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A wrought iron gate heralds the entrance to a central flight of steps leading down to the pool through an avenue of umbrella ferns. The beautiful garden then rolls down to a river located behind its boundary walls. The garden is dotted with sweet-scented frangipani and orchids, and bordered by mature trees including teak, coconut palms, and a towering breadfruit tree. On either side of the garden is a banana, palm and pandanus plantation. Although the gate is an attractive feature in itself, this with an adjoining fence separates the main house from the pool to ensure the safety of any young children staying at the property. The 18-metre mango-shaped swimming pool is 1.5 metres deep with a large platform area just 15 centimetres deep for kids. The cobalt-blue tiled pool is filled with light salt water instead of chlorine, and is equipped with an innovative filtering system utilising pure water from the villa's own bore. The stone pool terrace is furnished with six sunloungers, table and chairs, four large Balinese parasols, and two poolside statues of Balinese gods and goddesses. On one side is a barbeque 'bale' pavilion, with a thatched 'alang alang' roof, a dining table for six, a fridge, a fan, an intercom to the house, speakers for the sound system, and a sink. A washroom is located behind the pavilion, and the staff will prepare barbeques beside the pool. Additionally, there is a poolside reading bale, fitted with bamboo blinds, a fan, and a colourful mattress and cushions. Twelve flaming torches at night cast a stunning reflection of the Balinese parasols within the still water of the pool, turning the scene into a romantic little paradise, serenaded by a chorus of frog song. At the bottom of the garden is a rustic brick wall with a door opening onto the river bank; here guests will find a simple and private riverside bale, perfect for meditation. This is also the site of a holy spring, where offerings to the gods are made by the local villagers. Eighty metres along the river-bank is the village temple. Guests will be welcomed at temple festivals, some may even be lucky enough to witness a barong dance or other Hindu ceremony. The villa staff will be happy to help with ceremonial clothing and advice on etiquette. |