Independent Minds: the Kowaleski Family, Desa Hay

Unearth big-hearted Bali just as nature intended it to be at this jungle-wrapped, all-villa retreat

Inspired by their son’s travels to Bali and a subsequent family holiday to this Indonesian island, the Kowaleski family dreamt up Desa Hay – a nature-immersed resort designed with the considerate traveller in mind. Though this cluster of Balinese villas beautifully blends into its jungle surroundings, it certainly stands out when it comes to sustainability. Almost half of Desa Hay’s land has been designated as green space to let nature take its course, which means you’ll feel completely in tune with the wilderness at this substantially solar-powered Considerate Collection resort. The small details really shine here, from the in-villa bamboo combs, biodegradable slippers, and personalised mini-bars, to the traditional offerings of coconut leaves and flowers dotted around as part of the daily blessings.

Bali is such a special place. The island, the traditional Indonesian architecture and materials, the people and the culture are all magical and inspiring.

Do you have a vision for the future of the hotel?

The future of Desa Hay is rooted in continuous improvement. The sustainability journey requires constant measuring of the resources we use and finding ways to lessen our impact on the environment. Integrity and transparency are at the heart of our ongoing sustainability vision, in the hope that we continue to draw considerate travellers to our doorstep.

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