Nestled on a hillside on the banks of the Ayung River in Ubud, Bali sits the five-star Four Seasons at Sayan Resort. Named by Travel and Leisure as the #1 resort in the world in 2018, the Four Seasons at Sayan is a stunning resort that WOWs guests immediately upon arrival. The entrance to the lobby is dramatically positioned at the end of a suspension bridge set high above the treetops where guests descend from the roof above. The bridge ends at an infinity-edge lotus pond with 360 views of the terraced rice paddies, river, and jungles below. This open-air pavilion leads down through a spiral staircase to the main restaurant, spa, gym, and the resort’s 18-acre property.
Architect John Heah incorporated the natural beauty of the surrounding area, which is part of the Unesco World Heritage listed irrigation network to transport guests into a tropical paradise, removed from the hustle of Ubud. With only 60 accommodations, which include 18 suites and 42 villas, this Four Seasons is uncommonly smaller, which makes their guest to staff ratio incredibly high. The staff prides itself in calling their guests by their names within hours of check-in.
The 42 villa accommodations feature huge private plunge pools, outdoor living space with Bali beds, and four-poster king-size beds; complete with elaborate canopy netting. The décor is a blend of contemporary and traditional Balinese features that include complimentary incense, snacks, tea/coffee, and nightly turndown is highlighted with a small vial of essential oils that promote a well-nights-rest. Complimentary services for all guests include cooking classes, garden tours, several yoga classes, and free transfers into the town of Ubud every 2 hours. The yoga pavilion is an open-air bamboo yoga hut which is positioned among the rice fields. The pavilion specializes in anti-gravity yoga, and several classes are offered (additional fees apply).
With three dining options, as well as in-room dining, the various restaurants incorporate produce grown on their property as well as infusing their menu with Indonesian specialty dishes. Known for creating intimate in-destination experiences, the Four Seasons at Sayan has designed several unique Balinese excursions for guests to get up close and personal with their surroundings at an additional cost. These options include: private rafting down the Ayung River (with access to the river from the resort), biking through the Kintamani Village, a secret bathing ritual at a very secluded ancient water temple or experiencing a day in the life of a Balinese rice farmer.
The Four Seasons Resort at Sayan celebrated its 20th year in 2018 and continues to deliver an authentic Balinese experience combined with five-star luxuries that exceed expectations.