We really enjoyed our stay at Pesantian Villa and we also took the cooking class which was excellent. We went to the market for ingredients and learned how to make several authentic Balinese dishes which resulted in a delicious lunch.
All the meals we had here were great. The rice fields surrounding the villa are wonderful and a walk through them with guide from the villa is not to be missed. The Villa is a beautiful place to stay.

We experienced the best Bali cooking class ever with ‘Pesantian Warung’. Our special driver, Made Lucky Bali driver took us to a secluded spot that provides an authentic Balinesse cooking experience. Not just showing how but actually buying produce, preparing each dish and sharing. The Chef quizzed us on the herbs and spices, took us through the techniques and hands on for each dish.
Working up a Bumbu Bali, we then made 7 dishes. The journey through the tastes was amazing. I pounded pork , Grinded in a Ulekan and fried Lak Lak in an open fire. Wow, just an amazing way to spend a great day with a talented gastronomic artisan. I will be back to do another one of the Pesantian cooking experiences that is awesome value.
The accommodation also looked really clean and inviting for a secluded stay.
Thanks.

The Pesantian Villa was everything we hoped it would be. It is about a 20 minute scenic drive from Ubud centre and so peaceful, set amongst the rice paddies. There is a fast flowing stream running through the back of the property, fire flies at night, ducks in the rice paddies, herons flying over. You can't help but relax. A 10am shuttle into Ubud is available and Staff were very helpful in arranging any other cars we needed.
The owner Santika, his wife Ari, and staff, Widana, Made, Dewa, did everything they could to make us feel welcome and comfortable. Our 80 yr old Mother needed some assistance with stairs and they were always there to help in such a kind and respectful way. The rooms were excellent, bedding lovely with feather pillows and pristine sheets. The bathroom was large and very clean. Kettle, tea/coffee and fridge provided. The air con always worked and the ceiling fans were nice. The wi fi always worked. Plenty of power points, hangers in the wardrobe and a safe. Unlimited bottled water. The pool was small and very well maintained.
But the best thing of all was the food. Absolutely authentic, fresh and delicious. We planned our meals so that we could be sure to try everything on the menu before we had to come home! Chef Santika, is a master of his craft, and on several occasions offered to cook things that were fresh in the market that day but not on the menu. He cooked us a beautiful birthday dinner, organised a cake for us, and an exceptional last night dinner. Fresh juices, fruit and eggs cooked to our specs, plus homemade papaya jam for breakfast.
One of the highlights of our trip was doing a cooking lesson here. If you do nothing else while you are here, do this. It is such a treat, wonderful value and so enjoyable. Santika is generous with his time and knowledge - we didn't just watch the prep, we made it ourselves and we ate what we cooked.
We will definitely go again.