Ten days in Bali allow for a deeper, more balanced journey. It is enough time to move beyond first impressions and experience the island through its landscapes, rituals and changing atmospheres — without rushing, and without unnecessary backtracking.
This itinerary is designed as a natural extension of a first encounter with Bali. It begins inland, where nature and spirituality are deeply intertwined, before gradually opening towards the coast and more remote regions. Each step is chosen for its coherence, its atmosphere and its ability to reveal a different facet of the island.
Days 1–3 — Nature, Culture & Stillness
The journey begins in the lush countryside surrounding Ubud, away from the town’s congestion and tourist activity. This area offers the most immediate and meaningful introduction to Bali: dense vegetation, rice fields, temples integrated into daily life, and a strong spiritual presence.
Staying outside Ubud allows for a quiet, immersive experience while remaining close to cultural and natural highlights.
Day 1 is dedicated to arrival and rest. After the journey, the afternoon is spent unwinding at the accommodation — spa, massage, pool time — allowing the body to recover and the mind to slow down.
Day 2 begins with a gentle yoga session in a serene natural setting. Late morning is devoted to exploring Ubud’s quieter surroundings: a walk through rice fields, a visit to a temple nestled in nature where a melukat purification ceremony may be experienced with guidance and discretion. During the afternoon, have space for rest and reflection around the pool of the hotel, or experience an artisan encounter — silver jewellery, ceramics or textile craft — as an insight into Bali’s living traditions.
From Ubud, the 3rd day of the journey continues north-west towards Jatiluwih, home to Bali’s most expansive and UNESCO-listed rice terraces. Unlike more frequented sites, Jatiluwih retains a sense of scale and calm that allows the landscape to fully breathe. This day is devoted to slow exploration: walking through the terraces, observing the subak irrigation system, visiting small temples scattered across the hills, and simply absorbing the vastness of the scenery. You can either visit this site by riding a bicycle, or enjoying a tour on board of a vintage open-top Volkswagen. Return to the Ubud countryside in the late afternoon for a quiet evening.
Rivage Note
Sidemen offers a different, more mountainous interpretation of rural Bali. For travellers drawn to that atmosphere, we explore it in detail in a dedicated article.
Days 4–7 — East Bali: Candidasa, Virgin Beach & Amed
Leaving the rice fields behind, the route leads east toward the coast, where landscapes become drier and the island reveals a more mineral beauty.
The journey continues east toward Candidasa, a peaceful coastal town that serves as an ideal base for exploring the region. After a scenic drive, settle into your accommodation and enjoy a relaxed afternoon by the sea, allowing the pace to slow once again.
From here, take your time to explore the region at your rhythm. Visit Tenganan, the oldest village in Bali, where ancient traditions and architecture offer rare insight into pre-Hindu Balinese culture. Spend the afternoon swimming at Virgin Beach, known for its clear waters and understated beauty.
Continue your journey towards Amed, a small coastal area facing Mount Agung. Known for its volcanic black-sand beaches and relaxed pace, Amed is ideal for snorkelling and diving, with calm sea and vibrant coral reefs just offshore. Time here is intentionally simple — sea, sun, slow meals and long pauses. It is a place to disconnect, surrounded by elemental landscapes.
Days 8–9 — Pererenan & Seseh: Coastal Ease
For the final chapter of the journey, return west to the refined coastal villages of Pererenan and Seseh, where space, design and ocean views define daily life. Close to yet removed from Canggu’s effervescence, these areas offer an elegant balance between beach life, design, dining and space.
Days unfold naturally: sunrise walks, optional surf sessions, curated shopping, beachside lunches and moments of pure rest. One evening is dedicated to a visit of Tanah Lot Temple, timed carefully to experience its dramatic setting at sunset without unnecessary crowds.
Day 10 — A Soft Departure
The final morning is unhurried. A slow breakfast, a last swim, or a quiet coffee ritual allow the journey to settle before departure.
Ten days in Bali offer something essential: continuity. A sense of having followed the island’s natural flow — from jungle to rice fields, from volcanic coast to ocean — without ever feeling rushed.
Rivage Note
This itinerary is designed as a framework, where each journey is refined according to travel rhythm, expectations and personal sensibilities.
At Rivage, balance and coherence always come before accumulation.
