Como Shambhala - Unique Holistic Healing In Bali

A chance to return to Como Shambhala Estate has always remained high on my bucket list, after a life changing visit back in 2007. Since then, the wellness industry has boomed, so I was curious to discover if their offering is still up there with the big hitters of today, and oh boy, they certainly did not disappoint.

As soon as we disembarked from the plane, our friendly VIP escort with the widest of smiles, and arms stretched with board in hand greeted us both eagerly. This made the entrance into Bali swift after prearranging this service via the hotel - a godsend after 22hrs of travel, as custom queues are arduous and slow. It's well worth spending the extra 35USD to be whisked past the envious crowds.

Putting you in touch with yourself and nature – Como is the Queen of all sanctuaries and the perfect place for a total reset. It's set on a hillside, amongst lush tropical jungle with stone walkways surrounding the estate, all of which lead to the estates own freshwater pools sat alongside the River Ayung – the setting throughout is spellbindingly beautiful.

Service is attentive but not overbearing – everyone knows your name which results in providing a reassuring feeling, that you are safely cocooned amongst family and friends, whilst embarking on a deep and meaningful process, if you have chosen to.

Treatments from their spa are wonderful. Every stroke, knead and rub is delivered with expertise and the pressure adapted to your needs. The Como Shambhala Special massage by far was a firm favourite, with long, rhythmic strokes from head to toe. Also featuring high on our favourites list were the Taksu massage which entailed a different type of flicks and strokes and stretches to help loosen the joints. The hot stone massage delivered by the incredible Ivan, was one of the best treatments I’ve ever had. Basically, here’s a masseuse who certainly knows how to work his stones. Sheer bliss!

Each accommodation is hidden amongst stunning green foliage or behind ancient Balinese doors and walls, so all very private and discreet.

Our 2-bedroom villa which was split over two floors each was vast in size and offered a private pool with built in jacuzzi, and a large outdoor space with sunbeds, living and dining area. The beds were extremely generous in size and uber comfy and the main master came with an enormous black marble bath overlooking the pool, outdoor shower and chillout swing taboot.

The food served at both restaurants is exceptional, and views from the breakfast restaurant, Kudus House, which is a stunning 150-year-old Javanese residence set on the cliffside, are totally spellbinding!

The hotel also offers many activities on the estate from Yoga, meditation, Balinese blessings to hiking around the estate, along with outdoor activities. We decided on taking a private tour with our guide on a cycle ride through the villages and rice paddy fields, which was relatively easy going and the scenes from local life and landscape, just breathtaking.

I can safely say after my last visit 15 years ago, Como Shambhala still has that special zing. And as for the jungle setting on the mountain side, surround by rice paddy fields, and the sound of trickling water from the river below, bird song in the trees and constant croaking from the geckos, frogs and cicadas in the night-time, something truly magical.

If you’d like to find out more about this unique retreat, please feel free to send an email or give me a call.