Where Bali Meets the Mediterranean: A Restorative Family Stay at Mazari Villas

Travelling around Bali by car with a toddler in tow is not high on anyone’s bucket list. After a lengthy drive from Pererenan to Uluwatu in the stickiness of the middle of the day, arriving at Mazari Villas was a sight for sore eyes. Located on the southern shores of Uluwatu, Mazari provides 15 villas tucked away in an exclusive enclave. The design influence is Mediterranean meets tropical, so when we walked through the big wooden doors of our villa (Villa Aria), it gave the allure of a European coastal destination, with whitewashed walls and flooring contrasting with the turquoise of the swimming pool.

The tiredness and stiff muscles from the long drive slipped away as we were escorted into the villa, where a refreshing cold towel, traditional snacks including Satoh and Dodol, and a welcome drink of ginger, lemongrass and Sprite waited for us. We met with our private butler, Adhi, who gave us a warm welcome before letting us settle in. Part of Mazari’s unique offering is its 24/7 personalised butler service, allowing you to order food and drinks directly to your room, book experiences, or simply ask for help during your stay.

Each Mazari Villa combines the tropical charm of Bingin with the soft, earthy textures and finishes of Mediterranean living. Each villa is designed to maximise the connection between indoor and outdoor spaces with large floor-to-ceiling windows drenching the living and kitchen area in natural light. We are staying in a 2-bedroom, 2.5 bathroom villa spread across two floors, including a fully equipped kitchen, sunken living room with views over the pool, and a rooftop terrace. It’s hard not to notice the level of styling within the villa, with every piece thoughtfully chosen, providing the perfect Instagrammable canvas. 

The design of the villa is incredibly family-friendly and appropriate for young children, with handrails up the staircase a nice welcome from the all-too-often impractical designs found across Bali villas. The staff were also more than accommodating to organise a pool fence on our behalf, and although it tainted the aesthetic of the pool area, we felt comfortable enough to let our toddler roam freely.

Day One

After a restorative sleep in what has to be one of the comfiest beds, we messaged our butler Adhi to organise breakfast. Before long, we were hand-delivered a green smoothie bowl with granola, a fresh fruit plate, and a pita egg sandwich, which we savoured in our poolside cabana. While the weather was less favourable on our first day, a quick car ride into town saw us arrive at Milk and Madu for a coffee and croissant. Milk and Madu is applauded for its family-friendly atmosphere, with our daughter whisked away to a colouring station so I could sit in a moment of silence to savour my coffee as the rain came down. Dinner that night was at the much-loved Cashew Tree, with the newly upgraded playground a hit with our little one, before we made the short trek home by car. While November is the start of the wet season in Bali, locals had said the rain had arrived earlier than usual, so that night we watched the night sky come alive with lightning and thunderclaps from the comfort of our own bed.

Day Two 

We walked up the street to a quaint cafe called Fleur, a thoughtfully designed space that provides a cozy atmosphere to enjoy coffee and freshly baked goods. It’s known for being a quiet haven for creatives, and although our toddler was anything but, we were still greeted with warmth and smiles from other patrons.

Before leaving for our next location, we ordered lunch to our room, including the Salmon Club, a delicious toasted sourdough sandwich complete with French fries. 

Although we only had two nights at Mazari, it’s all we needed to feel rejuvenated. Besides venturing into Uluwatu, we spent so much time in the turquoise pool and lounging on the outdoor cabanas, mostly with stickers in tow or colouring books. The villas offer 24/7 security, too, and whenever we ventured up the path to the front of the villas, our daughter was greeted with high fives and smiles. Although there are 15 villas, you would be mistaken for thinking you were in your own private sanctuary, tucked away in the lush backstreets of Uluwatu. If you are after a quiet escape that is child-friendly, Mazari Villas is a must-add to your next itinerary.

For more information visit their website or book through The Bali Bible.