FACT headed to the Indonesian island of Bali for a visit to the magnificent Umana Bali, LXR Hotels & Resorts.

We were lucky enough to visit Umana Bali, LXR Hotels & Resorts, an exclusive spot in Ungasan at the southernmost tip of the island and, approaching by air, we were mesmerised by the location. As tropical islands go, this enchanting spot ticks all the boxes required to be called a true paradise.

After touching down, we breezed through customs and were welcomed by a full limo service that whisked us toward our destination.

The Resort

A short drive through winding roads lined with abundant vegetation, and we found ourselves at the grand lobby of Umana Bali, LXR Hotels & Resorts.

In this high-ceilinged open area, the green surroundings, artistry and architecture merge to create a gallery-like space that seamlessly blends the island’s past with its present. We were captivated by the striking metal and hand-blown chandelier, along with other details showcasing Bali’s rich cultural heritage.

We barely had the chance to greet all the welcoming faces before our check in was complete and we were being escorted to our villa by Richard, our dedicated curator.

Umana Bali, LXR Hotels & Resorts boasts some of this world-famous destination’s most stunning ocean views and 72 luxuriously curated villas. The resort’s layout features cascading terraces atop limestone cliffs, reminiscent of uma, or ancient rice paddy fields, from which it gets its name.

The lavish retreat also houses a grand ballroom, a large meeting room, a beautiful chapel overlooking the Indian Ocean, an infinity pool and a kids’ club. A holistic spa contains sanctuary rooms, a relaxation area, an indoor yoga pavilion, a sauna, a steam room, hot and cold plunge pools and an outdoor spa pool. Additionally, a fitness centre is open 24 hours a day for guests.

Ocean Pool Villa

Our one-bedroom Ocean Pool Villa was 403sq/m of pure luxury. Moving through our spacious living area, we were met by an open-air paradise adorned with stunning views and a Balinese bale – a straw roofed structure.

Every villa in the resort has its own infinity pool, and we took full advantage of our 10-metre version on many occasions. We loved the natural light illuminating the marble bathroom, featuring a rainfall shower and deep tub. There was also a second shower located outside.

Haute Cuisine

The resort boasts a diverse range of first-class, in-house restaurants and bars. The hotel sources 80% of its produce from local farms and its hydroponic herb and vegetable garden. This means the freshest and most appetising dining experiences imaginable.

On our first evening, we experienced The Commune. Although the restaurant offers an eclectic mix of international, Asian and local cuisine, we opted for the Balinese dishes, sampling many on our first night. We were hugely grateful that we did.

We were fortunate enough to revisit this venue for breakfast, enjoying a semi-buffet style meal consisting of fresh fruits, juices, yoghurts, granola and pastry options. There was an egg station and additional hot selections for those who wanted a more substantial early meal. As guests, we could also order anything we liked from the à la carte menu.

Oliverra, is a high-end restaurant perched on a cliff with stunning Instagrammable terrace views of the ocean. This idyllic venue is where we dined during a mesmerising sunset on the second night of our stay.

Specialising in Mediterranean cuisine, Oliverra proved to be a real gem. The grilled scallops and octopus were the standout dishes for the evening, as was the perfectly cooked steak – one of the best we’ve tasted.

Beach Club

As the resort is positioned on a steep cliff, we had the privilege of being driven by car to the famous Melasti Beach below. Within minutes of leaving the hotel, we had our toes in the white sand, feeling the warm ocean lapping against our ankles.

Offering Japanese and Peruvian cuisine, Uma Beach House sources its ingredients from the local fisheries of Sanur and farms around the Ungasan and Kintamani areas. We were once again spoilt by what was placed in front of us. A truly delectable dining experience.

Picturesque Village Walk

One of the activities we enjoyed was an organised village walk which took us past paddy fields and through the local town showcasing traditional Balinese houses and the many temples scattered around the area. We passed schools with little kids dressed in adorable pink uniforms who were quick to greet us with big smiles.

Lucky enough to eat a traditional breakfast in one of the houses we encountered, we sampled a couple of firsts. The meal started with Klepon, a local sweet made with rice dough and what we can only describe as coconut pockets filled with sugarcane syrup and coffee. Next was a plate of steamed rice and Chicken Lilit, which is like a chicken kebab. A second chicken dish mixed with sambal matah meant a chilli flavour that left a great taste in the mouth. Overall, this was a novel and interesting experience for us.

Culture Cooking Class

Umana Bali, LXR Hotels & Resorts offers a range of curated experiences for guests and the one activity we will forever cherish, as dedicated foodies, was a cooking class where we excitedly learnt to make the foods we had eaten on our village walk.

We took great pleasure in discovering the authentic recipe for Chicken Lilit, a special dish made for celebrations. Next, we were shown how to combine the chilis, shallots, lemon grass and several other ingredients to create sambal matah. Once mixed, this delicious condiment is cooked as hot coconut oil is poured over it. We fell in love with it and even took some local chillis to try it at home.

There’s also a great coffee tasting experience.

Balinese Massage

After the village walk, the timing was perfect to indulge in a relaxing spa treatment and, of course, we couldn’t come to Bali without enjoying a Balinese massage.

As we stepped into the beautifully designed spa, we were warmly welcomed. After filling out a brief form regarding our general health, preferred massage pressure and focus spots, we were led to the treatment area. Our experience began with a soothing foot wash, setting the stage for the ultimate relaxation. What followed was 60 minutes of pure bliss – a perfectly executed Balinese massage with aromatic oil that not only eased our muscles but also rejuvenated our souls.

Fabulous Floating Breakfast

Amongst the other memorable activities we enjoyed during our stay was the delightful floating breakfast.

Slipping into our private pool on a warm and sunny morning, we once again ordered the Indonesian option as we had by now fallen in love with the local cuisine. This was a memorable way to appreciate our final meal at the resort before taking our leave of this magical island which has carved a place in our hearts. ✤

GO: VISIT WWW.HILTON.COM/EN/HOTELS/DPSOLOL-UMANABALI-RESORT FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A BOOKING.