The List

Mandapa
Mandapa
Mandapa

50

Mandapa

Bali

A sanctuary of serenity along the Ayung River

Give me the lowdown: Hidden in the lush hills of Ubud, Mandapa is designed as a tranquil 'village within a village.' With just 35 suites and 25 private pool villas, the resort blends traditional Balinese design with refined modern comforts, creating an intimate retreat that balances privacy with a strong sense of place.

What's the vibe? Life here flows at an unhurried pace. Surrounded by rice paddies, rainforests and temples, the property evokes the rhythm of a Balinese village while maintaining the polish of a world-class resort. Interiors by Jeffrey Wilkes lean on carved wood, natural stone and textiles, capturing local traditions without feeling heavy. Every guest is paired with a personal patih butler, ensuring each stay is individually tailored.

What can I do here? Wellness takes centre stage at his retreat. Guests can join daily yoga, meditation or healing sessions led by local practitioners, or explore bespoke cultural experiences such as temple blessings, rice paddy trekking and traditional Balinese rituals. The design and programming encourage immersion rather than observation, fostering a genuine connection to the island.

And the rooms? Suites here are among the largest in Ubud, while villas come with private pools and views over rice terraces, forest or river. Each space is crafted to frame the natural surroundings, whether through open-air pavilions, oversized bathrooms, or terraces that seem to float above the Ayung Valley.

Eating and drinking: Food is both grounding and elevated. Sawah Terrace serves authentic Indonesian cuisine against a backdrop of rice fields and a winding river, often accompanied by Balinese performances. Kubu, the resort's signature fine-dining restaurant, offers international dishes in intimate bamboo cocoons beside the river. Ambar, perched high above the jungle, is the spot for creative cocktails at sunset.

Who comes here? This is a retreat for luxury travellers seeking both seclusion and cultural depth. Couples and families alike find a home here, drawn to the mix of serenity, service and immersion into Balinese heritage. It is as suited to the wellness-focused as to those simply looking for the calm of Ubud without losing the refinement of luxury hospitality.

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