Kayumanis Ubud Private Villa & Spa

A flagstone path flanked by rows of neat hedgerow guides visitors to the charmingly primitive-looking grass-thatched building that houses the hotel lobby. The reception area is similarly unassuming, with a simple wood-and-stone front desk and lots of ornately-carved wooden furnishings. The grounds, however, are anything but underwhelming, with lush tropical gardens alive with exotic plants and animals and not another building in sight. Emerald-colored jungle vegetation cascades down to the Ayung River below, its constant murmurings a soothing backdrop to the relaxing rain forest ambience. A wooden footbridge suspended over the river leads to an open-air spa while meandering stone pathways lead through cinnamon and palm tree groves to tranquil pools and the resort's 23 private, secluded -- and undeniably romantic -- villas. To help keep the vibe quiet, kids under the age of 16 aren't allowed. 

The resort is located in a traditional Balinese village on the edge of the Ayung River valley, about a 10-minute drive from Ubud, Bali's arts and spa capital. While there's not much within walking distance, there is plenty in the way of restaurants and tourist attractions in nearby Ubud, and the must-visit Monkey Forest is 15 minutes away by car. Bali's main Ngurah Rai International Airport is just under an hour's drive, while Denpasar city center is around 40 minutes by car.

Each of the 23 thatched villas is individually designed, with themes ranging from traditional Balinese chic, to Javanese, primitive, and modern styling. Every one is completely secluded with an emphasis on outdoor living, with areas for alfresco relaxing by private pools as well as semi-outdoor lounges and bathrooms. In some villas, the only indoor part is the bedroom -- which won't appeal to all as bugs are inevitable outside. Villas also include equipped kitchens and lounges with plush sofas, flat-screen TVs, and sound systems. 

A real touch of luxury comes in the form of a personal butler who can help organize guest requirements. Aimed largely at honeymooners and romancing couples, candlelight dinners can be arranged in which the pool is filled with flowers and the lounge covered with candles. Big-enough-for-two outdoor bathtubs also help crank up the romance. 

The hotel features an extensive range of breakfast options that can be taken either in the restaurant or in villas and -- unusually -- at any time day. The main restaurant -- the Dining Corner -- serves a range of traditional Thai food next to the swimming pool and overlooking jungle valley, while Wine Corner, unsurprisingly, offers an impressive collection of wines. The hotel's main elongated swimming pool is integrated perfectly into its jungle surrounds and is lined with lounge chairs and shaded daybeds. Drink service is available. 

The hotel spa is a real highlight, spread across a collection of thatched cottages on a ridge above the river. Its signature treatments involve guests picking herbs from the garden and preparing them beforehand. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property.