Bali

The island of Bali is perhaps one of the last remaining spiritual enclaves where the passage of life is measured by a continuous cycle of symbolic rituals and ceremonial rites. Encompassed by other islands that make up a vast expanse known as the Indonesian archipelago, Bali has always proudly preserved its unique cultural identity that is based upon a legacy of religion, art and tradition.  

Bali is ultimately a destination of diverse beauty where the landscape is dominated by a chain of volcanic peaks considered sacred by local inhabitants. What lies within the rest of the island is a contrast of tropical forest, rice terraces and agricultural terrain etched by a network of flowing rivers and irrigation canals. All of which is surrounded by a coral enriched coastline that varies in composition from pristine beaches to elevated limestone cliffs, secluded bays and world class surf breaks.

The Balinese believe their island to be the bountiful centre of the Hindu universe. This universe is divided into three parallel realms with a hierarchy led by God Almighty looking down upon mankind and the demonic spirits of the underworld. The underlying philosophy of Balinese Hinduism is to seek a harmonious balance between these three domains in order to lead a peaceful existence.

Elaborate ceremonies with colorful offerings of fruit and flowers regularly take place all over the island in accordance to an ancient calendar system. The passing cycles of the moon indicate times for prayer and personal reflection, while more auspicious occasions such as a temple anniversary require days of preparation by members of each village community. The Balinese are extremely proud of their defined heritage and closely guard it with relentless optimism for the benefit of future generations. Each new day is considered a precious gift from the Gods and is celebrated accordingly with spiritual reverence.

For decades the magnetic charm of Bali and its blessed way of life has captured the hearts of those who have had the good fortune to descend upon its shores. The island is a place where travellers from all walks of life are embraced by genuine hospitality and experience an underlying sense of belonging.

A FUSION OF CULTURAL TRADITION OF RICH ARTISTRY

BALI'S SPHERES OF POWER

Modern day Bali is sub-divided into eight regencies plus the capital of Denpasar, which is now recognized as a city. These regencies were once powerful kingdoms ruled as separate entities where conflict was common in the quest to assume overall supremacy. Governmental consolidation only came about in the mid 1900's when Dutch colonial rule over the island was dismissed and Indonesia declared its independence.

BADUNG

As Bali's most densely populated regency, Badung covers a narrow channel of landscape that runs from the mountain hinterland down into the southernmost tip of the island. Badung incorporates the capital of Denpasar as well as several internationally renowned resort destinations.

The tourist Mecca of Kuta with its laidback beach vibe and kaleidoscope of market stalls, surf wear outlets, inexpensive restaurants and backstreet accommodations has made this area a bustling holiday playground. Once a sleepy fishing village with mesmerising sunsets and unpredictable surf breaks, Kuta now extends into neighbouring districts of Legian and Seminyak. The sophisticated quarter of Seminayk (10 min. from Villa Elanora) is where international travellers will find themselves immersed in a setting filled with some of the islands very best dining, nightlife and shopping opportunities.

The village of Jimbaran is a little further out and it overlooks the tranquil waters of a charming bay where a number of casual seafood cafes have set up a healthy beachfront trade. It is a place to watch the sunset and savour ‘catch of the day' fish grilled to perfection over the flames of a coconut husk BBQ.

Alternatively, the luxury enclave of Nusa Dua is the preferred address for a select collection of branded hotels and resorts. This pristine environment accommodates the needs of business travellers with its comprehensive conference facilities, 18-hole golf course and high-end shopping complex.

A fascinating place of interest is Uluwatu temple, which is dramatically perched atop a limestone cliff some 70 metres above the Indian Ocean on Bali's southern peninsular. Dedicated to the spirits of the sea, this sacred site is one of the most important places of worship for followers of the Hindu faith. A cheeky clan of monkeys are the guardians of the temple compound and visitors are warned to keep their belongings well out of reach from these light-fingered creatures.

The capital of Denpasar is a rather ordinary Asian styled city enveloped by urban sprawl. Its main highlights include a central park and adjacent temple cum museum complex, a traditional marketplace that operates 24 hours a day and Art Centre that comes to life every year for a month long festival of dance and music performances.

GIANYAR

The regency of Gianyar has a strong royal presence where many high caste community members are active patrons of the arts. Perhaps the most widely recognised destination within the regency is the village of Ubud, also known as the cultural pulse of the island. Despite the impact of tourism that has seen the establishment of many villas, cafes and shops, Ubud (30 min. from Villa Elanora) has managed to retain much of the timeless charm that first captivated a host of European artists, anthropologists and bohemian travellers during the 1930's. Behind the façade of modern shop fronts and galleries lies a labyrinth of traditional family compounds and rice fields where daily life revolves around a simple structure of ceremonial and social obligation.

Each village in Gianyar seems to specialise in the production of a different type of handicraft or artistic genre. Mas for example is home to a highly talented clan of woodcarvers, while the silver and goldsmiths of Celuk fashion exquisite pieces of handmade jewellery for worldwide export. Batubulan has become famous for its daily performance of the Barong dance that depicts the universal struggle of good against evil and the roads here are lined with a treasure trove of stone carvings.

Several historical sites of religious importance are also located within the regency including Goa Gajah. This ancient hermitage dates back to the 11th century and exhibits a rare combination of Hindu and Buddhist stone relics. Commonly referred to as the Elephant Cave, this complex features a man made grotto detailing a demonic carved face and was once used as a meditation chamber.

A fascinating phenomenon can be found at the village of Petulu just north of Ubud where every afternoon a large flock of white heron and egrets congregate in the trees. These graceful birds come from all directions to dominate the skyline as they fly in magnificent V-formations. The birds first appeared in 1965 following a bloody political massacre that killed literally thousands of Balinese citizens. The villagers here believe that the birds represent the souls of all the victims lost to this tragic incident.

TABANAN

Tabanan is a regency of great agricultural wealth that covers a fertile expanse of landscape affectionately referred to as the ‘rice barn of Bali. It is essentially an area of perpetual greenery where consistent rainfall sustains crop production and brings prosperity.

The iconic Tanah Lot temple (20 min. from Villa Elanora) is located within the regency and draws crowds of visitors on a daily basis to witness its splendour at sunset. Nestled on a rocky islet, the temple complex is protected by pounding surf and poisonous sea snakes. This holy site is a revered place of worship for followers of the Hindu faith. It dates back to the 16th century and was allegedly built by a wandering priest out of sheer admiration for the gentle beauty of the surrounding countryside.

The rugged coastline of Tabanan regency is a distinct contrast to the cool lake district of Bedugul, which is elevated some 1,400 metres above sea level. This scenic mountain hamlet overlooks the serene waters of the landlocked Lake Bratan and lends itself to energising pursuits such as hiking and canoeing.

The pride of the regency is Kebun Raya Eka Karya, which covers over 120 hectares of botanical gardens exhibiting a fine collection of indigenous flora and wild orchids. It is a popular weekend retreat for picnics and family gatherings where children can run around and learn to appreciate the bounty of Mother Nature. Also in the immediate vicinity is the Bali Handara Country Club, an 18-hole champion golf course and resort complex enveloped within lush panorama that truly inspires the senses.