In the winter months we’ll be jetting across the Indian Ocean to the Island of the Gods for a 200hr YTT immersion and a seven night retreat filled with yoga, tunes and healthy food.
With it’s tropical climate, beautiful people and endless rice paddies, this little island is the perfect destination to reconnect and dedicate time to your practice. But did you know Bali has a lot more to offer? Beyond the pristine beaches, Bali’s spiritual side is almost impossible to miss.
Puffs of incense rise from the small offerings of flowers in front of homes and businesses morning and night, and centuries-old temples are scattered across the land, home to cultural celebrations and Hindu practices.
There are endless things to do across the diverse landscape and Bali’s mecca of abundant wildlife, delicious eateries and health and wellness spots.
So why not join us and then spend a week or two exploring? Read on to get inspired by the places most loved by our BodyMindLife teachers.
Cycle down Mt. Batur
This day trip starts at first light with breakfast overlooking the breathtaking volcanic crater of Mt. Batur. It’s literally all downhill from there as you ride through villages, lush rice paddies and plantations. There are a few tour companies to choose from but our GM Mandy Scotney recommends Bali Eco Cycling for its amazing local guides and itinerary that will take you into the heart of real Bali and away from the tourist hordes.
Eat wholefoods and raw treats
While we can’t go past a plate of Indonesian Nasi Campur with the selection of spicy curries, local vegetables and fragrant coconut rice, Bali has also some of the best wholefood eateries in the world. Our retail manager Mandy Alderson’s must-eats include the raw pizza at the Alchemy in Ubud, the beet burger at Bali Buda and the burnt sage gnocchi at Elephant Cafe.
Sound healing at the Pyramids of Chi
Located just 7km outside of Ubud, this meditative experience at the Pyramids of Chi involves lying in a pyramid amidst the rice paddies to absorb the vibration and energy of gongs, crystal bowls, drums and soulful voices. You’ll leave with a sense of complete stillness and tranquility.
Visit NungNung Waterfall
Sitting 900 metres above sea level, this powerful waterfall is based in an idyllic village and has to be one of the most picturesque attractions in Bali. It’s a favourite of Mandy Alderson’s who loves it for the remote, uncrowded access and long stairway for exercise. Make sure you take your cossie for the magical swim you can take at the bottom.
Watch the sunset from Single Fin in Uluwatu
Just up the road from the home of our retreat with Christian Ralston and Noelle Connolly, Single Fin cliff-top bar has the biggest balcony in the archipelago and stunning views across Uluwatu’s famed surf break. As the sun goes down, the sky lights up and Christian says the live tunes and chilled atmosphere makes it one of the best places to sip a Bintang or fresh coconut juice.
Book a blissful massage, or two
It’s hard to choose between the abundant of beautiful day spas and wellness centres offering pamper treatments that cost much less than in Australia. Treat yourself and give back at the same time at the non-profit Spa Hati in Ubud. For Mandy Scotney, who has visited Bali more than 20 times, it’s the best of the bunch with an authentic, serene environment and commitment to children’s education.
Take a trip to Nusa Lembongan
Just a short trip on a fast boat from Sanur the beautiful island of Nusa Lembongan is a world away from the fast pace of South Bali. Main activities include surfing, diving and snorkeling in some of the clearest water you’ll find anywhere, and Amanda Borosak recommends jumping a scooter and zipping around Le Pirate Beach Club and Sandy Beach Club for next level sunsets and amazing eats.
Where to stay in Bali
From beachside shacks to luxe villas, Bali has it all. For our upcoming yoga teacher training we’ve booked Komune Resort set in the unspoilt East Coast of Bali and for the retreat, home will be the cliff perched Uluwatu Surf Villas. Each property features beautiful rooms and state-of-the-art facilities, open-air yoga shalas and panoramic ocean views! See you there?
Image credit: @doyoutravel