The Restaurant

While I have stayed many times at The Legian in Bali, which has a magnificent beach front, I had not had a chance to visit its sister property, The Chedi Club, which according to a friend, it is a gem hidden away in Ubud.

Located on the estate known as Tanah Gajah, it takes its name from the nearby Goa Gajah elephant temple. The Chedi Club is only a 10-minute drive away from the center of Ubud, though it seems like it’s in a world of its own.

I felt peaceful and serene the moment I walked up the long path to get to the dramatic main pavilion which is the resort lobby. The property was designed in the 1980s by prominent Indonesian architect Hendra Hadiprana. It was meant as a weekend hideaway for his family and friends.

Now, after more than two decades as a private retreat, the Hadiprana family has left the management of the estate to GHM Hotels. Besides the Chedi brand, GHM operates many top-class boutique hotels such as The Setai in Miami (United States), The Strand (Britain), The Datai and Carcosa Seri Negara in Malaysia.

Now fully updated in its décor and facilities, the 20 self-contained suites and Ubud villas are scattered throughout the five hectares of lush grounds, particularly noted for its magnificent vista of rice fields. So even if the resort was full, you’d hardly see anyone.

1 bedroom villa

As you walk through the resort or laze in your own suite, you will notice many original artworks – mainly paintings of contemporary Indonesian artists. They are part of an art collection belonging to the owners. What you will also see and hear are the birds singing in the gardens as this resort has many bird cages and an aviary of exotic species.

All guests have their very own butler who will see to their every need. You get complimentary laundry service up to 12 pieces per day. All drinks and snacks in the room are yours to enjoy without charge.

The resort also provides a drop-off and pick-up service to nearby Ubud. Very convenient for diners who want to explore the many superb restaurants located nearby.

As it was way past lunch after we checked in, we had the Club Lounge and Restaurant all to ourselves while we snacked on delicious pasta and nasi goreng. The menu offers a harmonious balance of Western and Indonesian cuisine utilizing the best and freshest ingredients harvested from the resort’s own bountiful herb and vegetable garden. They bake their own breads and make delicious and unusual fruit jams. Breakfast here is a superb experience.

You have Internet access in every room and there is a MacBook available by the main poolside if you have not brought your own computer. The swimming pool is 35m long and there are a gym, tennis court and an outdoor amphitheater showcasing cultural performances several times a week.

Spa guests are able to enjoy the panoramic view from their therapy rooms while undergoing soothing massages and body treatments. They can even practice yoga in the meditation studio.

Serene Views

Architects will be fascinated with the architectural alignment of the traditional- style buildings and villas. Each building has been sited to take best advantage of the surrounding views. Artists and garden enthusiasts will no doubt marvel at the immaculate landscaped grounds complete with traditional Balinese sculptures and water features.

The Chedi Club Tanah Gajah is undoubtedly one of Bali’s best-kept secrets.

The Chedi Club Tanah Gajah
Jalan Goa Gajah, Tengkulak Kaja
Ubud, Gianyar, Bali, Indonesia
Website: www.ghmhotels.com

Article written by Raymond Lee
Published on The Star Online - thestar.com.my

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