How lucky are we in Singapore that any time we feel the need to escape, there are tons of amazing destinations just a short plane ride away? Fromprivate islandstoserene wellness retreats,luxe liveaboardsandfun city breaks, we’re pretty spoiled for choice when it comes toquick getaways. Bali is always at the top of our list for a weekend away, and this time we decided to head to the hills ofUbudfor a bit of peace and pampering. Our abode of choice? Bisma Eight, a gorgeous boutique hotel hidden away on a jungle-clad ravine.
The location
Although it’s just minutes from the heart of Ubud, Bisma Eight feels like a world away. Located on quirky Jalan Bisma, a quaint street lined with small cafes, restaurants, and rice paddies, the resort looks unassuming from the outside. However, step inside the lobby and you find yourself in a chic space done up in understated concrete and natural materials like stone, bamboo, and teak wood. Walk through to the back and the resort opens up to gorgeous suites that seem to blend into the foliage, a beautiful rooftop restaurant, and a stunning infinity pool that seems to drop into the jungle ravine below.
The rooms
There are three room options at Bisma Eight: the Garden Suites, Canopy Suites, and Forest Suites. We stayed in one of the Garden Suites on the ground floor and were pretty impressed with the levels of zen going on. Our suite was decked out in lots of leather, wicker, and wood and had a large living area with a sofa and state-of-the-art entertainment equipment, a bedroom with a plush king-sized bed that could be separated from the living area with a screen, and a beautiful ensuite bathroom with a huge Japanese cedar soaking tub. The Canopy Suites are similar, but on the upper floor, and the Forest Suites are located at the edge of the ravine with huge balconies that overlook the forest.
Eat & drink
Copper Kitchen & Bar is Bisma Eight’s signature restaurant and a divine dining destination in itself. Sit inside next to the floor-to-ceiling windows that open to the breezes or outside on the lovely rooftop terrace sheltered by a trellis with hanging plants and billowing curtains. The cuisine is a mix of Indonesian and Western dishes made with fresh ingredients that come either from the resort’s organic garden or are sourced from farmers and fishermen around Bali. There is also a cool bar that does handcrafted cocktails in a cosy copper-hued space, a lovely library cafe, and The Pavilion, a poolside bar with jungle views.
What to do
If you spent your entire time at Bisma Eight just chilling by the stunning infinity pool, we really wouldn’t blame you. After all, the views of the jungle canopy are simply spectacular and the setting is oh-so serene. Then again, you’ll probably want to stroll into central Ubud at least once to check out the cool art galleries, museums, temples, and insanely good restaurants and cafes. Adventurous types can also explore central Bali’s natural beauty on white water rafting trips, sunrise volcano treks, and cycling tours.
The service
Bisma Eight recently launched a WhatsApp concierge service, and we honestly can’t stop gushing about it. Our experience actually started before we even stepped foot in Bali with helpful messages from the Bisma Eight team offering info on everything from airport pick-up to directions on how to get to the resort on our own. Throughout our stay, the staff were super friendly and made it easy for us to book spa treatments and even coordinate high tea either with them personally or via WhatsApp. This really made the stay that much more personal, not to mention ultra-convenient and comfortable.
The verdict
If you’re looking for a chic boutique spot in Ubud where you can immerse yourself in nature, yet still enjoy all the modern conveniences you could ask for, Bisma Eight is it. Think serenity, superb service, and style all rolled into one. Then throw in amazing food and drinks and a plethora of sights and activities just on your doorstep, and you pretty much have the perfect weekend getaway. We’re already dreaming about slipping away to Ubud again to sip mojitos next to that incredible infinity pool.
Bisma Eight, Jalan Bisma, Ubud, Bali, Indonesia 80571. p. +62 (0)895 384 792 888.
