Since the 1960s, Bali has drawn great multitudes of tourists to its natural beauty and distinctive Hindu culture, the latter bearing little resemblance to those found in India or Nepal. Visitors can enjoy watching sacred dance performances and exploring temples characterised at once by Hindu, Animism and Buddhist influences.
But as in other places whose economies depend so heavily on tourism, Bali has suffered the rise of party hotspots blotting out its age-old culture. So much so that locals have in recent years gathered to protest large-scale developments that might exacerbate this erosion to their way of life.
Thankfully, however, Bali’s western region remains home to unspoiled landscapes and a traditional feel. Here, there are holiday opportunities of the kind that locals appreciate, that delight visitors precisely because they emphasise an authentic Balinese experience. A 15-minute walk from the sea, tucked away in the rural serenity of the Tabanan regency, lies an excellent example.
Villa Salem provides modern creature comforts while helping guests get in touch with the true spirit of Bali. Take, for instance, the island’s renowned artisanship, which sees so many tourists purchasing custom-made jewellery as their souvenirs of choice. It’s embodied here in traditional artworks and coffee tables carved into botanical shapes. Or consider the religious idols that represent an essential part of Balinese daily life. A pantheon of deities inhabits the villa, including a protective Ganesh presiding over the spacious living room, as well as statues found in the recessed spaces of the charming walled garden.
Rice fields like those surrounding the property are likewise of utmost importance to Balinese culture, with the nearby ocean making an appearance in this verdant panorama from certain vantage points. Along this coastline, you can dive in waters teeming with beautiful marine life, and enjoy incredible surfing spots – you can arrange lessons short drives away.
Enhancing all this is a team of staff whose hospitality is typical of the island: housekeepers, cooks, gardeners and a house manager available to help you around the clock. The villa’s meal plan is a highlight, offering three meals daily using fresh, local ingredients tailored to guests’ tastes.
Lounging or dining alfresco by the heated saline pool is a remarkable experience, since it lies suspended amid the sublime tree canopy. Despite the peace and tranquillity suffusing Villa Salem, there’s no shortage of things to do here. Only some of the amenities and activities on offer include tennis courts, an outdoor cinema, barbecue facilities, spa treatments, and, when in season, kite flying.
For bookings and to find out more, see sjvillas.co.uk/accommodation/villa-salem/
Nicholas Ross is a writer, traveller and lover of literature
