The Bulgari Resort, Bali: Reflexology massage and ESPA facial

Josephine Price enjoys an indulgent session at this clifftop spa

By Josephine Price
Published 16 Dec 2015, 11:00 GMT

The buggy comes to an abrupt stop outside an ornate teak palace, which forms the entrance to the spa. As I coo over the detail, our butler tells me it's a typically Javanese Joglo House, built in the 18th century and shipped over, piece by piece, from the neighbouring island. I'm impressed already.

Inside, the Indonesian features continue with Songket cushions and heady incense. And even though the whole resort has felt pretty calm, this is a real haven.

Rini, my therapist, comes to collect me and leads me down to the relaxation area. A view of the Indian Ocean and the roar of the sea below perfectly complement the infinity pool. “It's a good place to catch the sunset,” she tells me.

Now, pleased that I've booked in for the end of the day, I watch the sun splash the sky with colour before Rini leads me into the garden treatment room. Garden rooms are best at this time of night as the chance of being bothered by mosquitos is minimal.

My session begins with a reflexology massage. Rini talks me through the corresponding body parts and the benefits as she pummels the pressure points across my feet. She uses resistance body oil made up of eucalyptus and tea tree extracts, known for its immune system boosting properties.

Having been too lax with my SPF earlier in the day, I choose an after-sun facial to follow. The clay masks in the ESPA range soothe my skin and the botanical rescue massage oil helps to repair cells.

As her fingers patter across my forehead, my skin feels invigorated. The gentle massage helps to dispel any puffiness and water retention before I'm slathered in a mask that coats my face and hair. Rini leaves me with ESPA's Essential Protective Serum, which is best left on overnight, and so I head to dinner make-up free and literally glowing.

Although there's a fancy Italian option, I haven't quite had my fill of Indonesian fare. We head to Sangkar Restaurant, where the garlic baby chicken with a fiery Sumbawan sauce rejuvenates me once again. The portions are huge and we sleepily hail a buggy once again to take us back to our villa.

Stepping through the garden and onto the terrace, I imagine it's difficult to tire of the view. We're in one of the eight Ocean Cliff villas perched on the rocky edge of the southern peninsula, so there's nothing ahead us bar the private infinity pool and an unadulterated view of the Indian Ocean.

Slipping below the soft white cotton sheets in my gigantic bed, I'm already looking forward to whatever tomorrow has in store — although I'm not quite sure anything could top today.

One bedroom villas start from £730 per villa per night.

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