The Samaya, Ubud, riverside picnic lunch

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Written by Christina Elizabeth Miller
Wellness travel writer | Visited in August 2025

A hidden jungle escape in Ubud

Located beside the flowing Ayung River, The Samaya Ubud is a luxury resort that feels both secluded and completely in tune with nature. Surrounded by jungle, rice terraces, and tropical greens, it offers a peaceful escape just fifteen minutes from central Ubud.

During my two-night stay, I experienced their riverside picnic lunch and spa package — and it was one of the most intimate, grounding experiences I’ve had in Bali.

The villas and resort amenities

The Samaya offers a range of private villas, from one-bedroom romantic hideaways to spacious three-bedroom suites. I stayed in a one-bedroom villa with a private pool, complete with air conditioning, high-speed Wi-Fi, a large soaking tub, and 24-hour butler service.

The space blended traditional Balinese design with modern luxury and was ideal for a restorative couples’ retreat.

The resort also features two on-site restaurants: Scene Restaurant, overlooking expansive rice fields with volcano views, and Swept Away, the riverside dining highlight of the property.

Swept Away: riverside dining with soul

Swept Away is perched just above the river, creating an immersive dining experience where nature becomes part of the atmosphere. You dine with the soundtrack of rushing water and birdsong while overlooking the jungle.

The setting is calm, romantic, and deeply serene.

The menu offers a fusion of Balinese and international cuisine. I enjoyed a vibrant vegetarian lunch that included tamarind-roasted vegetables, turmeric rice, and a rich chocolate dessert, paired with fresh juice and coffee.

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The picnic lunch and spa experience

The Samaya Delight Picnic Lunch and Spa Package is designed for couples and includes a 90-minute Balinese massage followed by a three-course riverside meal. The massage takes place in an open-air pavilion facing the river. The sound of the water, combined with expert touch, creates a deeply meditative experience.

After the massage, we were guided to a private riverside table set just a few feet from the river’s edge. A beautifully plated lunch followed, with fresh ingredients, attentive service, and thoughtful details like chilled mimosas and hot coffee.

It was both luxurious and grounding — one of those rare experiences that leaves you feeling completely present.

Practical tips for your visit

Best time to go: Late morning or early afternoon for a quieter, more peaceful experience.

What to bring: Comfortable clothing, swimwear, and a camera for the views.

Distance from Ubud: About 15 minutes by car; complimentary resort shuttles run daily.

Pricing: Expect to pay approximately $150–$250 USD for the full spa and picnic package; confirm latest rates on The Samaya’s official website.

Final thoughts

The Samaya Ubud is more than a resort — it’s an experience designed to help you reconnect with yourself and your partner in a stunning natural setting. From the gentle hands of the massage therapist to the sounds of the river and the romantic riverside lunch that follows, every moment feels intentional.

If you’re looking for a luxurious and heartfelt escape in Bali, this riverside experience is a beautiful way to celebrate love, stillness, and connection.