Our eyes are filled with green. Lime from the paddy fields, artichoke in the palms and there’s even a dark olive tinge to the thunderclouds rumbling in the distance. It seems that not only our sight is filled with this freshness but our lungs too are lifted with the benefit. Our breathing slows. We’re tranquil. Still. And that’s before we even begin.
Situated just on the edge of Ubud town, The Spa at The Chedi Tanah Gajah has us safely havened in one of two paddy-facing spa suites. Unifying the characteristic Balinese calm found in both nature and person, with the functionality of modern facilities we can’t help but forget our routine busy-ness and pause to appreciate the present.
Arriving a few minutes early gives us a chance to change into spa attire (robes and disposable underwear provided), store our belongings in a lockable space in the spa suite, and have a conversation with our therapists about any injuries or other pertinent details.
The spa menu is comprehensive with multiple massages, facials, body scrubs, beauty treatments and packages to choose from. Hubby selects the signature, The Chedi Jade Massage (60 minutes – IDR 1,430,000). It’s of a dynamic nature, designed to dissolve deep muscle tension and soothe the spirit. Two therapists work in synchronised movements using a variety of massage techniques including Shiatsu, Balinese, Thai, Swedish and Lomi-Lomi. Two masseuses, four hands, dedicated attention solely on hubby – you can guess, he’s a very happy man.
Wanting to try out the VOYA Organic Beauty from the Sea skin care range, I select the Illuminating Facial (60 minutes – IDR 1,190,000). The products combine pure extracts of wild Irish seaweed with other nutrients to detoxify, nourish and hydrate.
This facial is deeply detoxifying and promises to brighten and even skin tone. On top of the routine cleanse, tone, masque and moisturize, the treatment incorporates a pressure point facial massage, targeting deeper muscles in the face to release any build-up of toxins, improve radiance and restore a glow to the complexion. As my masque does its work, I’m also treated to a pressure point foot massage which is just strong enough to stir me from going into to deep slumber and releases some of the tension accumulated from traipsing the streets of Ubud earlier in the day. When the session is over I’m in a state of deep relaxation, and my skin feels silky smooth and soft.
It’s been an incredibly pleasant way to spend the afternoon, and an ideal break in between eating, shopping and sightseeing. My only protest is not enough time. I recommend saving a couple of hours to savour this magnificent treasure – views, menu and therapists are all of high caliber and well deserving of a couple of hours or more.
Reasons to visit: peaceful setting overlooking rice paddies; quality organic skin care range; walking distance from Ubud town.
The Spa, The Chedi Club Tanah Gajah, Ubud
Jalan Goa Gajah, Tengkulak Kaja
Ubud, Gianyar
Bali 80571, Indonesia
+ (62) 361 975 685
[email protected]
www.GHMhotels.com
Open Monday – Sunday, 9am – 9pm.