Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan

Four Seasons Resort Bali at Sayan sits in the valley of the Ayung River at Sayan, surrounded by jungle. The arrival sets the tone: guests cross a suspension bridge above the treetops to reach the main building, whose shape the resort describes as a rice bowl, and the rooms and villas spread down the slopes towards the river below.

Accommodation is a mix of suites in the main building and villas in the valley. The villas have private pools; the riverfront one-bedroom villas add canopy beds and sit close to the water, while the river-view two-bedroom villas include space for meditation. The three-bedroom Royal Villa is reached via its rooftop. In the main building, the Premier Duplex Suite has two levels and a sun terrace, and the Family Suite Premier includes a separate room for children, which makes the resort a practical choice for families as well as couples.

Wellness is a major focus. The Sacred River Spa bases its treatments on the energy of the river and on Balinese healing rituals, and a night spa ritual by the water includes a warm river stone massage. The resort also runs a three-night wellness retreat with a resident wellness mentor. For food, Sokasi's riverside kitchen hosts a chef's table dinner of seven traditional Balinese courses, including babi guling and bebek betutu, a good way to try Balinese ceremonial dishes in one sitting.

The resort puts some effort into connecting guests with the surrounding area. Experiences have included helping to plant rice in a field followed by a farmer's lunch by the river, a guided tour of lesser-known local sites that includes making canang sari offerings, and recommendations for nearby destinations from the resort team. There are also multi-destination itineraries that combine Sayan with Four Seasons Jimbaran Bay on the coast.

The resort suits honeymooners, couples and families looking for a secluded luxury base, and anyone who wants nature and quiet rather than the bustle of the town centre. Book well ahead in peak seasons, and check the resort's website for current offers, which have included a fourth night free and advance purchase discounts. As metered taxis and ride-hailing pickups are not permitted in Ubud, arrange transport through the resort for evenings in town.