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Bali — The Number 1 Retreat Destination & Why

Embrace Bali, the top retreat destination topping this year's charts! Meet the warm-hearted people, immerse in cultural wonders, explore activities, and see the festivities.
  • ExploreIndonesia
  • TravelWithPurpose
  • RetreatActivities

Introduction

Let’s dive into Bali, the number one retreat destination from our Top 10 Retreat Destinations for 2023!

Explore the cultural attractions, best times of the year for retreats, must-do activities, popular retreat types, and some of the top retreat venues.

Balinese people radiate a sense of calm and reverence that seems to infiltrate every part of daily life. This couple (pictured above) is the perfect example as they greet the camera with Sembah.

Sembah is a traditional Balinese greeting that shows respect and reverence – If you’re visiting a Balinese home, this is always an appropriate greeting to give on arrival.

Bali’s warm-hearted people make it a top choice for a retreat, where you’ll be embraced with open arms and genuine smiles.

Contents at a glance

Penjor and a Balinese woman performing traditional dance in Bali
Balinese penjor are a deep symbolism of hindu culture in Bali. There are several forms of dance that are part of Balinese culture.

Cultural Attractions and Experiences

This photo (below) is a great example of festivities in Bali – streets adorned with swaying Penjor capture the island’s deep-rooted traditions.

Penjor are considered Balinese blessings of abundance. The elegant sway of a penjor, a tall bamboo symbol of prosperity is displayed during Galungan. You can read more about the Galungan religious festival here.

The magical poles are testaments to Bali’s vibrant spirituality and rich cultural tapestry. With a form that resembles both the gracious tail of a barong and the majestic peak of Mount Agung, penjors grace Balinese homes, compounds, and temple ceremonies throughout the year. Their intricate decorations, woven from yellow coconut leaves, sweet potato roots, fruits, leaves, and even coins, mirror the island’s abundant and diverse blessings.

As you watch a Balinese woman dance gracefully, you’ll realize how Bali’s rich culture fosters a retreat environment that nourishes both body and soul. There are many styles of dance performed in Balinese culture, each chosen for a specific type of ceremony or festivity.

Bali is a cultural treasure trove with a plethora of experiences to offer. The island is renowned for its intricate temples, vibrant festivals, and artistic traditions. Visitors can witness captivating rituals at temples like Uluwatu and Tanah Lot. The traditional dance performances, such as the Kecak Fire Dance, are a must-see. Exploring Ubud’s art markets and galleries offers an opportunity to engage with local artisans and their creations. Don’t miss out on sampling Balinese delicacies like Babi Guling (suckling pig) and Nasi Campur (mixed rice).

Nusa Penida, rice terraces, Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, Canang Sari baskets in Bali
Bali has so many wonders that make it the perfect destination for retreats - here's a small sample of what makes Bali so magical

Best Time to Visit Bali

The best time to visit Bali is during the dry season, which falls between April and October. During these months, the weather is relatively dry, humidity is lower, and the skies are clearer, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploration.

This collage is a visual example of just some of Bali’s wonders. From the majestic aerial views of Nusa Penida to the calming rice terraces, the tranquil Ulun Danu Beratan Temple, and the intricate Canang Sari baskets, each image whispers more reasons why Bali tops the list of retreat destinations.

Canang sari are the daily offerings that Balinese Hindus display to thank the Sang Hyang Widhi Wasa in praise and prayer. You’ll see their rich colors everywhere you go around Bali.

Must-Do Activities in Bali

  1. Visit Ubud: Immerse yourself in Bali’s artistic heart, exploring its galleries, markets, and the sacred Monkey Forest. Nearby we recommend you bathe in the holy springwater of holy waters of Tirta Empu (pictured below).
  2. Attend a Balinese Ceremony: Witness the island’s spiritual essence by attending a traditional ceremony or temple festival.
  3. Explore Rice Terraces: Discover the iconic Tegalalang Rice Terraces and experience their breathtaking beauty.
  4. Sunset at Tanah Lot: Experience a magical sunset at the Tanah Lot Temple, perched on a rocky outcrop in the ocean.
  5. Dive into Water Adventures: Snorkel or dive in the crystal-clear waters around Amed and Nusa Penida to witness incredible marine life.
Bathing in the holy spring water at Tirta Empu near Ubud on the island of Bali
Soaking up the bliss of natural spring holy water at Tirta Empul near Ubud

Popular Retreats in Bali

Bali offers a diverse array of retreats, including:

  1. Yoga and Meditation Retreats: Bali’s serene environment is perfect for reconnecting with oneself through yoga and meditation.
  2. Wellness and Spa Retreats: The island’s wellness culture makes it an ideal destination for rejuvenation and self-care.
  3. Spiritual Retreats: Bali’s spirituality and holistic practices attract those seeking spiritual growth and self-discovery.
  4. Fitness and Adventure Retreats: Active travelers can enjoy fitness, surfing, and outdoor adventure retreats.
  5. Cultural Immersion Retreats: Delve into Balinese culture through cooking classes, traditional arts, and local experiences.

Top 5 Retreat Venues in Bali

  1. Como Shambhala Estate: A luxury retreat with holistic wellness programs and beautiful views of the Ayung River. They have 30 rooms (comprising villas and suites), 9 treatment rooms at their spa “Ojas”, plus 4 treatment pavilions at the water-garden facility “Kedera”.
  2. Fivelements Retreat Bali: Known for its holistic healing and wellness programs, surrounded by lush nature. Accommodation and treatment rooms open out to look over a river, in the most serene landscape that just melts away any stress you might have brought with you! Fivelements is a haven of beauty and calm.
  3. Andaz Bali: Belonging to the Hyatt brand, but with the vibe of a boutique hotel, Andaz Bali represents true Balinese culture and village life, in everything it offers. It’s truly a magical property. Whilst the Andaz is a large property, it has a peaceful and absolutely luxe feel, and lends itself to being a perfect retreat venue for those seeking superior accommodations and facilities.
  4. Revīvō Wellness Resort: Nestled in the peaceful Nusa Dua hills of Bali, Revīvō occupies a vast 3 hectares in the midst of a teak forest. Enjoy movement classes, meditation, and luxurious spa treatments whilst you retreat within this gorgeous sanctuary.

Bali’s enchanting landscapes, rich culture, and diverse wellness offerings make it a top destination for retreats and rejuvenation. Whether you’re seeking spirituality, adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Bali has something to offer every traveler on their journey of self-discovery and growth.

Swinging into Bliss at Tegalalang Rice Terraces
Feel the thrill as a woman soars above the lush Tegalalang Rice Terraces on a swing

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Founders of Women's Luxury Retreats - Carol & Marc
Hi, we’re Carol & Marc, we’ve been hosting retreats for about 8 years, and exploring retreats/joining as participants for about 16 years. What we’ve missed is a place to find retreats to attend and venues to run our retreats at, without trawling for hours and hours on the web. Women’s Luxury Retreats provides a place for women to find retreats that resonate with them. Retreat types include personal development, wellness, yoga, healing and relaxation, just to name a few – all in luxurious settings.

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