Anyone who has been to Bali knows: the cultural capital Ubud is a magical place, but the constant hustle and bustle on the roads can quickly become tiresome. It’s time to get away from it all and rediscover the tranquility for which the Island of the Gods is famous. Away from the crowds, just 20 minutes from Ubud, lies the magnificent Fivelements Bali Retreat Hotel, a sanctuary of well-being. Pascal Languillon, Director of Luxe Wellness Club, recounts his stay in this unspoilt setting. His first stay in 2014, and his second in 2024, 10 years later!
There’s the setting, of course, which makes it a haven of peace. Its bamboo buildings and villas overlook the Ayung River amid lush vegetation. The sound of water, tropical flowers and not a trace of concrete: you feel far away from it all, in a timeless bubble.
Theecological architecture is one of the world’s best examples of what can be done with wood and bamboo. The ashram meditation and yoga room resembles a huge teepee.
Luxury here means nature
The hotel is not large, as it favors quality over quantity. A few spacious villas are scattered around perfectly manicured gardens. They open onto nature and offer panoramic views of the verdant landscape. They include a private balcony with outdoor seating area. The wooden furnishings are highly refined. As for the bedding, inevitably king-size, some would find it almost too comfortable, as it invites you to laze around. But why not? The key word here is relaxation.
As is often the case in these tropical paradises, bathrooms are open to the outdoors and filled with plants, allowing you to feel in touch with the elements. You can relax your muscles in large marble tubs, gazing up at the stars and listening to the sound of the river.
Operation Healthy
Party-goers beware! Fivelements prohibits alcohol and smoking on the property. It’s time for meditation, introspection and the benefits for body and mind. Everything is done to leave you feeling super healthy. You’ll have the choice of a fitness program including yoga, pilates, meditation and reiki.
Puri Ahimsa’s riverside treatments are simply divine. Oil massages, flower baths in sacred water, acupuncture, reflexology… Don’t missaqua healing, massage in water. The range of therapies is very comprehensive.
The attentive, smiling staff know how to create a caring, soothing atmosphere. There really is something magical about this spa, something that’s hard to describe without feeling it.
Crudivores’ paradise
While everything is more than fine at Fivelements, a highlight for us was the healthy gourmet restaurant. The chef specializes in raw vegan food (the famous raw food). The plates are a festival of flavors and colors. The aesthetics are meticulous, and you eat with your eyes first. We then enjoy delicate dishes, with natural aromas magnified by the lack of cooking.
Don’t worry, big stomachs are well catered for. It’s a real feast for the taste buds, so yes, if there was a Michelin Guide to raw food, Fivelements would already have a star.
There’s also a simpler lunch menu, with cooked options.
As far as activities are concerned, there’s so much to do in Bali that boredom seems impossible. Of course, the cultural discovery of Ubud leaves you breathless, with its superb temples and magical dances, including the Kecak. Nature lovers will be delighted by volcano climbs and walks through rice paddies…
Our feeling
A temple of authentic, affordable wellness that has long been one of Bali’s benchmarks. You’re sure to fall in love with this charming establishment!
Luxe Wellness Club
Book Fivelements Retreat Bali
Rates: from approx. €280 per night. Contact us using the form below to plan your wellness stay and make a reservation.
Call us for the USA on +1 (646) 980 6652 or for the UK on +44 20 4577 3258
