Capella Ubud launches a luxury family adventure programme in Bali’s rainforest, combining cultural experiences, outdoor activities, and bespoke accommodation.
Capella Ubud has launched a new family adventure programme aimed at travellers looking for something more considered than a standard resort stay.
Set in the rainforest of Keliki Valley, the experience combines local cultural activities, guided exploration, and high-end accommodation in one of Bali’s most remote locations.
The Lodge: Capella Ubud’s Family Base in the Jungle
The programme centres around The Lodge, a two-bedroom tent designed by Bill Bensley. It covers 217 square metres and includes separate sleeping areas, indoor and outdoor living space, and a heated private pool with views over the forest.
The interiors reflect Bensley’s usual approach, layered, detailed and filled with vintage pieces. Colours are warm and rich, with subtle references to travel and exploration. The result feels both comfortable and distinctive, with plenty of space for families travelling with children or grandparents.
Privacy is a key part of the offering. The Lodge is set apart from other tents, and the setting, deep within the forest, keeps things quiet and undisturbed. Despite the sense of escape, service remains fully attentive, with the resort’s team on hand to arrange transfers, excursions, and daily logistics.
Arrival by Helicopter
Guests can arrive via helicopter transfer from Bali’s southern coast, which cuts down on travel time and offers a clear view of the island’s landscape. The flight passes over rice terraces, temples, and forested hills, providing a good sense of Bali’s geography before descending into Ubud. It’s an efficient and memorable way to begin the stay.
Capella Curates: Cultural Programming with Substance
The family adventure is anchored by the Capella Curates programme, which includes activities that have been chosen for their relevance to Balinese culture and their accessibility to guests of all ages.
Traditional Shadow Puppetry
One of the most engaging experiences is a private Wayang Kulit performance. These traditional shadow puppet shows are a longstanding part of Balinese storytelling. Held outdoors at the resort, the performance is accompanied by live gamelan music and introduces guests to stories from Balinese folklore. It’s an especially strong highlight for families with younger children.
Cooking with a Local Farmer
Another option is a cooking session hosted in a local farmer’s home. The day begins with a short foraging walk through the surrounding forest, where guests collect ingredients used in the meal. The dishes are then prepared and eaten together, with guidance throughout from the host. It’s simple, direct, and a useful introduction to regional cooking.
Additional Activities for Families
Outside of the main cultural programming, Capella Ubud offers a mix of other experiences designed for families.
Walks through the rainforest are available with a guide, and there are quieter moments built into the itinerary, such as picnics in the rice fields or visits to nearby temples. Workshops in local crafts, such as woodcarving or offering-making, are also available, and these tend to appeal to both children and adults.
Children’s activities are led by Camp Rangers, who are trained to balance fun with informal education. They introduce younger guests to the region’s plants, animals, and customs in a way that’s accessible and engaging.
Parents and grandparents have the option to use the Auriga Spa, where the focus is on traditional Balinese therapies and ingredients. Treatments are designed to match the slower pace of the surrounding landscape, with sessions that incorporate both physical restoration and relaxation.
Evenings are usually low-key, with families encouraged to gather around the campfire for a drink before dinner or to reflect on the day’s activities.
Statement from the General Manager
Christian Jaquier, Capella Ubud’s General Manager, says:
“At Capella Ubud, we believe that the most meaningful luxury lies in connection – to people, to place, and to each other. The Lodge embodies this spirit, offering an unforgettable space for families to create stories that span generations.”
A Flexible Format
The family programme is available year-round. Activities are adapted to suit the season and can be adjusted based on a family’s specific needs or interests. Capella’s team works closely with each group before arrival to put together a schedule that balances activity with downtime.
No two itineraries are the same. Whether a family wants something high-energy and outdoors-focused, or a more cultural and food-led experience, the team can customise accordingly.
A Considered Approach to Family Travel
Capella Ubud’s family adventure programme is one of the more thorough offerings of its kind. It avoids the usual resort-style format in favour of something slower and more deliberate, with a strong emphasis on context and care. The result is a stay that’s engaging for children without feeling oversimplified for adults.
By focusing on culture, nature, and shared experiences, the resort has created something that holds genuine value for families travelling together, and gives structure to time that often feels too short.
