Capella Ubud
Ubud, Bali

In the midst of the forested Keliki Valley lies the beautiful Capella Ubud. This extraordinary tented camp is nothing short of luxurious and has an energy about it that we adore.

Its original design manages to strike just the right balance between eye-catching and discreet; there is no mistaking that it’s a remarkable property, yet it also blends seamlessly into its natural surroundings and thankfully, many of its features make the most of its tropical location. Not only can you can enjoy phenomenal views from the comfort of your own room, but you can also soak in the jungle atmosphere around your private saltwater pool, which is itself enveloped by swaying banana trees.

Attention to detail is evident throughout the entire camp, especially within the 22 luxury tents and one lodge that make up the accommodation, from the smoothly dented teak floors to the pebble-lined pools, not to mention the ornately carved four poster beds and inviting copper bathtubs. Choose between the Terrace tents overlooking the rice fields below, the Rainforest tents shrouded by tropical trees, the River tents overlooking the flowing waterway below or the Keliki Valley tents which offer unobstructed views across the surrounding landscape. Also, you can opt for The Lodge if you are seeking more space to play with, for this tent comes with two bedrooms, two en suites and a living room.

The mastermind behind Capella Ubud’s interior design is the acclaimed Bill Bensley, whose signature style is perfectly captured within the bright and playful colour scheme here. As soon as you arrive, it is obvious that you are somewhere special and bound to have a memorable stay. Several sophisticated colonial features lie scattered around the rooms, standing testament to the European settlers of the 1800s. Their pioneering adventurous spirits are mirrored within certain touches, like leather-bound books and elegant Western antiques that line the walls.

Dining is a highlight. Mads Lange, the main restaurant, offers inventive dishes under a soaring, decorative ceiling, while Api Jiwa specialises in bold, Asian-inspired flavours. The open-kitchen format at Api Jiwa encourages interaction with the chefs; the signature Lombok oyster with sesame, lime and chilli is a particular favourite. Breakfasts are equally memorable, with freshly prepared dishes served in a setting that keeps you close to nature.

Wellness here has a distinctly Balinese flavour. Auriga Wellness, the camp’s intimate spa, offers a thoughtful menu of treatments rooted in local healing traditions, delivered by friendly therapists in tented pavilions. Guests can also make use of The Armory, Capella’s unique tented jungle gym equipped for yoga, TRX and jungle-inspired workouts.

Cultural connection is an important part of the experience, and the team can arrange a variety of excursions. These might include visiting a Keliki Art School to learn about traditional painting techniques, or setting out on a sunrise hike up nearby Mount Batur. For those who prefer to stay closer to camp, there are opportunities for cycling, nature walks and cultural encounters in surrounding villages.

Capella Ubud is not a conventional resort. It is immersive, playful and highly individual, a jungle retreat that captures the imagination as much as it indulges the senses. For travellers seeking a luxury experience in Bali that is both deeply rooted in place and unlike anywhere else, this is a stay that lingers long after you leave.

Travelling is like flirting with life. It's like saying, 'I would stay and love you, but I have to go; this is my station.
Lisa St. Aubin de Teran