Ubud, Bali: 72 Hours of Relaxing Things to Do for Slow Travellers

After chasing waterfalls, treat yourself to head-to-toe spa treatments for a breather. Or how about escape to Kamandalu Resort, a boutique sanctuary that evokes a real-life Balinese village overlooking the foothills of Ubud? Lean back and relax as a therapist soothes your tired body – through the Balinese Massage, Serene Escape, or Heavenly Touch.

Ubud’s restaurants offer delicious culinary experiences. Feast on crispy Balinese-style duck at the Bebek Bengil, which has impressed visitors with its signature take on fried duck since 1990. Served with fragrant white rice, this legendary dish comes highly recommended for anyone who wants to get to know Bali through its stomach.

Can’t get enough of the great outdoors? You’ll love witnessing Ubud’s natural beauty at your own pace. Take the breezy, carefree route to discover Ubud inside a Volkswagen convertible wagon. This is what slow travel is really about – escaping the tourist trail, seeing how the locals live, and letting each moment count.

Alternatively, you can join an electric bike tour. Cycle past rice paddies and old Balinese houses to reach the Tegallalang Rice Terraces, most famous for their irrigation system. Discover your inner explorer as you hit the less-travelled roads and feel the breeze caress your skin.

Your holistic wellness journey continues with an indulgent spa session at the Tanah Gajah Ubud, a Resort by Hadiprana. Rejuvenate your senses with a 60-minute Balinese body massage that includes an exfoliating body scrub and a tea ritual. Take advantage of the steam room and an energy-boosting herbal bath to achieve a well-pampered glow.

Wind down from the day’s activities with a 5-course gourmet dinner amidst rice fields. Tuck into a menu that includes braised Balinese pork belly, barramundi (Asian sea bass) with a truffle potato puree, and a chocolate souffle made with coconut sorbet and pineapple. As you spend a mellow evening under the stars, keep an eye out for fireflies.

On the third day of your 72-hour Ubud itinerary, meet the locals and take a deep dive of Balinese culture. Head to a cooking school, where a chef will teach you how to whip up authentic Balinese cuisine like a pro. Take a tour of an organic farm, visit the market to pick out fresh produce, then prepare traditional meals using locally sourced ingredients.

Don’t forget to bring your appetite. Savouring the fruits of your labour is your reward at the end of this cooking class.

Many beautiful handicrafts in Ubud’s markets involve techniques that have survived for generations. Observe the process of making artisan silver jewellery from a guru, who will guide you through the steps of crafting your own work of art – say, a ring or a necklace – while you learn about this respected tradition. By the end of the workshop, you’ll come away with a richer appreciation of Bali’s heritage.

As your 72 hours in Ubud inches towards its conclusion, why not end your trip on a high note? Hop on a 23-metre hot air balloon to soak up majestic views of Ubud, ranging from emerald jungles to Mount Agung on the east. Fresh air, sunset skies, and vibrant landscapes as far as the eye can see. Now that’s a send-off to remember.

Keep this 72-hour Ubud slow travel itinerary bookmarked for your future visit to Bali. When you have more time to spare, embark on a nature and cultural tour for sightseeing or join an aura-cleansing Balinese retreat to embrace your spiritual side.

Before you know it, you’ll fall head-over-heels in love with everything Ubud.