SIX SENSES ULUW ATU

Six Senses Uluwatu is raising the bar for wellness resorts. We discover how while finding our zen in the new luxur y property’s soothing surroundings.

LOCATION: Six Senses Uluwatu is a new luxury property in Pecatu on the southernmost tip of Bali, also home to the famed Uluwatu Temple, not to mention beautiful beaches, top surf spots and magnificent ocean views. Most of this can be taken in from the stunning 12-hectare site of Six Senses Uluwatu, which sits atop a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean. When you arrive at the resort, you’re greeted by the sight of an infinity pool that seems to float against the backdrop of the ocean. It’s a setting so picturesque that it makes you want to rid yourself of all digital devices and enjoy what mother nature has created, preferably while lounging on one of the deckchairs by the pool and sipping cold jamu, a traditional concoction of turmeric and ginger.

ROOM & DESIGN: The sprawling resort features 103 villas and suites, each accessed by traversing a narrow path by buggy from where you catch a glimpse of the various villas, each built using locally sourced materials. Inside, the interiors are modern and restrained with hints of Javanese architecture, made warm and airy with a canopy bed (its mattress is handmade), wooden floors and high ceilings with dark beams. They range from cosy one-bedroom suites to expansive three-bedroom villas, all of which offer sweeping views of the ocean and are equipped with their own private infinity pool which offers a refreshing escape from the scorching heat that hits Uluwatu for many months of the year. This, combined with the rather austere landscape, means it’s worth taking advantage of the resort’s buggy service, particularly if you find your villa set some distance from the facilities located in the lower part of the property.

FACILITIES: Six Senses Uluwatu puts a focus on wellness and is equipped with a fitness centre, yoga studio and spa. Should guests feel the need to leave the luxury of their private pool villa, there are a variety of activities available, including Balinese dancing and cooking and various water sports. Younger guests may enjoy a visit to nearby gardens and farms, as well as the Earth Lab to learn about recycling and sustainable farming under a programme called “Grow With Six Senses.” For first timers to this part of Bali, a trip to the sacred Uluwatu Temple, established as one of Bali’s spiritual pillars, is well worth it. The temple can be found just a short ride from the resort and from it you can take in a Balinese dance against magnificent views of the Indian Ocean and the setting sun. It’s a magical and spiritual experience, particularly when you find yourself delivered there in style in a top-down vintage Volkswagen, all effortlessly arranged by the resort’s dedicated Guest Experience Managers.

SPA: The spa is the jewel in the crown of any Six Senses resort, and no less so at Uluwatu. Here, guests will find 10 treatment rooms, an outdoor massage and relaxation area, a fully equipped gym and a yoga pavilion. Six Senses takes pride in its integrated wellness programmes, which come with a detailed and non-invasive wellness screening that helps assess your health and lifestyle. From this assessment, a wellness guru recommends a targeted treatment. The Balinese-inspired massage is a particular highlight featuring only the locally sourced ingredients used in all treatments, as well as a gong bath session that will leave you in a state of complete relaxation.

FOOD & DRINK: Nutrition has an important role to play in overall wellness, and the food at Six Senses Uluwatu has certainly not been overlooked. The resort has three restaurants that feature a wide selection of Balinese, international and fusion dishes. Crudo offers a unique dining experience: a Nikkei-style sushiceviche bar menu prepared with locally harvested ingredients; while Rocka brings the farm to the table with fresh produce and local ingredients served up at this cliff-side eatery. The Cliff Bar, meanwhile, features one of the most stunning panoramic views of Uluwatu together with oven-baked specialities that combine Southeast Asian spices with traditional doughs and homemade pastas. Only the finest ingredients are used in these restaurants, with most of the herbs, sprouts and vegetables incorporated in the dishes sourced from the resort’s very own vegetable garden and mushroom hut. At Six Senses Uluwatu, you taste the difference.

When you arrive, you’re greeted by the sight of an infinity pool that seems to f loat against the backdrop of the Indian Ocean