Baruna Lakeside View

I really enjoyed the quiet, calm setting, and there’s a bonfire in front of each room. The rooms are simple but have a great view and hot water, and the price is good. My room had visitors, including ants on the bed. Bugs and ants on the floor are common in Bali, but ants in bed made me uncomfortable because I have sensitive skin. They went away after I cleaned. Since the room hadn’t been used for a while, it could use disinfectant spray, or maybe just a dupa, because it smelled a little strange. Things aren’t healthy in Bali or the world right now, so hang in there. You have an amazing place. Thanks for the hospitality and the cute puppies.

The breakfast was really good, and Kadek is a very good chef. Still, the kitchen was really dirty, which made me uncomfortable. In the room I felt like I was in a horror movie: it was very humid, smelled of wood, and had a blanket instead of bedding. I stayed three nights. The place has a lot of potential, but a few things meant I didn’t enjoy the stay at all. It was a completely new experience, and I hope they renovate the property.

The view, fresh air, and friendly staff made this hotel one of my best stays in Bali. It’s worth spending a few days here as a base for exploring the central north. Try the local dishes, especially the lake fish and the chillies. The main drawbacks were the renovation and old equipment, which deserve more investment and attention. In the end, they didn’t affect our comfort or how we felt about the place very much.

Be aware that you may not actually get to stay at this “hotel.” Apparently the rooms are in such poor condition that the same owner puts guests in Batur Green Lake instead. The cottages there are also very dirty and in poor shape; see my separate review. And there’s no swimming pool. :)