The hype
Guests love the massive villas and the quiet Nyuh Kuning location, but many note the property is showing its age.
The Ubud Village Resort & Spa
$170-300/ night
Book this if You want a massive private pool villa in a quiet village without paying Four Seasons prices, and you don't mind a bit of rustic 'jungle charm' (read: humidity).
Why People Love It
- Huge private villas (starting at 284sqm) with personal pools
- Located in Nyuh Kuning, Ubud's peaceful, tree-lined 'expat village' just south of the Monkey Forest
- Hourly free shuttle to Ubud center saves you from the chaotic traffic
Quick Take: A spacious, aging beauty that delivers on tranquility but struggles with the tropical battle against mold and dampness in its older villas.
Reviewed by @littlewanderingwren: I checked into a private villa at Ubud Village Resort and was blown away. My room had a massive canopy bed, a dedicated workspace, and a stunning private pool with a cabana. The highlight was definitely the outdoor bathtub—total jungle luxury. It felt like my own private home.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'damp smell' in the rooms is the #1 complaint, often requiring a room change or heavy use of AC to mitigate.
- You prioritize square footage and private outdoor space over modern polish
- You want to be near Ubud's action but sleep in dead silence (mostly)
- You enjoy a 'jungle' vibe with geckos, frogs, and open-air bathrooms
Cleanliness & Maintenance
6
- Housekeeping: Daily service is consistent, but they struggle to keep up with the humidity issues.
- Bathroom hygiene: Open-air design leads to leaves/bugs in the bathroom. Grout and corners often show signs of age and moisture.
- Maintenance: Peeling paint and worn wood are common. The battle against nature is visible.
- Linens & towels: Generally clean but can feel 'damp' due to the ambient humidity.
- Odors & scents: The 'musty/moldy' smell is a frequent complaint in older villas. Airing it out helps, but it lingers.
Sleepability™
7.5SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Geckos and frogs (very loud at night)
- Roosters in the neighboring village
- Occasional renovation noise from neighbors (check current status)
Before you book
Good to know
- The walk to Ubud center involves a narrow scooter path or cutting through the Monkey Forest (ticket required for the forest route)
- Breakfast is a la carte, not a massive buffet, which most guests actually prefer
- Grab/Gojek drivers can pick up here easily (unlike in central Ubud where it's banned in some spots)
What to pack
- Mosquito repellent (open-air bathrooms = bugs)
- Silica gel packets or moisture absorbers for your suitcase (it is DAMP)
- Earplugs if you're a light sleeper (nature is loud)
Room Genie
Best picks
- Garden Pool Villa for maximum privacy (walled in)
- Rice Field Villa for views (but be ready to wave at farmers)
Rooms to avoid
- Villas near the road (motorcycle noise)
- Any villa that smells musty upon entry — request a change immediately
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am booking a Garden Pool Villa and kindly request a unit that has been recently aired out or renovated, specifically avoiding any villas with a history of dampness/musty odor. A quiet location away from the road and any active construction is preferred.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is the pool heated?
No, and since many villas are shaded by lush gardens, the water can be brisk.
Can I walk to the Monkey Forest?
Yes, the back entrance is about a 10-15 minute walk through the village.
Is there a shuttle?
Yes, a free hourly shuttle runs to/from the Ubud Palace area.
Are there hidden fees?
Expect the standard Bali 21% tax and service charge added to all spa and dining bills.
Is it suitable for digital nomads?
Wifi is generally decent, but the open-air living areas can be hot and buggy for long work sessions.
Is the gym good?
It's basic. Cardio machines and some dumbbells, but not enough for a serious workout.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Use the 'scooter path' shortcut to walk to town for free without paying the Monkey Forest entrance fee (ask reception for the map).
- ✨
The 'afternoon tea' is a nice free perk but quite simple — don't skip lunch for it.
- ✨
Book your spa treatments at Dava Spa during 'Happy Hour' slots if available for a discount.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'open air' bathroom means you might shower with a frog watching you.
💡The lighting in the villas is very dim/romantic — hard to apply makeup or read at night.
💡The 'Rice Field' view changes drastically with the harvest cycle; it might be lush green or muddy brown.
💡You are in a real village; you will hear temple ceremonies and local life.
💡The path to the lobby is steep; not great if you have mobility issues (though buggies are available).
Local Playbook
Map
See where The Ubud Village Resort & Spa is located and what's nearby.