The hype
Travelers are blown away by the views and the private pools, often calling it a 'hidden gem' for couples.
Black Penny Villas Ubud
$175-225/ night
Book this if You want a private pool villa with jungle views for under $250 without the massive resort crowds.
Why People Love It
- Private infinity pools in every single villa
- Stunning unblocked views of the Ayung River valley
- Genuine Balinese hospitality that feels personal, not corporate
Quick Take: A fantastic value for a private pool villa, provided you can handle steep stairs and the occasional jungle bug.
Reviewed by @SaimaAkhtarAamir2573745: I stayed here during the wet season and it was honestly better than a sunny trip. Watching the storm roll over the jungle from my private pool was unforgettable. If you want total seclusion and insane views without the crowds, this is the spot.
Guest Who Stayed Here Said
Reality check
The open-air design means you will encounter ants, geckos, and mosquitos in your bathroom and terrace.
- You are a couple seeking privacy and romance
- You want the 'floating breakfast' photo op without paying $500/night
- You appreciate silence and nature sounds at night
Cleanliness & Maintenance
8.5
- Housekeeping: Daily and attentive. They do turndown service, which is a nice touch for this price point.
- Bathroom hygiene: Clean, but the open-air design makes it impossible to be 100% bug-free. Grout and stone show some age.
- Maintenance: Generally good, though wood decks and thatched roofs show signs of weathering in the humid climate.
- Linens & towels: Fresh and clean, though maybe not the ultra-plush thread count of a 5-star chain.
- Odors & scents: Smells like fresh rain and tropical flowers. No musty AC smells reported.
Sleepability™
8SILENT
0-4LOUD
4-7.5MODERATE
7.5-10SILENT
- Rafters screaming on the river below (10am-4pm)
- Nature sounds (frogs, crickets) at night
Before you book
Good to know
- The hotel offers a free shuttle to Ubud center, but the return trip can be unreliable—use Grab or Gojek to get back.
- Floating breakfast is an extra charge (~$9 USD / 150k IDR) but worth it for the photo.
- The location in Kedewatan is 15 minutes from Ubud center, so you aren't in walking distance of the main market.
What to pack
- Strong bug spray (jungle environment means mosquitos)
- Lighted makeup mirror (bathroom lighting is moody/dim)
- Slip-on shoes for easy transition between villa and pool
Room Genie
Best picks
- Villa 10 for the most expansive, unobstructed valley views
- Villa 6 for maximum seclusion and forest vibes
Rooms to avoid
- Villas lower down if you struggle with stairs (the trek back up to the restaurant is a workout)
Room Request Genie – copy & paste
“I am celebrating a special occasion and would love to request Villa 10 or a high-floor valley view villa to minimize stair climbing. We prefer a room with maximum privacy for the pool.”
FAQ & Hidden tips
Everything you actually want to know before you book.
Is there a gym on site?
No. There is no fitness center. The nearest comprehensive gym is Titi Batu, which requires a taxi ride.
Is the pool private?
Yes, every villa has its own private plunge pool. Most are quite private, though some angles might be visible from the restaurant or pathways.
How is the breakfast?
Decent but not a massive buffet. It's à la carte. If it's not included in your rate, it costs about $18 USD (275k IDR), which is pricey for Bali.
Can I walk to restaurants?
Yes, there are a few local warungs and high-end spots (like at Mandapa) nearby in Kedewatan, but the main Ubud dining scene is a drive away.
Is it suitable for kids?
Technically yes, but it's designed for couples. The steep stairs and open pools make it stressful for parents of toddlers.
Do they serve alcohol?
Yes, beer and wine are available. A small Bintang is ~$2 USD and a glass of wine is ~$5-7 USD.
Insider Tips
- ✨
Request a 'River View' villa if you want to watch the rafters pass by, or 'Valley View' for just the green expanse.
- ✨
The 'Romantic Candle Light Dinner' is actually a good deal at ~$60 USD for a private setup if you don't want to leave the villa.
- ✨
Use the 'Gojek' app for food delivery if you get tired of the hotel menu; drivers can find the lobby easily.
5 things to know before you go
💡The stairs are no joke—you will sweat just going to breakfast.
💡The bathroom is semi-outdoor, meaning you might shower with a gecko watching you.
💡Rafting groups on the river below wave at you while you're in your pool.
💡The 'floating tray' fee is separate from the breakfast price itself.
💡There are only 10 villas, so the staff knows exactly who you are and what you like.
Local Playbook
Map
See where Black Penny Villas Ubud is located and what's nearby.