The Inhabited Gardens Of An Eco-Modern Balinese Resort
Source: www.huffingtonpost.com
Maria Russo - Travel Writer. Editor, Culture-ist Magazine
(www.thecultureist.com)
Perched on an elevated plateau adjoined with soaring limestone
cliffs, Alila Villas Uluwatu, a stunning eco-chic boutique resort
with picturesque views of the cerulean Indian ocean, is an
exquisite model of eco-modern design. Located on the parched
savannah landscape of the Bukit Peninsula, the resort integrates
dramatic design elements of the surrounding natural environment
using locally-sourced materials.
Inspired by Bali's rocky terrace fields and lush gulleys,
the buildings' low-pitched terraced roofs create an open atmosphere
which gives way to spectacular views of gardens, cool reflecting
pools and miles of deep blue ocean. The 86 villas and other
buildings on the property were constructed using bamboo, hand-cut
stone and volcanic batu candi rock to purposefully blend
with the natural environment. (The volcanic rock was used in
building the roofs due to its natural insulating properties and
ability to support local ferns and succulents.)
The most striking feature about the villas is the seamless
integration of wood, water, flora, stone and air -- rather than
indoor living quarters, the rooms were designed to be inhabited
garden sanctuaries. Walkways and bridges connect relaxation
pavilions and pools to spacious living areas creating a sense of
freedom and fluidity that wafts throughout the property -- from the
one bedroom villas to the expansive pool and cabana area.
Craftsmen from Java and Bali designed the villas' minimalist
interior furniture and lighting fixtures using local materials,
which eliminated the environmental impact of importing and
transporting foreign materials while supporting local communities
and artisan trades.
The eco-resort offers several "journey" experiences so guests can explore
the surrounding villages and natural landscapes. An adventure trek
through the alleys and gangs of the Pecatu region
showcases pastures, local farming, houses and food stalls, and
continues on to a steep hike down a narrow path leading to a beach
with torrent waves and miles of deserted coastline. A traditional
Balinese lunch of nasi jinggo is provided as you soak in
the mesmerizing contrast of verdant limestone cliffs and deep blue
ocean. The trek ends with a climb (nearly vertical at times) back
up the cliff and an optional walk to the sacred Uluwatu Temple.
Other excursions include half-day or a full-day cooking classes,
which introduce organic gardening, local ingredients and cooking
methods used in preparing basic recipes, or a guided tour through
the hotel grounds, which explores the operations of maintaining
environmental and social sustainability for the resort along with
an educational session on how guests can become more conscious
about the environment.
Alila Villas Uluwatu is the first resort in Indonesia to receive
the highest level of certification from EarthCheck Building
Planning and Design development (BPDS). The certification was
achieved through the application of environmentally sustainable
design (ESD) measures including water conservation with soaks and
rain gardens, and a waste water management system using local
plants from the savannah ecosystem; the deliberate use of
sustainable/recycled, local materials; protection of the natural
environment; and measured work practices throughout
construction.
www.alilahotels.com
