Bambu Indah: An exceptional eco-friendly retreat in Bali

In the heart of the Balinese jungle, in Ubud, but away from the hustle and bustle, lies an eco-resort of rare beauty. Bambu Indah is the kind of place you encounter only once. A place unlike any other, where time seems to stand still. Every detail reminds you that luxury can be simple, authentic, and deeply respectful of the environment. Between lush jungle, terraced rice fields, and the whispering Ayung River just steps away, the landscapes are breathtaking. Even the century-old bamboo houses seem to tell their own story. But Bambu Indah is also a fascinating story, that of a couple in love with Bali and its wild beauty.

Bambu Indah: the creation of a stunning place

Bambu Indah tells a captivating story, born from a deep love for Bali and nature. Nestled in the heart of the Balinese jungle, this unique hotel exudes the charm of old Bali. Where life flowed peacefully to the rhythm of the earth and rivers.

It all began in the 1970s, when jewelry designer John Hardy arrived in Ubud, a mystical place in the heart of Bali. Enchanted by the island’s wild beauty, he met Cynthia, his wife, with whom he shared his love for nature and ecology. The project’s goal was to create a place that showcases and respects nature. The adventure started with the purchase of several joglos, century-old Javanese teak houses. These houses, once used for ceremonies and weddings, were moved to Bali and carefully restored to become the heart of the project. Thus, together, they decided to lay the first stones (or rather the first bamboos!) of what would later become the peaceful haven known today as Bambu Indah.

Bambu Indah is a hotel like no other… It is a magical place where luxury meets simplicity and respect for the environment. Every corner reflects the Hardy’s ecological commitment. Today, visitors come from all over the world to enjoy a peaceful place, and above all to reconnect with nature. But Bambu Indah is also a return to the roots, a place where waterfalls feed natural pools, where trees stand alongside sacred rivers. Every detail has been designed to respect and honor Bali’s wild nature. In short, Bambu Indah adopts an ecological ethic while offering the world-class service expected of a luxury boutique hotel.

Cozy nests hidden in the Balinese jungle

The accommodations at Bambu Indah are scattered here and there among the palm trees and imposing banyan trees. Discover an intimate collection of unique cocoons. Each house is carefully decorated, adorned with rare objects collected during travels in Southeast Asia, and reflects a deep connection to nature. Some of these cozy nests, like the Copper House or the Moon House, are nestled high in the canopy. You will enjoy breathtaking views of the jungle. These open structures allow for a direct connection with nature while staying in the comfort of a high-end accommodation.

For an experience closer to the water, houses like Riverbend are located near natural pools fed by waterfalls and springs. These spaces invite true relaxation, with the soothing sound of water in the background. Then, some houses, like the Jawa Lama House, are perched on a lush cliff. You then benefit from a panoramic view of the rice fields and the valley below. These accommodations are perfect for those seeking a more contemplative immersion and a stronger connection with the Balinese landscapes.

In addition to bamboo houses, Bambu Indah offers an authentic Javanese bridal home, restored and beautifully decorated. This option allows for a deeper dive into Indonesian history and culture. Finally, for glamping enthusiasts, the tents perched on floating platforms are simply spectacular! Note that often, the bathrooms are outdoors (with complete privacy): a delightful moment to savor, without a doubt.

When nature rhymes with well-being

At Bambu Indah, well-being and nature are intimately linked. This is indeed where it is found. The setting alone offers everything needed for a profound renewal.

Rejuvenate in natural pools

The natural pools of Bambu Indah are particularly distinctive. Fed by springs, these freshwater pools are free of any chemicals. Swimming in this crystal-clear water, surrounded by lush vegetation, provides a sensation of deep calm, almost meditative. Indeed, the delicacy of the morning air, the birds’ song, and the ambient tranquility create an ideal setting for meditation and mindfulness.

Enjoy a treatment in the heart of nature

The treatments offered by Bambu Indah take place in open-air pavilions, with views of the jungle or the river. Among the options: Balinese massages, treatments with local herbs, flower baths. It is also possible to receive these treatments in the comfort of your room, for an even more intimate and personalized experience. Each treatment is designed to revitalize and harmonize the body and mind, reinforcing the idea that, at Bambu Indah, well-being is simply found in nature.

Do yoga on a private island

Among the flagship experiences offered, a yoga session on a private island in the middle of the Ayung River. A must-do! This place, accessible by a bamboo suspension bridge, offers a wild and preserved setting, ideal for practicing yoga in nature. The tranquility of the place, lulled by the soothing sound of the river, creates an atmosphere conducive to relaxation and introspection.

Connect with Balinese spirituality and culture

The hotel also offers immersive experiences in Balinese spirituality, notably through purification ceremonies in sacred springs. These rituals, led by local healers, allow for an authentic discovery of the Hindu religion, omnipresent on the island, and to feel an intimate connection with this ancestral culture. Moreover, Bambu Indah is located in one of the most healing places in the world, attracting healers and therapists from all horizons. In addition to traditional Balinese massages and specialized treatments, it is possible to benefit from sessions with experienced energy healers.

Discover the Balinese way of life

For those who wish to explore the surroundings, Bambu Indah organizes guided walks through the nearby rice fields. These walks offer an immersion into the daily life of local farmers and allow for the discovery of a lifestyle in harmony with nature. The landscapes are breathtaking and provide an authentic glimpse of Balinese culture.

Explore around Bali and Ubud

Bambu Indah also facilitates access to adventures around Bali. Hikes and bike rides can be organized to explore the rice fields or mountains. Nearby, Ubud, with its vibrancy, offers shops, restaurants, and cafes, as well as pottery or batik workshops. Then, treatments and yoga sessions are available in iconic places like the Yoga Barn or Alchemy.

The Green School and the Hardy legacy

Finally, it is impossible to talk about Bambu Indah without mentioning the Green School, founded by the Hardy family. This innovative school embodies the values of sustainability and respect for nature, dear to the hotel’s founders. It has become a global model in ecological education. The school reinforces Bambu Indah’s commitment to environmental preservation and the well-being of its guests.

A delicious anti-inflammatory cuisine

The Tembaga restaurant, located at the top of the Bambu Indah cliff, offers a breathtaking view of the jungle. This place offers innovative cuisine focused on longevity and balance, with anti-inflammatory dishes prepared from the harvests of organic gardens. Tembaga embodies a perfect harmony between indulgence and environmental consciousness. It integrates Indonesian culinary traditions into delicious and nature-respecting dishes.

Then, for an unforgettable moment, the Elevator Sunset bar is the ideal place to enjoy craft cocktails or non-alcoholic drinks made from organic and natural ingredients. It is a perfect spot for sunsets! Finally, by the Ayung River, the signature Warung restaurant invites you to a total immersion in Balinese culture. With its bamboo roofs forming overlapping arches, the Warung captivates as much with its spectacular architecture as with its locally and sustainably sourced dishes.

Read our article: We tested Bambu Indah for you in Bali