Bali is considered to be one of the most peaceful and welcoming islands in Indonesia, proving an attractive destination for surfers, hikers and those seeking an escape from the madness of modern life. Read on to see our selection of the best of Bali.
Bali benefits from fairly undisrupted weather, even during its rainy season, rarely suffering from monsoons, making it an ideal choice for your destination wedding or honeymoon. Temperatures average around the high twenties, so make sure you drink plenty of water whilst taking on the slower pace adopted by the locals.
If you're looking to take in some of the culture and religious architecture of the island, there are a number of temples nestled amongst the glorious landscapes for tourists and worshippers to visit. Do note that sarongs must be worn when visiting the temples.
The Uluwatu temple on the Bukit Peninsula is perched on the top of a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean and said to protect Bali against evil. It's also close to some of Bali's finest beaches, including Balangan, a favourite amongst surfers.
Keep an eye out for the mischievous monkeys that roam around the temple. Whilst they tend to keep to themselves, they are attracted to belongings they can grab a hold of, so keep your cameras and sunglasses tucked away.
Another temple worth visiting is the Pura Ulun on the shores of Lake Bratan. The reflection in the water and peaceful surroundings prove an exquisite trip.
Why not take an afternoon to pamper yourself in one of the luxurious yoga retreats or 5 star hotels and enjoy a traditional local massage, an integral part of the Balinese culture.
To escape the hustle and bustle of the town, head through the rice paddy fields and explore Ubud, a magical town packed with quirky shops and markets, classy lounge-style cafes and authentic Indonesian food. A visit at night will also allow you to see the tree lanterns emitting their mystical glow along the streets.
If you're looking for a summit to climb, there are two we would recommend. Mount Batur at Kintamani climbs 1700 metres, and organised hikes can get you to the top just as the sun starts to rise - a sight worth the flight to Bali alone. Alternatively there are helicopter rides available around the volcano, giving you a bird's eye view of the coastline, river gorges and the caldera.
On the island of Lombok in Indonesia sits Gunung Rinjani. This is a peak for seasoned hikers only and will require a guide and some planning, but the view is spectacular, as is the mount's sacred crater lake and the active, smoking cone of Gunung Baru below.
For a refreshing evening drink after your day of activities, a stop in the Rock Bar Ayana is perfect - arguably the best bar in Bali. The views of the Indian Ocean crashing onto the rocks and the beautiful sunsets are a draw for many.
You couldn't leave Bali without watching one of its infamous fireball sunsets. A really spectacular sight and the perfect finish to your dream wedding or honeymoon.
