Amankila – Bali, Indonesia
Amankila has an ethereal spiritual feel – its name translates as “peaceful hill”. On the less explored east coast, this resort is low key, understated and luxurious. With the sacred Mount Agung behind, emerald green rice terraces surrounding, and the Lombok Straits in front, Amankila resembles an ancient Balinese temple, almost hidden amongst the slopes of the rainforest.
The many buildings are connected by elevated walkways, dripping in bougainvillea and frangipani, and the private beach and beach club is reached by a palm lined path. This is the place to soak up the real Bali, with its traditions, cuisine and serene way of life.
At A Glance
Luxury Hotel
Why We Love It:
For its tranquillity and its staggeringly beautiful setting.Style:
Authentic Indonesian luxe.Location:
On a private hillside, on the east coast of the island – a 90 minute drive from the airport.Rooms:
31 hilltop or private beach suites with large terraces, many with plunge pools and views out over the Lombok Straits.Swimming:
A three tiered infinity pool, lap pool and a black volcanic sand private beach.Children:
Families are welcomed with typical Balinese hospitality.Accessibility:
There are no facilities for guests with reduced mobility.Open From:
Open all year round.rooms
Raised on stilts to make the most of the dreamy views, the zen like, very private suites are built into the hillside, surrounded by tropical rainforest. They are traditionally crafted with alang-alang thatched roofs and elegant furniture, inlaid with coconut and shell. They each have vast living areas and terraces, making them feel more like a villa than a suite.
Garden Suites are romantic bolt holes, and the larger, two bedroom Amankila Suites are perfect for families – the private butler service is very easy to become accustomed to… Many of the suites feature their own pools, where it’s tempting to stay for large parts of the day.
food
With many ingredients fresh from the resort’s own organic farm and gardens, and local producers, the authentic Indonesian and international menu at Amankila, can only be described as mouthwatering. There’s a very good choice of restaurants, from terrace dining to pool or beachside; private dining can be arranged, and guests can take classes in traditional cooking at the Harvest Table.
And don’t forget to start one of your days with breakfast on top of Tamansari Hill, with the spectacular backdrop of Mount Agung and rice paddies of the Buitan Valley.
activities
This part of Bali is more remote than most, and the scenery is staggeringly beautiful. Take a tailored tour of the area with a guide, visiting the ruins of royal palaces, small villages and temples – the Tirta Gangga and Ujung water palaces are particularly spectacular. Or head out on one of the resort’s bikes and cycle past rice paddies, watching traditional living that hasn’t changed for centuries. Go trekking to the summit of Mount Batur to watch the sunrise, or horse ride through the jungle.
And explore on and under the water too. The resort has two traditional outriggers for exploring the Lombok Strait, whilst divers and snorkelers will love the pristine waters and untouched reefs, or go further afield for some deep sea fishing. Back at the resort, refresh your body and mind with a daily yoga session, or with an in-room or beach Spa treatment. Then at the end of the day, sit back on your terrace and listen to the sounds of the jungle.
family
The Balinese look after families beautifully – and at Amankila, they have got it just right. The suites are wonderfully private and there are heaps of activities for children of all ages. There are children’s menus, a babysitting service.
sustainability
Being at one with nature was one of the founding principles of this Aman resort, together with creating a symbiotic relationship with the local community. Local procurement is a priority, with interiors hand carved by native artisans, turn-down gifts handmade on the island and produce sourced locally. Organic farming practices are championed and the resort set up Soul Bali – an NGO that provides education and healthcare to those in need in this part of the island, and supports microbusinesses.
Location
Bali, Indonesia
On a private hillside, on the east coast of the island – a 90 minute drive from the airport.
