The Purist Villas and Spa

The Purist, like many Balinese resorts, celebrates nature and combines it with Balinese-style architecture and decor to create a serene, organic atmosphere. There are small ponds and rocky pools along pathways meandering through the lush grounds, which are filled with greenery, tropical plants, and palm trees. Though not an overly large property, there are two outdoor pools at the Purist, both beautiful infinity-style rectangles. Cushioned loungers overlook the pools and gardens, which have a jungle landscape (though this wilderness might not suit all tastes). The Purist exudes a quiet calm, and guests note a peaceful secluded feeling, even when the hotel is well booked. The reception area is a set of open-air pavilions with grey stone floors and a long, beautiful check-in desk and simple white couches, while surrounding shelves and tables display traditional Balinese artwork and sculpture. Ubud is an area known for its traditional arts and dance, and the resort celebrates this history in its decor. 

While not on the outskirts of town, the Purist is not quite near the center of Ubud's action either. To reach the town center will take a long (approximately 25-minute) walk or a short five- to 10-minute car ride. Taxis to town are relatively inexpensive and the hotel also runs a free shuttle to and from Ubud. Surrounding the property there is little beyond greenery and babbling brooks, though there is one restaurant within walking distance and the botanical gardens are about a seven-minute walk away. Ubud is known for its iconic landscapes of rainforest and Hindu temples and shrines dotted among terraced rice paddies, and the hotel can assist in scheduling tours to experience the local attractions. The Ngurah Rai International Airport is over an hour away.

The suites and villas at the Purist are large and tastefully appointed with a simple elegance. Even the smallest rooms, the Valley Suites, are spacious and have private garden space. The design of the rooms, and the resort at large, has the feel of a spa, with soft colors and simple lines infused with natural elements. Though rooms have modern reading lamps, flat-screen TVs, DVD players, iPod docks, minibars, and coffeemakers, there remains a sense of historic authenticity in the spaces thanks to the Balinese sculptures and artwork, such as ceramic basins and large traditional murals. Bathrooms are impressive in both size and design, with lovely stone tubs, separate walk-in showers, and marble sink basins. Villas are significantly larger, with separate bedrooms and living areas, plus more outdoor lounge space including private dipping pools. All rooms also include Wi-Fi accessibility and butler service, plus free breakfast and afternoon tea. 

The Purist has two beautiful, large outdoor pools, which are well integrated into the garden greenery and surrounded by sundecks with padded loungers and umbrellas. There is an Ayurvedic-based spa that offers beauty and body treatments, as well as a yoga studio for private classes (there are yoga mats in all guest rooms as well). The hotel has its own restaurant, generally well-regarded for its mix of local and international options, with an outdoor patio that overlooks one of the pools. Drinks and tapas are available during off-meal hours, and a lovely breakfast and afternoon tea are included in all room rates. Wi-Fi is free and the hotel provides shuttles into Ubud.