"Nestled in a serene jungle valley above the Ayung River and just a 15-minute drive from downtown Ubud, I found the resort to be an architectural standout—its striking footbridge entrance and rice bowl–shaped rooftop frame tiered rice paddies and gardens. Operating for 27 years, the property comprises 60 accommodations (42 villas and 18 suites) with private plunge pools, oversized windows, French doors, local art and ample outdoor spaces that make each villa feel like a secluded oasis. Suites in the main building sit close to the restaurants and pool, and room sizes range from 1,834 square feet for the One-Bedroom Duplex Suites to an exceptional 22,873-square-foot Royal Villa. I experienced a warm welcome ceremony on arrival, and the hotel provides a complimentary daily shuttle to Ubud (many guests arrive via private transfer from Ngurah Rai, about 75–90 minutes). The resort offers numerous activities—from the off-site “Can You Keep a Secret?” tour and cooking classes to rafting and the Sacred Nap guided in silk hammocks—and family-friendly features like family suites, the Pici Pici kids club, kids-eat-free policies (under four), and discounts for older children. Note that the property sits on varying elevations with many steps and no elevators. The hotel emphasizes sustainability through eliminating single-use plastics, on-site composting, sourcing from local organic farms and its own gardens, and supporting community projects. Nightly rates start from $790, and the resort participates in American Express Fine Hotels & Resorts benefits." - Samantha Leal Samantha Leal Samantha Leal is a writer, editor, and content strategist who covers all the good things in life—style, beauty, travel, drinks, and more. She's held editor roles at Well+Good, Marie Claire, Latina magazine, and The Knot, and her byline can be found all over, including Byrdie, ELLE, Fast Company, Parade, and more. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines