski and Maybelline Creative Director Nigel Stanislaus.

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