Capella Ubud Hotel Review

Capella Ubud was built without cutting down any trees.

When I learned this, I paused to take in my surroundings, noticing how each tented structure within the property was seamlessly integrated with native tropical flowers and soaring palm trees that formed a magnificent canopy overhead. I was completely in awe of how such harmonious integration was possible.

Tucked away in the lush rainforests of Bali, Capella Ubud is a luxurious sanctuary that immerses guests in the island’s stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. Legendary architect Bill Bensley created this impressive tented camp without disrupting the land’s lush natural landscape.

Capella Ubud has been featured in Travel + Leisure’s annual World’s Best Awards for several years. It was recognized as the best hotel in the world by T+L readers in 2020 and is 2024’s top hotel in Indonesia. Capella was also named the top hotel brand in the world in 2023 and 2024. Needless to say, my expectations were high.

Upon my arrival, I was embraced by the soothing sounds of nature and greeted with a traditional blessing of holy water and a sprinkle of rice on my forehead, which symbolizes prosperity and well-being. Then I embarked on a melukat, a water ritual aimed to cleanse the body and spirit, part of the brand’s Capella Curates program.

Dressed in Balinese attire provided by the resort, I was guided by a camp ranger along a rocky pathway to the Sacred Wos River Temple, where we prepared offerings for the gods and recited mantras to release negative energy. Then, we submerged in an ancient spring of holy water.

Wellness and adventure stand out here through a variety of activities that encourage guests to engage with Balinese culture — from guided jungle treks and rice paddy walks to cooking classes and yoga sessions. The culinary offerings are equally impressive, with on-site dining options that showcase vibrant local flavors and ingredients.

The property features 22 luxurious one-bedroom villas and one two-bedroom lodge, each with its own private saltwater pool, spacious outdoor deck, impeccably designed interiors, and sprawling views of the Keliki Valley. These tented retreats blend the natural beauty of the Balinese jungle with modern amenities.

Read on for my review of Capella Ubud and discover what awaits at this exceptional sanctuary in Bali.

The Rooms

Nestled within the forests, the tented villas are uniquely styled to reflect the skills of European settlers from the early 1800s, such as tradesmen, explorers, and artists. Modern conveniences include air-conditioning, high-speed Wi-Fi, a complimentary smartphone (with data included), a stocked refreshment trunk, and an Illy espresso machine.

In my not-so-humble abode, called the Horn Collector’s Tent, I crossed a suspension bridge that led to an expansive wooden deck with a suspended saltwater pool, a large daybed, and two additional lounging areas.

The sun-drenched suite was decorated with rich textiles and an array of horn ornaments and other Balinese instruments. It also displayed a lavish refreshment trunk, covered in plush brown-and-white rawhide and stocked with premium beverages, which far exceeded a typical minibar. A complimentary carafe of spiced rum, fresh tropical fruits, and specialty cookies offered a welcome treat as I made myself at home.

My bathroom was downright opulent with a hammered copper soaking tub, an outdoor shower sanctuary, a double washbasin vanity, and the most elaborately designed toilet throne I’ve ever seen. And let’s not forget the soap menu: your choice of handcrafted organic soaps made with Balinese botanicals and fragrances, such as bamboo blossom, citrus lily, chocolate-orange, and coffee.

In the evening, I looked forward to turndown service — a soothing foot bath (warm water infused with essential oils and Frangipani flowers), accompanied by herbal tea and cookies — before cozying up in my heavenly king-size canopy bed.

Food and Drink

Inspired by the Sanskrit phrase meaning “fire to the soul,” Api Jiwa is an open-air restaurant. With one nightly seating at 7 p.m., guests can savor an innovative, 10-course omakase-style menu highlighting the finest ingredients from across Bali. Central to the experience, an open kitchen invites diners to witness the culinary artistry unfold. The surrounding Chef’s Table offers a prime view of the action, creating a lively and interactive environment between the chefs and guests.

Another terrific option is Mads Lange, a split-level tented dining room overlooking the property’s immaculate grounds and industrial-style pool. The a la carte breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus feature international dishes boasting seasonal flavors, hand-harvested vegetables, spices, and herbs from nearby farms, and the freshest regional seafood.

Morning coffee, afternoon tea, and evening cocktails and canapés are served in the Officers Tent, a handsomely decorated living room and social space with board games, a collection of books, and antiques from a bygone era. Light bites and Bali-inspired cocktails can be enjoyed at the poolside Mortar & Pestle Bar or from the comfort of a lounge chair. For the ultimate indulgence, start your day with an extravagant floating breakfast in your own private pool.

Experiences and Amenities

The Capella Curates program includes local culinary exploration, a design and architecture tour of Ubud, and art workshops. And don’t miss the evening under the stars programming (weather permitting); it’s a movie or live storytelling hosted around a campfire, complete with hot chocolate and toasted marshmallows.

Take a dip in the heated outdoor Cistern pool, which is nearly 70 feet long, has a unique zigzag design, and features multiple high-power aqua jets. Best of all, this show-stopping pool and its adjacent sundeck offer magnificent panoramic views.

If trekking around the property’s sloping terrain isn’t enough of a workout, the state-of-the-art fitness center is open 24 hours a day and has a weekly schedule of classes ranging from aerial yoga to bootcamp. Into outdoor adventures? Try mountain biking, jungle hikes, or other guided activities.

The Spa

When seeking tranquility and relaxation during your stay, Auriga Wellness has you covered. Here, traditional Balinese therapies incorporate native ingredients and luxe organic products made exclusively for Capella Ubud.

Guests can get pampered in spacious spa treatment rooms or opt for serenity in their private villa. I thoroughly enjoyed the Full Moon Massage, a rejuvenating signature treatment that channeled the calming energy of the moon.

Family-friendly Offerings

Families can take creative cooking classes to learn how to make Balinese dishes together, and participate in guided nature walks, arts and crafts, and fun educational programs specifically designed for kids. Additionally, the concierge can organize customized excursions to nearby attractions, cultural experiences, and eco-adventures that are suitable for children. That said, the hotel doesn’t recommend bringing children younger than six years old because of the hotel’s steep and sloping terrain.

Accessibility and Sustainability

Capella Ubud isn’t a fit for travelers with mobility challenges because of the resort’s terrain. Though the villas weren’t designed based on ADA requirements, the staff is incredibly accommodating and their focus on guest comfort is apparent. Walking sticks are also available for use around the property.

Additionally, the hotel has implemented practices that lower its environmental footprint, including protecting every tree on its nine acres of land.

Location

Many top attractions in Ubud — the iconic Tegalalang rice terraces, the Sacred Monkey Forest, and popular art markets — are just a short drive from the resort. Plus, the Ngurah Rai International Airport is about an hour-and-a-half drive away. Transfers can be arranged through the resort.

Although a car provides flexibility for exploring, Capella offers guided tours and activities that enable visitors to experience the sights and engage in the local culture without needing a vehicle.

If you’re savvy on two wheels, renting a bike or a scooter is a popular way to get around. You can easily book a scooter or taxi ride through Bali’s popular ride-sharing apps, Gojek and Grab.

How to Get the Most Value Out of Your Stay

While staying at this exceptional property may come with a higher price tag, keep an eye out for special offers such as multi-night discounts.

Guests can join the Capella Discovery loyalty program to earn points on eligible purchases, receiving a percentage back (typically 4% to 7%) that can be redeemed for dining, room upgrades, spa treatments, or applied to your final bill upon check-out.

Additionally, the property is part of American Express Travel’s Fine Hotels & Resorts, which offers excellent benefits like early check-in and late check-out, room upgrades upon arrival (when available), daily breakfast for two, and a property credit for Platinum cardmembers. Cardholders can pay with points to book their stay, too.