Hotel Review of Buahan, A Banyan Tree Escape in Bali - AFAR
"Perched on a 12-acre hillside jungle site about 40 minutes north of Ubud, this adults-only resort blends luxury and conservation through a biophilic, low-impact design that preserves waterways, cacao and durian trees and a dramatic 115-foot waterfall. Sixteen wood-shingled, 1,775-square-foot open-plan bales face west toward misty mountain peaks and forgo doors and walls to maximize connection with nature, offering privacy via curtains, private dipping pools, hand-hammered copper bathtubs and mosquito-netted beds (be aware of steep steps, uneven stone paths and occasional insect or gecko encounters). The Open Kitchen is a zero-waste restaurant led by chef Eka Sunarya that leans 70% plant-based, sources about 90% of primary ingredients within a 43-mile radius, and draws on an on-site organic garden; standout items include multi-course tasting dinners with pickled vegetables and fermented sourdough flatbread, a banana-flower dish, a watermelon tartare with cultured cashew cheese, roasted jicama with passion-fruit peanut oil emulsion, and a nasi jagung breakfast. Botanist Bar pours house-made kombuchas and cocktails inspired by Indonesian herbal tonics, and the spa offers a locally inspired pijat using a lemongrass-and-ginger detox oil. The property emphasizes community impact—almost all staff are hired locally, procurement favors area farmers and small businesses, owl abodes were built for wildlife conservation, and a firefly conservation program with a nursery invites guest participation—while striving to eliminate single-use plastics and using biodegradable, in-house enzyme mists to deter insects. Ideal for eco-conscious foodies, nature lovers and seasoned Bali travelers seeking a quieter jungle retreat, it’s less suitable for guests with limited mobility." - Kathryn Romeyn
