Stone House — Hotel in Pulau Bali

Bali has earned the title “Island of the Gods” and the hotels bring the magic to match. But one hotel stands head and shoulders above the rest: Stone House. If you are like me and agonize over which hotels are the best because you want to make the most out of your precious vacation time, the plethora of gorgeous choices in Bali can feel overwhelming. I can confidently say that the search should end at Stone House.

Let’s start with location to zoom out before zooming in. It is such a quick ride away to all the downtown action.With Stone House you get all the benefits of a natural environment within a five minute ride to town. Next: the property. Immediately you are transported to another world. I do not think I’ve ever genuinely used the term “shambhala” before but it instantly came to mind. The six suites are strategically located so that each one offers privacy, whether it be by way of elevation differences, layout or foliage. Plus, when you are staying somewhere with only six suites, it hardly ever feels crowded.

The rooms: I stayed in the farmhouse for my first four nights and it was pure bliss. The large front porch looks out onto the gentle slope of a rice field which bathes in golden sun. Step inside and you’re greeted with a traditional Balinese style house, with all the modern amenities you could need. The bathroom honestly deserves its own review. A bamboo pole with rainfall showerhead rises from a copper barrel basin, while the surrounding walls are made up of organically-arranged bamboo. My favorite part of staying in the farmhouse was having tea on the porch couch in the mornings. For my final night I stayed in the Treehouse, which is the most architecturally astonishing space I’ve ever inhabited. Many villa companies offer elevated bamboo stays in Bali, and it’s tough to differentiate between them. As soon as I walked through the 360 degree swivel door, I knew I made the right choice. It’s like being inside a bamboo hive or a seashell; all so unpredictable yet perfectly mathematical. It looks out over that same rice field, just at a different angle and elevation. Add in the tub on the porch and the net suspended over the babbling brook, and you’re in heaven. Can’t forget the bed, a whimsical circular structure with bamboo arches circling above. You can find all the same amenities here, so you will want for nothing. Note: due to the open-air layout, the air conditioning only circulates onto the bed (there are funnels built into the headboard, which is a structurally astounding feat). With the curtains drawn around the bed, you stay cold while sleeping. There are indeed bugs and lizards but you adapt very quickly and it will not detract from your stay at all. The curtains and bug spray keep you protected in bed, and if that isn’t enough, they equip each room with electric zappers.

The experience: the most important part of this entire stay by far was the Stone House team. I feel so lucky to have been surrounded by such kind human beings for the week and it would not have been the same without them. Anything you need, they will happily arrange it. Flower baths, a driver to town, an in-room massage, dinner cooked just for you; you name it, you’ve got it. Plus, you’re added to a What’s App chat group upon check-in, which allows for consistent and readily available communication. Unexpected extras! Everyone loves a surprise, and this was where Stone House really hit it out of the park. They offer complimentary coconut water, frequently replenished local fruit plates, and even bedtime cookies! Brought to your room each night on a wooden tray with a frangipani flower and literary quote related to sleep.

All of this goes to say; Stone House is an extremely special place. I will never forget the kind souls that greeted me every morning with smiles on their faces. I hope to one day bring my mom here, because this is the kind of happiness that should be shared with loved ones. I will forever be grateful for my time in this Eden, which managed to feel just like home when I was halfway...

A Jewel in the Jungle: Stone House, Ubud's Hidden Gem

Nestled in the heart of Ubud's lush jungle, Stone House is a boutique-style hotel that redefines the concept of luxury. Owned by the dynamic American couple, Wendy and Walker, this hidden gem is a testament to their excellent taste and passion for creating a unique and welcoming retreat. Stone House not only feels like a home but a home elevated to new heights.

The small-scale hotel boasts individually designed rooms, each with its own distinct style and vibe. It's evident that Walker, an accomplished interior designer with a penchant for collecting arts and antiques from around the world, has left his mark on every corner of Stone House. The result is an ensemble of rooms that exude elegance and charm, making every stay a truly bespoke experience.

Surrounded by the vibrant greenery of Ubud's jungle, the setting of Stone House is nothing short of enchanting. The tranquil ambiance and natural beauty create a sense of serenity that is rare to find in the midst of such a bustling town.

What truly sets Stone House apart is the warm and welcoming atmosphere cultivated by its owners and staff. Wendy and Walker are not just hosts; they are storytellers with a million tales to share. Their easy-going nature adds a personal touch to the stay, making guests feel more like cherished friends than mere visitors. The Balinese staff, true to their reputation, are the epitome of hospitality. Super sweet, extremely service-minded, and friendly, they contribute to the overall feeling of being in a home away from home. Oh, and the culinary experience at Stone House is nothing short of outstanding. The kitchen serves up a delectable array of dishes that showcase the flavors of Bali, satisfying even the most discerning palates.

In essence, The combination of outstanding interior design, lush surroundings, and the genuine warmth of the owners and staff creates a truly unforgettable experience. For those seeking a retreat that seamlessly blends luxury, authenticity, and a touch of adventure, Stone House in Ubud is an...

I recently stayed at The Stone House in Ubud. This was my first stop on a 3-week holiday in Bali, and it was the perfect way to kick off the trip.

I did a lot of research before choosing Stone House, and what really stood out to me was the feeling of a home away from home. I couldn't agree more—from the moment I arrived, I felt like I was being welcomed into someone’s home as a personal guest.

I was traveling solo and found it so fun to sit at the common table and chat with other guests. The owner, Wendy, makes a point to say hello and connect with everyone—we ended up chatting for almost an hour! 😊

🏡 Room: I stayed in SkyView Downstairs, which was absolutely lovely. The room was spacious, bright, and clean, with beautifully tasteful decor. The bed was super comfortable, and the outdoor bathroom was such a fun touch! (Although I was surprised the first time a tiny frog and I tried to use the toilet at the same time 🐸😂.)

Next time, I think I’d love to try SkyView Upstairs for the more private outdoor seating area.

🏊‍♀️ Pool: The pool was incredible—so peaceful and calming. I think all the villas were full during my stay, but I only ever saw one other person using the pool. Most of the time, it felt like my own private little oasis! 💦🌿

🍽️ Food: OMG—the food. I think they spoiled me for the rest of my meals in Bali! Every dish I had was amazing. I ended up eating dinner there three or four times and loved every bite.

I’m obsessed with their sambals—especially the Sambal Matah and their tomato sambal. Pure heaven! If they ever shared the recipes, I definitely wouldn’t be mad! 😍

Tip: Get the spicy eggs for breakfast. So delicious! 🍳🔥

🚶‍♀️ Location: The only small downside is that it’s a bit of a walk from the main road. But it’s an easy scooter ride—and they even let me borrow one of their helmets so I didn’t have to use the general-use Grab driver ones. 🛵

Overall, Stone House absolutely lived up to—and exceeded—all of my expectations. I’d 100% return and recommend it to anyone looking for a serene, beautiful, and heartwarming...