Discover The Real Bali And Its Ancient Healing Traditions At The Spa Village Resort In Tembok

Bali has a magical quality about it that draws travelers from all over the world. Within the wellness space, the Indonesian island located between Java and Lombok is a mecca for yoga and spa retreats. Deeply-rooted spiritual Hindu culture is ingrained in Balinese everyday life. This lends a sense of myth, magic and mystery to the famed Island of the Gods. It also inspires the unique healing traditions, philosophies, and treatments offered by countless spas that make Bali a popular wellness destination.

Lush jungle forests and beach shores punctuated by temples and traditional houses make up the island’s picture-perfect landscapes. They add to the destination’s irresistible allure, and serve as the ideal backdrop for various yoga practices and meditation experiences. When Bali was named one of the world’s most popular destinations by TripAdvisor in 2023, the online travel platform declared that it is “a living postcard, an Indonesian paradise that feels like a fantasy.”

A Journey To Tembok, Bali

The first time I went to Bali in 2017 revealed a side of the island that was fun, adventurous, and filled with creative ideas. Except for one or two spa treatments at the resort and day trips to Ubud, I never really had a change to immerse in the unique wellness experience the island had to offer. It was only after the pandemic that I began planning a long-overdue, authentic Balinese wellness holiday. This time, it was to discover the off-beaten path to Tembok where the highlands and sea meet.

The Spa Village Resort in Tembok, Bali had been on the radar since it re-opened for visitors in 2022. Unlike the usual boujee luxury resorts with their modern tropical structures, Spa Village Resort is more like a well-appointed vacation home for close family and friends. It is a hideaway for rest, relaxation, and restoration frequented by discerning travelers. French football god, Eric Cantona, has visited the resort on several occasions with family. Chang Fee Ming, one of Southeast Asia’s most important contemporary artists, has been known to spend holidays and find creative inspiration at the Spa Village Resort.

Inspired by his travels, Chan Fee Ming authored and did artwork for a book called Journey to Tembok with Chang Fee Ming. On the three-hour road trip to the resort, I followed a course through ancient provinces, temples, and water palaces. It was a refreshing route that set a slow, leisurely tone for the experience that awaited. On my itinerary, the Spa Village team noted: “This drive is an ideal opportunity to immerse in the beauty of Bali. Transition from the bustling city to quaint villages with picturesque rice paddies and majestic mountains.”

Where Mount Agung And The Bali Sea Meet

Located on the northeastern coast of Bali, Spa Village Resort in Tembok lies between fabled Mount Agung (known as the god Shiva’s home) and mythical Bali Sea. Compared to the more touristic villages like Seminyak, Canggu or Kuta, Tembok presents a relaxed, grounded, and contemplative environment for a transformative wellness holiday.

There are 18 villas on the beachfront property, which makes it ideal for those who seek privacy and serenity. Suites are generously spaced with sitting rooms and balconies that open up to stunning sea views. In the Samudra Villa where I was billeted, I had the luxury of having my own infinity pool and outdoor bale pavilion, which looked out to Bali sea. It was the fitting accommodation for an iconic floating Balinese breakfast.

Spa Village Is All About The Small Details

Although I had packed a large suitcase for the trip, breezy, linen lounge sets were provided by the Spa Village as wardrobe options. It was one of the many tiny details that struck a chord during my stay. Welcome foot bath rituals, heartwarming notes from staff, surprise dishes prepared by the chef, and warm tea on the bedside, were personal touches distinct to the Spa Village experience. That, and the warm smiles from well-trained staff who gave new meaning to the words, “At your service.”

I began the retreat with a detoxifying Segara Giri treatment, which utilized black volcanic sand to purify and cleanse the body. Feet and legs were immersed in a heated tub filled with black sand, pulling out all the toxins and soothing muscle pains on the lower body. My favorite therapist, Ketut, explained, “In Bali, we believe that purifying the feet is a way of washing away negative energy.” It took a few minutes before the body could acclimatize to the high temperature, but delightful servings of frozen watermelon popsicles, and icy ylang-ylang shots hit a sweet spot. After 20 minutes submerged in heated volcanic sand, mind, body, and senses were ready for an authentic Balinese Massage.

It was almost sunset by the time I emerged from my first treatment. As I sat outside the massage room looking out into the garden, a warm pot of Indonesia jamu was served. “Good for your immune system and blood circulation,” urged Ketut. “If you have digestive issues and suffer from low energy levels, this is good, too.” The herbal mix of tamarind, turmeric, lime, and coconut sugar was delicious. I requested for seconds.

Find Healing and Discover The Magic of Bali Through Nature

The wellness itinerary at Spa Village in Tembok was not confined only to massages and spa treatments. Morning hikes and bike rides to Les Waterfalls awakened vigor. It also provided an opportunity to immerse in the countryside and experience the authentic Bali. We trekked for 45 minutes up the mountain and found ourselves at the opening of a grand waterfall. My guide explained, “In Bali, we pray to the god of water Vishnu before bathing in water. We give thanks and ask for blessings.” As the massive force of clear, pure mountain water pounded against rocks, we paused by the waterside to chant and breathe in the healing, fresh air. Then it was time to bathe in healing water.

Most afternoons at Spa Village were dedicated to Hatha Yoga led by resident artist Maria Linghult. While looking out to the sea at sunset, a combination of asanas and breath work did the job of revitalizing one’s practice. A cruise at golden hour had also been included in the wellness retreat itinerary. We took a jungkung (traditional Balinese fishing boat) out to sea, staying just under the shadow of Mt. Agung. Only minutes before the sky turned dark, dolphins decided to keep us company, as if to escort us back to shore. It was magic at sunset.

Every evening, guests were also invited to float on water, while gazing at stars and listening to meditation music. It was one of my favorite things to do at the resort before tucking in. There was a feeling of weightlessness as I lay on the flotation bed staring out into the infinite sky. It was my time for silent prayer, introspection, and gratitude. On the first night at Spa Village Resort, the star gazing experience was so profound, it moved me to tears.

Unveiling The Mysteries of Balinese Healing

Although it had been years since I started my wellness journey, it wasn’t until I visited Spa Village in Tembok that I got the chance to meet a Balinese healer. I’ve come across gifted individuals who use all kinds of modalities to heal, but none like Balian Jro Gede Pasek. He spoke little English, so Ketut who had been my therapist for most of my stay joined in to help translate.

I sat across from him, watching as he made offerings of rice, flowers, incense, and spices to the gods. “He wants to know what you seek healing from,” said Ketut to which I replied, “I’m not sure, really. But we can all use a little guidance and clarity as we move through life.”

It is still unclear in my logical mind how that unforgettable healing session turned into a heartfelt conversation between me and my late grandmother whom I fondly call Mamang. But in my heart, I realized that events leading up to that day prepared me to fully embrace and welcome a kind of love that lives beyond physical death. “Your grandmother is always watching, guiding, and supporting you. Pray for her everyday.” assured Jro Gede as I wiped off a stream of tears I didn’t know had been building up inside for years.

“Now, it’s time to purify you from all the negative energy weighing you down with a water cleansing ceremony,” explained Ketut. In Balinese culture, water is held as a sacred tool for cleansing the mind, body and spirit. Many of their rituals are anchored on the use of water, coconut milk, and prayers to the god water, Vishnu. I felt light as a feather after that session, as if a ton of blocks had been lifted from my back. I hugged my favorite therapist and thanked her for being a conduit for me and my spirit guide to reconnect.

Balinese Hair And Body Treatments Fit For A Queen

Throughout my five-day stay at Spa Village in Tembok, uniquely Balinese spa treatments were booked to help revive, restore, and rejuvenate the body. The first quarter of 2023 had been brutal, leaving little to no time for a proper hair treatment let alone a massage or facial.

The Mekramas Hair Care Treatment utilizes coconut oil and candlenut to soothe drying scalp and revitalize hair follicles. Hibiscus leaves and aloe vera was also used as a leave-on to help add shine and bounce. It was amusing how after this hair treatment, my head was wrapped in pandan leaves in Cleopatra fashion. The Hair Care treatment went well with a Gelisin Facial, which consists of a rice scrub, coconut oil face massage, and volcanic clay mask. Following the treatment, skin was visibly more radiant and pores appeared smaller.

Campur-Campur is a signature massage not be missed at Spa Village in Tembok. It is a combination of Malay, Thai and aromatherapy healing techniques to soothe senses. A steam pouch filled with therapeutic herbs is also pressed against the body to release body aches and pains. It was a welcome treat after vigorous mornings biking around the village or hiking up to see the waterfalls.

An indulgent experience on the spa menu, ideal for brides-to-be, draws from the time-honored pre wedding rituals in Balinese culture. Referred to as the Penganten Melukat Body Treatment, it began with a traditional Balinese massage and ws followed by Boreh Body Scrub. I learned to make my own scrub at a Boreh Making Class during my stay at the resort, using natural ingredients like turmeric, ginger, cloves, nutmeg and other herbs. When applied on the body, this potent anti inflammatory potion, warmed the skin and eased tight muscles. A milk soak and fragrant floral bath followed.

The Intangibles That Make Spa Village in Tembok, Bali Magical

On my last night at the Spa Village Resort in Tembok, staff and the accommodating chef of the property’s Wantilan restaurant prepared a special dinner by the beach. It was a culinary feast of Bali’s freshest catch and well-loved dishes. Chik Lai Ping, Senior Vice President of YTL Hotels Spa Division joined for dinner. As we chatted about the experiences that distinguish Spa Village in Tembok from other luxury wellness destinations, I confessed, “It’s so special I almost don’t want other people to find out about this place.”

More than the next-level pampering, exceptional service, and world class amenities, it was the intangibles that truly left a mark. Time spent in nature compelled the mind to see things in a new light. Soulful connections made with staff, therapists, healers, and fellow guests, was a powerful reminder that we are all connected. Long, leisurely days dedicated to self-care, learning about Balinese culture, and enjoying the art of slow living emphasized how important it is for us all to hit the pause button and fill our cups. And while I’m not usually in the habit of crying in front of others let alone strangers, it was in those unexpected moments—while watching the stars, cruising with dolphins, connecting with my spirit guide—that it finally dawned on me: to be vulnerable is to be strong.

Bali, the last resort of the ancient world | A Club Med x HISTORY™ Series | Club Med Travel Guide