Capella Ubud: The most exclusive Tented Camp of the World

Mirko La Rosa
Dec 11, 2024
8 min read

Overview

Capella Ubud, an award-winning retreat designed by the visionary architect Bill Bensley, is more than just a luxury resort; it’s a journey into the heart of Bali's enchanting jungle. Hidden within the dense Keliki Valley, Capella offers an experience that combines exploration, cultural immersion, and unmatched elegance. Each tent is a tribute to the spirit of the early 19th-century explorers, capturing the essence of Bali's heritage through intricate design and thoughtful details.

The resort’s tented concept allows guests to experience the sights, sounds, and scents of the jungle without sacrificing the opulence and comfort of a five-star accommodation. Every aspect of Capella Ubud is crafted to celebrate Balinese traditions and sustainable practices, creating an eco-conscious luxury sanctuary. The resort seamlessly integrates itself into the natural landscape, carefully preserving the surrounding trees and ecosystems, which only enhances its appeal as a hidden paradise.

Capella Ubud offers a variety of experiences tailored to every type of traveler, whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or a deep connection to Balinese culture. From sunrise treks to evening fireside storytelling sessions, the resort's curated activities immerse guests in the rich tapestry of Bali. With just 22 tents, the property ensures an intimate, personalized experience that prioritizes privacy and tranquility, making it a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life.

Whether lounging by your private plunge pool, indulging in locally inspired cuisine, or exploring nearby villages, Capella Ubud invites guests to embark on an unforgettable journey that captures the magic and mystery of Bali.

SOMETHING ABOUT UBUD, BALI

Ubud, the cultural heart of Bali, is a place where art, spirituality, and nature converge in harmony. Known for its thriving artistic community, Ubud is home to many local artisans, traditional craftspeople, and creatives who have drawn inspiration from the island’s lush landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The streets are filled with art galleries, craft markets, and studios, offering visitors an intimate look into Bali's profound artistic traditions.

Beyond its artistic appeal, Ubud is also a sanctuary for those seeking wellness and spiritual growth. The town is renowned for its wellness centers, yoga studios, and healing retreats, offering everything from traditional Balinese massages to meditation sessions in serene jungle settings. Many travelers come to Ubud to find balance, both mentally and physically, with the guidance of experienced practitioners who combine ancient wisdom with modern wellness practices.

Nature plays a significant role in Ubud’s allure. Nestled amidst terraced rice fields, dense jungles, and sacred rivers, Ubud offers breathtaking views at every turn. Iconic spots like the Tegalalang Rice Terraces and Campuhan Ridge Walkprovide picture-perfect landscapes that are both peaceful and awe-inspiring. The famous Monkey Forest Sanctuary also draws visitors with its playful, free-roaming monkeys and centuries-old temples, creating a unique fusion of nature and spirituality.

Steeped in history and tradition, Ubud is a place where rituals are woven into daily life. Traditional dance performances, temple ceremonies, and offerings can be seen throughout the town, showcasing the island’s deep-rooted connection to its Hindu beliefs. It’s a place that invites travelers to slow down, appreciate the rhythms of nature, and immerse themselves in Bali's unique culture.

Whether you’re wandering through the jungle, exploring ancient temples, or enjoying a traditional meal overlooking the rice fields, Ubud captivates with its beauty and soul. It’s a destination that promises rejuvenation, inspiration, and an unforgettable glimpse into the heart of Bali.

What we liked most

The Unparalleled Design and AtmosphereCapella Ubud's architecture and interior design are unlike anything we’ve seen. Each tent is carefully crafted to evoke a sense of adventure, adorned with colonial-inspired furnishings, antique collectibles, and intricate Balinese art pieces. The atmosphere is reminiscent of an explorer’s camp from centuries past, yet with all the comforts of a luxury resort. Walking into our tent felt like stepping into a world where the lines between history and modernity blur seamlessly.
Immersive Jungle Views and Private Plunge PoolsBeing surrounded by Bali’s pristine jungle, complete with lush vegetation and exotic sounds, was nothing short of magical. Our tent’s private plunge pool offered uninterrupted views of the jungle canopy, allowing us to unwind in nature’s embrace. Sunrises and sunsets were especially mesmerizing, with the jungle coming alive in hues of green, gold, and violet—truly a sanctuary for the soul.
Exceptional Personalized ServiceThe team at Capella Ubud went above and beyond to make our stay memorable. From the warm welcome upon arrival to the attentive service throughout, every interaction was a reminder of Bali’s famous hospitality. The camp staff anticipated our needs with an impressive attention to detail, ensuring our comfort and privacy without being intrusive. Small touches, like personalized notes and evening treats, made us feel genuinely valued as guests.
Commitment to SustainabilityCapella Ubud is not just a luxury retreat; it’s a model for eco-conscious hospitality. We were impressed by the resort’s dedication to preserving the environment, from its non-intrusive design to its efforts in conserving local flora and fauna. The resort’s initiatives to reduce plastic, promote local sourcing, and minimize environmental impact truly resonated with us. Staying here felt meaningful, knowing that Capella actively protects the beauty surrounding it.
A Unique Blend of Cultural and Experiential ActivitiesCapella Ubud offers guests an array of activities that are immersive, fun, and culturally enriching. We particularly enjoyed the evening storytelling by the campfire, where tales of Balinese myths and legends unfolded under a canopy of stars. Morning yoga sessions, traditional cooking classes, and nature walks also allowed us to engage with the island’s culture and beauty in an intimate, memorable way. Every experience felt thoughtfully curated, creating a deeper connection to Bali’s heritage.

Rooms & Suites: The Tents

During our stay at Capella Ubud, we had the pleasure of residing in the Princess Tent, one of the resort's 22 uniquely designed accommodations. Each tent at Capella Ubud is meticulously crafted to reflect the spirit of early European settlers from the 1800s, offering a harmonious blend of historical charm and modern luxury.

Design and AmbianceThe Princess Tent exudes opulence with its colonial-inspired decor, featuring opulent crystal chandeliers that cast a warm glow over the space. Hand-carved wooden furnishings, rich textiles, and intricate detailing create an atmosphere reminiscent of a bygone era, immersing guests in a narrative of exploration and elegance.

Amenities: Spanning a generous area, the tent includes a spacious bedroom with a plush king-sized bed, an indoor seating area adorned with antique pieces, and a well-appointed bathroom featuring a hand-hammered copper bathtub and both indoor and outdoor showers. The expansive private deck houses a saltwater plunge pool, offering panoramic views of the surrounding rainforest—a perfect spot for relaxation amidst nature.

Privacy and Comfort: Despite the tented structure, the Princess Tent provides utmost privacy and comfort. The canvas walls are designed to offer sound insulation, ensuring a peaceful retreat. Air conditioning maintains a comfortable temperature, while thoughtful touches like a curated minibar, artisanal coffee and tea selections, and bespoke bath amenities enhance the luxurious experience.

Connection with Nature: One of the most captivating aspects of the Princess Tent is its seamless integration with the natural surroundings. Large windows and the open deck invite the sights and sounds of the jungle into the living space, allowing guests to feel connected to the environment without compromising on comfort. Waking up to the symphony of birds and the gentle rustling of leaves was a daily delight.

Staying in the Princess Tent at Capella Ubud was an extraordinary experience that combined historical elegance with the tranquility of Bali's lush landscape. It offered a unique opportunity to immerse ourselves in the island's rich heritage while enjoying the comforts of modern luxury.

Food and Drink

Capella Ubud offers a distinctive culinary journey through its two exceptional dining venues: Mads Lange and Api Jiwa.

Mads Lange

Named after the renowned Danish spice trader Mads Johansen Lange, this tented dining room pays homage to Bali's rich history. The restaurant emphasizes sustainability by sourcing seasonal, locally-farmed ingredients. Guests can enjoy a diverse menu that blends international and Indonesian flavors, with dishes like prawn curry featuring organic garden vegetables and the traditional beef rendang stew. Mads Lange operates daily, serving breakfast from 6:30 AM to 10:30 AM, lunch from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM, and dinner from 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM.

Api Jiwa

Inspired by the Sanskrit term meaning 'fire to the soul,' Api Jiwa offers an intimate Asian barbecue experience. The restaurant features an interactive Robatayaki grill, where chefs prepare a refined degustation-style menu tailored to each guest's preferences. The focus is on farm-to-table cooking, utilizing fresh, seasonal produce from the camp's garden. Api Jiwa provides a unique dining experience with a single seating at 7:00 PM, making reservations essential.

Both restaurants at Capella Ubud deliver not only exquisite cuisine but also immersive dining experiences that reflect the resort's commitment to sustainability and cultural authenticity.

Services and facilities

Capella Ubud, Bali, offers a comprehensive array of services and facilities designed to provide guests with an immersive and luxurious experience amidst the natural beauty of Ubud's rainforest.

Auriga Wellness

Nestled within the camp, Auriga Wellness is a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation. The spa offers bespoke treatments inspired by Bali's rich wellness traditions, utilizing 100% natural and organic products exclusive to Capella Ubud. Guests can enjoy therapies in one of the three spa tents or opt for in-retreat treatments. The facility operates from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, providing a serene environment to unwind.

Capella Hotels

The ArmoryFor fitness enthusiasts, The Armory is a state-of-the-art gymnasium open 24 hours a day. It is equipped with modern fitness equipment, allowing guests to maintain their workout routines at their convenience. Additionally, the camp offers a weekly activity schedule that includes yoga and jungle bootcamp sessions, catering to various fitness preferences.

The Cistern

The Cistern is a 20-meter-long outdoor heated pool that provides a refreshing escape amidst the jungle setting. Open from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM, it offers poolside service, allowing guests to relax and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.

Cultural and Adventure Activities

Capella Ubud offers a range of cultural and adventure activities designed to immerse guests in the local environment and traditions. Guests can participate in water blessings, cleansing rituals, and special offerings at the camp's temple, which was carefully restored in collaboration with the locals of Keliki Village. The camp also provides guided outdoor activities and adventure programs available from sunrise to sunset, offering unique experiences that connect guests with the natural and cultural heritage of Bali.

The Officers Tent

Exclusive to residents, The Officers Tent serves as the camp's living room, where morning coffee, afternoon tea, and the daily evening cocktail and canapé ritual are offered. This space provides a comfortable setting for guests to relax, socialize, and enjoy complimentary refreshments throughout the day.

These thoughtfully curated services and facilities at Capella Ubud ensure that guests experience a harmonious blend of luxury, wellness, and cultural immersion during their stay.

Our experience

Our time at Capella Ubud was nothing short of magical—a blend of adventure, relaxation, and deep cultural connection that far surpassed our expectations. From the moment we arrived, we were enveloped in an ambiance of calm and exclusivity, and yet there was a warmth from the staff that made it feel like home. Every detail of the experience was curated to evoke a sense of discovery, seamlessly integrating the luxury of a five-star resort with the raw beauty of Bali’s jungles.

The atmosphere in the Princess Tent, with its antique furnishings, private plunge pool, and sweeping jungle views, created a sense of intimate seclusion, letting us disconnect from the world and truly unwind. Waking up to the sounds of nature each morning felt rejuvenating, and evenings were magical, especially during the campfire storytelling sessions, which allowed us to delve into Bali’s mystical tales under a canopy of stars.

Dining at Capella Ubud was an experience in itself, offering a sensory journey into Bali’s culinary heritage. Mads Lange and Api Jiwa provided a delicious and memorable array of dishes, each meal becoming a highlight of our day. The chefs took great care in sourcing local ingredients, and every meal felt not only indulgent but also meaningful, celebrating the island’s natural bounty.

We were deeply impressed by the resort’s commitment to sustainability and their efforts to preserve the surrounding environment, which made our stay feel more responsible and connected to Bali’s natural wonders. The staff’s genuine hospitality and careful attention to detail enhanced our stay, making us feel not only pampered but also welcomed like family.

Leaving Capella Ubud was bittersweet. We left feeling refreshed, inspired, and grateful for the chance to experience such a unique and immersive retreat. For those seeking a blend of nature, luxury, and a profound sense of place, Capella Ubud is a destination that transcends ordinary travel experiences. It’s a journey into the soul of Bali that leaves a lasting impression—and one we look forward to reliving on our next visit.

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