Eli Orzessek reveals four places offering the ultimate treats in dining, relaxing and well-being in Indonesia
RESTAURANT: Mozaic
For French cuisine with a Balinese twist, head to Mozaic in Ubud. Helmed by executive chef Chris Salans, this Michelin-starred restaurant is one of Bali's most famous and best-loved. Offering three innovative tasting menus, including a six-course vegetarian option, Mozaic showcases local flavours and ingredients. The main part of the restaurant is set outside in a tropical garden, which will leave you feeling like you're eating in the jungle. For a real luxury experience, guest can opt for a private dinner experience with a personally designed menu — the chef is yours for the evening and will prepare your dishes for you.
RESORT: Alila Villas Uluwatu
On the south of the island in the dry savannah of the Bukit Peninsular, this ultra-luxury resort is perched on limestone cliffs 100m above the ocean. As you'd expect, the view is breathtaking — especially from the beautiful infinity pool. Designed by award-winning Singapore firm WOHA, the resort mixes traditional Balinese pavilion architecture with modernist ideas — it's an Instagrammer's dream. The stylish villas come with private swimming pools and you'll be assigned a 24-hour personal butler for your stay. And of course, there's a glamourous spa to indulge your mind and body.
RETREAT: Fivelements
Amid tropical jungle on the outskirts of Ubud, this five-star luxury resort offers a number of special wellness retreats, ranging from three to 21 nights. With only nine exclusive suites, you'll bask in seclusion while relaxing on your open balcony looking out over the peaceful Ayung River. At Fivelements' retreats, holistic Balinese therapies are administrated by traditional healers and the food is fresh and made to nourish the senses.
RELAXATION: Thermes Marins & Spa On the Rocks
If you've got around $690 to spend on your face, this luxury day spa has just the treatment for you. The extravagant and indulgent 2-hour Diamond Miracle treatment includes champagne, strawberries and a facial using a formula of sea quartz and diamond dust. And if the treatments aren't enough to impress, the location certainly will. Part of the Ayana Resort, the spa is perched right on the edge of a rock face overlooking the Indian Ocean. Guests can also soak in Bali's only Aquatonic seawater jet pool while enjoying the spectacular view.