Soori Bali is tucked away from the tourist trail, placed perfectly on the edge of the ocean. Mount Batukaru forms the background to a scene of terraced rice fields, whilst shimmering volcanic black sand lines the waterfront, this is one of the last true frontiers of Bali, Bali as it should be. 

The natural setting is a haven of relaxation enhanced by lush gardens and reflective pools. Designed and owned by a renowned architect who I was told had designed it as he would have his house, there is a priority for environmental and cultural sustainability, aiming to preserve the gifts of nature wherever possible. 

The villas range from 1 to 10 bedrooms, all featuring their own private pool and courtyard along with sweeping vistas either towards the crashing ocean waves or the expansive rice fields. Selecting an Ocean Pool Villa ensures the picture-perfect oceanfront panorama. Meanwhile, the layout inside the rooms offers the relaxation area you’ll be looking for if you need a break from the sun's rays. Larger rooms are a sanctuary for those in need of some time out of the limelight, complete with a helipad ready to whisk guests across the island. 

At the heart of the resort lies a 25m infinity pool complete with daybeds submerged into the shallow end, perfect for lounging with your holiday partner. 

Days begin with yoga to the sound of the crashing waves. Beach runs, rice field cycles and Segway tours can occupy the rest of your day if relaxation isn’t for you. We borrowed some bikes, a print out map and a bottle of water and headed into the nearby local town and rice fields alone ready to explore, returning so impressed with what we experienced. Not a tourist in sight, but greeted along our route by welcoming locals, while exploring smaller temple-lined streets and rice paddy fields, we got a real taste for what we were looking for during our time in Bali, the real Bali.

The spa faces out to the black-sand beach offering a wide range of treatments. It has won my personal award of being the best spa I have visited, making exceptional use of the natural environment in the relaxation room with water cascading through from outside, meanwhile rooms are luxuriously furnished to encourage the ultimate relaxation.

Both restaurants focus on the use of fresh produce from nearby farms. They were effortlessly able to accommodate our vegan diet and succeeded in meeting our wishes after allowing us the ultimate luxury, to decide whatever we wanted the chef to deliciously rustle up.

As the sun sets on a perfect day in paradise, the Bali sunset show begins and Soori Bali is perfectly positioned to enjoy every moment. 

Soori Bali is the place to visit if you’re looking to experience the real essence of Bali in a more luxurious setting. Much more than just another resort, the attentive staff take care of your every need. And with the home-like architectural design, I’m sure I’ll be heading back home pretty soon.