There are many reasons people visit Bali. Sure, the shopping is great and the beach clubs are cool, but we suspect it’s something more ephemeral that keeps visitors returning to the island. With its balmy climate, breezy open plan living and classic tropical charm, Bali is simply one of the most relaxing places on earth. There is no better place to channel those Balinese frequencies than the spectacular Villa Kapungkur.
Grand Indonesian Design
From the photos alone, it was clear that Villa Kapungkur was something quite special. I had the opportunity to experience the villa with my mum and wow, it did not disappoint! As we arrived, we were greeted by an extensive team of staff who then led us on a tour of the villa.
Villa Kapungkur’s name means “past” in Sundanese – one of the more than 700 local languages spoken in Indonesia. We soon discovered that the name is more than apt, as each of the villa’s buildings, which are dotted amid gorgeous Balinese gardens, showcases different aspects of Indonesian heritage. From the ornate antiques to the hand carved artefacts, there’s a lot of magic in the details here.
While the villa pays homage to the past, it is by no means a museum. Instead, it offers a stunning tribute to local heritage while also incorporating all the mod cons you could ask for. The kitchen is stocked with a Nespresso machine and the TVs are loaded with Netflix. Even the beautiful antique lighting has been fitted with modern LED lamps.
A Relaxing Oasis
Staying in Villa Kapungkur felt like discovering a hidden paradise – our private domain dedicated to sheer relaxation. There were so many spots where we could sit back, relax and simply enjoy the villa and indeed, enjoy Bali, to the fullest.
With its waterfall feature and curved edge, the swimming pool felt like a lush oasis hidden amidst the greenery. There are breezy balconies for lazy chats or getting lost in a good book. The most relaxing place of all was the spa pavilion which is built over a pond and looks out to a waterfall. Even the island’s best spas won’t offer a more relaxing setup.
Divine Dining
Relaxed meals are a highlight of any holiday and Villa Kapungkur takes them to the next level. The dining area is housed in an open sided building known as the Wantilan – the largest pavilion in a Balinese compound. Beautifully mixing Javanese and Balinese architecture, the building houses a long dining table, a lounge area and even a bar that’s styled with the villa’s signature antique style.
We found both the service and the food to be flawless. Daily breakfast is included in the rates and for an added fee, you can even enjoy a floating breakfast in the pool – you’ll definitely want to keep your camera handy for this one!
If you would like to have a private chef arranged for your stay, or perhaps a special occasion, our team will be happy to organise this for you. The local area also offers some great restaurants for dining out – Sundara at the Four Seasons, Kisik at Ayana and the award-winning Cuca are all within a 10-minute drive.
The Best Bedrooms in Bali?
Villa Kapungkur has some of the dreamiest bedrooms we’ve ever seen – these suites really feel fit for royalty.
There are five bedrooms in total and each one is uniquely styled. One bedroom is hidden behind a rock wall and an antique carved wooden front, while another room is housed in a joglo – a traditional Javanese wooden house. All rooms have huge king-sized beds, either with a spectacular canopy structure or an ornately carved headboard. The rooms feature beautifully upcycled materials, including the antique chests at the base of the beds. The overall effect feels very, very special.
Not only were the bedrooms beautiful, but they were also incredibly comfortable. The rooms are generously sized with plenty of space to breathe and the beds are draped in the highest thread count sheets. We had a great night’s sleep and felt very safe.
To only add to the grandeur, each room is adjoined by a truly spectacular bathroom. From the toiletries to the towels and the vanities, every aspect of the bathrooms was amazing and felt very befitting of the villa. The immense bathtubs were beautiful to behold and sublimely comfortable to relax in.
Staying in Jimbaran
Villa Kapungkur sits on a hill in Jimbaran, a relaxed neighbourhood famed for its long sandy beach, high-end resorts and laidback lifestyle. The beach with its famous seafood restaurants is a five-minute drive away. The beaches, landmarks and sunsets of Uluwatu are also within easy reach – don’t miss the iconic kecak fire dance at Uluwatu Temple.
As the villa is positioned in a quiet residential area, you will need a car and driver to get around. This small luxury is very affordable in Bali – and seems only fitting for a villa this grand. After you’ve had your adventures, Villa Kapungkur is a lovely retreat to come back to.
Find Out More
Villa Kapungkur simply oozes opulence – it’s the ultimate fusion of grand heritage and modern comfort.
Does this sound like the villa for you? Ministry of Villas helps travellers find the perfect villa for their stay. We know every villa inside-out and we provide a service that goes beyond what you see online – contact our team to find out more. Our service is free of charge for guests, as we earn a commission from villa owners for the work we do.
