An afternoon and evening of pure R&R awaits us at Tall Trees, part of the Westin Resort, Ubud. This is a tropical retreat that you could be forgiven for not wanting to leave. As much as there is to do and see around the area, after a morning at the Ubud Monkey Forest Sanctuary, we elect to spend the rest of the day enjoying the resort and its facilities.
Having received a job offer today, it’s also cause for celebration. So, we select a couple of suitably shaded sun lounges and settle in for the afternoon. Menu in hand I select a cocktail to go with a snack of nachos and kick back.
Our views over the pool extend all the way into the lush forest reserve that backs onto the hotel. At night, the forest is a cacophony of sound but at the moment there are just enough bird calls and sounds that they act as a prelude to tonight’s performance.
The day is humid and the water inviting. I take a dip, floating up and down for a bit before a few laps. Then I take myself over to the edge and gaze over the precipice. It’s a beautiful, frightening, confronting view.
The beauty is undeniable. The majesty and lushness of the forest speaks for itself. The drop off the side of the pool is a bit frightening and so is the way the development encroaches on this unique and fragile environment. Perhaps this is the same reason it’s confronting. Despite the wall of green right in front of us, a constant drone of noise from cars and motorbikes cuts through the sounds of nature, reminding us this bubble is fragile. It is, overall, fairly peaceful though as I refocus my attention on the birds.
Soon I make my way back to the sun lounge for a sip of my cocktail and to immerse myself in my book. My mind wanders though and I’m finding it hard to concentrate. Giving up on the book I let my mind go, staring out at the view without really thinking about anything. After all, I think this is part of the Ubud experience.
After another swim and a suitable amount of R&R, we return to our room to change for dinner. Returning again to Tall Trees, we’re seated at a table overlooking the pool, which, in turn, continues to overlook the forest.
The scene has changed completely from this afternoon. Tonight, the relaxed tropical resort pool retreat has transformed itself into a smart yet intimate dinner setting.
Given that celebrations are in order, we request a glass of sparkling to kick off the evening. This is followed by a delicious dinner of duck and I select a mushroom risotto.
As we make our way back to our room for the night, we pause to admire the bar and interior decorations on the open balcony. As well, we take in the water and gaze over the forest where the noises of the night continue in their natural symphony.
Good To Know
Tall Trees is located poolside at the Westin Resort Ubud. If you have time, pause for a drink at the balcony bar where you can observe from above.
Would I Return?
Yes.