Bali continues to excel as a destination for travellers seeking boutique stays that prioritise atmosphere, design and a strong sense of place over scale. Away from the island’s larger resorts, a growing collection of small, design led properties offer something more personal, private, creative, and with a closer connection to Bali’s landscapes and culture. These hotels tend to favour thoughtful architecture, tailored service and distinctive locations, making them ideal for travellers who value individuality and experience driven travel.
The Bohemian Bali
The Bohemian Bali is located in Ubud, surrounded by rice fields and tropical greenery just a short drive from the town centre. The property is intimate in scale, with a small collection of individually styled rooms and suites designed to feel more like a private home than a hotel. Its location offers a balance between easy access to Ubud’s cafés, galleries and temples, while maintaining a sense of retreat and quiet.
Décor leans towards an artistic and eclectic aesthetic, combining natural textures, handcrafted furniture and global influences. Rooms include open-air bathrooms, private terraces and thoughtful details that give each space its own personality. Facilities are deliberately low key, focusing on a tranquil swimming pool, shared lounge spaces and personalised service rather than extensive resort style amenities.
This hotel is best suited to couples, solo travellers and creatives looking for a relaxed base with character. It appeals to guests who value atmosphere, thoughtful design and a slower pace, and who prefer to spend their days exploring Ubud or unwinding by the pool.
Magia de Uma
Magia de Uma in Umalas, Bali is an intimate boutique retreat just minutes from the vibrant beaches and cafés of Canggu, set amid tranquil rice fields that reflect the island’s soulful spirit. The hotel comprises a small collection of thoughtfully designed rooms and bungalows, each blending traditional Balinese craftsmanship with understated contemporary comfort to create a serene sanctuary for guests. With 14 beautifully appointed rooms, this private estate feels more like a refined home than a conventional hotel, inviting slow living and connection with nature. Guests can savour Indonesian-inspired cuisine that celebrates local flavours at the on-site restaurant, unwind in the spa with holistic treatments, take a dip in the pool overlooking lush paddies, or join sunrise yoga and wellness experiences that deepen the sense of wellbeing. Its calm gardens and heritage architecture are complemented by easy access to Canggu’s cultural and creative energy, making Magia de Uma a compelling choice for travellers seeking both restorative calm and authentic Balinese charm.
Desa Hay
Desa Hay is located in the rural area of Pererenan, close to Canggu and its setting within working rice fields give it a distinctly local feel. The hotel has a limited number of rooms and villas designed to reflect the idea of a modern Balinese village. Its location places guests close to the coast, cafés and beach clubs, while retaining a sense of space and calm.
The design blends contemporary architecture with traditional elements, using concrete, wood and local craftsmanship to create clean yet warm interiors. Rooms and villas are generous in size and include private outdoor spaces, while shared facilities include a swimming pool, open air dining areas and landscaped gardens.
Desa Hay suits travellers who want a stylish base near Bali’s social scene without being in the centre of it. It works well for couples and friends who would enjoy a relaxed village atmosphere with easy access to dining and beaches.
La Reserve 1785
La Reserve 1785 is a clifftop villa estate in Uluwatu, offering expansive ocean views and a strong sense of privacy. The property operates as an exclusive boutique stay, with a limited number of large villas rather than traditional hotel rooms.
The villas are spacious and refined, featuring private pools, multiple living areas and elegant interiors inspired by European heritage and Balinese craftsmanship. Facilities include personalised butler service, in villa dining, wellness treatments and access to shared lounges and gardens, all designed to feel private and unhurried.
Its location places guests close to Bali’s southern beaches and surf spots, while remaining secluded and discreet.
This property is located close to Bali’s southern beaches and surf spots. With an emphasis on seclusion and discretion, this is best suited to couples, families or small groups seeking space and privacy with a polished finish.
Hidden Hills Villas
Hidden Hills Villas is located in the hills of Uluwatu, offering dramatic views across the southern coastline. The property consists of a small collection of large private villas, each themed and designed to create a distinct mood.
Villas feature expansive living spaces, private pools, entertainment rooms and panoramic terraces. Interiors are bold and theatrical, with strong design concepts and a sense of occasion throughout. Facilities include personalised butler service, in-villa spa treatments, private dining experiences and access to curated excursions across the peninsula.
Hidden Hills Villas is ideal for travellers looking for a statement stay that combines views, space and high touch service, and who plan to spend much of their time enjoying the villa itself as part of the experience.
