The hype
The architecture and views are genuinely magical and worth the trek, but the food is overpriced and average.
Magic Hills Bali - Magical Eco-Luxury Lodge
$120-250/ night
Book this if You want the viral 'waking up in a bamboo castle' Instagram shot without the $1,000/night price tag of competitors like Camaya.
Why People Love It
- Jaw-dropping 360° views of rice terraces and Mount Agung
- Heated private pools in select villas (a game-changer in the cool mountains)
- Open-air design that feels completely immersive in the jungle
Quick Take: It’s a glamping experience, not a hotel—you are sleeping outside with a roof, so expect bugs, frogs, and rooster alarms.
Reviewed by @janstr.cinematics: Staying here felt like living in a work of art. The bamboo craftsmanship is insane, and lounging in that flower bath with the volcano view was a total pinch-me moment. It’s the perfect mix of adventure and luxury.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The 'Eco-Luxury' label is heavy on the 'Eco'—you might find a frog in your shower or ants on your table if you leave crumbs.
- You are chasing the perfect Bali sunrise photo
- You enjoy camping but want a real mattress and a hot bath
- You can disconnect—WiFi is spotty and nature is the entertainment
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8.5
- Housekeeping: Daily cleaning is thorough, but nature fights back instantly. Expect leaves and dust to reappear within hours.
- Bathroom hygiene: Clean, but open-air design means you might share your shower with a frog.
- Maintenance: Bamboo ages quickly; expect some creaky floorboards and weathered wood.
- Linens & towels: Generally fresh and white, though humidity can make them feel heavy.
- Odors & scents: Smells like fresh rain, wet earth, and burning wood from nearby farms.
Sleepability™
6MODERATE
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Roosters (very early)
- Geckos (loud barking sounds)
- Rain on bamboo roofs (loud but soothing to some)
Before you book
Good to know
- The location is remote (Selat), about 90 minutes from Ubud. Once you are here, you are here.
- Food prices are higher than local warungs plus a ~20% tax/service charge.
- Grab/Gojek drivers often refuse to pick up from this location due to the steep terrain.
What to pack
- Earplugs (essential for the 4 AM roosters)
- Warm layers (it gets surprisingly cold at night)
- Cash (IDR) for all food and transport
Room Genie
Best picks
- Queen House: Features a heated pool (rare in this area) and excellent privacy.
- Divine House: Also features a heated jacuzzi/pool, perfect for the chilly mountain evenings.
- Princess House: Best for groups/families, features a hanging net and private cinema projector.
Rooms to avoid
- Any villa if you have mobility issues (lots of stairs)
- Villas described as 'semi-detached' or sharing a wall if you want total privacy (sound travels through bamboo).
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am celebrating a special occasion and would love to request the Queen House or Divine House for the heated pool amenity. We are looking for the most private unit available away from the pathway.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is there air conditioning?
No. The houses are open-air and the climate in Selat is cooler (20-25°C at night), so fans are sufficient.
Are there bugs in the room?
Yes. You are essentially sleeping on a covered deck. Beds have mosquito nets, but you will see ants, moths, and geckos.
Can I walk to restaurants?
No. There are no restaurants within walking distance. You will rely on the on-site kitchen or delivery arranged by staff.
Is the pool private?
Yes, each bamboo house has its own private plunge pool or jacuzzi.
Do they serve alcohol?
Yes, beer and basic cocktails are available, but wine options are limited and pricey.
Is it safe for kids?
Use caution. The open structures have high drops, nets, and stairs without child-proof railings.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Order dinner early (before 6 PM) as the kitchen can get backed up and closes relatively early.
- ✨
Ask for the 'floating breakfast' the night before—it's cheesy but makes for the best photo of your trip.
- ✨
The 'hot water' in the shower can be temperamental; try to shower in the afternoon when the solar heaters are charged.
5 things to know before you go
💡The 'Eco-Luxury' bathroom often means the toilet is essentially outside, separated only by a bamboo screen.
💡You might wake up to a farmer working in the rice paddy 20 feet from your 'private' balcony.
💡The humidity can make sheets feel perpetually damp during the rainy season.
💡The access road is a single lane of broken concrete—scooters are better than cars here.
💡There is no reception desk in the traditional sense; communication is mostly via WhatsApp.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Magic Hills Bali - Magical Eco-Luxury Lodge is located and what's nearby.