4 Highlights of Bali you must not miss
Bali has been a popular tourist destination for decades already, but still, this little Hindu island in the Indonesian archipelago hasn’t lost its magic. The Balinese culture and traditions remain unchanged, and nature is of unparalleled beauty. On top of that, Bali Island is not only exotic; it is also affordable with beautiful traditional island homes and contemporary luxury villas scattered all around the island. For the perfect holiday, book a private villa with a central location and go explore the highlights of Bali. Here’s what not to miss:
- Uluwatu Beaches
Stunning beaches are one very important aspects of why people travel to Bali – beautiful bays, white sandy shores and clear waters where you can swim, sunbathe, relax and surf. The most idyllic, Instagram-worthy beaches of Bali are located in Bukit Peninsula in the southern tip of the island, hidden away at the foot of limestone cliffs and rock formations. Getting to some beaches such as Nyang Nyang Beach requires some extra effort, but your hard work is rewarded with a stunning, desolate place where you can spend the whole day thinking you are on a deserted island somewhere in the Indian Ocean. Great beaches for surfing are Balangan, Blue Point and Dreamland Beach. Padang Padang is a picturesque little bay with monkeys in the trees and mostly calm waters, good for families with kids.
- The most stunning temples
Bali is also known as ‘the island of a thousand temples’ and it is indeed true, there are so many temples, it’s hard to decide on which ones you should definitely check out during your island stay. Some of the most amazing temples are Tanah Lot, a sea temple which is truly iconic to Bali and the lake temple Pura Danu Bratan in Bedugul. The mother temple of Bali is Pura Besakih, located on the slopes of the sacred Mount Agung volcano and Tirta Empul is a gorgeous water temple with sacred spring water where the Balinese come to cleanse, pray and purify. Check out this Bali Temple Guide to learn more about Bali’s sacred temples.
- Rice Paddies trekkings
The terraced rice paddies of Bali show how men and nature can work together to create amazing things. Bali’s endless emerald rice paddies are just breathtakingly beautiful, and you will see them everywhere when driving around the island, especially when wandering off the big roads. One of the most famous rice paddy viewpoints is Tegallalang Rice Terraces where you can also do trekking and snap amazing photos. Another great rice paddy trek is the Campuhan Ridge Walk in Ubud. A great escape into the world of rice paddies and unblemished nature, far away from traffic and crowds.
- Sacred volcanoes
According to the Balinese people, the Gods live inside the volcanoes, and the Demons live in the sea. Both Gods and Demons are to be honoured and praised with daily offerings. Volcanoes are most sacred to the Balinese people, and Mount Agung is the mother of all – the most sacred and the tallest volcano on the island. Another important volcano is Mount Batur, and the sunrise trekkings to the summit are truly amazing and memorable.
Written by Stephanie – Villa-Finder.com