Spa Village Resort, Tembok, Bali

Spa Village in Tembok, Bali, couldn’t be any less that with which we associate the word ‘resort’. There’s no hustle and bustle or gentle grappling for sun loungers around the pool here. Instead it’s an oasis of blissful calm that works with nature to provide a place of sanctuary. In fact with just 31 rooms (including suites and villas), you rarely see another soul.

There’s plenty of tranquil space to breathe and the pace is unhurried. There are no TVs in rooms, mobile phones in public areas are discouraged, and it is an adult only destination. Spa Village is dedicated to Balinese healing, rejuvenation, wellness and spirituality. Every guest is encouraged to take what they need from the retreat: massage therapy and treatments, intellectual reflection, creative stimulation or a more active, invigorating range of exercises. Or simply kick back and do nothing but relax.

Based in the north of Bali – a good three hour drive from Denpasar airport – the spot is beautifully remote, with long stretches of black sandy beach surrounded by soaring volcanic peaks. The special energy is palpable from the moment you arrive.

After two exhausting flights, it’s a relief to arrive to this soothing, airy lobby, and receive a welcome foot soak and back massage. Offered to all guests upon arrival, it’s the absolute perfect way to begin any stay.

We stayed in a Kamar room which merges simple Western elegance with traditional Balinese dwellings. Natural Balinese timber is accented by neutral fabrics, and comes complete with a spacious marble bathroom. Balconies have sweeping views of the lush gardens and ocean.

All ingredients used at the spa are natural, inspired by the local environment and living herbal traditions of Bali. Spa itineraries are tailored for you in advance, so one day you may receive a Balinese Massage, the next: Reflexology, the next: a Lapis-Lapis Body Wrap, but itineraries can be changed upon arrival. There’s also a wonderful pre-treatment named The Segara Giri. Segara means ocean and Giri means mountain in the Balinese language.

As the Spa Village rests between the mountain and the ocean, the black volcanic sand is therefore created by these two forces of nature, thus the pre-treatment ritual begins by cleansing of the feet in the black sand. Balinese belief is that the feet act as a conduit between the energy of the earth and the self, therefore washing the feet is considered a way of purifying the self of any negativity that may arise from the earth.

The treatment rooms are a very short walk away from the guest accommodation so you really can just float around in a robe (or sarong) all day.

Spa Village really does have one of the most beautiful pools; a large midnight blue infinity pool which overlooks the ocean. A great spot to watch the passing jukongs. At night Starlight Gazing sessions are held in the pool; you simply float out on a platform and gaze up at the night sky in wonder, hopefully catching sight of a shooting star as we did on two evenings.

There are several courses to try: Balinese Healing, Jamu, Boreh, Cultural Talks, Balinese Dance, Pencak Silat, Cooking Classes, Yoga Classes or Canang (see below). You can learn about these sacred offerings to the gods, and make your own.

Another lovely thing to do is to take a Jukong (Balinese fishing boat, see above) to enjoy a sunset cruise. Not only will you be rewarded with a spectacular sunset, but you’ll also be able to take a proper look at those majestic volcanic peaks that provide the unforgettable backdrop to Tembok.

The romantic open air Wantilan restaurant with its large thatch roof, sits high above the beach, and is a heavenly spot to catch the gentle sea breeze. Dine on the freshest catch of the day, aided by seasonal ingredients from local farmers in Bali. It’s no exaggeration to say that this is some of the tastiest cuisine CELLOPHANELAND* has ever enjoyed. This is Indonedian fusion at its very best.

For further information please visit: www.spavillageresort.com

Images by CELLOPHANELAND* and Spa Village Resort.

CELLOPHANELAND* was a guest of Spa Village Resort, Tembok, Bali.