An island with golden sands and a green heart
Bali, Indonesia
With its divine beaches and great surf, Bali’s coastline has long been a byword for tropical paradise. But the tiny Indonesian island that’s half the size of Jamaica rewards every kind of traveller, not just sunseekers. Venture into the lush interior for rolling rice fields, jungle-clad hills, ancient temples and active volcanoes. Or rest and recharge in a luxurious yoga and wellness retreat. Bottom line? You’ll never run out of things to do on your Bali holiday – and the likelihood is that you’ll be planning to return before you’ve even left.
Climb a volcano
Mount Batur is one of the island’s most sacred mountains and watching the sunrise from the 1717m summit is a quintessential Bali experience. The early morning views from the crater rim of the nearby lake and mountains are sensational and well worth the early start. On your descent, bathe in hot or cold springs, the perfect tonic for tired muscles.
Walk through the paddies
Ubud, with its abundance of yoga schools, art galleries and temples, is Bali’s cultural heart. But let us show you the green rice terraces, which are among Bali’s most beautiful. Top picks include the serene Tegalalang Rice Terrace, which has remained unchanged for centuries. On a private tour, our expert local guide will give you an insight into the Unesco-listed irrigation system.
Catch a wave
Ever since the 1971 documentary, Morning of the Earth, Bali has been synonymous with surfing and is home to some of Southeast Asia’s best breaks – step forward Seminyak and Balian Beach. What’s more, Cosa has Bali’s best surf instructors on speed dial. Lessons are fun yet professional and come with a promise to have you standing and surfing on your first day.
Find inner peace
One of Bali’s six key temples, Pura Tanah Lot was established in the 16th century by the legendary Javanese priest Danghyang Nirartha, who fled to Bali from Java because of the rise of Islam. It’s the perfect place for some soul-searching. Cosa can arrange a private tour that takes in a kecak dance ceremony in the temple grounds.
Essential Bali
A Hindu island in a country that has the world’s largest Muslim population, Bali is known as the island of gods due to the fact that it is home to more than 20,000 temples. The island’s fascinating culture – combined with its fabulous food and enviable climate – have helped put Bali on the international travel map. But despite the influx of tourists, traditional rituals such as daily processions and offerings to the gods remain firmly intact.
Where it is
Southeast Asia
When to go
April to October
Why go there
Ancient temples
Brilliant beaches
Rich culture
What to see
Mount Batur
Pura Tanah Lot
Ubud
