Villa SemarapuraIndonesia

Villa Semarapura is located a stone’s throw from Cemagi Beach near Seseh on Bali’s southwest coast, a huge expanse of black volcanic sand that’s spectacular at sunset. To the eastern end of the beach and perched on a rocky outcrop is a Hindu sea temple – Pura Bata Ngandang – that the villa directly overlooks. The beach becomes alive at sunset as locals gather near to the shoreline to take in the fiery red skies; black porous rocks roll up and down with the tide and the beach is an excellent place for enjoying a serene stroll or watching the surfers (though it’s not safe to swim here). Neighbouring Semarapura are a handful of other private villas, some of which face the sea whilst others look over the expansive green paddy fields towards dramatic mountain views of the island’s interior. There are no international restaurants near Cemagi, but the good news for folks who want to immerse themselves in the customs and culture of old Bali is that the villagers encourage and welcome congenial visitors. This is an ideal destination for those who want to get lost in the beauty of the countryside, and for those who want to engage with the local people and gain privileged insights into the Balinese Hindu lifestyle.