The Damai

The staff were excellent, and there are impressive things about this hotel, but I wouldn’t recommend it. We stayed in the Dewi private pool villa. The grounds were beautiful and breakfast was superb, yet the place felt nearly empty, with rarely more than two other tables and often just us. I wondered whether we’d been unlucky, but the layout probably wouldn’t feel lively even with more guests. The bar is by reception, and there’s nowhere comfortable for two to sit and relax. The benches look lovely but aren’t practical, so it isn’t a place to linger over drinks. The room looked gorgeous but was dark even in daylight. Its only shower is outdoors, which is fun by day but may feel unsettling at night. The covered lounge outside was also dark, and the other loungers smelled too mouldy to use. A nearby man-made pond has cute frogs, but they get so loud at night and are so close that the sound made us feel on edge. The main concern was how easily things could get inside. The gaps beneath the front door and around the sliding lounge doors were much too large for a luxury jungle retreat compared with others we’ve stayed in. We don’t mind geckos, but twice one pooped onto our bed from the rafters, and a tiny ringneck snake came in under the front door. We chose the hotel partly because of its Michelin affiliation, but the current dinner menu wasn’t for us. The meals felt too stuffy and Western for the setting. We found more authentic Balinese-style food elsewhere that was better and cheaper. It’s a pity, because the hotel does have some impressive qualities.

A hotel behind our room sometimes played loud music for short stretches during the day. Thankfully it never disturbed our sleep, and it wouldn’t keep us from returning. The location also worked well for us, with a shuttle to Lovina beach, where we went every other day. We spent eight wonderful days in the Private Pool Villa (#6 - Lychee Tree), which felt like a little sanctuary. Everyone was lovely and friendly. Eka’s Monday and Thursday morning yoga sessions were top notch. The food was incredibly tasty: breakfast was solid, and dinner, which we had at the property about half the time, was definitely bib gourmand worthy. The flavorful three-course set menu was 35€/person, pricier than a Warung but better than meals we sometimes get back home in Europe. Cocktails were good too. We also enjoyed a massage, soy bean scrub, and floral soak. Housekeeping was efficient, tidying while we were at breakfast or turning down the room during dinner, with little treats waiting when we returned. The sheets were good quality, there were four water bottles each day, and the toiletries were nice. Thanks to all the staff for a memorable stay. We can’t wait to come back!

The Damai made it hard to leave. The team handled everything with so much care, and I was genuinely sad to go. Their warmth, kindness, and professionalism made me feel at home, among the best hospitality I’ve experienced anywhere. The place is a hidden gem, peaceful and elegant amid beautiful nature. It has a timeless, understated luxury that brought to mind the golden days of Aman Resorts, with attentive service and an atmosphere that makes you slow down and enjoy the moment. For a luxury stay in Bali away from the crowds, The Damai is something special. I can’t wait to return.

A peaceful, romantic hidden gem with lovely sea views, The Damai Lovina was a perfect end to our honeymoon. We spent a wonderful week relaxing by our private pool. The whole team was so kind and attentive, from drivers and housekeepers to the restaurant, front desk, and General Manager. Special thanks to the restaurant staff for taking such care and creativity with completely celiac-friendly, gluten-free meals. Dining there was a real pleasure. We’d wholeheartedly recommend it for tranquility, luxury, and warmth. Thanks for an amazing week, we can’t wait to come back!