EVER quite ruffling the sacred hillside of the traditional Kedewatan neighbourhood but inserting itself immaculately, and reverently, into the Bali luxury retreat niche, is Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve (opening September 2015). With just 60 keys, this is an exclusive hideaway for romantics and those in search of healing seclusion. Quietly cascading down the Ubud hillside to the singing, snaking river, the Reserve is a splendid venue for Bali resort weddings or a family escape with a Mini Explorers nature programme in green surrounds.

The smart stone floor suites occupy a higher vantage point below terraced rice fields with the villas facing the sweep of the river bend. Expect dark timber walls set off by red licks of Anthurium, woven rugs and cool wood underfoot, rattan divans, local paintings, thatch roofs, and a breezy, contemporary - but quintessentially - Balinese setting.

What sets this apart as one of the top Bali luxury resorts is its profound understatement and Balinese village immersion experience. Patih (24-hour butlers) are on hand for all needs. A One-Bedroom Villa starts at 430sq m while the enormous three-bedroom Mandapa Villa offers 2,000sq m of elbow room, more than enough for a family and all your well-travelled Louis Vuitton bags. Villas serve up small private gardens and 30 sq m alfresco pools that catch the sun as well as morning birdsong. Suites start at a generous 100sq m with the signature marble inlay toilets with twin vanities and black stone soaking tubs.

The Mandapa Spa offers private treatment rooms for couples and varied wellness menus. Guests may swim, cycle, jog, hike, bird watch or stretch out for some yoga. 'Dining Beyond' offers custom menus riverside or amidst rice paddies. The functioning temple on the grounds ensures Bali is never out of sight.