Tanah Merah Art Resort

Tanah Merah (meaning red earth) is the brainchild and creation of Danish dentist, Peter Bloch, who purchased some land overlooking the Petanu River Gorge and began building this oasis at the start of the millennium. While designing the entire resort from scratch, the owner has also amassed a vast collection of curios and antiques from around Asia and Europe -- numerous of which are scattered around the hotel, but he opened a nine-room underground museum to house the rest. The resort's architecture was also largely hand-made by master Timorese wood carvers resulting in a wonderfully eclectic and often intricately crafted complex set in sprawling tropical gardens -- much of which affords breathtaking views over the dense jungle and river valley below. Design enthusiasts will be drawn by the numerous art objects and attention to detail while families and couples seeking relaxation can kick back throughout the serene, lush grounds. 

The Tanah Merah Resort is located in Melayang village which is about four miles or a 15-minute drive from Ubud -- Bali's spa capital and one of its major culture, arts, and tourist centers. The village itself is a very quiet traditional Balinese community with little in the way of typical tourist attractions, though visitors can arrange a local guide to take a peek into its daily life. At the end of a steep flight of steps there is also a river where adventurous guests can take a dip in a pool under a jungle waterfall. Bali's main Ngurah Rai International Airport is around 25 miles away, or just over an hour's drive, while Despasar city center is around 45 minutes by car. Some guests may find the location isolated, while others will enjoy its serene vibe. 

Each of the resort's 15 studios and villas has been individually designed and decorated by the owner, resulting in every room featuring distinct -- and occasionally wonderfully distinctive -- interiors. While some are plush and modern with colorful abstract art others are awash with lavish Balinese carved wood and Indonesian antiques. Bathrooms are particularly nicely finished with molded tubs and mood lighting. In-room technology hasn't been forgotten with free Wi-Fi and flat-screen TVs with satellite channels and DVD players. While each lodging has an outdoor furnished terrace, particularly special rooms include superb jungle views from infinity-edge private plunge pools. The jungle setting means the inevitable mosquito or two, as well as early morning noise from various creatures including dogs and roosters from the nearby village. Spacious, breezy, and full of detail, these rooms manage to be both stylish and homey, from the four-poster beds draped with mosquito netting to pretty textiles with local character. 

Guests can enjoy breakfast at the hotel's Petanu Restaurant with views over the gorge and with the occasional appearance of a macaque monkey. A second Gardenia Restaurant provides an equally picturesque setting overlooking the tropical garden and pond, while the Kan Kulak Restaurant has huge windows and jungle vistas. Guests can cool off in one of two lovely infinity-edge swimming pools that also overlook the jungle valley, though a shortage of shade can be a problem for some. A simple open-air spa offers a range of massage treatments, while an underground bar has a full-size pool table, great sound system, and large flat-screen TV. There is an on-site museum that hosts a range of art and sculpture that the resort's owner has collected from around the globe. Wi-Fi is free throughout.