Unspoilt Bali Roundtrip

• Descriptions
• Additional Info
• Remarks

1^st day:

Your Discover Bali Indonesia English speaking guide will welcome you warmly at Denpasar airport and offer to take you to a nearby beauty salon to experience your first traditional Balinese massage, aimed to dispel the fatigue and aches of your journey. Once you’re nice and relaxed, you’ll head along the south-east coast for an about two hours journey, escaping the fuss of southern Balinese seaside resorts and reaching straight a genuine Balinese area. Your first accommodation is wonderfully secluded in a cove in the island’s far East. You’ll feel like you’re in a Conrad novel in this fantastically refined site, the view from the outstretched wooden decking is just breathtaking. You will have the chance to sample some Balinese specialties at the family style restaurant (first dinner inclusive to the package)(hotel CL-07, far east of Bali).

Notes:

• We'll meet you during your journey in a small restaurant by the sea to, get acquainted, answer any questions and hand over our welcome gifts.
• Your Discover Bali Indonesia English speaking guide could as well pick you up at any hotel in southern Bali (Sanur, Seminyak, Nusa Dua, Jimbaran, Kuta) instead of Denpasar’s airport.
• If you do not want to go for an isolated location we suggest you to stay in Candidasa (hotel CL-12) as an alternative. This accommodation is wonderfully pretty and has eight elegant and comfortable bungalows, all with partially open en-suite bathrooms. Each bungalow is separated from one another by dainty little fish ponds. The pool is a good size, and the restaurant offers a varied and delicate menu and overlooks the sea.

2^nd day

First thing on the agenda for this day is entrance into the Amlapura Royal Palace, which is still inhabited by a few aristocratic descendants; soak up the history that hangs in the atmosphere here. Afterwards, you’ll then be taken to a traditional market where you’ll have the chance to sample some local specialities. In the afternoon, you’ll be able to bathe in the private, fresh water baths of the ancient king of Karangasem (who had a extravagant luxury taste!). Once you’re nice and royally refreshed, you’ll be able to take a short hike in the beautiful rice fields in the region of Tirtagangga.  Afterward your guide will lead you to a beautiful and very well hidden white sand beach where you will meet the fishermen of the village and try a freshly cut coconut. You’ll be back at your accommodation in the late afternoon for a free evening (hotel CL-07,  far east of Bali).

Notes:

• If you’d prefer something sportier then you might decide to hike for about three hours, heading towards the Pura Lempuyang temple which is the highest perched temple on the island and has a stunning view of the Agung volcano. This trail is considered to be a walk of purification by the Balinese which is rewarded with meeting Sang Hyang Widhi, the supreme god of their island. Simply express your wishes to your guide !
• We can arrange a Balinese cooking class at your hotel (around 25$ per person).

3^rd day

Early in the morning, you’ll go along one of the most scenic roads on the island, skirting around the Mount Seraya; you’ll see very remote villages, some still having houses made of volcanic stones. You will stop in Amed, home to fishing villages and colourful boats to observe the prehistoric techniques of salt making, before moving on northwards to Tulamben to snorkel and see the wreck of a ship from World War II. By mid-afternoon you’ll travel through backcountry to get to the small village of Budakeling, where you can visit the workshops of jewelers before making a short walk up a small temple where you get a breathtaking view of the region. Then you will stop at Ujung Water Palace, where 400 concubines of the king once swam, before returning to your hotel and spend a free evening (hotel CL-07, lost in the far east of Bali).

 

4^th day

First thing in the morning you’ll venture on a one to three hours hike (depending on your desired degree of difficulty) in the deep countryside, crossing traditional villages that are tucked right in the midst of rice paddies. This will walk you down the mountain and into the plain, exploring both beautiful rural landscapes and the daily lives of these quiet villages; these trails are completely removed from the touristic paths. You will end your tour with a visit to an aboriginal tribe (the original inhabitants of Bali).

You’ll have your lunch at Padang Bay, with the opportunity to get to a small white sand beach which is only accessible by foot; if the tide permits, you might want to snorkel around the corals for some time. The town of Klungkung will be next on the itinerary where you’ll visit to the Palace and the old Court of Justice, which has a fantastic painted ceiling depicting scenes from Balinese mythology. You will also get to explore an interesting museum devoted to daily life and Balinese traditions, visit the town’s traditional market before setting off to the mountainous hinterland, and visit the area where people still scrupulously follow the ceremonies and celebrations of the traditional Balinese calendar. On this plateau of rice fields and hills, a sacred river flows with transparent waters and whose swirls in between the rocks form natural Jacuzzi.

We have selected an exquisite place for you to stay here at the south of the Agung volcano. The dozen rooms in this accommodation are grand and luxurious by their size and tasteful furnishings. They are light and airy with views of the volcano. The menu of the restaurant is extensive and the quality of service is quite exceptional in this remote and hidden area. When you arrive you’ll have the opportunity to take a leisurely walk through the rice fields and bath in the river with the local people. Free evening (hotel CM-06 hotel, mountains of central-east).

 

5^th day

In the morning you will have the opportunity to undertake a trek through the rice terraces, which concludes by climbing a hill to a small temple that dominates the entire region like an eagle's nest. To reward you for this effort we invite you to swim in the clear waters of a river which begins at the foot of the volcano.

In the afternoon you can have a peak at the traditional craft of weaving and visit a small distillery of arak, traditional Balinese alcohol. You’ll visit the Besakih temple next, the largest on the island which is built on the flanks of Agung volcano, considered the home of the Balinese Gods. In the late afternoon you’ll return to your lodging where you’ll spend a free evening. If you’d like we could arrange, during this day, for you to participate in traditional festivities (a cremation, a temple anniversary, a wedding or a teeth filing session) an experience which might well be the highlight of your Balinese holidays! (hotel CM-06 hotel, mountains of central-east Bali).

 

6^th day

You will head north early morning into the deep mountain forest before reaching the stunning caldera of the Batur volcano and the gigantic lake. After taking in this stunning view, you’ll explore the caldera itself. The drive will take you through the lava flowing hills to a village of low stone houses that are quite reminiscent of Tibet.  We will visit a small temple whose history is marked by the eruptions of the Batur which it miraculously survived. After having had lunch your guide will lead you to the majestic mountain of Gunung Kawi, where you can see the huge rock-cut royal tombs and the sacred baths of Tampaksiring.  Heading in the direction of Ubud, the cultural and artistic capital of Bali, you’ll make a stop at the village Petulu where you’ll see hundreds of herons congregating before you arrive at your next accommodation late in the afternoon. Your nights’ stay is located in a village separated from downtown by the Monkey Forest Sanctuary (ten minutes walk). The bungalows are particularly warm and tastefully furnished and there’s a small private garden hidden from view. You can also enjoy the pool and the hotel spa that offers various treatments, all in a friendly and intimate environment. Free evening. We suggest you to benefit from the various and excellent dining opportunities in downtown Ubud.
(CB-07 hotel, Ubud).

Notes:

• If you appreciate absolute seclusion you may opt to stay at a very hidden little gem (hotel CM-05) for an extra of 15$ per person) located in the depths of ​​vast rice paddies, completely untouched by tourism. The six rooms, half of them being wooden bungalows from Java (joglos), are tastefully arranged. The quaint and pretty restaurant provides delicious fusion food using local products, the pool overlooks rice fields. To make it short  the place is amazingly romantic and authentic, the only disadvantage is that it needs a 20 minute drive to reach the centre of Ubud. However it is still possible for you to dine downtown if you wish, transport can be arranged upon request.
• Alternatively, for an additional charge of 110$ per night per person, you may opt for an exquisite resort (hotel CS-02) which is located in walking distance from central Ubud. This place celebrates Balinese art and overlooks a small valley with a glorious landscape. The pool is majestic and the spa is one of the most famous in Ubud. Take the chance to experience expanded luxury within a genuine Balinese ambiance, you will not be deceived.

 

7^th day

You will start the day with a visit to one or two art museums, one of which is dedicated to Antonio Blanco, the "Dali of Bali", an eccentric painter whose life has been quite dreamy. The Neka museum highlights the history of Balinese painting, from the historical and religious tradition right through to its contemporary expression.  Afterwards you’ll be taken up to Kintamani by car where you’ll start your bicycle trek, accompanied by your guide, back down to Ubud. You’ll follow a route off the beaten path through the heart of traditional Bali, weaving through remote villages, surrounded by  some small forests and terraced rice paddies landscapes , and passing some of the oldest temples on the island (dating back to the ninth century) that are not shown on the maps. Back in Ubud (past the finish line ...) you’ll be rewarded with a body treatment (called "mandi lulur") at a beautiful spa  of resplendent Asian design which will replenish your skin. The massage therapist will pass a soothing ointment over the body, before doing a ‘peeling’, ridding your skin of all dead cells. The treatment will end with a relaxing essential oil and flower bath. In the evening you may decide to watch Balinese dances at the Royal Palace (about 10 $ per person extra charge) (CB-07 hotel, Ubud).

 

8^th day

In the morning you’ll explore a archeological site that dates back to the Hindu-Buddhist time of the eleventh century, and take a one-hour walk in the rice fields and along a river shaded by coconut palms. Later you will be driven along an impressive canyon before reaching the Sukawati market, which specializes in the sale of textiles and crafts at very attractive prices.

At midday you’ll have your lunch on the beach of a small fishing village where you can sit down and enjoy some fish skewers while you peacefully observe the comings and goings of the colorful boats. In the afternoon you will go to Bangli, a town situated at the heights of Gianyar, to visit Pura Kehen, the private temple of the royal family of Bangli. This temple is a miniature replica of the famous temple of Besakih. You’ll also stop at a village that has preserved its traditional architecture (this is an opportunity to introduce you to "Balinese feng shui") and that continues to maintain ancestral customs, turning its back on modernity. Later on we suggest you to enter the house of Pak Nangah Karsa, who is quite a colourful character! This renowned artist is a sculptor, dancer and musician. He manufactures and handles with great dexterity puppets for shadow theatres, enjoys hiding behind the masks he has designed to perform a dance from the Ramayana, and plays marvelously the various gongs of the gamelan orchestra from his studio. He and his wife will welcome you for an hour or two for a session of exploring Balinese arts. In the early evening, you can enjoy an authentic Balinese night market in Gianyar (perhaps you'll be tempted by the suckling pig?) or rather opt to dine in Ubud (CB-07 hotel, Ubud).

 

9^th day

You’ll depart early in the morning to make your way to the mountains of northern Bali. You will initially arrive in the Jatiluwih area, a small mountain village hidden away in a maze of terraced rice fields. For an hour or two, cross the paths of the rice field workers on a leisurely stroll. Take this opportunity to familiarize yourself with the ancestral culture of the cereal that nourishes this island and the complexity of this agricultural design. Next you’ll move on to the shores of lake Bratan, whose waters often mingle with the clouds; you will have the opportunity to visit a beautiful and photogenic temple and a flower market. In the afternoon you will be taken along a breathtaking ridge road to the shores of the best preserved mountain lakes of Bali which you’ll cross by boat guided by a fisherman before undertaking a one hour hike in the rainforest. Later we'll take you to see a giant banyan tree (it is said that more than 200 people can hide in its branches !) which is considered to be the tallest tree on the island, good pretext to push you for an hour in a remote area with gorgeous panorama. Around 6 am uou’ll reach the coastal plain and arrive at your next accommodation in the region of Lovina. Run by a Balinese family it is small, pretty and has an undisturbed view of the ocean. The bungalows are comfortable with open air bathrooms. Enjoy the swimming pool and do take advantage of watching the sunset over the sea of Bali. Free evening (CB-01 hotel, Lovina).

 

10^th day

Your day will begin at dawn to board an outrigger canoe to experience an unusual sunrise with the possibility, if you wish, of seeing dolphins frolic about in the water. You will also have the opportunity to snorkel around the region’s most beautiful coral reefs. After having had a rest back at your hotel you’ll move onto famous hot springs. You can relax in a natural and beautiful setting with the knowledge that there are great benefits from this source of water. The baths are lavish, nicely sculpted basins. It will also be possible for you to explore a small Buddhist monastery built on a hillside and gain access to the areas that are dedicated to meditation practice.  You’ll then follow the coast towards the West, stopping at the Melanting temple which is built on the edge of the natural park of Bali. You’ll finish the afternoon off by arriving at your next lodging which is superbly situated in a bay surrounded by the mountains of the Natural Park of Bali. This hotel is exotic yet sophisticated, the large beds are adorned with white drapes and linen and the stone bathrooms are sensual, open sanctuaries. The large aquamarine pool has an impeccable view of the sea and the restaurant specializes in Thai cuisine.  Just a stone’s throw away is a very pleasant beach with calm waters , the coral, only a few meters from shore, is a very nice snorkeling spot. Free evening (hotel CL-01, northwest of Bali).

 

11^th day

Enjoy this day to discover the small island of Menjangan, just 5 miles away from the north-west coast of Bali and the centre of one of the largest marine reserves in Indonesia. You can go scuba diving (extra € 70 per person) or go snorkeling (included) to watch the coral reefs which are perfectly preserved, with myriads of fish displaying the most vivid colors; a magical underwater realm that must be seen. There will be lunch at a small restaurant along the beach. Early on in the afternoon you may visit the natural park trails which are entitled to vehicles (at very low speed!) to see deer, monkeys and birds in their natural habitat. You can then enjoy a drink in a panoramic wood restaurant which sits three stories above the forest, making it an excellent vantage point. You will be back at your hotel at late afternoon and spend a free evening (Hotel CL-01, northwest of Bali).

 

12^th day

On the way to the South of Bali your will stop at a pearl oyster farm to learn more about the startling secrets of their production and quality. Then you will take one of the most Bali’s scenic drive that will take you through an array of breathtaking rice terraces, going through the small traditional village of Pupuan and taking a one hour trip to the Pujungan waterfalls. You may decide to undertake a hike around the Belimbing area which will give you the chance to truly savor the countryside (two to four hours depending on the desired degree of difficulty – about 15 $ extra charge per person for the services of a local trail guide). You’ll end your day at the unspoiled South West coast where we have selected a luxurious site for you to spend the night. The bungalows are nestled in a vast coconut grove that borders the Indian Ocean, decorated with a high degree of refinement, bespoke details in the furnishings, each with a private garden and a partially open en suite bathroom. The restaurant is of a gastronomic type and provides a wide wine menu. Free evening. (hotel CL-02, southwest of Bali).

Note:

• You may wish to opt for accommodation in Mengwi region (hotel CL-11). This gorgeous boutique hotel overlooks a vast expanse of rice fields; it really is a dreamy location with water features on site as well as a delightful pool and an excellent restaurant. The eight bungalows are spacious and distinguished by their en-suite bathrooms where the tub is surrounded by a fishpond.

 

13^th day

In the morning you’ll make your way to Taman Ayun, which is the temple of the royal family of Mengwi that was built in the seventeenth century and has an overall ‘zen’ inducing structure. Or you may prefer to visit the temple of Tanah Lot which is built on a rocky outcrop separated from the shore at high tide (by agreeing on this choice you’ll be momentarily subjected to mass tourism!). Later on your guide will drop you at the airport or at a location in the South of Bali (Sanur, Kuta, Seminyak, Canggu, Jimbaran, Nusa Dua, Bukit ...). End of your Discover Bali Indonesia tour.

 

The benefits:

Your English speaking guide will be happy to advise you, but will also adapt to any time you wish. You have the ability to change your choice of activities. He may stop at any time and change course. Of course he will continuously strive to use the roads that give you a much more intimate connection with true Bali. If you come across a religious ceremony, you may well decide to get your vehicle to participate in the procession for a while; you are in charge.

The program of your stay is flexible; it will not hinder your freedom. You can change it on the spot even after acceptance of this estimate (excluding night stays).

We greet you at the airport, and we will be present on the island for the duration of your trip so you can intervene if necessary. We will answer your questions and also look forward to meeting you in the middle of your tour (if you let us of course!).

Everything is done for you to be immersed in the authenticity of Indonesia; it’s up to you to make the most of all it can bring, in respect of the inhabitants, and in relation to your specific needs.

Upon your request we can take you to a school and / or clinic campaign (the ability to distribute school supplies and medication). For ethical reasons we must know that these institutions are always different so as not to corrupt the spontaneous exchanges. On this subject know that Bali is forbidden to mix authentic 'charities' and marketing, and will always be discreet about its own actions in this area.

 

Costs include:

• Airport transfers
• Accommodation
• The reservation fee    
• The payment of your private English speaking guide for 13 days (including accommodation and meals, except those made at your table upon your invitation)    
• The rental of your air conditioned car and petrol for 9 days    
• Entries into the temples, palaces, museums and archaeological sites    
• Activities specified in the estimate included.

 

Not included in this package:

• Return flights to Indonesia and airport taxes (about 12 € paid upon return)    
• Special insurance which would be advisable to acquire    
• Lunch and dinners    
• Activities not included in the estimate    
• Costs related to program changes that are made at the last minute (change of hotel reservations)    
• Tips

See descriptions for details