Touring Bali on a motorcycle for two weeks, we got to see and taste many of the Islands nuances.... not all equally good, I’m afraid. The Desa Saya resort was that pearl in the bowl of stones....! Going down the road, we thought “no way”.... but once through the gates.... paradise! This really is a precious oasis of beauty, quality and balinese grace. Absolutely wonderful!
Writing this review on the plane on the way back home. Just spent three weeks at Desa Saya and would have loved to even stay longer. Celebrated my 30th birthday there with my friends. Heaven on earth. I met the owners, German couple Nicole and Jochen, 8 years ago at their other eco resort in Tejakula, Cili Emas. Ever since I have always come back there (this was my 5th or 6th time on Bali). This time however, it was my first time at Desa Saya as it is fairly new. And I have to admit, it has even exceeded my expectations. It is simply perfect: everything is eco, very quiet, the nature is incredible, beautiful villas (which are super stylish and super clean - two showers, one inside, one outside, plus outside bath tub), fresh organic food and juices and an amazing beach club with direct beach access (bring beach shoes though, not a sandy beach). And not to forget the spa, best massages I have had so far on Bali, well anywhere to be honest. I recommend the balinese massage and hair spa with head massage. Heaven. The place is rather boutique, which I like, so not so many other people. You can see the owners’ dedication to every detail in everything, which I have not seen like this anywhere else. Staff is also incredibly friendly, always smiling, accommodating every little extra wish (I am guilty). The little village of Tejakula is also very quiet, barely any tourism up there. So for me this is the Bali I like. I am not into the busy South. Daytrips me and my friends have done from there: Aling Aling Waterfalls, Sekumpul Waterfall, diving in Amed (did the US liberty wreck dive after years of hesitation because too touristy, but it was great), even did the Lake Batur sunset hike, which was surprisingly nice, Ubud as usual for a little shopping, and Jatiluwih rice fields - check out the Batu Karu Kopi Cafe if you happen to go there, best view on rice terraces I have ever seen. Back at Desa Saya we went out in the morning with the local fishermen on their boats to see the sunrise on the ocean (it was actually my birthday that day and well, the best start ever, as we were later surrounded by dolphin schools - what). Can’t think of anything that would have been even better. Maybe a wild unicorn coming out of the jungle. If you go to Desa Saya, make sure to get one of their drivers (in particular Mr. Gede) to pick you up anywhere on the island - or from the airport - best driver ever. He will also bring you to temples, waterfalls or anything else you want to see on the way. All in all, 10/10 would recommend. My favorite place ever. Thanks for coming to my TED Talk, enjoy your holidays:)…
Nothing is perfect in life, even resorts and hotels included. With the owner and entire staffs taking care of the resort and the guests with love and respect. A beautiful, hidden and tranquil location, with the real chance to recharge and rebuild yourself in a better way. Cannot wait for the next stay. :) My partner Conrad contracted dengue fever from Koh Samui, and the GM...Nyoman literally saved my partner’s life. If you are looking for a peaceful, and positive life changing holidays, you can look no further than this place (this is not a paid review).
I had no expectations, having not been to this part of Bali before. It is not the thronging tourist and traffic trap of the South, so that's a relief! It is nestled into the heart of small family compounds, temples and farms. The place was quiet - only a few other visitors from Holland, Germany (no Australians!). The beach club is superb, and I had the indulgence of my own villa with beautiful pool. I loved the location and the staff, and the peace the place brought with it. The spa services were fantastic and well priced. Once I discovered I could hire a scooter, I had so much fun exploring the area. I would love to visit again, this time with my family and friends.
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