The Garcia Resort Ubud: Serenity in Bali

The Garcia Resort Ubud Review

Few destinations capture the imagination quite like Bali. Known for its warm hospitality and striking landscapes, there is far more to the island than its famous beaches. Inland, dense jungle, terraced rice fields and gushing waterfalls reveal a slower, gentler side of Bali — one that rewards travellers who take the time to explore beyond the coast. At the heart of the island lies Ubud, a town defined by art, culture and an enduring connection to the land. Here, the right hotel doesn’t compete with Ubud’s rhythm, but complements it — and The Garcia Resort Ubud does exactly that.

The swimming pool

We flew into Bali airport from Jakarta and were warmly welcomed by the hotel’s driver. The 90-minute drive to the resort gave us an introduction to the sights and sounds of Bali. Tucked away from the main road yet still conveniently close to Ubud’s attractions, the 5-star resort provides a welcome buffer from the town’s increasing popularity.  The transition from the activity of the town to the calm of the property is almost immediate. Greenery closes in, and the sound of traffic is replaced by birdsong and the soft rustling of leaves.

Pool villa

The boutique resort’s contemporary design is inspired by Balinese craftsmanship with wooden rooftops, natural textures and calming colour palettes that mirror the landscape. At the centre is a large outdoor pool framed by palm trees. There’s a well-equipped gym for those who want to stay active, a yoga garden deck where frequent sessions are held to encourage mindful relaxation, and an al fresco lounge where rattan swings inspire leisurely days. A dedicated kids’ playroom ensures that younger guests are just as thoughtfully catered for.

Kids’ playroom

Alma Spa & Wellness has a menu of treatments inspired by traditional Balinese healing practices, using natural ingredients and gentle techniques.  The spa facilities include a jacuzzi, sauna, steam shower and onsen bath, a traditional Japanese hot spring bath that uses naturally heated, mineral-rich waters to soothe tired muscles and revive your body. I enjoyed my first Balinese massage and onsen bath ceremony here, and it was just what I needed after two weeks on the go.

Onsen Bath and jacuzzi at Alma Spa & Wellness

There are 57 rooms at the resort, including suites, villas and interconnecting rooms. We stayed in a pool villa, a serene retreat of about 75 square metres, with large picture windows framing our private plunge pool and the rice fields beyond. The interiors were uncluttered and practical, with a plush bed, seating and working areas, and a beverage station. 

Pool Villa

My favourite part, though, was the semi-open bathroom, where we would shower under the open skies.

Semi-open bathroom

Meals at Ksuna Restaurant were a treat. The airy high-ceilinged, dark wood restaurant made for long, lingering meals, and we indulged in Asian delicacies and Western classics. The themed breakfasts, the mocktails and the crispy Thai barramundi at dinner, were particular highlights. Afternoon tea with decadent sandwiches, wraps and desserts, overlooking the gardens, was an apt way to celebrate my son’s birthday.

Food at Ksuna Restaurant

While The Garcia Resort Ubud feels secluded, Ubud’s cultural highlights remain within easy reach. The hotel offers a free shuttle service for guests wanting to visit the city centre, and the Monkey Forest, Ubud Palace, local markets and numerous cafés are all easily accessible. It’s an ideal base for travellers who want to experience Ubud fully but retreat somewhere calm at the end of the day.

For us, however, after two weeks of intense travelling prior to our arrival at the resort, with not much rest in between, we chose to relax at The Garcia Resort Ubud and enjoy its offerings. We revelled in luxurious open-air showers, cooled off in our private plunge pool, enjoyed great food and were pampered at the spa, and it was blissful.

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Sara Essop

Sara Essop is a travel blogger and writer based in South Africa. She writes about family travel and experiences around the world. Although she has been to 53 countries thus far, she especially loves showcasing her beautiful country and is a certified South Africa Specialist.