Having been named the Best of the Best Tourism Destination in the world for 2026 in TripAdvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Awards, Bali continues to hold its place as the perfect escape. From sunlit beaches to temple silhouettes at dusk and lush green rice terraces, the island has long defined its appeal to the world. Yet beyond familiar paths and busy coastlines lie an untouched side to Bali – one that reveals itself slowly, and only to those willing to set out on a different adventure.
Discovering the unseen Bali
Photo by Dan the Drone on Unsplash
To discover a side of Bali that few truly see, you’ll want to head beyond the southern coastlines, where a climb of Mount Batur and other hidden adventures reveal a more intimate side of the island. Guided by torchlights and anticipation, this experience often happens in the early hours before dawn. In return, the summit rewards you with a golden glow of the sun rising above the island, dramatically revealing the volcanic ridged skylines and lush greenery below.
For those seeking a more challenging experience, the sacred peak of Mount Agung offers a deeper connection to Bali’s spiritual heart and equally majestic views. Along the way, be sure to stop by the hidden gem of Sidemen village (pronounced Si-de-men), where rolling hills and rice terraces stretch as far as the eye can see, framed by the quiet presence of the mountain beyond.
Back at the northeast coast, the fishing village of Amed feels worlds away from the bustling streets of Bali. Vibrant tourist spots are traded for black, sandy shores, while the calm and clear waters are an open invitation to aquatic travellers looking for unhurried snorkel and diving sessions. Just offshore of Amed also lies a Japanese Shipwreck, a quiet underwater relic that corals and marine life now call home.
Nestled on Bali’s southern edge is where you’ll find Nyang Nyang Beach, a quiet escape from the otherwise loud seaside spots. Reachable after a short walk down a rugged path, there are no beachfront cafés or rows of loungers with open umbrellas on this white sandy beach. Instead, the sound of waves from the turquoise waters and the salt in the air lingers, creating a wonderful reminder that the best moments in Bali are often the simplest.
Returning to a retreat you’ll call home
In Bali, where you choose to call home often becomes a part of your journey itself. Set amid the lush foliage just outside Ubud, Capella Ubud reimagines the idea of a retreat worth discovering. Inspired by the early European settlers from the 1800s, the resort features just 23 individual suites, including a two-bedroom lodge. Each tented suite comes with its own private saltwater pool and an outdoor deck that opens to the surrounding nature, ideal for those who want to soak in the essence of Bali discreetly.
Travellers may find something that’s quietly relaxing about waking up at Capella Ubud – whether from the morning light slipping through its canvas walls or the tempting aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafting through the air before the day’s explorations begin. For a heightened sense of romance, an in-tent floating breakfast can also be arranged prior, allowing for an unhurried dining experience to kickstart your day.
Come afternoon, the organic Keliki Garden, where herbs and vegetables are harvested for the kitchen, opens its gates to all, providing you with the opportunity to explore even more of the hotel’s grounds. The Campfire at Capella Ubud becomes the main draw after sunset, with storytelling sessions and live music playing under the night stars. These unscripted moments shared between cups of shared hot chocolate and roasted marshmallows capture the spirit of Capella Ubud best, and you’ll even get to meet other guests to exchange moments of Bali if you please.
To take home a piece of your experience in Capella Ubud, a complimentary 30-minute holiday photoshoot is included. Just be sure to reserve your spot a day in advance or reach out to T’ROKA to further elevate your stay.
As you can see, while Bali continues to be celebrated across the globe, it’s the quiet encounters, thoughtful stays, and experiences that unfold at their own pace that make the island feel deeply personal.