Billy Bagus
May 22, 2025
There’s something about Ubud that always calls us back—its tranquil energy, lush greenery, and deeply rooted traditions make it a sanctuary for the soul. On our most recent escape, What's New Bali found ourselves enchanted by a hidden gem nestled by the Wos River: Sthala, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, Ubud Bali. Managed by Marriott International, this 5-star haven promised a journey into nature’s embrace, and it delivered on every level.
On our most recent escape, What's New Bali found ourselves enchanted by a hidden gem nestled by the Wos River: Sthala, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, Ubud Bali.
DAY 1: Arrival & First Impressions
After a scenic hour-long drive from Bali's bustling South side, we arrived at Sthala, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, Ubud Bali, greeted by the warm smiles of the staff and the calming sounds of the surrounding forest. The hotel is a beautiful fusion of modern luxury and traditional Balinese charm, set against a backdrop of dense foliage and the ever-flowing Wos River.
Our Deluxe River View Room with Balcony on the 7th floor was a peaceful retreat in itself. From our balcony, we had a breathtaking view of the river winding below, the serene pool on the 3rd floor, and the inviting Naga Rooftop Bar and Lounge just across. The room’s interior struck the perfect balance between contemporary comfort and the rustic elegance that defines Ubud—natural tones, wooden textures, and artistic accents that echoed the surrounding culture.
Dinner with a View at Sungai Restaurant
That evening, we dined at Sungai Restaurant, the hotel’s open-air culinary gem perched above the river. The gentle breeze and soft rustling of leaves accompanied our dinner—a flavorful spread that included Iga Babi Bakar (grilled pork ribs) served with steamed rice, Chicken Kung Pao, and crispy Tofu Tempura. We sipped on fresh whole coconut and sparkling water, though the cocktail menu offered plenty of tempting options. It was a perfect first taste of the hospitality that would define our stay.
DAY 2: Mindful Mornings and Spa Bliss
We began our second day with a gentle morning Yoga Session at the serene Wos River Deck, where the soft morning breeze danced through the trees and the soothing sound of the river set a tranquil tone. Guided by an inspiring teacher, we moved through casual yet invigorating postures that left us feeling both grounded and uplifted—a perfect prelude to the sensory delights that awaited us at breakfast.
Sungai Restaurant’s breakfast buffet was nothing short of indulgent. From buttery pastries and savory sausages to a live Indomie cooking station, the spread blended local favorites with international classics. We were especially delighted to find a surprising array of Indian dishes—from aloo and chutney to chole and paratha—adding a multicultural richness to the morning experience.
Later that morning, we were treated to the ultimate wellness journey at Tahara Spa. The Tahara Journey for Two began with a soothing foot wash, followed by a deeply relaxing Authentic Balinese Massage. The highlight was a Detoxifying Organic Wrap made from nourishing natural ingredients like beras, kencur, and jahe, which left our skin feeling soft, smooth, and renewed.
The treatment continued with a meticulously layered facial ritual designed to restore radiance and deep hydration. It began with a gentle cleanse, followed by a revitalizing exfoliation using a delicate facial peeling to reveal a smoother complexion. A luxurious facial foam was then used for a thorough deep cleanse, prepping the skin for a relaxing face massage with a rich modelling cream. As a hydrating mask worked its magic for 5–10 minutes, our therapist eased any lingering tension with a soothing head massage—an added layer of bliss. Once the mask was removed, a potent hydration serum infused with Hyaluronic Acid was applied, followed by a nourishing moisturizer to lock in moisture and glow.
This rejuvenating facial used premium products from an esteemed French brand known for its high-quality formulations, enriched with skin-loving ingredients like hydrogenated coconut oil and Hyaluronic Acid. The result? Skin that felt supple, luminous, and utterly refreshed.
The experience concluded with a dreamy bubble bath, offering a moment of stillness and connection. It was more than a spa session—it was an intimate, soulful journey back to ourselves and each other.
Sunset Dine Delights at Naga Rooftop and Sungai Garden
In the late afternoon, we made our way to the Naga Rooftop Bar and Lounge, located just across our room. This breezy rooftop, with its panoramic view of the Ubud skyline and emerald canopy, was the perfect spot to unwind with a cocktail in hand. The colors of the sunset danced across the sky as we sipped and reflected on the beauty of the moment.
Dinner that evening was something truly special. The Loka Rasa event at Sungai Garden was a vibrant celebration of Indonesian culture and cuisine, set beneath the stars. We mingled with fellow guests in a warm, festive atmosphere that felt more like a lively garden party among friends than a formal dinner.
The buffet was a feast of authentic local flavours, showcasing Indonesia’s rich culinary heritage. Highlights included comforting Soto Banjar, tender Beef Rendang, and the aromatic Ayam Betutu and Ayam Garang Asem. Grilled to perfection, Sate Lilit and Sate Padang added a smoky, spicy depth to the lineup. For carbs, there were traditional choices like Lontong and Nasi Kuning, each perfectly paired with a vibrant array of sambals—from the classic Sambal Ulek to the fresh, fiery Sambal Matah.
Lighter options like Gado-Gado brought freshness to the table, while the dessert spread offered a sweet ending with Es Doger, creamy Bubur Sumsum, and decadent Klappertaart. With live cooking stations and the scent of spices in the air, each bite told a story. It was an evening of flavours, friendships, and cultural immersion we won’t soon forget.
DAY 3: Culture, Nature, and a Fond Farewell
On our final morning, we returned to Sungai Restaurant for breakfast, savoring the last tastes of our favorite dishes. Soon after, we set off on a Morning Walk through Mawang Village, guided by a knowledgeable local who shared rich stories of Balinese culture and daily life. We stopped by a Pura Puseh/Puseh Temple, a Bale Banjar, sprawling paddy fields, and traditional Balinese homes, each stop offering a deeper connection to the island’s spiritual and communal heart.
After the walk, we returned to the hotel for a farewell lunch at Sungai Restaurant. This time, we savored Bebek Sthala, Jukut Kelor Soup, and a zesty Dabu-Dabu Barramundi Fillet. Each bite was a tribute to Indonesia’s culinary heritage, lovingly prepared and beautifully presented.
Our stay at Sthala, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, Ubud Bali was truly a blissful sojourn. From the thoughtful amenities and personalized service to the scenic views and soulful experiences, every moment felt carefully curated to reconnect us with what truly matters. It was a sensory journey through nature, culture, and heartfelt hospitality
With daily shuttle service to Ubud Center available from 9:00 AM to 9:30 PM, Sthala, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, Ubud Bali also offers the convenience of exploring the lively heart of Ubud while retreating to serene comfort at the end of the day. It’s this perfect balance that makes it such a compelling destination.
For anyone seeking a luxurious yet deeply authentic Balinese experience, we can wholeheartedly say—Sthala, a Tribute Portfolio Hotel, Ubud Bali is where your soul comes to breathe. And like us, you’ll likely find yourself already dreaming of your return.
Jalan A.A Gede Rai, Mawang Kelod, Lodtunduh, Ubud - Bali 80571, Indonesia
Phone: +62 361 301 8700
Mobile: +62 811 3802 868
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