A stay in Bali’s Como Shambhala Estate is a truly unique experience – a haven set within a lush tropical paradise, which encourages guests to reflect, re-examine and restore their wellbeing, health and lifestyle. Operated by the international Como Group, it ticks all the boxes of a luxury hotel – stunning location, wonderful staff, and delicious cuisine, as well as first class facilities and accommodation. Rather than being a ‘resort’, the Estate offers guests a ‘retreat’ experience.
There are a plethora of residences, suites and villas to choose from, to suit solo travellers, couples and large groups alike. On arrival, a personal assistant greets you and remains on hand throughout your stay. Firstly, you’ll be whisked off to your chosen oasis, where check-in is completed in the comfort of your own room. This is followed by a private consultation to arrange your dietary, wellness and activity preferences, including classes, activities, treatments and even a personalised menu if necessary.
Set at the top of a hill with a breathtakingly lush backdrop, the Como Shambhala Estate is surrounded by trails, waterfalls, streams and stepping stones, among paths that lead you down towards the Ayung River. The soporific sound of the different bodies of water inherently promotes relaxation, and once the sun goes down, you’ll instead start to hear an all-enveloping symphony of chirps, clicks and croaks from the surrounding jungle, which highlight Bali’s rich biodiversity.
The aromas of the oils and candles spill out of the treatment areas dotted around the Estate and mix with the fresh mountain air. The Estate’s twelve resident therapists cater for all manner of hands-on healing, and there’s a comprehensive treatment menu including different styles of massage, Reflexology, Warm Muscle Wraps and Hot Stone treatments.
If you’re in the mood for something more active, resident teachers lead a wide and varied activities programme – there are fitness, yoga and pilates instructors ready to work with you, plus a number of martial arts classes, and pursuits like tennis, hiking, rock climbing, whitewater rafting, and outdoor circuit training.
To round off the perfect day, you have a choice of two restaurants run by the Estate’s resident chefs – Kudus House, a 155-year old former Javanese residence that concentrates on regional influences, spices and dishes, or Glow, a covered terrace that serves healthy yet sumptuous dishes from around the world. All ingredients are organic and locally sourced where possible, and the quality and freshness of the produce speaks for itself.
A break at the Como Shambhala Estate is everything you need to reset, and improve your mental and physical wellbeing, whilst being surrounded by the luxuriant jungle. It is the ideal getaway, offering personally curated stays in true luxury and style, aided by people who are truly passionate about the experiences they’re offering. There is no doubt that you’ll head home feeling rested and rejuvenated, and with wonderful memories.
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Click here for more information. Words: Siobhan Hewison, Photography: Como Shambala