Perched on the island’s southernmost tip at Ungasan, Umana Bali marks the brand’s first resort in South East Asia, as it joins the exclusive collection of LXR Hotels & Resorts properties…
The LXR portfolio is known for bespoke service and one-of-a-kind experiences and at Umana Bali, has drawn from Balinese Tri Hita Karana philosophy and its three pillars, Nature, People and Spirituality, to create a meaningful, contemporary vision. Authentic connections with nature, living crafts and rejuvenating holistic wellness rituals bring the destination to life for guests. Each unique experience is inspired by traditional Balinese culture, then developed to delight today’s sophisticated explorers in pursuit of their own personal adventures.
In line with Hilton’s global mission of being deeply committed to responsible tourism, Umana Bali prioritises both local community and the environment through partnerships with skilled local artisans to create a sanctuary where luxury meets responsibility. Through these partnerships, the resort has commissioned unique pieces of art, sourced local materials like exquisite Javanese marble and rattan and developed eco-friendly amenities including vanity kits made from recycled banana leaf paper, coconut shell boxes and natural slippers woven from pandan and mendong fibres.
Architecture, landscape architecture and interiors by celebrated global design firm WATG | Wimberly Interiors reflect local legends, beliefs and customs, etching Bali’s living artistry into patterns and spaces to foster a vibrant sense of community. The design of Umana Bali stands as a balanced convergence of divine, communal and natural elements, inviting guests to partake in Bali’s timeless dance of unity and respect. Contemporary sculptures of Balinese dancers are adorned with ancient coins used as offerings on important occasions and temple decorations. The striking metal and handblown glass chandelier in the lobby is inspired by the fan-like movements of the iconic Legong Keraton or Kraton (Dance of the Palace).
Private and exclusive, the spacious and luxuriously appointed villas offer guests the ultimate escape. Starting from 403 square metres, each villa features its own private infinity-edge pool and outdoor hot tub, while the three-Bedroom Umana Pool Villa sprawls across an impressive 1,200 square metres, making it an ideal retreat for multigenerational families or groups. Exceptional facilities include a striking contemporary chapel for clifftop weddings against sunset hues, as well as beautiful event spaces, a state-of-the-art fitness centre and dynamic kids’ club.
Wellness and wellbeing are front and centre at The Lohma Spa, where a mix of personalised and holistic ancient healing traditions and contemporary therapies such as ‘The Self’ resets physical energy and builds strength, while ‘The Body’ encourages emotional release through deep relaxation techniques. Namesake treatment ‘The Lohma Spa’ is a signature authentic Indonesian massage that utilises energised gemstones to revitalise the body, a trending alternative practice.
Lohma Spa offers an extensive selection of treatments designed to be conducted individually or collectively. Groups of various sizes can experience the power of collective sound healing; Holotropic breathwork for self-exploration and positive transformation; or cold-water immersion, which supports cardiovascular, immune and mental health, resulting in a natural high and deep sense of contentment.
Activities which can be tailored for the whole family include yoga, sound healing, meditation, as well as dedicated pampering and relaxation for little ones, from balancing back and scalp massages to foot treatments and ‘breathe into calmness,’ a breathing exercise followed by stretching and sound healing with a Tibetan singing bowl. Additionally, guests may relax both mind and body through sound meditation sessions and soul blessing ceremonies at The Lohma Spa or within the comfort of their villa.
Umana Bali sources more than 80 per cent of its produce from local farms and its own hydroponic herb and vegetable garden to ensure the freshest and most flavourful and nutritious experiences for guests across its diverse collection of restaurants and bars. Many of the wines featured at the resort are grown and produced in Bali, each sip telling a story of the vineyards that dot the island’s diverse landscape.
Clifftop restaurant Oliverra brings guests on a journey through the Mediterranean, while Commune prepares the finest South East Asian cuisine with a local twist. Its interactive show kitchen houses a spit-roast grill to prepare Umana’s version of popular local favorite, Babi Guling. At the Pad Pool Bar, guests can sip on handcrafted cocktails while enjoying stunning views of the Indian Ocean. Inspired by the ocean, Mer Lounge is a tranquil space where guests can relax while creating their own refreshments from its minibar. Launching in April 2024 with Miami-inspired design influences and fresh Peruvian flavors, Uma Beach House will be a surfside escape boasting views of Melasti Beach’s clear turquoise waters and soaring limestone cliffs.
To discover Bali’s natural beauty, guests can embark upon an exhilarating helicopter ride for an awe-inspiring bird’s-eye view of Mount Batur’s volcanic pinnacle, followed by a beachside bonfire barbecue. Stargazing with a resident astronomer, Layang Layang kite-making with a master kite builder and local cooking classes within a home kitchen provide inspiring engagement with local Balinese people. A wealth of holistic spiritual and wellness experiences include ceremonies and rituals to purify, bless and celebrate, as well as meditations and consultations with priests and temple elders that forge genuine, meaningful connections to the Island of the Gods.
Main image credit: LXR Hotels & Resorts