Nestled on the cliffs of Bali’s southernmost point, the Umana Bali Resort promises a luxurious, authentic Balinese experience. As the first LXR Hotels & Resorts property in Southeast Asia, it made waves since its grand opening late last year.
This exclusive resort offers a place to stay; it encapsulates the essence of Bali’s rich cultural tapestry, intertwined with modern luxury.
When you step foot into the open-air lobby, you immediately sense the meticulous attention to detail. There are no doors—just an open, serene space. At the center is a gentle water feature beneath a chandelier mimicking the graceful movements of Balinese dancers.
A gong sounds to welcome you, symbolizing your arrival while paying homage to Balinese traditions. This gong ritual reflects the island’s reverence for the coconut tree, as no building in Bali is taller than a coconut tree—considered sacred in Balinese philosophy.
A Journey Through Culture and Symbolism
The resort embodies the spiritual and cultural heritage of Bali. Upon arrival, guests receive a woven bracelet with three intertwining colors: red for creativity, black for reservation, and white for the afterlife.
These colors symbolize the Balinese circle of life, a guiding principle in many facets of life on the island. This touch immediately grounds visitors in the local customs and traditions.
For those unfamiliar with Balinese traditions, the symbolism extends beyond the bracelet. The very location of the resort, perched atop a cliff with panoramic views of the Indian Ocean, was chosen with spiritual significance.
The Balinese believe upper levels are sacred spaces, and being situated on elevated land aligns the resort with these spiritual ideals.
A View Like No Other: Villas with Infinite Luxury
Location is everything, and Umana Bali Resort perfected it. Situated 230 feet above Melasti Beach, this clifftop resort offers a visual feast. If you are booking a stay, villas 218, 219, or 221 are the top choices. These villas boast unrivaled views over the beach and sea, especially during sunset.
The villas themselves are masterpieces of luxury and design. Starting at 4,340 square feet, each villa is an expansive retreat, offering privacy, serenity, and comfort.
The standout feature in every villa is the infinity pool, seamlessly merging into the horizon, making it feel like you are floating above the ocean. Each villa includes a hot tub, outdoor dining spaces, lounge chairs, and a blossoming frangipani tree, a symbol of Balinese spiritual offerings.
Inside, the villa feels as grand as it does outside. Floor-to-ceiling windows open to the pool, creating a smooth indoor-outdoor flow. The large living areas are perfect for relaxation, while the dining space is ideal for a private meal. The master bathroom is enormous, featuring a soaking tub, his-and-hers vanities, and a separate dressing area.
However, don’t let the serenity fool you—be mindful of keeping the sliding doors closed. The resort is home to some cheeky visitors. One guest’s playful encounter with a monkey trying to steal her bikini top is a testament to the close interaction with nature this resort offers.
Exclusivity Defined: The Three-Bedroom Umana Ocean View Villa
The jewel in the resort’s crown is the Three-Bedroom Umana Ocean View Villa. This 12,915-square-foot estate represents grandeur and exclusivity. Designed for families or groups, the villa includes an 82-foot infinity pool, two outdoor dining spaces, and even a private piano in the living room for an evening of entertainment.
The interior features an indoor dining room for eight, a marble-clad bar, and an adjacent pool table. The bathrooms are expansive, with both indoor and outdoor rain showers. It’s perfect for a luxurious retreat or celebration with friends and family.
An in-villa BBQ is a must-do here, with local delicacies like chicken satay and lamb prepared by the resort’s chefs. The highlight? A traditional Legong dance performance, an ancient art form where dancers use dynamic finger movements and intense facial expressions to mesmerize guests.
Lohma Spa: A Sanctuary for the Senses
If the ocean views and serene surroundings don’t completely relax you, the resort’s Lohma Spa will. Designed to be a sanctuary for the senses, the spa features a range of treatments cater to guests seeking to unwind and rejuvenate.
The spa offers a Balinese massage, which is a must-try. Known for its therapeutic properties, this massage uses a combination of acupressure, skin rolling, and soothing strokes to release tension and stress. The spa includes a sauna, steam room, hot and cold plunge tubs, and eight treatment rooms, including a couple’s suite for a romantic spa day.
For a personalized experience, opt for an in-villa massage. Imagine the tranquility of being massaged by the pool with the sound of ocean waves in the background. It’s pure bliss.
Dining: A Fusion of Local and Global Cuisines
Dining at Umana Bali is more than just a meal—it’s an experience. The resort offers a range of culinary delights, from local Indonesian dishes to international flavors. The chefs at Umana pride themselves on using locally sourced, fresh ingredients to create dishes satisfy every palate.
You can order food directly to your villa via WhatsApp for a private dining experience by your pool. The resort’s signature dish, nasi goreng (Indonesian fried rice), is a favorite among guests. Other local dishes, such as satay and gado-gado (a traditional salad with peanut sauce), offer a taste of Bali’s rich culinary heritage.
For those seeking a more intimate dining experience, the resort can arrange a private alfresco dinner under the stars. Pair this with a traditional Kecak dance performance, and you have an evening immerses you in Balinese culture.
Sustainability Efforts: Beyond Luxury
Umana Bali is committed to sustainability, ensuring its impact on the local environment is minimized. The resort’s design incorporates eco-friendly materials, and it emphasizes the use of local products and labor. The villas, for example, are constructed using sustainable wood, and the resort implemented water-saving technologies to reduce its environmental footprint.
Additionally, Umana Bali takes pride in its involvement with the local community. The resort supports Balinese artisans by sourcing locally made products, such as the textiles and décor used throughout the property.
Guests are encouraged to learn about the island’s rich craftsmanship through workshops offered on-site, allowing them to connect with Bali’s cultural heritage while supporting local livelihoods.
Exploring Beyond the Resort: Discovering Bali
While it may be tempting to stay within the luxurious confines of Umana Bali, the island offers much. The resort is located near some of Bali’s most famous attractions, such as the Uluwatu Temple and Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park. Both are within a short drive and offer stunning views and insights into Bali’s spiritual traditions.
Melasti Beach, located directly below the resort, is known for its clear waters and is perfect for a day of snorkeling or swimming. If you’re feeling adventurous, the resort can arrange for guided tours to explore Bali’s hidden gems, such as the Tegalalang Rice Terraces and the Monkey Forest in Ubud.
For surfers, the resort offers access to some of the best waves on the island. The Bukit Peninsula, where Umana Bali is situated, is home to world-famous surf spots like Padang Padang and Uluwatu. Surf lessons and board rentals can be arranged through the resort for both beginners and experienced surfers.
Conclusion: A Resort with Soul
Umana Bali Resort isn’t just a place to stay; it’s an immersive experience connecting guests to the cultural and spiritual heart of Bali. From the moment you arrive, the resort’s attention to detail and commitment to preserving the island’s traditions is evident.
Whether you’re looking to relax by the infinity pool, explore Bali’s rich heritage, or indulge in world-class cuisine, Umana Bali offers it all.
In a world where luxury resorts often feel disconnected from their surroundings, Umana Bali stands out by offering a truly authentic Balinese experience. It’s a vacation; it’s a journey into the soul of Bali, where every detail is crafted to enhance your stay while honoring the island’s cultural legacy.
