Enjoy a good book…or indulge in a massage.
Head away from the crowds for the unspoiled east coast of Bali. There you’ll find Alila Manggis, a gem of a boutique resort that combines the best of Bali’s tropical landscape, the sea and the island’s cultural diversity.
Inspired by the traditional Balinese wantila and the royal water palace in the nearby village of Ujung, Alila Manggis features contemporary architecture that is in harmony with its natural surroundings. It is a serene hotel with a distinctive character, backed by gently cultivated rice fields and broad valleys, while the imposing Mount Agung beckons in the distance.
Four graceful Balinese pavilions with grass roofs and interlinked water gardens form a compound of 58 spacious rooms and suites, all with private terraces and day beds. From here, guests can enjoy the ocean.
Interiors have been influenced by the traditional colours of the culturally rich Bali Aga villages which are tucked away in the surrounding valleys. Hand woven textiles, rattan, basketry and local woods such as coconut, have been used to maximum effect, incorporating comforting shades of honey, cream and chocolate all of which reflect the hues of volcanic rock and sand.
The resort’s lobby overlooks calming lotus ponds and a swimming pool set in a beautiful coconut grove where a beach front bale offers a restful retreat. Your options are simple: spend the day lazing beneath the trees by the pool, enjoy a good book while out on your terrace, or indulge in at the resort’s spa.
Food is a way of life at AIiIa Manggis. Noted for its sumptuous meals, Seasalt, with views of the ocean and the pool, serves a menu featuring signature seafood dishes and regional specialties. If you find yourself utterly impressed with your meal, sign up for a cooking class at Alila Cooking School. Here, the resort’s chefs will lead guests on an early morning expedition to purchase the necessary ingredients for a delicious and authentic Balinese meal, before the lively outdoor lesson begins.
There’s fun for divers too; the waters here offer some of the best scuba activity around, including an old shipwreck just 120m (131 yd) off the beach, Geko Dive, the resort’s dive partner, offers PADI-certified dive masters and professional equipment. The area also offers on excellent opportunity for snorkeling and fishing.
Business is not entirely forgotten at Alila Manggis. With windows spanning the water gardens, two meeting rooms cater to groups of up to 30 and can also be used as a private dining area. The resort’s comfortable library houses an extensive collection of reference books and novels, while a charming boutique displays the islands and region’s handicrafts.
Alila Manggis is also a wonderfully romantic destination for a wedding. With its large expanse of manicured lawns, a central pool lit with floating candles, and a private beachfront garden, the hotel is a popular choice with couples looking to tie the knot.
East Bali is a region rich in tradition and culture. Recognizing this, Alila Ubud offers many local excursions that provide valuable insights into Bali’s complex and glorious heritage. The resort also has a series of workshops and tours designed to enhance your enjoyment of the area.
These include personalised tour of Klungkung Hall of Justice and Klungkung Art Museum to learn about the island’s art and fabric design industries, and tours which introduce guests to interesting aspects of the local culture such as astrology, community and local history.
Toking on elegant approach to tourist accommodation in Bali and offering the perfect alternative to the busier southern beach resorts, Alila Manggis is where you will experience another side of this fascinating island-one where inspired design meets grace and tranquility.