Alila Ubud is a tranquil and secluded hillside retreat that sits high up on the edge of the rich green Ayung River valley in Bali's central foothills. It's located just minutes from Ubud, the island's cultural heart. Not-to-be-missed tours include a trip to the island's central volcanoes, the village of Kintamani and the beautiful scenery of Lake Batur; a cultural tour of Ubud and a visit to Gianyar, the home of ikat weaving and the Goa Gajah Elephant Cave.

The facilities

Blending contemporary design and traditional Balinese architecture, the secluded courtyards, spacious terraces and private gardens create an intimate feeling like no other. The award-winning restaurant serves tarditional Balinese cuisine with a focus on organic, locally-sourced ingredients. There are a few Western favourites thrown in for good measure.

The spa area is truly sybaritic, and bases its therapies on age-old Asian healing techniques and freshly harvested ingredients. There's also an outdoor pool and Jacuzzi tub, as well as plentiful watersports and diving excursions on offer. Alila Ubud is Green Globe certified, making it one the most eco-friendly places to stay on the island.

The rooms

Each of Alila Ubud's 64 guestrooms shares the same luxe-contemporary style as its communal areas. All are well-equipped, with private balconies and daybeds, flat screen televisions, air conditioning and nightly turndown as standard. The Pool Villas are particularly sumptuous; their private pools are bordered by landscaped garden and they boast open-air bathtubs overlooking lotus ponds.