When You Want Something Special: Rijasa Agung in Bali

Although this is my third trip to Bali, it was my partner, Ben’s, first trip. As such, I knew I had to make it special.

Bali has been a very important place to me during my travels, especially Ubud as it is where I went to relax after being attacked in Lombok. When searching for hotels I had a few boxes I wanted to check: somewhere comfortable, to deal with jet lag. Somewhere with a beautiful pool, to cool down from the heat. Somewhere that felt like a sanctuary, with beautiful views.

After much research, I narrowed down to Rijasa Agung,  which is located just outside of Ubud – around 20 minutes drive away.

Rijasa Agung in Bali Review

Located a short drive from Ubud, Rijasa Agung is the perfect escape. Here you’ll find classically decorated rooms that feel a little more like a Parisian boutique hotel than something in Bali. The staff at reception made a conceded effort to learn and remember my name – a small touch that makes the Rijasa feel like a home away from home.

From the first moment I walked into my room, I was taken back. It was absolutely gorgeous. Look at that bed!

The real standout feature of this hotel is the view. It is absolutely lush, from my balcony I could see a beautiful river in the valley, the mountains in the background, as well as rice paddy fields. It was sensory overload and each time I looked out the window, I was blown away.

There’s also the pool, which is an infinity style pool overlooking the lush forest. This is by far one of the most spectacular pools I have ever seen.

The room I stayed in had an outdoor jacuzzi which was the perfect way to unwind after a long day of sightseeing in Ubud.

The Service at Rijasa Agung:
I found the staff to be friendly, helpful and keen to assist in any way possible. Because Rijasa Agung is a short drive outside of Ubud’s centre, each day we had to organise a shuttle service to and from Ubud. The staff at reception were always eager to ensure the transfers suited our schedule. At one point during our stay, we left tickets for a traditional show later that evening. We called Rijasa Agung and the receptionist went and looked for the tickets – now that’s what I call service.

During our stay we ate in the hotel’s restaurant and enjoyed a very delicious Balinese meal. The pricing was highly competitive and the portions were very generous. Daily, we enjoyed the hotel’s buffet breakfast which was a large spread of European and Asian cuisines.

In addition, my partner and I both enjoyed a Traditional Balinese Massage in the spa room at Rijsasa Agung, which was one of the best massages I have ever had. In true Rijasa Agung style, the view was a focal point of the massage with the doors open in the spa leading out to the lush surroundings. During my massage I could hear the river below, which was very relaxing. My partner enjoyed his massage so much, that he booked another for later that evening.

The Rooms at Rijasa Agung:

The suite we stayed in was a lot larger than I expected, there was more than enough room for two people to spread out and feel like we had our own distinctive space. The bathroom was well appointed and modern, with a large shower and bathtub. With the breathtaking views just outside the large sliding doors, I felt like my suite was the perfect oasis.

There are standard rooms, suites and also private villas with their own pools. We enjoyed staying in the suite which included the outdoor jacuzzi which was a highlight of our trip.

Bare in mind that the rooms do not have WIFI, but there is complimentary WIFI in the reception and dining areas. Some people might find this a little frustrating, but personally I liked ‘having’ to disconnect while in my room. It allowed me to make the most of this beautiful hotel.

Book This Hotel If…

You’re looking to experience a slice of luxury nestled in one of the most scenic locations in the world. During my stay I noticed that the majority of the guests were couples or families. Personally, I found this hotel to be ideal for a romantic getaway. I felt so relaxed during my stay and found it to be the perfect place to connect with my partner and enjoy being back in Asia.

I thoroughly enjoyed my stay at Rijasa Agung and wouldn’t hesitate to suggest it to my friends or family when they are visiting Ubud.

Have you ever stayed anywhere with an infinity pool? If so, where was it? I  think I have a new obsession.