Bali. The very name invokes images of pristine beaches, lush jungle-covered mountains, rolling hills terraced with verdant green rice fields, and an all-encompassing sense of spirituality and fulfillment. Bali is also closely associated with health and wellness tourism, boasting some of the very best luxury spas in the world. Steeped in the area’s Hindu traditions, yet open to influences from near and far, Bali’s spas will have the perfect treatment in the perfect environment for any traveler.
It can be hard to know where to begin. Tripadvisor alone has 635 listings under Bali spa & wellness. There are traditional spas, yoga retreats, Japanese onsen baths, ultramodern medical spas, and much more. Options range from budget storefront spas geared toward backpackers looking for a little pampering, to six star properties for only the most well-heeled travelers. Fortunately, luxury travelers looking for the best of the best don’t have to sort through nearly so many options. Here are our picks for Bali’s best spas for those who will settle for no less than perfect.
AWAY Spa at the W Retreat and Spa
Those looking to party it up in the swankiest way possible in Bali head for The W, sometimes following their favorite DJs there. The AWAY correspondingly is Bali’s only 24 hour spa, and boasts a number of unique hangover treatments. Many of these, especially the oxygen bar, are also perfect for curing jet lag after a long haul flight. If you think the ultra-modern look, jet-setting party crowd, and Champagne on tap mean they’re not serious about their spa therapies, think again. Spa treatments at AWAY draw their inspiration from the balance of martial arts. Before your massage begins, you’ll spend five minutes on Wushu breathing and stretching to get your mind and body ready. This is Bali’s perfect spa for young luxury travelers.
Wellness Retreat at Como Shambhala Estate
The Wellness Retreat has won too many awards to list here, and boasts a list of celebrity clientele to make a paparazzi’s head spin. And there’s a good reason for it. The holistic focus on healing here will leave anyone feeling like a new person after a custom three, five, or seven day tailor-made wellness retreat. Relax with a massage in an open hut along the river, or a soak in an outdoor rock bath surrounded by jungle. Work up a sweat with fitness or pilates. Clear your mind with yoga or meditation. Then enjoy the delicious raw food at The Glow, their signature restaurant. The Wellness Retreat will melt away the stresses of life like few places in the world can.
The Banyan Tree Spa
Banyan Tree properties have earned a reputation as being among the best in the world for a truly luxury spa and wellness experience. The one-bedroom private villas built in traditional Balinese style are absolutely gorgeous. With private pool, sunken outdoor bath and shower, marble, and beautiful accents of craftsmanship, it may be hard to ever leave your room. It’s worth doing so though as the traditional spa treatments here are hard to beat. The full day head-to-toe treatment may be the best six hours you will ever spend. Leaving this place is hard to do, which explains their high number of returning guests.
Cocoon Medical Spa
Luxury travelers looking for a wellness center in Bali focusing on cosmetic and anti-aging treatments should look no further than Cocoon. This spa features the latest, most cutting edge procedures for wellness, detox, slimming, Botox, Dermapan, and stem cell therapies. The focus on technology is complemented by a commitment to holistic wellness, and all treatments take place in a Balinese style environment of peace and calm. Cocoon will leave luxury wellness travelers feeling younger and healthier than they have in years.
Karma Spa at Karma Kandara
Set into craggy limestone cliffs and with perfect views overlooking the tropical Indian Ocean, Karma is world famous for their holistic therapies. Amidst the private spa huts overlooking the crystal waters is Karma’s centerpiece, an open air platform featuring their infrared detox sauna and Himalayan crystal salt pool. This spa is especially well-known for their innovative use of Reiki in their massage treatments.
Why Bali?
We wrote a post not long ago about The best luxury spas in Thailand, and we’re big fans of the luxury health and wellness centers in the Land of Smiles. Bali, however, can definitely give Thailand a run for its money. The nicknames of Bali alone are enough to make you want to go there: Island of Peace, Morning of The World, Island of Gods, Island of Love. The island, and the smaller ones around it are the perfect setting for rejuvenation of mind, body, and spirit. Bali is stunningly beautiful, and the spiritual energy there is palpable. These are our favorite spas that channel that energy into a wonderful healing experience, set in a truly luxurious environment where every comfort is met. A spa holiday in Bali can be the reawakening you need for your own health and wellness, we can’t recommend it enough.