The Kayon Ubud Resort

The Kayon Resort Ubud stands on the hills above the Petanu River in Kepitu village, about ten minutes by car from Ubud centre. It takes its name from the Balinese tree of life, whose shape recurs in the architecture, the pool and the bathtubs, and scenes from the Ramayana run through its paintings and carvings, including a 50-metre stone relief of the love story of Rama and Shinta. The buildings are made of local stone, wood and bamboo and follow the contours of the valley.

Ceremonies are held at the Canyon Jetty, a wooden deck over the river beside a waterfall, or at the Puspaka Chapel, a thatched pavilion with views of rice fields and jungle that takes its name from the royal carriage in the Ramayana. Both are led by an English-speaking celebrant. Guests stay in garden suites, river suites and pool villas that look over the valley, and eat at Kepitu restaurant, which holds a Balinese culture dinner each week. Serayu Spa and a rooftop yoga pavilion are on site, and the resort is set up for couples rather than families, so children under fifteen are not admitted.