FuramaXclusive Villas & Spa

Across southern Bali, we've stayed in plenty of properties touting quiet and tranquillity only to be woken up by noise ranging from construction to traffic. This property feels distinctly different, in part due to its exclusive, away-from-it-all atmosphere. After passing through gates and security checks along the long driveway into the property, guests are greeted with traditional flower offerings and cold drinks. Check-in at the hotel's breezy reception area only adds to the tension-demolishing vibe. Public spaces all have a similar open-air layout, with pops of purple, white, and hardwood seen throughout. Glimpses of the quiet countryside can be seen from almost any vantage, including Padi restaurant -- with its lovely views across the tropical landscape. Don't come here expecting easy access to Bali's towns and cultural offerings -- it's tucked away quite far from any real development. As such, couples and families looking for peace in the tropics are the most frequent guests here. 

This FuramaXclusive is essentially in the middle of nowhere -- and that's exactly part of its appeal. The hotel is tucked down a long road, at the end of a private driveway within a small traditional village. Villagers are employed by the resort, and produce from the village farms is used in the restaurants when possible. There are just one or two local shops along the road into the resort -- we spotted Furama guests drinking cheap beers at the tables set up outside these warungs during our visit. Otherwise, you'll need to rely on the hotel's shuttle and cabs to get around. The shuttle runs into Ubud five times per day, but stops early, so if you're going into town for dinner or a show, you'll need to hire a cab to get home. It's about a 25-minute drive, but can vary depending on traffic. Budget at least 60 minutes to reach the airport south of Kuta, though if you're smart you'll give it two hours. Traffic in this part of Bali is often horrible.

As part of a shared resort, the villas that make up the FuramaXclusive wing are the more attractive option. They're pleasantly modern and include lots of dark wood, clean lines, and sober hues like purple and mauve. The four-poster beds draped in gauzy white fabric add a classy touch, and the outdoor living areas feel convincingly tropical. Most of the villas open have wading pools that partially wrap around the buildings' exteriors and flow out into an exclusive Lagoon Pool. That main pool is accessed by a gate that leads to a private poolside terrace. Family Villas have their own private pools as well as duplex layouts and rice-field views. Standard features in all villas include air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, sound systems, minibars, free bottled water, and safes. Bathrooms are massive. These are semi-open, with large dressing areas, long vanities, and dual sinks, plus rainfall showers and separate soaking tubs. Robes and slippers are provided. The hotel does provide on-call golf cart service for navigating the sprawling grounds, and guests are escorted to and from villas with their luggage. While the villas are more pleasant that the classic Balinese options also found on-site (as part of Furama Villas & Spa), we did spot some wear and tear that makes them look just a bit tired. 

The features at this resort aren't too extensive, but everything on offer is geared toward a relaxing escape. All facilities (except the Lagoon Pool) are shared with guests staying at the Furama Villas & Spa that's also part of the compound. There are multiple relaxed bars throughout the resort, including one at the Lagoon Pool, and the main restaurant -- Padi -- serves Indonesian and international fare alongside lovely views across the countryside and resort. Breakfast isn't included in rates, but is a decent buffet spread. The spa is small -- with only four treatment rooms -- though they open to views across the landscape that enhance the experience. A free shuttle runs into Ubud five times a day, though it stops in the early evening, meaning you'll have to shell out for a cab home after dinner, drinks, or a show. The resort offers a good number of activities, including morning bicycle tours and other cultural opportunities, though all come with fees. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property.