Argomenti trattati
Are you feeling overwhelmed by the constant hustle and bustle of Canggu? As a resident just outside this lively enclave, I completely understand. After a chaotic day spent weaving through traffic, my husband and I often find ourselves yearning for a quieter escape. Recently, our curiosity led us to Sidemen, Bali—a hidden treasure known for its stunning views and tranquil vibe. Picture this: a lush valley adorned with vibrant rice terraces, all embraced by dense jungles. It’s a sanctuary where peace reigns supreme and nature has a way of rejuvenating the spirit. With a craving for serenity, we hopped on our motorbike, eager to trade the urban cacophony for the soothing sounds of chirping birds and crisp mountain air.
Upon arriving at our boutique resort, Wapa di Ume, it became clear why Sidemen is often dubbed Bali’s best-kept secret. While Ubud may still be the cultural epicenter of Bali, its crowded markets and bustling streets can overwhelm even the most seasoned traveler. In stark contrast, Sidemen quietly nestles in Karangasem, a charming village celebrated for its mesmerizing terraced rice fields that shimmer in vibrant greens against the majestic backdrop of Mount Agung. Part of me wishes to keep this paradise under wraps, but I can’t help but share our delightful experience. Sidemen offers the perfect sanctuary to immerse yourself in the beauty of traditional Balinese village life while escaping the throngs of tourists—exactly what I needed.
The journey from Canggu to Sidemen takes about two and a half hours. While we usually prefer the comfort of a car, my husband’s adventurous spirit urged us to take the motorbike this time. It turned out to be a quicker option, though we did have to contend with the not-so-pleasant air quality thanks to the trucks frequenting the roads to Karangasem. If you’re keen on exploring nearby villages, a motorbike is highly recommended, as the narrow, steep roads around Sidemen are best navigated on two wheels.
Luxury and Tranquility at Wapa di Ume
In celebration of my husband’s birthday, we were determined to find the finest accommodation in Sidemen. After narrowing down our options, Wapa di Ume truly captured our hearts. This five-star boutique resort is perched on a hillside, offering panoramic views of Mount Agung and the undulating rice fields—an unbeatable combination.
The name Wapa di Ume piqued my interest at first. Wapa comes from the owner’s name, Wayan Pasek, while di Ume translates to ‘in the rice fields’ in Balinese—a fitting homage to the resort’s picturesque surroundings.
We indulged in one of their luxurious glamping tents, freshly opened this year. As we unzipped the canvas, we were greeted by a delightful birthday surprise—fresh flower arrangements spelling out warm wishes on the bed. The spacious tent, measuring an impressive 41 square meters, boasted a plush bed and our private mini pool overlooking the lush valley of Sidemen—pure bliss.
Our dining experience at Sleeping Gajah Kitchen & Lounge was another highlight. Thankfully, we managed to secure a reservation as the venue was bustling with guests. The twilight views of the valley were breathtaking, and each dish served was a testament to culinary excellence—every bite was simply divine.
The following morning, the staff surprised my husband with a heartfelt birthday song and a cake during breakfast, which added a special touch to our stay. The hospitality we encountered was truly exceptional.
As the resort welcomes guests of all ages, I’m already eager to return with our daughter to share this enchanting experience.
Exploring the Beauty of Sidemen
During our stay, we were offered the chance to join a yoga class and a rice field tour, but our prior commitments held us back. Nevertheless, the range of activities available at Sidemen Bali Resort was impressive, including complimentary bicycles for exploring the village.
Sidemen is famous for its picturesque rice terraces that stretch endlessly, creating a breathtaking landscape. Our resort directly faced a valley adorned with lush green paddies, bordered by dense jungles. I could have spent hours simply soaking in the view from our private pool or the restaurant balcony, but my husband and I were eager to venture out and explore.
We embarked on two different rice field treks during our visit. The first trek led us to a nearby village, where the rice paddies were transitioning to golden—an idyllic sight just waiting to be harvested. A narrow dirt path invited us deeper into the terraces, allowing us to explore on foot without any entrance fee.
The second trek was conveniently near our resort, showcasing the same stunning rice terraces we had admired from the restaurant balcony. We paid a small entrance fee of Rp 25,000 per person, which granted us access to about three kilometers of verdant paddies, including a route leading back to Wapa di Ume.
This trek was accompanied by a small river, where we encountered locals winding down their day, bathing in the river. I was taken aback to see some women bathing topless, seemingly unbothered by the presence of tourists. Although I was aware of the traditional practices of the Balinese, witnessing it firsthand left me contemplative.
Venturing Beyond Sidemen
Our motorbike journey continued as we explored the winding hills surrounding Sidemen. The villages we encountered felt distinctly different from the bustling tourist spots—more rural and often underdeveloped, which led me to hope that the growth of tourism would positively impact the lives of the locals.
If you don’t have a motorbike, don’t worry; rentals are readily available nearby, and many hotels offer guided tours with local guides—a superb option for those less inclined to ride solo.
For those keen on natural wonders, Sidemen boasts stunning waterfalls to explore. Gembleng Waterfall, known for its natural rock pools, requires a hike upwards, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Alternatively, Jagasatru Waterfall, located in Salak village, invites visitors down a set of stairs to a serene lagoon perfect for a refreshing swim. Both waterfalls only require a small donation for entry, contributing to local upkeep.
While we opted not to visit these waterfalls, we did travel to Tukad Cepung, famous for its unique cave-like setting where sunlight spills in, creating enchanting beams. Despite the crowds, it was a worthwhile adventure, particularly on a special occasion.
Our final adventure involved a silver jewelry-making class—a fantastic opportunity to engage with local artisans and create a unique souvenir to commemorate our journey. With workshops lining the main road of Sidemen, the experience is both educational and creative.
As I reflect on our time in Sidemen, I realize that this tranquil escape was precisely what I needed to unwind. Time flows differently here, and I found myself wishing for a longer stay to soak in the peaceful ambiance and explore more of what this charming village has to offer. I can’t wait to return for another adventure, perhaps with our daughter in tow.