Eco-Luxury and Cultural Elegance at Desa Hay Canggu Bali Hotel
Lush Villa Privacy with Intimate Jungle Gardens
The entrance, a majestic Balinese carved stone gateway, welcomed me into a world where traditional Indonesian architectural elements from Bali, Java, and Sumatra converge with modern design sensibilities. This fusion creates a unique atmosphere that pays homage to Indonesia’s rich cultural heritage while offering contemporary comforts.
The resort’s layout promotes an impressive sense of openness and flexibility, a feature highlighted by local-based Arkana architects. From the moment I stepped through the wood-fenced entrance, I was guided by green plantations and wooden accents towards the lobby, experiencing an inviting indoor-outdoor connection. This seamless integration with nature is a testament to Desa Hay’s design philosophy, where the boundaries between indoor spaces and lush surroundings are blurred, allowing for a constant engagement with nature.
Each of the six villas, resembling traditional bungalows, is a private sanctuary nestled among verdant gardens, ensuring privacy and tranquility. The uniform design across the villas fosters a cohesive and intimate ambiance, with natural materials and earthy finishes that resonate with the landscape. Semi-outdoor bathrooms and thoughtful interior decorations enhance the experience, offering a luxurious yet authentic Balinese living environment.
Desa Hay’s commitment to eco-friendly practices is evident not just in its architecture but also in its operations, with solar panels and locally sourced materials underscoring its dedication to sustainability. This approach extends to the guest experience, where every detail, from the pathway to the villas, is designed to foster a connection with the environment and the local community.
Cultural Harmony: Indonesian-Inspired Villa Aesthetics
Desa Hay Canggu Bali Hotel emerges as a sanctuary where luxury and environmental consciousness coalesce, offering an unparalleled eco-sanctuary for the conscious traveler. Resting within the lush landscapes of Bali, Desa Hay isn’t just a place to stay; it’s a testament to sustainable luxury, a retreat where every element is infused with a deep respect for nature and local culture.
Upon arrival, the hotel unfolds as a verdant paradise, its Jabu villas harmoniously interspersed among tropical gardens. The journey begins at a hand-carved door that leads into a jungle-inspired oasis, complete with natural stone walls and a private terrace. Here, luxury meets sustainability—the villas boast North Sumatra roofs, floor-to-ceiling windows, and an array of amenities that champion eco-friendliness without compromising on comfort.
Each villa, with its plunge pool, swinging chair, and intimate dining area, is a private haven designed to immerse guests in tranquility and luxury. The premium Jabu further extends this luxury with an expansive garden, inviting guests to unwind in a hammock or lounge chair, surrounded by the serene sounds and sights of the Balinese landscape.
Desa Hay’s commitment to sustainability is profound. The resort actively protects its surrounding landscapes and wildlife, embraces local customs, and incorporates sustainable practices at every turn—from bamboo combs and biodegradable slippers to sponsoring vital community initiatives like recharge wells and educational programs. Dining here is a journey in itself, with the kitchen serving dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients, celebrating the flavors of Bali while supporting the local farmers and fishermen.
Cultural custodianship is integral to Desa Hay’s ethos. The resort not only observes local customs and ceremonies but also integrates Indonesian-inspired architectural details throughout its grounds. From the North Sumatran-style villa roofs to the Javanese Joglo restaurant, each element tells a story of Indonesia’s rich heritage, enhanced by artwork created by local artisans.
The villa’s design, characterized by high roofs and unique silhouettes, blends traditional elements with modern aesthetics, creating a distinctive architectural language. Inside, the use of natural materials like bamboo and multicolor slate, alongside frameless glass walls, ensures that the beauty of the outdoors is always within view, fostering a deep connection with nature.
Desa Hay is more than just a hotel; it’s a realm where guests can engage in a range of activities, from intimate barbecues and gatherings to private weddings, all set within the communal pool and lush gardens that connect the villas. This harmonious blend of private luxury and communal spaces encapsulates the essence of Desa Hay, making it a unique getaway for those seeking to immerse themselves in Bali’s natural beauty while upholding a commitment to sustainability and cultural respect.
Bespoke Comfort with Artistic Balinese Interiors
Guests are greeted by a symphony of Bon Iver-esque tunes on entering the hotel, setting a tranquil ambiance that resonates throughout the elegantly designed space. The luxurious villas, ensconced within lush, jungle gardens, offer a sanctuary where modern luxury meets eco-conscious living.
Each villa, a Premium Jabu with a Plunge Pool or a standard Jabu, unfolds as a private retreat, featuring a king-sized bed adorned with luxe textiles and an outdoor bath that complements the private plunge pool. The attention to detail is impeccable, with the villa’s design fostering a harmonious indoor-outdoor connection. Floor-to-ceiling frameless glass replaces conventional walls, and tall plantations ensure privacy while allowing nature to be an ever-present element in the room.
The hand-carved wooden doors, a testament to local craftsmanship, slide open to reveal a bathroom that is a marvel of design. Here, a multicolored slate floor meets a borderless outdoor stone bathtub, offering a bathing experience that feels both intimate and liberating. The absence of room keys, replaced by an electronic lock system, underscores the resort’s commitment to seamless, hassle-free guest experiences.
Modern amenities are not overlooked; a 55-inch Smart TV, a fully-stocked minibar with eco-friendly coffee solutions, and a designer bathroom equipped with a rain shower and Sensatia Botanical skincare products ensure comfort and convenience. The unique feature of a villa-specific Whatsapp group provides direct communication with hotel staff, enhancing the personalized service that Desa Hay prides itself on.
The resort’s sustainable ethos is palpable, from the solar-powered energy to the thoughtful construction that blends natural and traditional materials. The villas’ architecture, with its high Sumatran roofs and modern stylings, creates a distinctive silhouette against the Bali skyline, while inside, the blend of light and dark woods adds depth and warmth to the living space.
Desa Hay doesn’t just offer a stay; it offers an experience. The resort encourages guests to immerse themselves in the culture and beauty of Bali, from the curated playlists to the complimentary local snacks. The rooms serve as a rejuvenating escape, where the conscious traveler can reconnect with nature and find tranquility away from the city’s bustle.
Global Flavors with Local Ingredients: From Bali to the World
At Desa Hay Canggu Bali Hotel, the dining experience at Ijo, the on-site restaurant, is a culinary journey that tantalizes the taste buds with an array of global flavors, artfully prepared with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. Nestled in an intimate, open-air Joglo-style building, Ijo creates a cozy atmosphere with its natural decor, featuring rattan lampshades and green plants that drape from the high ceiling, enhancing the dining experience with a touch of Balinese charm.
Chef Ari Widyanto, in collaboration with Jeremy Bleszynski, presents a menu that is a celebration of international cuisine, offering dishes that range from Indonesian classics like Nasi goreng and Nasi uduk to Mediterranean-inspired fare. The versatility of the menu is evident in the selection, which includes Spanish-style grilled chicken, specialty pasta, and a sumptuous ribeye steak sandwich, each dish showcasing a commitment to flavor and quality.
The bar at Ijo, manned by mixologist Kadek Putra, is a haven for cocktail enthusiasts. Here, classic drinks are reimagined with a creative twist, utilizing local fruits, herbs, and spices to craft signature blends that are as delightful to the palate as they are to the eye. The Purple Haze and the Gotu Kola are standout options, offering a unique taste of Bali through their innovative use of local ingredients.
The culinary philosophy at Ijo is one of diversity and inclusivity, catering to a range of preferences with dishes that span continents—from jackfruit rendang to butter chicken and Pesce all’acqua pizza. The emphasis on local sourcing extends beyond the food, with a cocktail list designed around Balinese fruits and spirits, offering guests an authentic taste of the island’s produce.
In addition to its diverse menu, Ijo’s commitment to sustainability is commendable, with efforts to minimize the carbon footprint by sourcing ingredients locally, ensuring that the dining experience is not only enjoyable but also environmentally conscious.
Dining at Desa Hay’s Ijo is an immersive experience that blends international culinary excellence with local Balinese flavors and sustainability. It’s a place where every meal is a celebration, every cocktail a discovery, and every moment spent in the lush, ambient setting is a memory in the making for discerning travelers seeking a unique, luxurious dining experience in Bali.
Wellness and Elevated Fitness: Tailored Experiences Allround
At Desa Hay Canggu Bali Hotel, wellness and leisure take center stage, harmoniously blending with the property’s serene ambiance. The main pool, an organic masterpiece, is elegantly flanked by canopied daybeds, offering a tranquil oasis amidst a lush tropical setting. For those seeking more privacy, each villa boasts its own scenic pool, providing an intimate escape.
While Desa Hay doesn’t house an on-site spa, its partnership with the renowned Spring Spa, a mere 10-minute drive away, ensures guests have access to a world-class wellness experience. Designed with an open-air concept, the spa offers a range of treatments from yoga-inspired facials to full-body massages, all set against a backdrop of natural beauty and complemented by soothing island tunes.
Fitness enthusiasts can indulge in tailored gym sessions at Body Factory, known for its comprehensive equipment and diverse class offerings, from yoga to high-intensity workouts. Alternatively, guests can embrace tranquility with complimentary daily yoga sessions held in the hotel’s idyllic garden.
The hotel’s approach to leisure extends to its happy hour, inviting guests to unwind with exquisite cocktails. For those planning events, Desa Hay presents an ideal backdrop for intimate weddings, retreats, or group getaways, with a dedicated team ensuring every detail is meticulously crafted.
Green Luxury: Environmental Stewardship Meets Comfort
At Desa Hay Canggu Bali Hotel, sustainability isn’t just a buzzword—it’s the essence of their existence, deeply interwoven into every facet of the guest experience. The hotel stands out as a beacon of eco-conscious luxury, marrying environmental stewardship with sophisticated comfort. The resort’s commitment to the environment is palpable, from the solar panels lining the entrance to the composting scheme that manages food waste, reflecting a dedication to preserving Bali’s natural splendor.
The hotel’s use of locally sourced materials and amenities, like slippers made from men dong and coconut husks, underscores its dedication to reducing its ecological footprint. The meticulous attention to sustainable practices extends to energy conservation, with the majority of power generated from solar energy and the thoughtful implementation of LED lighting and recharge wells.
Community engagement is at the heart of Desa Hay’s ethos. The resort prioritizes hiring local staff and supports local education through a scholarship fund, illustrating a deep-rooted commitment to giving back to the community that hosts it. The hotel’s engagement with local culture is further exemplified in its support for local farmers and fishermen, ensuring that the culinary offerings are not only fresh but also ethically sourced.
Desa Hay doesn’t just offer a place to stay; it provides a platform for education and awareness about sustainability. The hotel’s initiatives, from supporting local orphanages to providing sustainability education to guests and employees, demonstrate a comprehensive approach to responsible tourism.
For those looking to host events, whether a corporate retreat or a family gathering, Desa Hay offers an exclusive and intimate setting. The hotel’s ability to cater to private events while maintaining its eco-friendly and community-focused standards sets it apart as a unique destination in Bali.
Final Thoughts On My Stay
My stay at Desa Hay Canggu Bali Hotel was a journey into a world where luxury and sustainability coexist harmoniously. From the moment I arrived, the commitment to environmental stewardship was evident, with solar panels and a verdant landscape that spoke of a deep respect for nature. The villas, a blend of traditional Balinese architecture and modern amenities, offered a sanctuary of comfort and privacy, with each element thoughtfully chosen to enhance the guest experience while honoring the local culture and environment.
Dining at Ijo was a highlight, offering a palette of flavors that were both local and global, underscoring the hotel’s dedication to supporting local producers and sustainable practices. The absence of an on-site spa was mitigated by partnerships with local wellness providers, ensuring a holistic experience.
Desa Hay left a lasting impression of a place where luxury is measured not just by the sumptuousness of its accommodations but by the integrity of its commitment to the community and the environment, offering a profound and enriching Bali experience.
Written by Amin Brodie
Photos by Valeryia Kalantayeva
