The last time we went to Bali we stayed in Seminyak and Canggu, but this time we wanted to try the “jungle” experience so we decided to head to Ubud.

For anyone thinking about going to Bali, in order to experience everything on offer you need to decide where you want to set base. Due to Bali being a very mountainous island, you may spend a significant amount of time on the road and stuck in traffic, so having somewhere central to go back to is a massive advantage.

Ubud is considered a bit more of a quiet, arty and natural experience compared to other parts of Bali. We wanted to be surrounded by nature and see more of the jungle, volcanos and incredible temples in Ubud and its surrounding area.

We wanted to make this trip special, so searched and searched for a hotel or eco lodge that could offer both comfort and luxury but also that closeness to nature… It was a tough one, as Ubud had so many fantastic options that were not only beautiful but unique. After a lot of investigating and reviewing, we found it: an out-of-this-world place named… Capella Ubud.

From the moment they receive you at the airport, Capella Ubud makes you feel like a total superstar. Not only are the staff incredibly welcoming, the amenities kit inside their van has everything you need. After a long flight, you may want something to eat and drink, Capella goes above and beyond… from homemade freshly cookies (gluten free with natural ingredients), fresh fruits, cold water and juices to providing a comb, mirror, hot and cold towels, and chocolates!

Once at the property, you are warmly welcomed (despite it being 3am) and provided with a cute backpack that contains ponchos for the rain, the map of the property, a first aid kit, mosquito repellent, and sun cream, along with a walking stick to complete the feeling of being an adventurer. Inspired by the early European settlers of the 1800s, architect Bill Bensley designed it to replicate the same feelings of intrepidness they would have felt. The rooms and the design of the property take you back in time and make you feel immersed in a different era.

We stayed in the “photographers’ tent”. Each exquisitely designed “tent” has its own pool, large mini bar (most of it included in the price of the room) and uniquely decorated room theme. You cross a small suspension bridge to reach each tent, which adds to the feeling of complete seclusion. Each tent has a different decoration, wallpaper and name to represent the theme of the room. In ours, inspired by photography, we had old cameras and pictures.

Capella Bali Bedroom Photographer entrance.jpg

In the morning, you’re greeted by a succulent breakfast made-to-order from a choice of menus, with options for gluten free fans, keto, or just complete indulgence. A nice touch, the staff knows you by name and they remember what you like. For us, this felt very warm and hospitable.

Whilst staying at Capella you can choose to head into main Ubud (their service van will take you there) or tailor your own adventure experience, whether this be a spa day in the comfort of your luxurious tent or heading to see the temples or waterfalls. We did a little bit of everything with the assistance of their “Camp Rangers” who are knowledgeable guides. Something that absolutely blew our mind was the 4x4 experience trip to the volcano, from the set picnic they have for you, to going up and down the black sands – it was an unforgettable day.

Upon returning to Capella, after you’ve had a relaxing bath in a gorgeous copper bathtub, you can head back out for freshly made cocktails and some snacks at the Officer’s Tent. Once again, the idea is to replicate how adventurers in the 1950s would spend their time, albeit with a lot more glamor. Following that, they have a couple of great restaurants where you can eat – the food is just sublime. If you’re still hungry and have space for marshmallows and hot cacao, you can watch a film by the fire with your loved ones.

There are so many incredible great things about Capella, from the staff, the unique rooms, the service, the food, to the property and the curated experiences they offer. The price point is not for the faint-hearted, but they offer far more than the Four Seasons or any other luxury hotel in the vicinity.

Things to do in Ubud:

Despite Ubud having a number of beautiful sites and attractions, I have tried to come up mainly with the ones that were really outstanding in our opinion. They are a bit touristy so make sure you start your trip early in the day so that you can enjoy the site as empty as possible. Also, take your swimsuit and a pareo for the temples to cover shoulders or/and legs. There are plenty of mosquitos so be ready to have both repellent and white tiger balm for post-bite soothing. Here are a few tips to share with you:

- You will need around 3-4 days to explore Ubud and nearby areas

- Waterfalls: Nungnung, Kanto Lampo and Tibumana

- Temples: Goa Gajah (Elephant Cave), Pura Tirta Holy Water, Sarawasti Temple (Ubud Water Palace)

- Near Ubud: Tegallalang Rice Terrace

- In Ubud: the Monkey Forest, Ubud Palace and Ubud Market