We were extremely pleased with this hotel,...
We were extremely pleased with this hotel, even more so than with the Ritz-Carlton in Jimbaran. The location is not easy to get to, so I would advise people not interested in a wild car ride up and down steep mountain sides with lots of lawless traffic to stick to the south side of Bali (or at least use a Matahari driver, as they are much more familiar with the route, and exceptionally friendly, kind people). For us, it was worth it, and since we're used to insane mountain driving, it wasn't all bad.
The rooms are beautiful and more than comfortable. We loved the outdoor patios, and there was security present at all times. There is no TV but if you're at Matahari, you're probably not a big couch potato, anyway. You will be tempted to lounge all day, the rooms are that comfortable. The bathrooms were wonderful, with outdoor showers and all kinds of goodies for the tub, salts, spices, etc. Fresh fruit every day, and room service is worthwhile. The restaurants are also good, and the main restaurant tends to have some form of entertainment every evening. Breakfast is accompanied by live music as well. The cocktails are frankly not that great, but the bartender at the bar is a lot of fun.
The beach is really, really fabulous, with dark sands, strong but definitely swimmable warm water, and a restaurant and towel service. At night, it's breathtaking-- absolutely black velvet sky with more stars than I have ever seen at once, black water with white waves breaking, and black sands. The hotel also has a very nicely done pool with a bar. The grounds of the hotel are quite genius- the actual space is much smaller than it appears, but the landscaping and building planning was done in such a way that everywhere you look is beauty, and privacy.
The spa is very good (and really pretty) but not world level, so definitely use the spa but expect a few glitches. The price value is excellent and the staff throw their heart into everything they do. Surrender and let them do what they want. The free yoga classes were sometimes amazing, sometimes just nice, depending on who led the class.
Only room complaints were the awkward step into bed, somewhat annoying light system, and windows which don't open for a breeze at night without a lot of squeaking on windy nights. Food here is very good but not amazing (though take that with a grain of salt, because we are very picky foodies), but you won't be unhappy. Service is slower here in the north of Bali, but worth the wait because of the friendliness, extra care and thoughtfulness, and personality. Do take time to meet the people of the area.
The hotel shares a beach with the Werner Lau dive center, which has a very kind and competent staff. They will take very good care of you. Likewise, the Permuteran stables just a few meters down the road is absolutely recommended; their horses are in great shape and the owner is a very nice guy.
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