We were on a journey. One that would take us through sacred ancient temples, cliff side trails, breathtaking beaches and miles of rice paddies. Our days were spent seeing, searching, exploring new worlds, including each other. Once we had made it to Ubud after the longest day of traveling, we locked ourselves in our little Balinese cottage for the night. We had 10 days there and our schedule was jam packed, so we took the night to do nothing at all other than hold each other under the moonlight that was dripping through the window. 

My back was completely screwed up after bouncing around on the back of a motor bike on the dirt roads of Nusa Penida, but I wouldn’t trade those days for anything in the world. I had planned on enjoying daily practices while we were in the yoga hub that is Ubud, but my low back would not allow it. We were both in need of some serious TLC, so I did my research to find the best spa in Ubud, dare I say the best spa in Bali. In my opinion, I found it. 

We drove up a winding road, past the busy ness of Ubud, into the hills, on the sacred Campuhan Ridge. The ambiance here is like an instant breath of fresh air. The lily pads were gleaming in the sunlight as we drove right up to the lotus flowers outside Karsa Spa. We were greeted by a beautiful, kind woman who told us a little about the spa itself and the organic, Ayurvedic products they use, one of them being a local brand called Nadi’s Herbal Products. 

Karsa Spa has an eco friendly philosophy, using bio septic tank systems to protect the surrounding rice fields. They also use eco friendly soaps to clean the spa and are actively involved in their community, encouraging other businesses to recycle and dispose of waste in a green friendly fashion. 

After checking in, we made our way through the immaculate grounds to our outdoor treatment room. The energy was similar to a Balinese temple, tranquil and sacred, with statues of the Gods overlooking us on our walk. When we arrived, we were blown away by the ambiance of the room. With gorgeous greenery filling every crevice, traditional Balinese artwork, a pond filled with koi fish, a stone outdoor shower and huge two person bath tub, this was by far the largest and most beautiful treatment room we had ever seen. We climbed onto our massage beds, and waited for our therapists to arrive. 

The second my therapist placed her hands on my back, I knew I was in for something special. Her presence was calm, focused and attuned to my energy. She took her time, finding my tight spots, then cleverly eased into them, slowly and strategically clearing my back of any knots. Her massage style was very unique, unlike anything I’ve experienced before. She flowed with grace along my back, while using the perfect amount of pressure to melt away any tension. When she got to my legs, she used almost what I would call an acupressure style massage that was heavenly and healing. Truthfully, I have had many massages in my life, and this experience surpassed them all. 

After our massage, we were given a traditional Indonesian Lulur exfoliation scrub, which consists of turmeric, coriander, red rice, evgania and essential oils. Following the scrub, is a clay body mask used to tone, soften and moisturize the skin. It was a magical experience, a well needed pampering after two months of being on the road. My skin felt completely renewed. 

While we were marinating in our scrub and clay mask, our massage therapists drew us a hot bath, complete with a bed of flowers and hot tea. When it was all ready, they gave us privacy to shower off our leftover mask and take a romantic bath. We were both in a trance from our amazing massage, and enjoyed our time together in the most epic flower bath of all time. I think cloud nine sums it up. 

After our massage, we had an early dinner at the Karsa Kafe. They have unique dining options, with private tables over huge koi ponds. We enjoyed our traditional Balinese meals while overlooking the incredible scenery. The cherry on top of a one of a kind spa experience. 

We truly can not recommend Karsa Spa enough to anyone visiting the Ubud area. If you are looking for a place to receive healing bodywork, massage or reiki, look no further. We want to thank the whole staff for their hospitality and generosity, we can’t wait to visit you all again. 

Much love, 

Kahala and Patrick