Merica 4 bedroom villa 4 Bedrooms

In Sukawati Village, you’re just a short hop away from the buzz of Ubud. There’s so much here you can’t miss: there’s Ubud Royal Palace, right in the heart of the town, with its outstanding Balinese architecture and serene gardens. In the evening, you can catch the Balinese dance performance known as Kecak dance here. A short walk away, there’s Ubud Art Market which sells silk scarves, handmade bags, shirts, statues, hats and even kites, most of which are made in the surrounding villages. Prices here are negotiable, so don’t pay the first price asked. We also recommend Museum Puri Lukisan, the home of the finest modern Balinese art, which also offers a range of courses and workshops which are great fun for all the family. And if you have kids in tow, you mustn’t skip the Monkey Forest. Walking through this natural forest sanctuary may have you feeling a little like Indiana Jones as you pass Banyan trees and temples, but it’s the monkeys that are the main attraction.

Hungry? Ubud has everything you need and a little more. For fine dining, Mozaic is a winner, with some of the best food in Bali. Locally sourced ingredients prepared with French technique is the speciality – be sure to book in advance. For healthy eaters, vegans and for great cocktails, Melali Ubud is a good choice, with delicious falafel bowls and heaty salads. And if you’re looking for sunset views over the jungle, try The Sayan House’s fantastic fusion of Latin-Japanese cuisine.

There’s also fun to be had right in Sukawati Village. Sukawati Art Market is a must-visit while you’re staying here. The area around Sukawati is famous for its many artisans, including painters, wood-carvers and blacksmiths. This is a great place to pick up art, and also a few souvenirs. Stop at one of the many warungs to grab lunch – we recommend heading to Warung Makan and trying their Nasi Lawar Plek, a traditional speciality we love.

For families, this location is perfect for visiting Bali Zoo (6 minutes drive) and Bali Bird Park (8 minutes drive), both of which will be a hit with the kids. For those who want to explore Bali’s beautiful natural scenery, you’re in a great location for visiting Hidden Canyon (4 minutes drive) and Tegenungan Waterfall (10 minutes drive). Tegenungan Waterfall lies just north of Sukawati Village and is one of the biggest and most spectacular waterfalls in Bali. Hidden Canyon is close by, and involves a 1-2 hour guided hike through stunning rock formations, with water sometimes chest height. It’s worth it!  For those craving the sea, there are unspoilt black sand beaches just a 15 minute drive away, and the laid back resort of Sanur is just a 30 minute drive.