I stayed at Samanvaya Bali myself. Here’s what I loved, what surprised me, and why I think it’s one of Bali’s most peaceful luxury escapes.
Samanvaya Resort & Spa, located in the picturesque Sidemen Valley of East Bali, offers a tranquil escape amidst lush rice fields and green hills, capturing the essence of authentic Bali.
My stay in the Batari Villa, constructed entirely from bamboo, featured high ceilings, large windows, and an incredible view of the surrounding landscape right from my bed.
The villa’s design, which includes a stunning wooden staircase and a private jacuzzi, combines modern amenities with traditional Balinese elements, creating a luxurious yet authentic experience.
Dining at the Asri Restaurant’s beautiful garden setting, exceptional service, and delicious local and international cuisine was a highlight for me.
I really enjoyed swimming in the resort’s infinity pools. It was so refreshing, and the views of the beautiful rice fields were breathtaking. The attentive staff, engaging tours, and overall warmth and hospitality made my stay unforgettable.
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Location
The hotel is located in the Sidemen Valley in the east of Bali.
Staying here feels like a journey back in time, where the authentic essence of the island is preserved.
Rice fields and green hills surround the resort, making it a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of modern life.
Villas
During my stay, I toured several room categories. Here’s a quick comparison table I put together to help you choose the right villa for your trip. I stayed in the Batari Villa myself and absolutely loved the view and the hot tub.
| Room Category | Features | Best Suited For |
|---|---|---|
| Batari Villa | Private hot tub, bamboo construction, panoramic views | Couples seeking luxury and privacy |
| Deluxe Rice Terrace Suite | Overlooks rice terraces, spacious balcony | Nature enthusiasts |
| Garden Suite | Private garden, open-air bathroom | Travelers desiring tranquility |
Batari Villa with Private Hot Tub
During my three-night experience, I stayed in the Batari Villa.
The villa is built entirely from bamboo, with high ceilings and huge windows.
Batari is built on the highest point of the Samanvaya resort. The view was incredible! I could see Sidemen’s rice fields and hills right from my bed! So cool!
When entering the villa, you’re greeted by a stunning, illuminated wooden staircase that ascends to the bedroom and living area.
Near the entrance, there’s a mini bar equipped with complimentary coffee and tea.
Additionally, Samanvaya offers a water cooler, a convenient feature that helps reduce single-use plastic.
The bedroom and living area in this villa are spectacular!
The king-sized bed is very comfortable and offers impressive views of rice fields and hills.
A smartphone beside the bed made communicating with hotel staff via WhatsApp easy.
I liked the warm and indirect lighting that created a cozy ambiance.
There were also sufficient power outlets beside the bed to charge my phone and other devices. The villa has air conditioning right above the bed and two ceiling fans for warm summer nights.
The housekeeping team’s turn-down service includes setting up a mosquito net, which adds a unique touch to the room and ensures a peaceful night’s sleep.
The villa also has a separate dining and lounging area.
Drinking a coffee here while soaking in the views was one of my favorite moments.
The chairs are not only comfortable but also incredibly elegant, adding to the overall luxurious feel of the space.
I truly adore the interior design; everything harmonizes so beautifully with the bamboo villa, creating a serene and inviting atmosphere.
Another highlight of the villa was the bathroom, which boasted a private jacuzzi!
I used it every night after a day full of adventures in Sidemen.
The open ceiling and indirect lighting combined create an inviting and relaxing atmosphere.
The entire bathroom was just incredible, showcasing a harmonious blend of natural materials.
The wooden mirror was intricately detailed, and the sink was exceptionally unique.
Asi Restaurant
I found Asri Restaurant to be absolutely incredible.
It boasts a beautiful outdoor garden sitting area, and a nicely decorated inside area.
The service is outstanding; everyone goes the extra mile to create a welcoming atmosphere.
During my three-night stay, I enjoyed delicious breakfasts daily at Asri.
The view only enhanced the whole experience!
I also highly recommend trying the salami and blue cheese pizza and the tuna.
A special shoutout to the amazing chef Joni for preparing a delicious Gado-Gado for me!
Pool
Samanvaya Bali has two stunning infinity pools that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding rice fields and hills.
Diving into these pools felt incredibly refreshing, and I felt very connected with nature.
I particularly enjoyed lunching by the poolside, basking in the serene landscape.
The service here was exceptional throughout the day. Without even having to ask, the attentive staff consistently brought over water.
Things to do near the resort
There’s so much to explore around the resort, so ensure you’re not missing out on Sidemen’s highlights.
Nearby attractions include:
- Rice Terrace Walks: Explore the lush landscapes surrounding the resort.
- Local Village Tours: Immerse yourself in Balinese culture and traditions.
- Waterfall Visits: Discover nearby natural waterfalls for a refreshing experience.
What I loved
I had a wonderful experience. My stay was extremely good overall, but I’d still like to point out some highlights for you.
- Samanvaya is located in the Sidemen Valley, and I absolutely loved the views of rice fields and hills.
- I stayed at the Batari villa, which is built entirely from bamboo. It has high ceilings and abundant natural light, and from its bed, I could enjoy spectacular views of the rice field.
- My villa’s private jacuzzi was a highlight, providing a relaxing experience after exploring Sidemen.
- I also enjoyed the refreshing experience of the two infinity pools, with views of the rice fields and hills.
- The staff were attentive and helpful. The whole team created a welcoming atmosphere and shared insights into their culture.
- The restaurant, with its outdoor garden area and well-decorated interior, served delicious local and international food, complemented by excellent service.
- I participated in engaging tours organized by the hotel for an authentic Balinese experience. These included tasting Balinese coffee at a local family’s house and visiting the Sidemen rice terrace.
- It is a great place to disconnect totally and recharge.
My stay at the hotel was nothing short of magical, but what truly set it apart was the incredible team that made every moment unforgettable.
A heartfelt thank you to Diah, whose care and professionalism throughout my stay were unparalleled. Her passion for her work was evident, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere that all guests deeply appreciated.
I must also express my gratitude to Komang Ari, who, during her break, kindly took me to a nearby river, offering a glimpse into the local life in Sidemen.
This experience added a unique and personal touch to my stay, enriching it with the beauty and simplicity of local Balinese life.
Samanvaya didn’t just offer a place to stay; they curated day tours that were as enlightening as they were enjoyable.
I want to give a special thanks to my amazing guide, Nyoman, who showed me the breathtaking Sidemen rice fields and invited me to a local house for Balinese coffee.
These moments of genuine connection and sharing local customs and traditions were priceless.
I extend my thanks to everyone. Your collective efforts make this place extraordinarily special.
The kindness, warmth, and hospitality you all shared have left a lasting impression on me.
I am sad to leave, but I hope to return soon to see all of you again. I wish you all the best until we meet again!
Everything You Need to Know
What makes Samanvaya unique?
The resort stands out for its serene Sidemen Valley location, breathtaking rice terrace views, and eco-friendly bamboo-constructed villas.
Is it suitable for couples?
Absolutely! Its romantic setting, private villas, and tranquil atmosphere make it perfect for a couples’ getaway.
What type of rooms do they offer?
The resort features 18 rooms across six categories, including bamboo villas and luxury suites, each designed with comfort and style in mind.
Does they have an on-site restaurant?
Yes, the Asri Restaurant offers a farm-to-table dining experience with a menu featuring local and international flavors.
Can I enjoy spa treatments?
Absolutely, the resort’s spa provides traditional Balinese treatments, perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation.
What activities can I do nearby?
You can explore local villages, hike through rice terraces, visit nearby temples, or participate in cultural experiences like Balinese cooking classes.
Is the hotel family-friendly?
While the hotel primarily caters to couples and adults seeking tranquility, families with older children may also enjoy the peaceful ambiance.
How far is Samanvaya from the airport?
The resort is approximately a 90-minute drive from Ngurah Rai International Airport, depending on traffic.
Does the resort offer transportation services?
Yes, they can arrange private transfers to and from the airport or other destinations in Bali.
What is the best time of year to visit?
The dry season (April to October) is ideal for visiting, as the weather is sunny and perfect for exploring the outdoors.
Disclaimer: I was a guest at Samanvaya Bali. My opinions, as always, are solely my own.
Tim Kroeger, founder of Universal Traveller, is a Luxury Wellness & Active Travel Specialist with over 15 years of experience exploring the world.
Through his work with leading luxury hotels and travel brands, Tim helps connect premium travelers with exceptional experiences. His expertise spans hospitality trends, digital nomad lifestyles, and luxury bikepacking, combining adventure travel with comfort and style.
