Some places leave such a lasting impression that you wonder if returning years later will feel quite as magical. Alila Villas Uluwatu was one of those places for us.
Our first visit was almost ten years ago, when River was just a few months old. Looking back at those photos, it feels like another lifetime. Returning now, with older more adventurous kids, was incredibly special. What we discovered was a resort that has aged beautifully, remaining every bit as elegant and inspiring as we remembered.
Perched high above Uluwatu’s dramatic limestone cliffs, Alila Villas Uluwatu is still one of Bali’s most striking resorts. The architecture feels timeless, blending contemporary design with natural materials and open spaces that frame the endless Indian Ocean. Our One Bedroom Pool Villa quickly became our sanctuary, offering complete privacy, a generous infinity pool, and peaceful moments that made it difficult to leave each morning.
One of the things we appreciated most was how effortlessly the resort balances luxury with genuine warmth. The service is polished without ever feeling formal, and every interaction felt thoughtful and personal. It was the little things that stood out, from the team remembering exactly which juices and smoothies the children liked each morning to greeting us so warmly throughout our stay. After many years of travelling extensively as a family, those thoughtful details are often what stay with us the longest.
Breakfast at CIRE quickly became one of our favourite daily rituals. Sitting outdoors with sweeping ocean views, we lingered over freshly brewed coffee, tropical juices, Balinese specialties, beautifully prepared Western dishes, and what may just be the best chocolate croissants we’ve had at a resort breakfast. One evening we enjoyed dinner at The Warung, where elevated interpretations of traditional Balinese cuisine showcased the richness of Indonesia’s culinary heritage. Ever completely fell in love with the beef rendang, while the wonderful selection of house made sambals encouraged all of us to compare flavours and spice levels throughout the meal.
My own daily ritual became starting each morning in the excellent fitness centre before returning to the villa for a leisurely swim, while afternoons were spent unwinding beside the main pool or enjoying the tranquil spa.
Returning after nearly a decade reminded us why Alila Villas Uluwatu remains one of Bali’s true icons. Some hotels impress the first time you visit. The truly exceptional ones welcome you back years later and somehow feel even more memorable.
I am a fully qualified independent travel agent specializing in Luxury Family Travel. I’m here to plan your dream family holiday, create a personal itinerary to suit your family’s needs, and give you all the first hand knowledge I have from travelling full time as a family. Contact me at christing.chang@fora.travel assist in booking your next trip.
