Think of Bali and you almost certainly think of white sand beaches, thatched-roof villas open to the sea breeze, and maybe a bit of snorkeling. Alila Ubud, then, will confound expectations, as it shows a different side of Bali.
The town of Ubud is Bali's arts capital, and is inland, surrounded by lush valleys and volcanic hills no less spectacular than the island's beaches. The Alila resort is fifteen minutes from Ubud in the traditional hillside village of Payangan, on the banks of the Ayung River, an ideal location for experiencing the authentic Bali — traditional villages and family compounds dot the hillsides, a far cry from the beachfront development and tourist throngs of the beach resorts.
Mixing contemporary design and traditional Balinese architecture, the result is intimate and refreshingly miles from South Pacific kitsch. Of particular note is the swimming pool: which looks out over the valley and into the jungle below, a much more soothing panorama than the typical ocean view.
If escape is what you're after, this is the place — between the distractions of the Mandara Spa and the unspoiled beauty of the natural surroundings, its easy to feel more like a villager than a tourist.
Not at all the typical Bali getaway, and depending on your tastes, that might be a good thing indeed.
