There are so many outstanding Spa's in Bali and we enjoyed experiencing many of them we wanted to ensure we had sufficient background to this piece so we had Judy Chapman help us out! Judy is the former Editor-in-Chief of Spa Asia magazine and columnist for Wellbeing Australia magazine. She is author of 4 best selling books on spas, aromatherapy & bathing including "Aromatherapy recipes for your oil burner"™ (Harper Collins) and "Ultimate Spa"™ (Periplus).
Her debut novel ‘My Singapore Lover’ (Monsoon Books) was published in October 2013 and launched at the Ubud Writers Festival in Bali and is available throughout bookstores in South East Asia and in Australia.
A big thank-you to Judy for your help, I'm sure our fans are thankful for your expert opinion.... Enjoy!
KARMA SPA AT KARMA KANDARA - OUR FAVOURITES
One of the few spas in Bali offering postcard perfect elevated views over the Indian ocean. Karma Spa consists of sublime rustic-luxe huts and an Infrared Detox Sauna set seductively into ragged limestone cliffs. Long revered for their therapeutic massages and celebrity Oxygen Facials, their team of anatomy-trained bodyworkers now integrate healing reiki into all their GMO-free treatments - lifting this spa to an even higher vibration.
ACQUA PERLA SPA - OUR FAVOURITES
This Alice-in-wonderland spa set inside the new Double Six Hotel offers something unique for spa-goers. Comprises of two spacious wellness floors of curved spaces, a yoga room, wet area and a fitness center. The highpoint is the fun-park style detox Vitality Hydro Trail that consists of a journey through seven alternative hot and cold experiences, the first of its kind on the island.
THE SPA AT SENTOSA - OUR FAVOURITES
Need a spiritual coaching session after your massage? Why not enhance your juice cleanse with a Vitamin IV infusion shot? Set in one of Seminyaks best boutique hotels, this is one of the few spas in Bali that embraces the full spectrum of wellness. The menu comprises of beauty, holistic. wellness, juice cleanses, medical spa and fitness, the ideal mix for a healthy getaway.
THE HEALING VILLAGE SPA AT FOUR SEASONS, JIMBARAN BAY - OUR FAVOURITES
With night fire yoga, Balinese cleansing ceremonies and kundalini crystal healing, there’s nothing cliché about this beachside garden spa set in one of Bali’s most established resorts. However, proving that natural and anti-aging is no longer an oxymoron, they have also launched the ‘Pure TDA Facial’, a machine-based facial that combines supercharged bio-active ingredients – with lasting results.
SPA ALILA AT ALILA SOORI - OUR FAVOURITES
Architecturally, one of the sexiest spas on the island – a modernist sanctuary made from local charcoal volcanic stone, facilities include heated terrazzo beds, sunken baths and rain showers. Distinctive Asian therapies are delivered by their team of intuitive therapists in dim-lit sultry treatment rooms. The highlight? The Alila branded take-home collection of natural His and Hers products.
THE BVLGARI SPA - OUR FAVOURITES
Entrance through the stunning Joglo house provides a memorable start to your spa journey at this breezy cliff-top location Give your being over to ESPA trained therapists and surrender to Balinese wellness, anti-aging facials and cleansing rituals. Feeling indulgent? Book your treatment in one of the Spa Pavilions featuring outdoor showers, plunge pool and steam.
ROYAL KIRANA SPA - OUR FAVOURITES
Undeniably one of the most exquisitely designed in South East Asia, this day spa comprises of several double-story spa villas all overlooking a jungly Ayung river. Book a royal treatment here with loved ones and relax afterwards in an open-air spa lounge and garden featuring a rock swimming pool with bales, herbal mist sauna, steam and Jacuzzi – why not linger all day.
THE BREEZES BALI RESORT AND SPA - OUR FAVOURITES
Designed with a sensual Asian aesthetic, charming lily ponds and soothing streams foster relaxation and rejuvenation. Choose from an indulgent variety of authentic Balinese treatments using hand-made botanical creams, scrubs and masks. Contemporary manicures and pedicures offer the latest hues from Revlon and OPI. The Spa offers guests a refreshing timeout, delicate beautification, and indefinitely, a calm to be remembered.
MAYA UBUD - OUR FAVOURITES
Soak your soul in a flower bath overlooking the rainforest at this lush riverside spa in Ubud. The menu offers a blend of locally crafted therapies and European facials and more recently they have added a yoga pavilion to their wellness offerings. However it’s the nearby River Café offering conscious cuisine and cold pressed juices that has us yearning for more.
THERMES MARINS - OUR FAVOURITES
With one of the world’s largest seawater therapy pools as its centerpiece, this luxury spa offers more rejuvenating ways to heal and cure than your average massage. Experiences include underwater massages and aqua exercise classes as well as a variety of Balinese wellness, detox and slimming treatments - plus the destination Spa on the Rocks where high-calibre facials are delivered.
SPA BY L'OCCITANE
Every gesture, every ingredient, every ritual is drawn from a page of the L’Occitane grand herbarium, a resource of hundreds of essential oils and natural ingredients. The escape begins with scent. From the moment you enter a Spa L’Occitane, the fragrances transport you to Provence.
The Spa is a natural extension of our brand. In respect for authenticity, we always prefer hand-performed treatments over machines and traditional massage techniques over technologies.
Our treatment menu and massage sequences are developed in close collaboration with our global Spa experts. This way, they are nurtured and inspired by the techniques and traditions from all around the world.
AWAY SPA AT THE W RETREAT & SPA - OUR FAVOURITES
With a detox oxygen bar where long haul guests can recover in style, this rather glitzy refuge is the first 24 hour spa in Bali. X-factors include the '24K Gold Wrap' and ‘Yoga Facial' - plus there’s a champagne on tap served at Chill Bar. We are quite smitten with their unique collection of massages delivered with warm ginger packs and bamboo stick rolls.
REMEDE SPA AT ST REGIS RESORT - OUR FAVOURITES
With nurturing treatments, rejuvenating wet areas and complimentary Balinese Tai Chi, yoga and meditation, this beachfront residence has all the amenities one needs for a luxury spa escape. Well-executed therapies include the signature Remede Customzied Massage alongside Javanese healing, and reiki. When you’re done, boost your circulation further in the Aqua Vitale sea salt therapy pool. – you’ll feel sensational.
COOL SPA - OUR FAVOURITES
Popular with Bali Bible fans, what makes this low-key spa sought-after is the owners passion for massage, as demonstrated by a menu of best of the best from Japan, Thailand China, Bali – and Hawaii. Feeling the heat? The USP for Cool is their underwater themed treatment room designed to help travelers unwind. There’s also the much-loved Balinese classic outdoor flower baths – all at mind-soothing prices.
PRANA SPA BALI - OUR FAVOURITES
This rather opulent Ayurvedic-Middle Eastern inspired spa is situated in the hub of Seminayk and also houses a yoga studio, a spa lounge serving moreish cuisine and drinks plus a Turkish bathing facilities with icy cold and steaming hot dip pools. Journey through a menu of exotic rituals including Moroccan Herbal Baths, Gold-infused massages and Marrakesh foot rituals to name a few.
THE SHAMPOO LOUNGE - OUR FAVOURITES
A New York inspired double-story loft with its black and white checkered floors and classic barber stations encompasses all you need for quality nail, hair and gentlemen’s grooming. The team of upbeat staff will get you ready for your night out with great blowouts and make-overs using brands like MAC, Loreal and Dior to name a few. We love the Gentlemens Barber, the spot for quality traditional wet shaves and sports pedicures. Look out for their half-price Keratin and Hair Straightening promotions.
THE SPA AT THE MULIA RESORT - OUR FAVOURITES
So worth a visit just to experience their state-of-the-art thermal ‘Wellness Suite’ facility. This 20-room spa set inside the expansive upscale hotel features a modern-day hammam, personalized steam rooms, ice fountains and hot and cold pools – ideal for a half or full day retreat. Top off restful massages with tonics curated from locally grown ingredients at the on-site juice bar.
SPA AT ALILA VILLAS ULUWATU - OUR FAVOURITES
A divine spa destination set atop a cliff-top contemporary hotel where topnotch massages are offered by a team of first-rate therapists. We are inspired by the full day ‘Journey to You’ that consists of nutritious breakfast followed by yoga, loads of spa therapies, lunch and more spa, sunset meditation, dinner – with the finale, a heavenly massage under the stars.
WAROENG DJAMOE SPA AT TUGU BALI - OUR FAVOURITES
Imagine the sensation of being anointed with warm indigenous oils as your therapist chants soothingly through the ether. Situated inside the boutique art hotel famous for its antique collection, the spa houses individually crafted heritage Indonesian treatment spaces. Honoring the depth and mystique of Bali, journey through a menu of exotic therapies embracing elements of water, blessing, dance and movement.
THE SPA AT THE LEGIAN - OUR FAVOURITES
We are obsessed about the organic ila-spa treatments at this luxury spa situated at the beachfront boutique GHM Hotel. With dark teak timber and soft creamy interiors, the spa feels soothing and timeless. The menu offers an assembly of Balinese bathing ceremonies and REN facials to the more esoteric Bio-Rhythm and Kundalini Back Massags - and a Moroccon Rhassoul ritual.
BODY TEMPLE SPA - OUR FAVOURITES
A growing little franchise of mid-range priced spas on the island, there are now three Body Temple spas located at the Canggu Club. Their menus are presented in uncomplicated categories like ‘Detox Me’ and ‘Relax Me’ making it easy for first timers to spa to select their experiences. Staples include massage, facials and body rituals delivered using the French THEMAE brand. Unique offerings include their kids spa treatments and LED teeth whitening.
DALA SPA AT ALAYA UBUD - OUR FAVOURITES
This spa deserves mention for transforming local Balinese and Indonesian traditions into memorable healing experiences. Well-trained therapists bestow a range of unique therapies; imagine palm sugar and coconut cream body scrubs - all concluding with a Jamu tonic. The element of intrigue is their Indonesian boudoir treatment rooms and the highlight, organic spa cuisine and spa product classes.
SACRED RIVER SPA AT FOUR SEASONS RESORT BALI AT SAYAN - OUR FAVOURITES
Revered for their innovative menu of Ayurvedic-Balinese treatments that draw upon ancient Hindu healing rituals, this sublime spa with its outdoor bathing experiences offers meaningful therapies to rebalance your energy. Explore trantric rituals and experience real-life Balinese healers. For a memorable experience book your treatment in the deluxe Spa Villa that is surrounded by tranquil pools.
SPRING SPA - NEWLY OPENED + OUR FAVOURITES
Well-positioned on the happening strip of Jl Petitenget, Spring offers a fresh approach to spa. Set in a communal loft-style space, interiors are light with dashes of happy spring colours of pink and yellow. Massages are excellent value for the price and a must-try is one of the New York Bliss Facials. A live DJ playing every afternoon adds to the uplifting atmosphere.
HEAVENLY SPA AT THE WESTIN RESORT - NEWLY OPENED
This newly opened five-star spa has much to offer in quality rituals, visiting masters and a Himalayan Salt Sauna. The treatment menu offers some original concepts - try the 2-hour ‘Cleanse’ that starts with a beach powerwalk followed by a body scrub and invigorating massage. In addition, a Westin Kids Spa and complimentary yoga and meditation.
VIETURA ARTISAN OF ANTI AGING - NEWLY OPENED
A medical spa located within the five-star Sofitel Bali luxury hotel – now that’s an innovative collaboration! Vietura is the new kid on the block and offers 100% non-invasive facials and detox packages - all administered by registered doctors and nurses. Service here is first class and the spa fit out features light timber floors and cream interiors that instills a calming ambience.
COMO SHAMBHALA ESTATE - RETREATS
With a highly qualified team of experts, this flagship wellness destination has long been revered for their year-round health retreats tailored to stress management, detox and healing. There are dawn to dusk fitness, pilates and yoga classes plus nourish oneself on rawfood at the Glow restaurant. Feeling low-key? Book a massage in an open-air hut by the river followed by a relaxing soak in an outdoor rock bath surrounded by rainforest; one of the most soulful spa experiences on earth.
FIVELEMENTS - RETREATS
An awe-inspiring retreat constructed mostly from local bamboo, this spa features rustic timber rooms with outdoor rock baths by the river. Treatment-wise, be tempted by holistic bodywork and chakra healing delivered by gifted Balinese healers, plus excursions to sacred caves, priest blessings and traditional fire ceremonies. At the center the Sakti Dining Room is where living raw food meals are presented gourmet style.
JARI MENARI - AFFORDABLE SPAS
Hands down one of the best therapeutic massages on the island if not across South East Asia. Their team of all-male masseuses deliver choreographed customized rubdowns of the highest standard. Centrally located in the hub of Seminyak, the tranquil Japanese style spa with flowing water and gentle music is our choice for affordable nurture.
CANTIKA SPAS - AFFORDABLE SPAS
Set in the ancient rice fields of Penestanan Kaja, the spa features free-standing bamboo huts and can only be reached by foot. Cantika is the real deal and you can’t get more Balinese than the founder Ni Ketut Jasi, who creates her own organic beauty recipes in a traditional Balinese kitchen. She also trains all the therapists to deliver a unique style of massage with lasting results.
CHILL - AFFORDABLE SPAS
This affordable reflexology-focused spa offers consistently good quality massages delivered by an all-male team of Shiatsu-trained bodyworkers. A unique touch is that each station comes with your own personal IPod so you can listen to music that resonates as you are soothed and cured into bliss. The quiet communal space features semi-private reflexology beds and low lighting - it’s all so very Zen!
BODYWORKS - AFFORDABLE SPAS
Could this be the most hectic spa on the island? Bodyworks is an old favourite and offers a relaxed and unpretentious atmosphere with prices to suit. Still, the outfit is gorgeous; cobalt blue and green eastern style treatment rooms with sunken baths set around a courtyard. The menu features Indonesian staples; cream baths, Balinese massages and good quality manicures and pedicures plus a Hair Salon and Infrared Sauna.
GOLD DUST BEAUTY LOUNGE - AFFORDABLE SPAS
A spa with a difference where offerings on the menu are centered around the ancient powers of gold minerals for beauty and healing. Standouts include the ‘24 Gold Leaf Facial’, gold dust manicure and pedicures and a ‘Gold Dust Body Glow’. Interiors are also enlightening; natural timber floors and cream and gold furnishings add to the glowing ambience.
KUSH - AFFORDABLE SPAS
A rustic cottage-like spa set in the garden compound of the infamous Yoga Barn. Kush provides affordable Ayurvedic offerings steeped in ancient Indian spirituality that are popular with the yogi’s.. Treatments include classic Ayurvedic massages, wellness consultations and the mind-soothing Shirodhara. Rest afterwards at The Garden Café that serves Ayurvedic tonics and elixirs.
GLO DAY SPA - AFFORDABLE SPAS
With two locations in Seminyak and Sanur. Glo has long attracted expats and travellers for their excellent and reasonably priced vanity essentials. Just some of the offerings include waxing, shellac pedicures, St. Tropez tan and eyelash tints and Ryan Inglis is the go to man for your upgrade in haircuts, styling and colour. Glo also caters to brides, weddings and hens parties.
OSPA - AFFORDABLE SPAS
Another inexpensive spa so worth the visit for their good massages, shellac pedis and rituals. What makes this spa unique is that it’s set in a converted villa - enter through pool garden pool area and relax in low-key surrounds. Situated off the beaten track along Drupadi, one of Bali’s cutest strips that is making a comeback with a plethora of great eating spots - and now a spa.
COCOON MEDICAL SPA - MEDICAL SPAS
Set in a cathedral-like structure with white pebbled-floors, Cocoon offers a holistic approach to anti-aging with treatments focused on detox, wellness and slimming. Just some of the facial rejuvenations include Botox , Dermapan and PRP stem cell therapy. And the big news is they will introduce Ultherapy that is regarded as one of the most advanced facials on the market today. Also features colon hydrotherapy and a Himalayan salt room.