Pleasured palettes and pilates - COMO Shambhala, Bali

A gentle talent for hospitality is one of the loveliest aspects of Ubud, Bali’s cultural heart. It’s an obvious location for a restorative hideaway.

COMO Shambhala, a short drive out of town, is a dramatic estate on a hilltop above the Ayung River Gorge. The suites, villas and residences jut out over valleys, cling to hillsides or sit snugly onto the plateau rim and have views of emerald rice terraces and an extinct volcano. Sensibly, guests are required to make uphill and downhill journeys for a reasonable cardiac workout (don’t mention the golf buggy transporters!)

Around the grounds, infinity-edged pools stare into sheer drops of jungle, waterfall gardens abound with pools and gush with streams of sacred spring water; fire pits blaze after dark and the extensive grounds induce the impression of heavenly isolation. With your body clock adjusted to the natural progression of the day, sleep is easy.

This is a wellness retreat. However, Christina Ong secured the talents of ex Rockpool chef Amanda Gale some years ago and Amanda had developed the menus of all COMO properties. For lucky COMO Shambhala guests, Amanda is now the executive chef in residence. The flavours explode, the textures surprise the palate and the colours delight the eye. Imaginative juices and copious quantities of cool water compliment every meal.

You dictate your cocktail hour (yes - you can even drink!), your massages and your mealtimes. An all-day dining restaurant serves organic cuisine with dishes ranging from Italian and South Indian to Balinese. Kudus House offers Indonesian regional cooking in a remarkable, 150-year old wooden Javanese residence.

All of the well-being opportunities here can sensibly be translated into daily life but at COMO Shambhala, the activities and the extensive spa facilities make the absolute most of its beautiful locations.

Dégustation plus meditation have never felt naturally better.

EXCLUSIVE PACKAGE INCLUDES: 5 OR 7 NIGHTS ACCOMMODATION • AIRPORT TRANSERS • HALF BOARD • EARLY CHECK-IN & LATE CHECKOUT IF AVAILABLE • WELLNESS CONSULTATION • ACTIVITIES • 2 MASSAGES • ONE PRIVATE PICNIC LUNCH AT THE WATER GARDEN • FROM USD1,600.00 PER PERSON, TWIN SHARE + TAXES • VALID UNTIL 30 MARCH 2025 (15 DEC 12 TO 10 JAN 13 EXCLUDED)

Contact Julie Richards for more information about COMO Shambhala on 1800 047 047 or email her at: jrichards@conciergetraveller.com