A Day Out In Bali could consist of many different sights and attractions. Today we set out to explore the best that Bali’s Bukit Peninsula has to offer.
Our itinerary includes:
- Uluwatu Temple
- Bukit Sari Agro Pekatu Coffee Plantation
- Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park
- Kalpika Spa
- Jimbaran Beach
It is a great way to spend a day and explore a small but beautiful part of Bali.
Uluwatu Temple
This sacred temple located on the Westernmost point of Bali’s Bukit Peninsula is a must see attraction for any trip to Bali. Complete with free roaming monkeys that are considered sacred and protected on site, the views and surrounds are stunning.
The temple itself is built at the edge of a 70m high cliff, having existed here in some form or another since the 11th Century. Although it is not possible to enter into the inner temple itself, there are ample paths and viewpoints for some remarkable scenery.
Beware that, while cute from afar, the Macaque monkeys that inhabit the site are experts at usurping items from unsuspecting visitors. We saw glasses snatched off someone’s head and any unsecured belongings are fair game. Note that they can also exhibit aggressive behavior and some distance between you and them are best practice. After all, they remain wild animals despite being used to human attendance. Read more here…
Bukit Sari Agro Pekatu Coffee
The Bukit Sari Luwak Coffee Plantation is less of a plantation (the plantations are elsewhere – scattered around the island) and more of a shopfront. Nevertheless it’s a lovely little leafy green detour. Located on the road between Uluwatu Temple and the Garunda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park, you can stop here for a short coffee tour and talk, followed by a free tasting.
A cup of the famous Luwak Coffee, the most expensive coffee in the world, will set you back IDR50,000 (about AUD5), but along with the tour and free tasting, it’s an experience in itself.
After the short tour there is a pretty garden out the back, complete with waterfall, to enjoy whilst coffee tasting. On the way out, Luwak Coffee beans are available for purchase along with a selection of teas, chocolate and other local products. What is so special about Luwak Coffee? Read more here…
Garuda Wisnu Kencana Cultural Park
The Garuda Wisnu Kencana (GWK) Cultural Park is located almost in the geographical centre of Bali’s Bukit Peninsula. Despite this, the huge statue of Wisnu and Garuda, one of Bali’s most iconic landmarks, can be seen from many vantage points around the island. Read more here…
Kalpika Spa
Kalpika Spa is possibly the busiest spa I have ever seen. It has been recommended by Toris, our Bali guide and we are in for a treat.
A traditional Balinese massage is one of life’s delights. Our twin massage at Kalpika Spa doesn’t disappoint. Read more here…
Jimbaran Beach
At the end of a wonderful day of Bali sightseeing, we make it to Jimbaran Beach, just in time for an iconic Balinese sunset.
Toris, our guide, has recommended the Ganesha Cafe and we are quickly seated at a table on the beach with views of the sunset. We order drinks and browse the menu, then head inside to inspect the offerings more closely. Read more here…
Good To Know
There is so much more to Bali the beers, beaches and bikinis. Embrace this concentration of cultural gems and get off the beaten path in between the R&R.
Would I Return?
Yes.