If ever a hotel took full advantage of its location, then it’s Alila Uluwatu. Glistening ocean and orange-streaked skies provide the late-afternoon magic at the luxury all-villa resort on Bali’s Bukit Peninsula. Singaporean architecture firm WOHA is the brains behind the leading-edge architecture, which works with the natural contours of the land. Built into the coastal cliffs, the villas are designed to minimise the environmental impact and maximize the views. And trust us, the result is one of the most romantic stays on the island.
With our 20 year wedding anniversary coming up, Bali Buddies recently indulged in an adults-only stay to check it all out. We found the setting just as spectacular as it comes across in photos. Original palm trees grow in and around the main sundeck and cliff-top infinity pool. Gaze out, and it’s sky and ocean as far as the eye can see.
We stayed in one of their one-bedroom pool villas. And in a break from the traditional Bali aesthetic, there’s not a thatched roof in sight! Alila’s villas are all about those clean, crisp lines. Brushed concrete and a neutral colour scheme gives them a minimalist feel, but it’s all softened up with great mood lighting and soft furnishings. Huge sliding doors open out to your pool and geometric-look cabana. We loved having them open for the full tropical living experience. Even better, the villas never get too hot thanks to the flat lava rock roof and bamboo ceiling.
Clever design details aren’t the only way Alila pays heed to sustainability. The hotel was one of the first in Bali to substitute plastic-based amenities with ones made from biodegradable and compostable materials. Glance inside the bathroom and you’ll notice one example in the bamboo straws and dental kits.
The in-villa “bubbly breakfast” is a wonderful way to wake up. Plated up by your personal butler, the spread includes charcuterie, cheeses, freshly baked pastries, and tropical fruits. A glass (or two) of Alila-brand Cava just adds to the decadence! It’s one of several honeymoon-inspired experiences guests can enjoy.
Even if you’re not staying at the resort, you can still get a taste of the magic. Sunday Brunch at CIRE, the resort’s all-day eatery overlooking the ocean, is a great opportunity to do so. Lobster — prepared in every way you can imagine — is the theme of the day. Graze your way through artistic plates of ceviche, bisque, ravioli, rolls, and curries — plus an endless supply of Champagne, premium imported wines, and cocktails. It’s utter self indulgence, and so delicious.
The Warung, Alila’s Indonesian eatery, has also become a destination restaurant. Celebrating bold local flavours, signatures include the “Megibung,” a festive tasting platter of Balinese dishes served on a banana leaf. If you want to taste real Indonesian home-style cooking, try Chef Sheandy’s rendang. Slow-simmered beef with coconut milk and spices, it’s a traditional North Sumatran specialty and typically prepared for Ramadan festivities. Iced fruit teas, local beers, and island-inspired cocktails are among the liquid refreshments. But if cocktail o’clock is calling, there’s another place you should be.
With its striking geometric design and cliff-edge location, Alila’s sunset cabana bar is an epic sundowner spot. And the drinks themselves are works of art. Imaginatively crafted by mixologist Wirawan, the molecular-style libations include Segara, a gin and seaweed cordial concoction served in a conch shell. Like the theatrical cocktails, the seascape below will leave you wide-eyed. In fact, many couples choose the backdrop to exchange their vows.
Couples massages, which are delivered in the cliff-edge cabana to the sound of crashing waves, are the perfect post-wedding ritual. And that’s just one example of the holistic heaven that awaits at Spa Alila. Balinese-inspired body scrubs, red clay facials, and private yoga sessions are a taste of what’s on offer. Native flowers and spices infuse the all-natural massage oils and creams, and Alila’s therapists will be happy to recommend something to suit your skin type. Pure bliss.
Find out more and reserve your stay here.
Telephone : +(0361) 8482166
