Freedom at Mandala
Honeymoon: Mandala, The Rocks, Bali
Words: Damien Woolnough
8th November 2018
Don’t let the wedding celebration end with the final dance to Cyndi Lauper’s acoustic version of At Last. Take the wedding party on your honeymoon to the villa redefining Bali style in Uluwatu.
The six-bedroom Mandala, The Rocks villa is the spectacular baby of Ben Jones, the man behind Ulu Cliffhouse, and James Hillier and James Brown, the acclaimed international award-winning designers of Seminyak hotspot Motel Mexicola and Africola in Australia.
"Our ultimate goal is to create and set the 'standard' for five-star villas," Jones, owner of Mandala, says. "We are building a brand where consumers will expect and receive quality, experience and service on par with any five-star hotel, with the privacy and discretion of a private villa, in literally the most beautiful locations we can find."
Jones certainly has an eye for beautiful locations with the villa nestled on the rocks of Uluwatu perched above Padang Padang and Bingin beaches. These are surf hotspots, perfect for grooms who enjoy catching waves or watching the people who do.
Plenty to look at inside the 465 square metre property with its Grecian white interiors complemented by turquoise elements and creature comforts. You’re never more than five steps away from a beach bed, lounge chair or bar stool to rest your pedicured feet.
Each of the six bedrooms has its own pastel-hued ensuite bathroom and private terrace with view of the beach (there’s those surfers again).
In need of a pre-party pump before a group photo? Take to the outdoor jungle gym for a last minute bicep boost. For extra motivation follow the villa’s workout programs or make use of the vetted list of Bali’s best yoga instructors, meditation coaches, fitness professionals and surf instructors.
Afterwards, mix a recovery shake or recovery margarita at your own private bar. Each bar is fully stocked with premium brands, there’s a wine cellar and bottled cocktails inspired by Jones’s famed Singapore bar Operation Dagger.
Don’t think that you’re mixing your own drinks -. each villa comes with discreet staff (ahem) in attendance around the clock.
This trip is best for Best Men and Best women in attendance with the stairs leading to the and from the beach unsuitable for young children or nana with her dodgy hip.
This is modern luxury (yes there’s wifi, so relax) with VIP access to Bali’s best restaurants and clubs. Start married life with a dream honeymoon and you might never wake up.
