Ubud the perfect balance between culture and nature. Early departure from Seminyak for Batubulan village, the center of stone carving in Bali. View a performance of the Barong and Keris dance in this traditional setting. Continue on to either the batik, silver or wood carver villages to see, silversmiths and wood carvers create the beautiful designs and objects, which Bali is well known for. Watch as these ancient crafts are made by the local artisans, as they have done for generations right before you. On to the cultural center of the area, Ubud village. Enjoy a casual lunch of local delicacies at Indus Restaurant on the edge of the valley overlooking the Ayung River, as it flows slowly between the soft slopes of rice fields far below.

After lunch we visit the monkey forest temple to see how nature and these playful animals have made their home in this stone structure. Built in a shady forest, the large temple sits quietly in beautiful harmony as man, animal and nature co-exist. Our last stop of the day is the Ubud Palace to see classic Balinese architecture steeped in the ancient history of this magical island. Return to Seminyak in the late afternoon.

Depart early to the top of the island to the village of Kintamani, a town that straddles the southwest ridge of the crater and enjoy spectacular views of Mount Batur. View the solidified black lava trail from the peak into the valley below. The substantial lava field was formed from the largest eruption in 1926.

The lake, Danau Batur, is the largest crater lake on the island of Bali and is a good source of fish, as well as drinking water. After a coffee break at the Lake View Hotel you will travel down to visit Tegalalang rice terraces, a national heritage site. Travel on to Ubud and lunch at Indus Restaurant overlooking the Ayung river flowing slowly past as you savor great local cuisine.

Afternoon visit the Goa Gajah elephant cave dated from the 11th century, or the spectacular Monkey forest temple in the heart of Ubud village. A visit to the local craft markets or one of the traditional artist villages making silver, painting or woodcarving, can also be included before returning to Seminyak.

Afternoon departure to Uluwatu. On the way, look back towards distant views of Kuta & Legian beaches from this high point. Uluwatu temple located on the cliff edge at the most southern point of Bali. This area is popular with Bali’s surfing crowd. The beaches here are some of the best on the island.

Enjoy the Kecak performance by bare chested men and their traditional battle dance at this temple. Some great picture opportunities here. Return via Jimbaran bay to eat seafood at Menega Cafe and enjoy dining on the beach as the sun drops away. Back to Seminyak by 9pm.

Departure for Tanah Lot in the afternoon, to see one of Bali’s special religious sites for the local Hindu population, This is Bali’s most important coastal temple, “Tanah Lot” literally means where “Land meets Ocean”.

Built in the 16th century on an enormous rock outcrop in the sea. It is completely surrounded by the waters of the Indian Ocean during high tide. At low tide the Balinese walk up to the temple to make offerings and worship their gods. Enjoy great sunsets and photos as the daylight fades, before returning to Seminyak.