On September 5, 2015, Ritz-Carlton Reserve join Bali’s already-distinguished club of luxury hotels with the arrival of Mandapa, as the third bespoke resort in the prestigious Ritz-Carlton Reserve portfolio. Meaning ‘temple’ in Sanskrit, Mandapa is located near the Ubud jungle – a secluded paradise where lush, rolling hills, the Ayung River and verdant rice paddies create a unique sense of place.
There are only 35 suites and 25 private pool villas, and all have their own private patih (butler). All rooms, typically of Balinese design, bring the outdoor inside, with plant-filled picture windows, jazzy throws on beds and colourful painted scenes on panelled walls.
The hotel centres on wellness and wellbeing, so expect a state-of-the-art spa which is based on six pillars of wellness. Guests can experience the likes of spiritual, health, nutrition or detox programmes, among others. Spa treatments come courtesy of ESPA, and there’s also a pool, river-front yoga studio and sauna.
Guests will be able to to dine in special locations around the Reserve as part of the Dining Beyond service. Four restaurants will include Indonesian and Mediterranean cuisine, alongside health-conscious menus including fresh ingredients from the farm. Children can spend their time in the Kid’s Hut, tucked away from the rest of the resort. Banish ideas of banal games though – here they will learn about the cultural traditions of Ubud and take part in nature-based, educational activities.
The hotel also offers bicycles for hire so guests can visit local villages. Rates start from $570 per night.