The six best Bali villas for 2023
Who needs Mykonos when some of the world’s most lavish villa stays are on our doorstep.
Lucky for Australians, Bali isn’t too far away for a paradisiacal escape. With its pared-back living for those seeking a freewheeling vibe, and abundance of entertainment in surrounding neighbourhoods, it mixes the best of both worlds to keep your itinerary options open for just about anything. And while Bali has some of the most envy-inducing hotels around, booking a villa comes with its own set of advantages and perks you should definitely consider.
Offering some of the most unique living experiences in the world; you can sleep suspended in the air in an avant-garde bamboo treehouse, take up in fully-staffed residencies to have your every whim and desire anticipated, and stay in some of the most architecturally thoughtful villas built by renowned design studios. We’ve hand-picked the best villas on the Indonesian island based on their unique living experiences that they offer.
Casa Viamo
A European summer doesn’t have to be half-a-world away – not when it’s in Casa Viamo. With its tall oval windows catching all the natural light, the Mediterranean-style villa remains warmly lit against the powdery white marble throughout the day. There are four ensuite-bedrooms with custom furnishings made by local artisans, filling the modern minimalist space with earthy tones.
Area: Canggu
Sleeps: 8 guests
Price per night: $1841
Villa Kayajiwa
The rich jewel tones of Villa Kayajiwa set against the volcanic stone walls are what makes this villa so striking. Art filled, tastefully textured interiors and furnishings – it’s a trip for the senses. Located in Canggu, it’s a 20-minute walk from Batu Bolong beach, the ideal location in the area for the surf-fiend guest. The villa remains fully staffed during a stay, with a chef and spa therapist for an additional fee.
Area: Canggu
Sleeps: 8 guests
Price per night: $1808
Villa Tamarama
Served for the entertaining occupant in mind, this colonial-style villa sits on clifftop frontage that accommodates for 10 or more guests. Each of the five Hamptons style bedrooms are fitted with African-inspired rattan bed frames, as well as each having their own outdoor shower. Another perk: guests have priority access to Sundays Beach Club, which sits just on the cliff at the bottom of the cliff all for guests’ convenience.
Area: Uluwatu
Sleeps: 10+ guests
Price per night: $2929
Rumah Hujan
Hidden in the valley, ‘The House of Rain’ is perched right on the edge of Tjampuhan ridge, where you can overlook mountain and valley views from the saltwater infinity swimming pool. Designed by Venezuelan-born architect Maximilian Jencquel of Studio Jencquel, the three-bedroom villa was built by himself and a small group of local carpenters to create the bungalow with an adaptable and sustainable design approach.
Area: Ubud
Sleeps: 6 guests
Price per night: $1606
Villa Windu Sari
For those wanting to take up residence somewhere centre of the action in Bali, Villa Windu Sari is located in prime Seminyak; neighbouring nightclubs, restaurants, spas, and Legian beach. Aptly named ‘a beautiful place in time’, the bungalow-style villa of teak wood and marble set against the Babylon-blue swimming pool for all entertaining purposes, the villa promises never a dull moment for guests.
Area: Seminyak
Sleeps: 10 guests
Price per night: $2273
Laputa Villa
Appearing suspended above the valley – a bamboo ‘castle in the sky’ – there‘s really no place like Laputa Villa. A stunning design feat by Chiko Wirahadi, the two-bedroom hut is truly elevated back-to-basics, offering seclusion in mountainous Sidemen and panoramic views of the surrounding rice fields. Although able to accommodate the smallest number of guests on the list, the villa offers the most unique leisure experience of the Sky Net, where guests can relax suspended mid-air leaving one open to all the elements.
Area: Sidemen
Sleeps: 4 guests
Price per night: $739