COMO Shambhala Estate

COMO Shambhala Estate makes a compelling case that — provided a spectacular setting in the Balinese rainforest just outside of Ubud, a spare-no-luxury approach to the accommodations, and a certain earnestness of purpose — healthful living and extravagant indulgence can happily share a home. Meditating in nature has never felt better. The massages with traditional oils are some of the most sublime in the world, and the resident nutritionist and Ayurvedic doctor can't spoil the pleasure of a delicious candle-lit meal in the canopy.

Each guest room, where Balinese teakwood and Chinese antiques combine with fairy-tale poster beds, is housed in one of five palatial residences. Whether by ingenuity or luck, fellow guests are rarely spotted. The residences are extremely private, not least because you dictate your own cocktail hour, massage schedule and mealtimes. In addition to the residences, there are one- and two-bedroom retreat villas by the renowned Japanese designer Koichiro Ikebuchi, each with its own heated pool and steam room. The two restaurants, Glow and Kudus House, are perfectly inviting, but after a day of yoga, guided hiking, biking or just spa-going, it's tempting to place your order from the room and let dinner come to you.

Book one of the COMO suites or retreat villas and a personal butler is added to your stress-busting program — taking care of your laundry and pressing your trousers, topping off your drink, even refreshing your orchids — but at every level the service will put you at ease. And in the best way, the staff seems at ease, too, inclined toward smiles rather than rigid Jeeves-like formality, as if inducing all this blissful calm were simplicity itself.

Please note: Children under 16 years of age are welcome when staying in a Private villa, Retreat Villa, or if the party they are with occupies the entire Residence. Children under 16 years old are unfortunately not permitted to share or occupy individual suites.

How to get there: COMO Shambhala Estate is a one-hour drive from Denpasar International Airport.