Ulu Cliffhouse

Ulu Cliffhouse, Uluwatu: A Comprehensive Review of the Michelin Key Selected Property

Ulu Cliffhouse in Uluwatu, Bali, a Michelin Key Selected property, offers a luxurious escape blending breathtaking ocean views with a vibrant beach club atmosphere. It is widely praised for its stunning cliffside location, exceptional service, and impressive culinary offerings.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

Ulu Cliffhouse generally receives an "Excellent" to "Exceptional" rating from guests, with an average score often around 8.6 to 9.6 out of 10 on various platforms. The overarching sentiment is highly positive, with many guests expressing a strong desire to return. It's described as a "magical stay" and a "perfect balance of work and play."

2. Key Highlights

Guests consistently rave about several standout features:

• Location & Views: Perched 60 meters above the Indian Ocean, the property offers panoramic, jaw-dropping views and spectacular sunsets.
• Design & Atmosphere: The design by Shed London and Bali's Design Assembly blends modern edges with a mid-century tropical aesthetic, creating an effortlessly chic and vibrant "clifftop playground." The central 25-meter infinity pool is a centerpiece, surrounded by luxurious sunbeds and sofas.
• Beach Club Experience: As a beach club with a resort component, it provides a lively atmosphere, especially on weekends with DJs and events. Guests staying at the hotel often receive priority for daybeds and loungers. An exclusive Ocean Deck, accessible via a winding staircase, offers a secluded bar and direct beach access at low tide.
• Amenities: The property boasts a full-service spa, a garden, terraces, and complimentary Wi-Fi. Inclusive yoga and Pilates classes are also appreciated by guests.

3. Room Quality

Ulu Cliffhouse offers a small number of elegantly designed suites, each named after famous surf breaks, providing an intimate and personalized experience. Rooms are consistently described as spacious, comfortable, and well-equipped with air conditioning. Many feature large balconies overlooking the pool and ocean. Design themes are playful, ranging from 'Beach' villas with 70s aesthetics and outdoor showers to 'Club' rooms with luxurious tropical furnishings. The outdoor showers are a unique and often loved feature, providing an "absolutely wonderful experience showering under the stars."

4. Dining Experience

The dining experience at Ulu Cliffhouse is a significant highlight, often exceeding expectations for a beach club.

• Restaurant Quality: The open-air restaurant offers a contemporary international menu with Asian influences, emphasizing fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Chef Diego Muñoz, a world-renowned Peruvian chef, has curated a menu that includes a raw bar with ceviches and tiraditos. Dishes are described as beautifully presented, flavorful, and a "gastronomic experience."
• Breakfast: Breakfast receives high praise for its variety, delicious taste, and quality coffee, with options including continental, American, full English/Irish, vegetarian, vegan, halal, and gluten-free. Guests appreciate the option to have breakfast delivered to their room to enjoy on their balcony.

5. Service & Staff

The staff at Ulu Cliffhouse are frequently highlighted as "exceptional," "super nice," "wonderfully attentive, kind and caring professionals." They are praised for going "above and beyond" to make stays special, providing personalized service, and creating an inviting and warm environment. Turn-down service with complimentary cupcakes is an example of their attentiveness.

6. Location & Accessibility

Ulu Cliffhouse is strategically located on the cliffs of Uluwatu, a popular area on Bali's southwestern peninsula. It offers direct access to the beach and is near Thomas Beach, Padang Padang Beach, and Uluwatu Temple (approximately 2.6 km away). There are also numerous restaurants and hotels within a 10-minute drive. While the location is stunning, guests note that the access road from the main street to the hotel can be shabby, mottled, and dark at night, sometimes requiring a taxi for even short distances. Traffic in Bali can also be problematic, making travel from other areas like Canggu potentially time-consuming.

7. Value & Pricing

The average room price at Ulu Cliffhouse ranges from $301 to $350, positioning it as an upscale experience. While some initial impressions might consider it pricey, many guests find the value justified given the exceptional service, stunning location, facilities, and food quality. The beach club itself has no entry fee, but daybeds and sunbeds require a minimum spend, which is credited towards food and beverages and is considered reasonable compared to other Bali beach clubs.

8. Common Complaints

Despite the overwhelmingly positive feedback, a few recurring issues are mentioned:

• Noise: As a beach club, Ulu Cliffhouse can have a lively atmosphere with music playing late into the night, especially on weekends (until 2 am). This can be a concern for guests sensitive to noise, with some recommending earplugs.
• Room Maintenance/Cleanliness (Occasional): While generally clean, some older reviews mention a musky smell, dustiness, or issues with floorboards in specific rooms.
• Bugs/Ants: A few guests have reported issues with bugs and ants in their rooms, especially with the outdoor shower concept.
• Lack of TV in Rooms: Some guests note the absence of a television in the rooms, which might be a drawback for those seeking entertainment during rainy days or downtime.
• Access Road: The condition and lighting of the road leading to the property from the main street are sometimes criticized.

Sources

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