Hanging Gardens of Bali: A Blissful Jungle Retreat that Feels Like Home

A return to Ubud always feels magical, but our recent stay at the Hanging Gardens of Bali reminded us why this resort holds such a special place in our hearts. From the moment we stepped into our villa, the warmth of the team, the thoughtful touches, and the stunning jungle views made it feel like home, only with the added charm of luxury. In this article, we will share more about why we love the Hanging Gardens of Bali and why we think it’s one of the best in Bali.

1. Spacious, serene villas with thoughtful touches

Our bedroom villa was both spacious and incredibly homey, a private haven where every detail felt carefully considered. The addition of the smart toilet upgrade was a delightful surprise, one of those small luxuries that makes daily routines feel smoother. Each evening, we looked forward to the thoughtful turndown service, made sweeter by the green cookies.

Relaxing by the private villa & resort pools

The private villa pool quickly became one of our favorite spots. The water was warm enough for long, relaxing swims at any hour, with the jungle view unfolding just beyond the edge. Yet even with our private pool, we couldn’t resist spending time at the resort’s famed twin-tiered infinity pool, a sight that continues to amaze us no matter how many times we’ve seen it.

2. Dining that delights from sunrise to starlight

Every meal at Hanging Gardens of Bali felt like a celebration of flavors and moments. Thoughtful touches, like the surprise birthday setup and greeting, made our stay and dining here feel even more personal and memorable.

Breakfast by the pool

Breakfast, overlooking the jungle

Mornings began with the soft glow of the jungle and refreshing health shots before morning coffee, followed by comforting plates. From local favourites like nasi goreng and mie goreng to classics like avo salad, steak & eggs, and English breakfast, each dish set the tone for a beautiful day.

Floating lunch in our private pool

Excellent lunch spread

The floating lunch was an experience in itself—served as we drifted in the pool, surrounded by greenery. The spread ranged from vegan pasta and seafood soup to salmon and casserole con carne, each dish exceeding expectations. 

Cocktails and afternoon tea by the poolside

As the day eased into afternoon, we found ourselves lingering by the pool with cocktails in hand, watching the sky soften into sunset. Something we fell in love with instantly and kept returning to. The resort’s afternoon tea in the jungle was just as enchanting, a simple ritual that quickly became our favorite indulgences.

Dinner with a temple view

Romantic dinner with a view of the temple

Evenings at the restaurant carried their distinct magic, not just for the food but also the magical view of the temple we had hiked to earlier in the week. It felt like a full-circle moment, savouring beautifully prepared dishes while gazing at a landmark that had already touched our hearts. Yet the true standout was the ‘billion-dollar’ nasi goreng. The best we’ve ever tasted, and truly hard to top.

3. Experiences to remember long after

Beyond the food and pools, what sets Hanging Gardens of Bali apart are the experiences that connect you to the island itself. The malukat ceremony was deeply moving. The arak-making session, jungle hike, and yoga by the Ayung River all added such depth and meaning to our stay.

The Spa by the River was the finishing touch. Set amidst the greenery, treatments here blend Balinese healing traditions with natural ingredients, creating one of the best spa experiences we’ve had in Bali. The setting, the skill of the therapists, and the sound of the Ayung River completely left us relaxed and renewed.

4. A team that feels like family

What truly makes this resort unforgettable is the people. From Yoga, Yudiani, Agung Adi, Pande, Yani, Dewi, Mustika, to Abdi (who even remembered us from our 2022 visit), every staff member exuded a warmth that made us feel more like family than guests. Special thanks also go to Yuda, Dwi, and Tinny, whose thoughtful leadership shines through in every detail of the resort.

Even as our stay came to an end, the late checkout allowed us to enjoy our final hours at an unhurried pace. One last touch of care that made the whole experience feel complete.

A stay at the Hanging Gardens of Bali is so much more than just a luxurious escape. It is a journey of meaningful experiences, delicious meals, and heartfelt connections. Whether you’re savoring a floating lunch, swimming in the iconic infinity pool, or simply enjoying the quiet comfort of your villa, time here feels both indulgent and grounding. More than a destination, it is a sanctuary— one of the best romantic retreats in Bali, and a place we will always dream of returning to.