During his recent trip to Bali, Pascal Languillon, CEO of Luxe Wellness Club, had the opportunity to set down his bags in an extraordinary place: Bambu Indah. It’s not just an ecolodge, it’s a truly immersive experience in the heart of Bali’s luxuriant nature, a place that redefines our concept of luxury and well-being. Here’s the story of an instant love at first sight for a hotel that exudes authenticity and could exist nowhere else.
Total immersion in Bali’s nature
As soon as I arrived, I was struck by the unique atmosphere of the place. Bambu Indah, nestled in Sayan, near Ubud, is distinguished by its stunning architecture, a skilful blend of Balinese tradition and modern elements in bamboo and natural materials. Bambu Indah is a project with a history deeply rooted in Balinese culture and the ideals of sustainability. The history of this place dates back to 2005, when it was founded by John and Cynthia Hardy, a visionary couple who brilliantly married their love of Bali with their commitment to environmental preservation and local craftsmanship. I was lucky enough to dine with the owners, and see the sincerity of their values.
John Hardy and his wife Cynthia first created Bambu Indah as a private family retreat. Their vision was clear from the outset: they wanted a place that respected and valued nature. The adventure began with the acquisition of several Javanese teak houses, joglos, dating back over 100 years. These houses, once used for ceremonies and weddings, were transported to Bali and meticulously restored as the basis for the project. Each joglo has been transformed into a unique villa, with particular attention paid to detail and the integration of natural elements.
Architecture in harmony with nature
The Hardys decided to go one step further, using bamboo to design new structures on the estate. Bamboo, abundant in Bali, is not only an environmentally-friendly material, but also allows for spectacular and innovative architectural creations. This bold choice to build with bamboo is not only aesthetic, it embodies Bambu Indah’s philosophy: a total commitment to sustainability. Bambu Indah is part of a pioneering approach to sustainable tourism, and this project has become a benchmark for those seeking to combine luxury, respect for the environment and immersion in local culture.
John Hardy is also the founder of the renowned Green School, an innovative school located just a few kilometers from the hotel, where children learn to live sustainably in harmony with nature. Built from bamboo and powered by renewable energies, this school reflects the same philosophy as BAMBU INDAH: a marriage between tradition and innovation.
Villas: true works of art
The villa I stayed in is a perfect blend of authenticity and modern comfort. I was lucky enough to stay in Limasan House, a villa steeped in history and character. This teak house , over 150 years old, is a true Javanese architectural gem,meticulously restoredto offer a unique experience, both authentic and luxurious.
In the evening, subdued lighting and the sounds of nature create a soothing ambience.. Quel plaisir de se glisser la nuit tombée dans la grande baignoire extérieure, en écoutant les cigales… It’s the kind of moment you’d like to prolong indefinitely.
The furniture is elegantly simple, mostly wood, with Balinese artisanal touches that enrich the space. The four-poster bed, adorned with light, airy fabrics, brings a sense of comfort and tranquility, ideal for nights of deep sleep.
BAMBU INDAH claims to be a pioneer in eco-luxury. Here, everything is designed to minimize environmental impact. Water is naturally filtered, bath products are homemade from organic ingredients, and food is mainly sourced from local, organic agriculture. Every gesture seems to have been thought through to respect the nature that surrounds the hotel.
One of the most memorable aspects of my stay at Limasan House was the open-air bathroom. The idea is to get close to nature, and taking a shower under the stars or at sunrise, surrounded by tropical plants, is an incomparable sensory experience.
In conclusion, I absolutely loved this villa. It’s as charming as anything I’ve ever seen, no matter where you look. Luxury, yes, but in all simplicity.
Wellness is in the nature
BAMBU INDAH doesn’t just offer dream accommodation. Here, well-being is at the heart of the experience, with a wide range of activities focused on relaxation and discovery of Balinese culture. I was particularly impressed by the natural pools, freshwater basins fed by underground springs, with no chemicals whatsoever.
Swimming in this limpid water, surrounded by lush vegetation, is a deeply relaxing, almost meditative experience. The morning breeze, birdsong and serenity of the setting create an atmosphere conducive to meditation and mindfulness.
The hotel offers the opportunity to participate in traditional rituals, such as purification ceremonies in sacred springs. These rituals, guided by local priests, are a way to discover Balinese spirituality and feel an intimate connection with the island’s ubiquitous Hindu culture and religion.
Bambu Indah offers a range of wellness treatments in open-air pavilions overlooking the jungle or river. Balinese massages, local herbal treatments and flower baths are just some of the options on offer to release tension and regain inner balance. Each treatment is an invitation to take care of yourself while soaking up Bali’s soothing energy.
The hotel also offers guided walks through the surrounding rice paddies, providing a unique insight into the traditional Balinese way of life. These walks not only take in breathtaking scenery, but also bring you into contact with local farmers and give you an insight into their painstaking, nature-friendly work.
Among the unforgettable experiences that Bambu Indah offers, there’s one that particularly stands out: the yoga session on a private island in the middle of the Ayung River. As soon as I heard about this activity, I knew it would be a moment of pure well-being, in perfect harmony with the surrounding nature.
The idea of practicing yoga in such an unspoilt setting immediately appealed to me. To reach this tiny island, nestled in the heart of the jungle and surrounded by the calm waters of the river, a small bamboo suspension bridge leads us. The setting is one of rugged beauty. The lush vegetation mingles with the gentle sounds of gently flowing water, creating an atmosphere conducive to relaxation and introspection.
The yoga session begins early in the morning, when the soft sunlight filters through the trees and the air is still fresh. The teacher, an expert in Balinese yoga, gently guides us through the various postures and breathing exercises. The teaching is centered on mindfulness, the idea being to reconnect with our bodies and anchor ourselves in the present moment, in total harmony with the natural world around us. At times, I feel as if nature is participating in this practice, whether through the soothing murmur of the river or the gentle breeze that brushes against my skin. An enchanting place to practice yoga, and a wonderful souvenir!
Longevity cuisine: a tribute to local flavours
Bambu Indah’s restaurants, a veritable ode to Balinese cuisine, were another highlight of my stay. Here, no superfluous dishes or fast food; the cuisine is simple, authentic and, above all, delicious. The chefs use fresh, locally-grown produce and offer a menu that changes with the seasons. I remember a dish of beef rendang revisited, with freshly picked vegetables and perfectly balanced seasoning, and yet another absolutely divine braised chicken. Whether you’re vegetarian, vegan or gluten-free, you’ll find a wide selection of dishes to suit your diet.
Tembaga, which means “copper” in Indonesian, is a space where every detail has been carefully thought out to reflect the harmony between man, nature and food. At Tembaga, the majority of ingredients used are grown locally, either in the hotel’s own gardens or by neighboring farmers committed to sustainable practices. Each dish is prepared with care, highlighting the richness of local flavors, from Balinese spices to freshly picked aromatic herbs.
The use of adaptogens at Tembaga is aimed at strengthening the body’s balance and improving resilience in the face of physical and emotional stress. Adaptogens are particularly prized for their ability to rebalance energy levels, improve concentration, and promote rapid recovery after exertion. During my meals, I had the opportunity to taste a smoothie made with raw cocoa andashwagandha, an adaptogenic plant reputed to reduce stress and anxiety, while providing a gentle soothing energy.
Beyond its commitment to sustainability and local flavors, the Tembaga restaurant stands out for its holistic approach to health and well-being, notably through its use of ingredients recognized for their beneficial properties on longevity. Mushrooms are celebrated for their therapeutic virtues. Medicinal mushrooms such as reishi, chaga or cordyceps are regularly used in dishes and beverages to improve the overall health of guests. These mushrooms are known for their beneficial effects on the immune system, reducing inflammation, and even for their antioxidant properties, which help combat cellular aging. A great initiative!
Our feeling
Bambu Indah is not just another hotel. It’s a unique place that has become a global example of sustainable tourism and eco-responsible design. It celebrates the beauty of nature, the Balinese art of living and sustainability. It’s a life lesson in simplicity, beauty and the importance of protecting what surrounds us. The wellness dimension is also strongly present, with yoga classes in a breathtaking setting, traditional Balinese treatments, and a healthy cuisine that focuses on longevity, with mushrooms and adaptogenic plants. A hotel that left a lasting impression on us.
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