Authentic Bali & Lombok: from Rice Paddies to Island Culture

Welcome with priority airport clearance and private transfer to accommodation for four nights. Located not far from the traditional village of Ubud, Dwaraka The Royal Villas is the perfect place to relax and recharge in the heart of lush tropical surroundings. The stunning view of the rice fields beautifully complement the idyllic setting of this undeniably charming location. The architecture of the Dwaraka Villas incorporates the finest design features of the Balinese royal household with modern luxury facilities, providing guests with an exclusive and comfortable setting. Not forgetting attentive and discreet service, bespoke facilities, an organic restaurant, a spa and convenient access to the region's many attractions.

In the itinerary - Ubud's temples and sacred springs. The lush green region of Ubud is home to many authentic villages, temples and sacred springs. Discover just some of its many attractions along its country roads and rice fields, such as the Pura Kehen Temple; the traditional village of Penglipuran with its bamboo-roofed houses and craftsmen at work; the majestic Gunung Kawi temple in Tampaksiring, built in the 11th century on the banks of the Pakerisan River, an important place of pilgrimage that houses tombs carved into the rock; the mystical atmosphere of the holy springs of Tirta Empul temple, famed for their purifying and medicinal powers. A visit to the Ceking rice terraces in Tegalalang, renowned for their sweeping views, is the perfect way to end your adventure.

Drive to Bangli and stay in your second delightful property, in the heart of the Balinese countryside. A peaceful eco-lodge with the feel of a guest house surrounded by rice paddies, with Mount Agung volcano as a backdrop and the beach within walking distance. These charming little thatched-roof dwellings don't come with air con or televisions, but they do open out onto the lush natural environment, with a swimming pool snaking between the villas, and also plenty of walking opportunities.

Two days to recharge, explore the Balinese countryside and meet the villagers. More intrepid explorer can push on as far as the Pura Besakih Temple on the slopes of Mount Agung. A complex of about twenty temples; the main one is Pura Penataram Agung, one of the most sacred places in Balinese Hinduism.

In the itinerary - A tour with a private expert guide to learn about medicinal herbs, which are still regularly used by the Balinese. Just as with cooking, the core components used in traditional medicine are drawn from the island's natural bounty. Health and staying in tune with the natural environment also apply to the body; a yoga session is the perfect way to appreciate how it helps keep body and mind in balance.

In the itinerary - A Balinese cooking lesson. Spice mixes are perhaps the main feature of Balinese cuisine, giving dishes most of their flavour and intensity. So, it's not surprising that the Balinese take great care in creating them. Novice cooks are shown the ropes in the capable hands of an expert. Here, cooking isn't just about ingredients but encompasses the culture as a whole; the 'why' is just as important as the 'how'. Then, it's time to taste the end results.

Private transfer to the pier and then take a speedboat to Lombok. Located on the edge of a coconut grove, on the island's most stunning piece of coastline, the Oberoi Beach Resort offers an idyllic dream setting for all visitors looking for a private and romantic getaway. With exclusive access to the beach and stunning views of Bali's Mount Agung volcano, The Oberoi Beach Resort, Lombok covers sixty acres of beautiful gardens, adorned with large native trees and bougainvillaea. The accommodation features thatched villas and pavilions, all with breathtaking views of the ocean and lush garden. The beautiful infinity pool and the open-air spa complete this unique setting.

The Lombok coast perfectly complements the unspoiled beauty of the rural hinterland and the rich cultural heritage of its people: on these few days by the coast try to make time to venture inland.

Island experiences not to be missed - Surfing at Gerupuk inlet - Climbing to the top of the sacred peak of Mount Rinjani - Visiting a deserted cove north of Senggigi - Attending traditional Sasak celebrations - Dining on grilled fish at the Coco Beach restaurant (where lunches are often accompanied by a good nap in the afternoon breeze)...

In the itinerary - A half-day snorkelling trip on Gili Meno. This trip out to sea is an opportunity to swim and snorkel in crystal clear waters and explore a reef with its abundant marine wildlife of multicoloured fish, sea turtles and manta rays.