After leaving Nusa Dua, we travelled on to Ubud and checked into Tejaprana Resort & Spa. The hotel quickly became one of our favourites on the trip. The hotel is set in very green surroundings just outside town, and from the moment we arrived it felt calm and welcoming. Everything from the design of the villas to the friendly staff gave the place a special charm.
We stayed in a villa with a small plunge pool. Inside there was a bright bedroom and a large bathroom, and outside we had two sitting areas, the plunge pool, and even an outdoor bathtub. The children slept on extra beds next to ours, which were included in the price. The resort also has a lovely shared pool and a nice restaurant. The restaurant is built as a round terrace up among the treetops, offering a fantastic view while you eat. Breakfast was included, and instead of a buffet we could order what we wanted from the menu each morning – everything we tried was so tasty and served very fast.
We could honestly not have wished for a better place to stay – see more here.
We had booked four nights in Ubud, and that turned out to be just the right amount of time to both relax and explore.
Around Ubud
One of our first outings was to the Monkey Forest. We had heard mixed reviews, but we enjoyed it. By following the rules and respecting the animals we didn’t have any problems, and the children found it fun to see the monkeys up close.
The hotel shuttle took us into Ubud the next day. We went to the market, had lunch at a small café, and wandered through the streets. The main roads can feel busy and noisy, but once we turned down the smaller roads the atmosphere was much calmer. That was when we really started to like Ubud – it’s a town full of life, but with lots of quiet corners to discover.
The day after, we hired a taxi driver for a half-day trip. We agreed on a price before leaving, and he drove us first to the Tegallalang Rice Terraces and a nearby coffee plantation, then on to the Tegenungan Waterfall, where we climbed up to the top for a small fee. Both were amazing to visit.
The rice terraces in Ubud have been carefully farmed for hundreds of years using traditional Balinese irrigation, called subak. Walking through the stepped fields was truly amazing – the green areas stretch out as far as you can see, and the narrow paths were fun to walt around. It was peaceful, beautiful and easy to see why these terraces are so famous.
Tegenungan Waterfall is a stunning spot just outside Ubud. We walked up to the top of the falls, and the view was great. It’s a busy place, but worth taking the time to explore and enjoy the scenery.
Our last stop was at a workshop where local craftsmen were carving wooden figures. It was interesting to see how much work goes into the pieces you find for sale all around Ubud. The traffic was heavy, especially in July, so it’s worth keeping in mind if you’re planning a trip.
Back at the resort, I tried the spa and had a facial. It was peaceful and a great way to end the day.
An Early Morning Surprise
On our final morning I woke to a rattling sound outside our villa. At first I thought it was something banging in the wind, but then I realised it was an earthquake. I stepped outside and saw the staff calmly talking at reception while soft music played, which was reassuring. Later we found out the epicentre was far from Bali, and although some houses elsewhere had been damaged, nobody was hurt. There were a couple of aftershocks, but everything soon settled down.
Onwards to Nusa Lembongan
From Ubud we continued to Nusa Lembongan. We had booked tickets with Rocky Fast Cruise in advance, and the company arranged to pick us up at our hotel. When we passed their office on the way, we saw a long line of people waiting to buy tickets – it felt good to have ours sorted beforehand especially when travelling with with children.
July is high season in Bali, so everything was busy. Booking all our hotels and transfers from home made things much easier. If we visit Bali again, we would probably try to avoid July, but with school holidays it isn’t always possible.
Bali sits on the “Ring of Fire”, so earthquakes can happen. The Ring of Fire is responsible for approximately 90% of the world’s earthquakes and 75% of all active volcanic eruptions. Just something to have in mind.
Looking back, our days in Ubud were full of variety – a mix of sightseeing, relaxation and a few surprises. It’s a place that really grows on you the more time you spend there.
Check availability at Tejeprana Resort and plan your Ubud escape.
Other Hotels in Ubud to Consider
Goya Boutique Resort
A short walk from the center of Ubud, Goya Boutique Resort combines stylish design with a peaceful atmosphere. The rooms are spacious, featuring clean lines, marble bathrooms, and balconies with views of the greenery around. The infinity pool and small spa make it an easy place to relax after exploring town.
Check availability and book Goya Boutique Resort
Alaya Resort Ubud
Located on Jalan Hanoman, close to many cafés and shops, Alaya Resort focuses on Balinese-inspired interiors and warm hospitality. Rooms are bright, with terraces overlooking the rice fields, and the in-house restaurant and spa are among the best in the area. It’s ideal if you want to stay central but still enjoy a calm atmosphere.
See current prices and book Alaya Resort Ubud
A boutique wellness retreat in the heart of Ubud, offering a calm, modern design and easy access to the town’s cafés and galleries. With 41 rooms and suites, the resort features two infinity pools and Tejas Spa, where you can unwind with yoga, Ayurvedic treatments and nutritious meals. Perfect for travellers looking for balance between style and relaxation.
Book your stay at Adiwana Resort
Tips from Our Stay in Ubud
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Villas with a plunge pool are great if you’re travelling as a family.
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Agree on taxi prices before you set off – it makes day trips stress-free.
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Use the hotel shuttle for trips into town instead of finding your own transport.
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Traffic in July is heavy – allow extra time for journeys.
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Book hotels and boat tickets in advance during high season.
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Earthquakes can happen, but locals stay calm, which helps you stay calm too.
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