NORTH BALI – Step Away From The Crowds

Don’t get me wrong… Bali is still amazing and there is adventure and magic still to be found in any visit. It is simply increasingly difficult to find unspoiled corners where you can enjoy it’s exotic charms in peace. Nowadays it does require a bit more effort and is one big reason why we decided to do a small trip North for a few days to see if we could find some hidden treasures away from the throngs.

We were very cognizant of the fact that Lovina (the main city of North Bali) is also no stranger to tourism and so with our few days in town and a hand selected local guide we asked to be taken off the beaten track and as much as possible away from the popular spots.  Check out some highlights from our latest trip to Lovina in our video below!

We were not disappointed!

A truly authentic local market, with its cacophony of smells and sounds and brightly coloured produce at every turn is a beautiful experience to take in. We spent a solid hour here working our way through the labyrinth-like intersecting lanes, making some great fresh fruit purchases and being warmed by the smiles and friendliness of the local vendors.

A good way to stock up on snacks for the day of exploring ahead.

UNNAMED RICE TERRACE

Location: -8.2773065,115.024156 or -8.2734563,115.0237176

Unlike the insanity of the stream of Chinese Bus tours and mobs of people at Tegalalung, we had the entire area to OURSELVES. With the kind permission of one of the owners we were free to wonder through the fields our hands brushing gently through the bright green rice plants and even take some simply stunning drone shots from overhead… completely alone with only the sounds of nature around us.

 

 

Bliss… and the only way to truly appreciate Balinese rice terraces. I have given two GPS co-ordinates on different sides of the terraces. Best plan is to take a scooter and ride around until you find a side you like, and ask one of the locals if it is ok to take a small walk for some photos. Everyone we crossed was SUPER friendly.

“UNNAMED” HIDDEN WATERFALL

It turns out it DOES have a name, but it took us a while to find it… and more importantly (at least for now) VERY few other people know about this waterfall!

AIR TERJUN UMEJERO is how you will find it on Google Maps. It is a stunning waterfall with a beautiful small pool at its base perfect for swimming.

With it’s moss covered rock cliff rising to the heavens either side of it, it is also a super photogenic waterfall for those budding photos out there.

We spent almost 3 hours here having a picnic lunch and multiple swims through the afternoon on a picture perfect blue sky day and we met exactly ZERO other people the entire time.

Our own piece of private Balinese natural paradise.

BALINESE BUDDHIST TEMPLE

Brahmavihara – Arama Buddhist Monastery and Mini Borobodur

This was a totally unexpected hidden treasure of our adventure. Both Bee and I have seen our fair share of temples, and especially in Bali. We are usually swimming in people and having to be quick in order to get a nice picture of us in front of any temple corner that is remotely beautiful.

This temple is not unknown but is certainly still flying under the radar for now. It is actually the largest Buddhist monastery in Bali which is of course renowned as a predominantly Hindu island. The sprawling gardens and statues are magnificent and the mini Borobodur replica is spectacular.

Nested at the top of a small hill it offers some beautiful views of the surrounding landscape also. Although it is a Buddhist temple, the incorporation of Hindu temple elements including a spectacular set of Hindu gates at the top of a staircase that is simply magnificent.

The monastery also runs Vipassana meditation camps for those interested also, and having done a few of these myself I cannot imagine a more serene place to be doing a course.

Bonus 5th Spot

BANJAR HOT SPRING

This was our last stop of the day and was somewhat back on a traveled path as there was no shortage of tourists when we arrived, but given that it is not far from the Brahmavihara – Arama temple, you may be interested in checking it out on the way back. It provided a nice way to end the long day of exploring with a well earned soak in the hot water spring.

From our research it does seem that the best time to come is actually in the morning first thing (It opens at 9am) before it gets busy and when the water is fresh (!?). If you don’t have time in your day to check it out you are not missing much to be honest. =)

 

If you manage to make it to any of the spots above let us know in the comments what you thought. and also if you found any other hidden gems…. and above all… Don’t tell the tour buses! =)

WHERE DID WE STAY?

For 2 nights, The Damai Resort and Spa was our unforgettable tropical “home”.  Nestled in the hills of Lovina since early 1990’s, The Damai remains one of North Bali’s most original exclusive and luxury villa resort.

With only 15 Balinese villas, The Damai felt more like a home, not a hotel.  We stayed in their Umah Naga Master Pool Villa, a stunning, spacious 300 sq.m. private pool villa with lush gardens and beautiful ocean view.

Of course they have a floating tray for continental breakfast-in-room option; though you can go for a more exotic options if you dine at their restaurant.

Lastly, we must mention about their spa, where you can pamper your body, hair-to-toe (really) with old-age Balinese treatment methods by trained therapists.  Four-handed massage, incense smoke foot massage, coconut milk hair & head massage–you name it.

If you end up staying at The Damai, make sure you pamper yourself at The Damai Spa–you will not regret it.

Stay tuned to our next #LOLSTAY post: an in-depth review of The Damai Resort  & Spa.

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