Bali North Shore
The North Shore of Bali has some of the most incredible sights and experiences on Bali, and the best part about it is that very few tourists venture there!
It is known for sleepy little fishing villages, some of the best markets on the island and beautiful black sand beaches.
Our time on the North Shore will be some of our most active seeing several spectacular attractions: the Brahma Vihara Arama Buddhist Monastery, what some say is the best waterfall on Bali, Sekumpul Waterfall, and the Air Panas Banjar Holy Hot Springs, where you can also do a bit of shopping in the local market nearby.
Lovina is also one of few places on the island where you can enjoy a gorgeous sunrise over the mountains from the rooftop patio of our hotel and a spectacular sunset lounging by the pool.
Speaking of the pool, the pool at the Lovina Beach Club and Resort is one of the most striking on the island. It is an infinity pool whose edge blends right in with the ocean.
Some of my most favorite photos while here in Bali have come from each of these locations.
Brahma Vihara Arama Buddhist Monastery
This majestic monastery complex is the only Buddhist monastery on Bali. It is perched high in the hills above Lovina Beach on the North Shore of Bali. This is one of the least visited areas on the island and very few tourists venture here, therefore it is extremely peaceful, quiet and awe inspiring. Just the sight of the four giant white Buddhas is a spiritual experience.
Examining the name further: Brahma, Vihara and Arama. Brahma means great, noble, commendable. Vihara means a way of life, and Arama means place. So the meaning of Brahmavihara Arama is a place to cultivate a noble and commendable way of life.
This is one of the holiest temples on the island and together we meditate in one of their many meditation areas. You will also have plenty of time here to meditate and journal on your own if you would like.
Air Panas Banjar Holy Hot Springs
Enjoying the magical waters of Air Panas Banjar Holy Hot Springs is a truly Balinese experience and a 'must-do' when visiting the island.
Since Bali is an island dotted by volcanoes you also find some great hot springs, and Air Panas Banjar Holy Hot Springs is one of the best and most beautiful. They are set in a lush jungle garden that is not frequently visited by tourists because of its northern location.
It is like a secret hide-away for relaxation and pampering all with the benefits of healing hot springs.
The water has a comfortable 38 degrees with a sulfur content of 26%. The two main pools are 1-2 meters deep and make the perfect place for swimming and relaxing. The third pool is small with three spouts giving you a natural massage when you stand beneath them.
Sekumpul Waterfall
I first read about the Sempkul Waterfall while doing my island research on the Four Season Hotel website. They have a page of staff favorites and their Director of Guest Experiences wrote, “My favorite adventure is going to Sekumpul Waterfall, the best waterfall on the island. It is a hidden gem of six or seven cascades located in a remote part of Bali on the north side. It's such a thrill to see them – one is over 50 meters (165 feet) high!”
After a nice 30-minute hike to reach the base of the falls through a lush bamboo-forested valley we will come upon an awesome viewpoint of the falls from above. We will stop here to take some beautiful photographs.
You will hear the distant roar of the main falls before you see them. Then as you come around the corner, you’ll be graced by the most incredible majestic beauty of Bali’s best waterfall.
