When I was invited to discover Sukhavati, an Ayurvedic retreat located in the heart of Bali, I knew I was in for a unique experience. The 13-year-old retreat was founded by an Australian owner with a passion for Ayurveda and wellness. Located some forty minutes from Denpasar airport, this little jewel of serenity nestles in lush vegetation, far from the hustle and bustle of Balinese cities. But it’s not just the enchanting setting that sets Sukhavati apart: here, every detail is designed to offer total immersion in Ayurveda, while remaining simple and authentic. Here’s the story from Pascal Languillon, CEO of Luxe Wellness Club.
An idyllic setting
As soon as I arrived at Sukhavati, I was struck by the beauty of the place. This is no classic resort, but a veritable little paradise, a boutique hotel where everything is designed to promote well-being. Just imagine 8 private villas hidden away in tropical gardens, where palm trees mingle with lotus ponds and soothing fountains. It’s an invitation to relax right from the start.
The warm welcome of the team, made up of around 50 members from local families, reinforces this feeling of serenity. Everyone you meet has a kind, sincere smile, ready to guide you on this adventure in well-being.
An authentic, personalized Ayurvedic experience
Sukhavati is all about Ayurveda. It’s not just a spa, but a real Ayurvedic center where two Balinese doctors, who studied in India, take care to develop programs tailored to each customer. Here, your whole being is taken into account: your lifestyle, your mental state, your diet and, of course, your Ayurvedic constitution (your dosha).
The doctor diagnosed my dominant dosha as Pitta, which meant I needed soothing treatments to calm the internal heat and accumulated tension. A daily program of Ayurvedic treatments was therefore put in place, including traditional massages, treatments with medicinal oils and a diet adapted to my dosha.
A setting conducive to contemplation
Beyond the treatments and meals, Sukhavati offers an ideal setting for rejuvenation. Each villa has a terrace overlooking the tropical gardens, and 4 of them have a private pool. I’ve often sat there, listening to the birdsong and the murmur of the river, meditating on how lucky I am to be in such a peaceful place.
The place also invites contemplation . Whether it’s a meditative walk in the gardens or a morning yoga session, there’s always time to reconnect with yourself. Yoga, by the way, is a daily activity at Sukhavati, with sessions suitable for all levels. I particularly appreciated the gentle, soothing approach of the instructor, who guided us through each posture with kindness.
A warm, family spirit
What sets Sukhavati apart from other Ayurvedic retreats is its family atmosphere. With only 8 villas, there’s a feeling of closeness with the staff and a real human warmth. You never feel like just another guest, but rather like a distinguished guest welcomed into a large family. The staff know your preferences, make sure you’re always comfortable, and even invite you to share convivial moments with them.
Ayurvedic treatments: a deep reconnection
Every day, I was treated to exceptional Ayurvedic treatments. Among them, the famous four-hand Abhyanga massage, where two therapists synchronize their movements to deeply relax the body. This treatment is a moment of total release, with fluid, enveloping gestures that promote the elimination of toxins.
But the real highlight for me was the Shirodhara, a treatment in which a trickle of warm oil slowly flows over the forehead. The experience is one of intense mental relaxation and, after just a few minutes, I felt my mind settle like never before. Although my stay was short, the effects of these treatments were felt long after I left.
Sukhavati also offers complete Ayurvedic cures, such as Panchakarma, designed to purify the body in depth. Although I didn’t have the time to follow this program for several weeks, the treatments I received enabled me to rebalance my energy and feel revitalized.
Shared meals: a moment of conviviality
One of the special features of Sukhavati is the importance attached to meals. Not only are they prepared according to Ayurvedic principles, but they are also shared. Here, you don’t eat alone in your villa, but around a communal table with other guests. This practice encourages exchange and creates a sense of community. Of course, you’re free to eat alone if you prefer.
Shared lunches are a special time to get together and discuss each other’s experiences. As for the food, it’s simple but tasty. Each dish is prepared with local ingredients and respects the needs of each dosha. For example, to soothe my Pitta, I enjoyed refreshing dishes such as root vegetable soups, light curries and detoxifying herbal teas.
Our feeling
Sukhavati offers a true immersion in the world of Ayurveda, where every detail counts. Whether you’re new to Ayurveda or a regular visitor to wellness centers, this retreat will provide you with a rejuvenating break from everyday concerns. A real favorite.
Luxe Wellness Club
Book your stay in Sukhavati
Rates: from around 400€/400 USD per night.
Call us for the USA on +1 (646) 980 6652 or for the UK on +44 20 4577 3258
