Plataran Ubud Hotel & Spa

The approach to this hotel won't put any guests into a tranquil state -- it's one of the busier stretches of pavement in Ubud -- but once inside, the property feels like a tropical oasis. Surrounded by rice paddies, palm trees, and lush landscaping, the grounds feature stone walkways, traditional statues, ponds, fountains and a beautiful, hand-carved stone wall. The lobby is cozy and has a dash of rustic minimalism, with chunky hardwood tables and plush sofas alongside concrete walls. There are several places for guests to sit throughout, though the majority of guests' mingling (or escaping) takes place around the pools and restaurants. The main building looms over a large infinity pool while a second, more narrow infinity pool flanked by a few umbrellas and lounge chairs is located next to the hotel’s three-story annex building. Both are equally relaxing places for guests to cool off. There are two restaurants -- Ulun Sui and Patio. The former is a more formal, fine-dining experience with an outdoor terrace, while the latter is a more lively restaurant and bar that has live entertainment. For a truly romantic escape, guests can dine privately in the rice fields. Guests here are mostly couples drawn by the romantic setting, though solo travelers and families also pass through, as well as wedding parties. 

In spite of its location along of one of Ubud’s main shopping streets, once inside the hotel's property, the location is relatively quiet. There is a snack mart with an ATM across the street from the hotel as well as a Mexican and an Italian restaurant. Yoga Barn is less than a five-minute walk, while shops selling local crafts and small hotels line the street outside. There are several cafes within a 10-minute walk as well. The Sacred Monkey Forest, part nature reserve and part temple, is a 10-minute walk from the hotel, and guests wiling to brave the Bali heat can reach the center of Ubud and Ubud Palace in less than 20 minutes. Mount Batur, a scenic active volcano that's a popular trekking destination, is a 90-minute drive to the north. Ngurah Rai International Airport is one hour from the hotel by car, as is the wild town of Kuta. 

There are a range of traditional rooms and suites at this hotel, and some of the suites have huge terraces and private plunge pools. All rooms are spacious and modern, though higher category rooms are far more stylish. Superior Rooms, the most budget-friendly option, won't always have the rice field views enjoyed by most rooms here, and lack balconies. These are the most plain of the bunch, and feature white tile floors, orange accent walls, Gauguin-esque tropical artwork, and contemporary hardwood furniture. Deluxe Rooms also have white tile floors, but light wood paneling and elegant four-poster beds, along with small terraces with rice field views, make these rooms that much more special. Suites are the top of the line here and feel chic and contemporary, with a warm minimalist style. Expect to see carved wooden doors, low-slung furniture with hardwood accents, and eye-catching black-and-white photography on the walls. Many have multiple rooms. All rooms come with free Wi-Fi, a 42-inch flat-screen TV, mini-fridge, and an electric kettle for coffee or tea. Tan and black tiled bathrooms have bathtub/shower combos and the larger suites also offer both a tub and a spacious glass shower. All rooms come with bathrobes, slippers, and toiletries.

The hotel's oasis-like vibe is most palpable while enjoying its two infinity pools, which have lounge chairs next to them and rice field views (kids appreciate the resident ducks in the rice fields as well). The on-site yoga center offers free classes, and the hotel has an outdoor fitness center plus daily activities like local walks and Balinese cooking classes (though charges apply for some activities). There are two restaurants on-site, and while one is more formal than the other, both serve a mix of tasty Indonesian and international fare and have bars as well. Breakfast is free and also features a selection of Asian and Western fare, and multi-course romantic dinners are available at private tables set amid the rice fields. A free afternoon tea with Balinese cakes is also served, and guests are invited to partake in the morning blessing from a local Hindu priest. The spa offers a variety of massages and beauty treatments and affordable babysitting service is also available. Wi-Fi is free throughout the property and the hotel runs a scheduled shuttle for free. The property is also popular for weddings, which take place by one of the pools or in a private events space.