Tucked away in Ubud’s lush jungle and iconic rice fields, Kappa Senses Ubud isn’t just another luxury resort – it’s a love letter to Bali’s culture, wrapped in the kind of French refinement that feels effortless yet impossibly chic. From the moment you arrive, the resort feels like a serene escape, designed to cocoon you in modern comfort while honouring everything that Bali represents.
Honestly, I am a bit of a travel snob. My roughing it days are well over – I like luxe and I like my privacy. I travel to Bali frequently and usually stay in luxury private villas as I love moonlight swims on a hot tropical evening and there’s nothing more annoying than hotel pools that close at dusk! On this occasion however I was travelling solo and decided to try something a little different, choosing a resort in Ubud that offered private pool villas rather than a standalone villa on my own. My decision definitely paid off – I would have to say Kappa Senses is one of the best places I’ve ever stayed!
Spread over two hectares, the resort is situated in Tanggayuda just a short 10-minute drive from Ubud, and it feels like its own little paradise. The resort offers 76 opulent suites and villas which are positioned amongst lush tropical gardens and rice fields in a way that each space feels like it’s own private sanctuary.
A Welcome Like No Other
From the moment you arrive you get a sense of the calibre of this property. The reception foyer is warm and inviting but with a refined modern aesthetic reflective of a world class hotel. You’re seated and brought a welcome drink while the staff organise your check in for you. From here it’s not a matter of finding your way to your accommodation, you’re personally accompanied by a resort ‘guide’ who shows you around the highlights of the resort along the way, ensuring you know where everything is from the restaurants to spa, pools and bars. It didn’t stop at the door of my private pool villa either. I was guided on the coffee machine, room service menu, lighting and more before being left to enjoy my wonderful space.
The Best of Both Worlds
I really thought my Bali experience was all about the private accommodation, but Kappa Senses has totally changed the game. Staying here feels like you’ve got the privacy of a villa combined with the vibrant energy and amenities of a five-star resort. It’s the perfect balance – you can retreat to your villa when you crave solitude, then wander out to explore the pools, restaurants, library, shop and spa when the mood strikes. And of course order refreshments and a great selection of local and western cuisine from the room service menu!
Your villa at Kappa Senses really is a private oasis that has been beautifully designed to blend traditional Balinese architecture and design elements with modern convenience. From the rich timber flooring to soaring thatched ceilings and intricately carved doors, that depict Sanskrit epics of Ramayanahrough you FEEL like you’re in Bali. Not in a a modern western resort, yet the modern amenities are all there too.
So I know I said I like my own private pool but I really need to talk about the jungle pool. This was my favourite place to hang out during the day. Hidden in the lower part of the resort, with a cascading waterfall and a natural free-flowing kind of design, it literally feels like a secret garden in the middle of the jungle – only with a butler that can bring you food and cocktails. Swimming there was like stepping into a dream where nature and luxury collide in the most magical way.
A Culinary Affair to Remember
Now, let’s get to the food. Breakfast here isn’t just a meal – it’s an experience. Situated in a beautiful oasis overlooking the rice paddies, the breakfast buffet caters to everyone and I mean everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for local flavours, international dishes, or classic western options, hot, cold, healthy or a little more indulgent, it’s all here. What I think is the real stand out though is the extensive bread selection, the pastries, and daily selection of patisseries – I mean it’s a French-owned hotel right, so how can you go past that? Oh and did I mention the crepes?
Lunch and dinner are equally impressive, with menus that combine French finesse with local Balinese flavours. Whether you’re dining in one of the resort’s three restaurants or enjoying a cocktail by the pool, the culinary offerings are as fantastic as the views.
A Celebration of Local Culture
I feel what really sets Kappa Senses apart is its soul. Many luxury resorts in Bali lean heavily into Western modernity, which frankly I’ve always felt is out of place on an island that has so much of its own rich culture. Kappa Senses is different! From the traditional architecture to the rice paddy walks, Balinese dance classes, and cooking lessons, there’s an authenticity here that feels rare and refreshing.
The resort also takes sustainability seriously. Its permaculture garden not only supplies fresh produce but also underscores its commitment to eco-conscious practices. Combine that with collaborations with local schools and artists, and you can feel good knowing your stay supports the community.
Unwind and Indulge
And then there’s the OmTara Spa by Clarins. Unlike many resort spa’s this one has been built with real consideration for offering Kappa Senses guests a first class wellness experience. Incorporating over 1000sqm with 7 treatment rooms, this lux sanctuary embraces Balinese healing and combines it with the expertise of French spa expertise. The treatments are next level and the facilities incorporate a hammam, vitality pools, sauna, gym and more, making it impossible to not leave Kappa Senses feeling completely renewed and restored.
Why Kappa Senses Will Steal Your Heart
One evening as I walked through the grounds from the restaurant to my villa the tropical rain broke out of the clouds. I had resigned myself to getting wet which I didn’t mind so much as I was looking forward to a relaxing bath before bed in the gorgeous outdoor bathroom. However, I was surprised to suddenly hear footsteps running up behind me with a staff member hold out a large umbrella for me – a huge smile on his face.
It may sound a little corny but Kappa Senses Ubud isn’t just a place to stay it’s a place to feel. It’s where every detail, from the traditionally carved doors of your villa to the warm greetings you receive from every staff member remind you that luxury is about more than just design. It’s about connection – to the culture, to the stunning natural surroundings, and even to yourself.
For me, Kappa Senses was a revelation – it gave me the privacy and tranquility I love, but with the added enjoyment of everything this gorgeous resort had to offer.
If you’re planning a trip to Bali – Kappa Senses Ubud is calling your name. Trust me it’s a getaway you’ll be dreaming about long after you’ve returned home.
Book now at www.kappasenses.com
