It’s not a trip to Bali without a little muscle melting massage action. While everyone has their own ‘secret’ go-to, the following are some pretty bucket-list-worthy Bali spa experiences:
#1 On the Edge of a Cliff
What: Heading down the inclinator to Karma Beach is always on our list of recommendations for first timers to Bali. But, if you really want a jaw dropper, book in for a massage post-beach at the cliff hugging Karma Kandara Spa. While many of the hotels along ‘billionaire row’ offer up some killer views of the Indian Ocean, Karma isn’t too pretentious, and captures a Mediterranean ease that will have you sinking into your massage table as the waves roll in off shore. The outdoor soaker pool at sunset? The cherry on top.
Where: Karma Spa at Karma Kandara, Jalan Villa Kandara, Ungusan
Read Also: Luxe Stay: Karma Kandara
#2 In the Middle of a Rice Field
What: A must on any visit to Ubud, the Campuhan Ridge Walk will take you on a relatively easy ridge-top hike skirting two lush rice-terraced valleys. Plan ahead however, and book into the Karsa Spa for a little reward at the end of your journey. Set amidst the rice fields about 500 m from the top of the trail-end, it makes for a perfect destination if you need an excuse to get a little physical. To make a day of it, walk the ridge in the early morning, grab a smoothie and late morning massage at Karsa and then carry on walking a few hundred metres more to Jungle Fish for a dip and some lunch.
Where: Jl. Markandia, Ubud
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#3 On the Banks of a River
What: About 30 minutes outside of Ubud, the Sungai Spa by Nandini offers 2-hour treatments at their Spa on the River where you can chose a rub-down directly on the river bank, on a stone deck beside the lagoon or in a gazebo next to the river. Only allowing 2 guests at a time, if you were looking to plan something romantic (and soothingly aquatic) this is it.
Where: Sungai Spa
Read Also: Looking for Villas in Ubud? We’ve Got You
#4 In a Bamboo Nest
What: Hidden in plain sight at the entrance to Jimbaran beach, the Bamboo Spa by L’OCCITANE mixes their world-renown French botanicals with Asian relaxation techniques. With a signature Verbena Bamboo treatment (you won’t believe how good the Verbena smells) they also offer a slightly interesting collaboration with the Japanese restaurant Oishi Tei below the spa. For around 100 bucks, you get 150 minutes worth of L’OCCITANE massages and body wraps in their Bamboo massage ‘nests’, free pick-up and drop-off service from your villa or hotel, plus a seafood Bento box. Bonus.
Where: Bamboo Spa by L’OCCITANE, Kupu-Kupu Jimbaran, Jimbaran Corner , JL. Bukit Permai
Read Also: Beyond Beautiful Bamboo Worth Travelling for.
#5 After Midnight
What: Don’t think we’re talking about some ‘happy endings’ here as the Away Spa at The W is far from a shady rub and tug. The W, does however, run a ‘Midnight Delight’ with a 25% discount on all treatments from 11PM to 9AM (which also means the early birds get the metaphorical relaxation worm). Specifically targeting guys with a man-focused spa list, a “man-up facial” might be just what you need before heading out for the day.
Where: The W, Jl. Petitenget, Kerobokan, Seminyak
Read Also: Editor’s Picks: Villas in Seminyak for a Long Weekend
Or just spa villa it.
Image Credit: Main