Unique Places To Stay In Bali

Bali is home to some of the world’s most unique, unusual and interesting stays. But choosing between them can be overwhelming. 

That’s why we’re sharing our personal favourites. These handpicked properties redefine luxury and offer a chance to experience something completely different then anywhere else. They’ll inspire travel stories you’ll cherish for a lifetime.

1. Viceroy Bali, Ubud

Uniqueness: Viceroy Bali Luxury Resort is the only resort in Bali with a private helipad. Sitting on a cliff face surrounded by jungle, this resort takes luxury to a new level.

What We Loved?

• The resort has a private helipad. Flying in and landing directly at the hotel was an outstanding way to begin our stay.
• Each of the 40 villas come with a private heated infinity pool overlooking the jungle. It was our favourite spot to relax in privacy.
• There is a fine dining restaurant that has been mentioned in the Michelin Guide. We loved the 8-course degustation which we enjoyed with outstanding wine selected by their in-house sommelier.
• The team takes a great deal of pride in making the stay flawless. We felt pampered with impeccable service throughout the stay.

2. Private Jet Villa, Uluwatu

Uniqueness: This adults-only cliffside retreat offered us an unparalleled stay in the world’s first luxury villa crafted from a repurposed Boeing 737. The novel concept, exclusive service and panoramic views made it one of the most unique villas we’ve ever stayed in.

What We Loved?

• Soaking in the cockpit jacuzzi while admiring breathtaking views of Nyang Nyang Beach and the Indian Ocean felt otherworldly.
• Stepping onto the aircraft wing for a one-of-a-kind entertainment zone experience was truly surreal.
• The meticulous attention to detail in both service and bespoke menus made us feel like royalty.

3. Hideout Bali, East Bali

Uniqueness: This eco-conscious retreat is crafted entirely from locally sourced bamboo. Its architectural beauty and connection to nature made it one of the most distinct stays we’ve experienced.

What We Loved?

• The open-air design kept us cool with natural ventilation — no fans or air conditioning needed. It made us value harmony with the environment.
• Showering under palm trees and soaking in flower-filled hot baths felt like stepping into a tropical dream.
• The tranquil garden views and private space gave us the perfect backdrop for endless photos.

4. COMO Uma Canggu

Uniqueness: This beachfront retreat offered us a rare balance of laid-back luxury and Bali’s vibrant surf culture. It captured the vibrancy of Canggu beautifully.

What We Loved?

• Relaxing in the stylish duplex penthouse and soaking in panoramic ocean views from the private pool.
• Taking surf lessons at the COMO Beach Club’s Surf Shack, where both beginners and seasoned surfers felt at home.
• Indulging in fusion dishes that masterfully blended Indonesian and Western flavours.
• The kids’ space kept little ones entertained with thoughtfully curated books, toys, and activities.
• Unwinding with poolside massages left us utterly rejuvenated.

5. Capella Ubud, Bali

Uniqueness: This rainforest retreat in Keliki Valley transported us back to the 1800s. Its unusual themed tents, inspired by European settlers, and curated cultural activities offered a rare blend of history and luxury.

What We Loved?

• Starting our day on the outdoor deck, taking in the endless valley views with only the sounds of the rainforest around us. This experience was pure magic.
• Exploring Balinese traditions through curated experiences like crafting penjor. It was both enriching and memorable.
• Dining at Api Jiwa’s Robatayaki — the smoky, interactive tasting menu was a culinary journey we’ll never forget.

6. Igloo Glamping Bali, Lake Batur, Songan Kintamani

Uniqueness: Staying in the cool Arctic-inspired igloo tents, surrounded by Bali’s lush tropical charm, was like stepping into two worlds at once. The dramatic volcanic backdrop and unique design created a glamping experience unlike anything else in Bali.

What We Loved?

• Waking up to the postcard-perfect views of Lake Batur and the surrounding majestic mountains. It was a scene we couldn’t stop admiring.
• Watching the sunrise from our igloo tent, wrapped in cosy comfort, made mornings feel magical.
• Seeing the igloos glow at night added a fairytale-like charm to the entire setting.

7. Boutique Hotel Sensation, Tabanan

Uniqueness: This beachfront boutique hotel felt like stepping into an art gallery. Created by architects and fashion designers, its three villas blend art, architecture, and nature. Every detail there was either handcrafted by the owners or collected from their travels. 

What We Loved?

• Unwinding by the turquoise pool in the signature villa, The Cloud. The panoramic views left us in awe.
• The peaceful surroundings of rice fields and a secluded beach gave us a rare sense of serenity.
• Creating our own perfumes during the workshop was an unforgettable, hands-on experience. It brought a creative touch to our experience.

8. Munduk Cabins, North Bali

Uniqueness: Tucked away in the Munduk mountains, this retreat perfectly blends cabin-style charm with five-star luxury. Private hot tubs and sweeping mountain views created a getaway like no other.

What We Loved?

• Soaking in our private jungle-enclosed hot tub with a glass of wine. We were completely immersed in the scenery.
• Wrapping up in soft wool blankets by the fire pit and watching one of the most magical sunsets ever.
• The cabins felt homely with their timeless Indonesian architecture and fully equipped kitchens.
• The jaw-dropping views of the mountains, ocean, and sunsets were unlike anything we’d experienced — truly extraordinary.

9. Natya River Sidemen, East Bali

Uniqueness: Nestled in the serene Sidemen Valley, this riverside retreat combines rural charm, cultural immersion and glamping luxury. Its rice terrace views and tranquil riverside location offered a uniquely immersive experience.

What We Loved?

• Watching the sunrise from the hilltop lobby, with clouds drifting over the mountains, was a truly magical start to our day.
• Floating in the infinity pool, perfectly framed by the lush rice terraces and mountain backdrop, was pure bliss.
• Joining the village walks and rice field tours gave us a chance to connect meaningfully with the local community.

10. Rumah Pohon Treehouse, Nusa Penida

Uniqueness: This hilltop treehouse is above the Thousand Island viewpoint. It gave us a front-row seat to the ocean and breathtaking sunrise views. The rustic charm of living in a wooden treehouse and the untouched beauty of Nusa Penida made our stay truly impressive.

What We Loved?

• We felt a sense of complete seclusion. It was like we had discovered our private paradise.
• Falling asleep to the gentle chirping of geckos in the trees was so calming. 
• Waking up to the soothing sound of ocean waves was magical. It felt like nature’s own alarm clock.

11. Beehouse Dijiwa Ubud

Uniqueness: The unusual beehive-shaped bamboo bungalows were the biggest captivation for us. Surrounded by lush rice paddies and serene views of Mount Agung, the haven felt like a perfect blend of eco-conscious design and tropical luxury.

What We Loved?

• Waking up to sweeping rice field views and the serene sight of Mount Agung from our balcony was the perfect way to start the day.
• Floating in the lagoon-style pool below our beehive-shaped bungalow felt like stepping into a private tropical oasis.
• The rejuvenating citrus bath experience was a sensory treat. The zesty aroma and natural essences left us feeling revitalised.

12. The Kayon Resort Ubud

Uniqueness:

Set in the Ubud hills and surrounded by the holy Petanu River, The Kayon Resort impressed us with its serene ambience and cascading waterfall at its heart. The Canyon Jetty, with mossy cliffs, rippling water, and untouched nature, felt like a peaceful riverside oasis.

What We Loved?

• Waking up to the soothing sound of the waterfall, with serene views from our villa’s veranda.
• Sipping cocktails on Kepitu Restaurant’s wooden deck, with lush jungle views and the sound of gentle flowing water.
• Unwinding at the Canyon Jetty. It’s a serene spot for yoga, light lunches, or simply soaking in nature.

13. Bambu Indah, Ubud

Uniqueness: This eco-conscious boutique hotel combines antique Javanese bridal homes with bamboo treehouse-style accommodations. Surrounded by natural spring-fed pools and lush jungle, it redefines sustainable luxury.

What We Loved?

• Cooling off in natural spring-fed pools surrounded by the lush greenery of the Ayung River valley.
• Dining at the riverside Warung restaurant, with its fresh, organic cuisine and tranquil views.
• Enjoying rejuvenating Balinese massages right in the comfort of our room, creating a deeply relaxing experience.

14. Desa Oculus, Mount Batur, Kintamani

Uniqueness:

Walking into Desa Oculus felt like stepping into the heart of Mount Batur’s volcanic majesty. Nestled within the caldera, this retreat gave us uninterrupted views of the volcano and Lake Batur. 

What We Loved?

• The resort’s design, inspired by Bali Aga heritage, gave us a deeper appreciation for ancient Balinese traditions.
• Dining with panoramic views, including a floating breakfast, was a highlight of our mornings.
• Savouring a Korean BBQ dinner and indulging in cosy afternoon tea made for unique culinary experiences.

15. Hanging Gardens of Bali, Ubud

Uniqueness: This awe-inspiring hotel sits above the lush Ayung River valley. Its iconic split-level infinity pool made us feel like we were floating in the heart of the jungle. It created a truly unforgettable experience.

What We Loved?

• The resort’s split-level architecture, inspired by rice terraces, offered us unique perspectives of the surrounding greenery at every turn.
• Floating in the infinity pool felt like gliding above the jungle. It was an unmatched experience.
• The sumptuous floating breakfast in our pool was 10/10 pampering.
• Traditional English high tea was a charming surprise. It blended sophistication with wilderness.