Today was my favorite day spent in Bali yet. We started off with an early morning kundalini yoga class to get our energy flowing followed by Balinese banana pancakes and papaya for breakfast. With full bellies, we set off across town in search of Campuhan Ridge. This is a nice half day walk that gets you our of the hustle and bustle of downtown Ubud.

As we were walking through town to find the start of this hike, I spotted a sign pointing down a small alleyway that said “Ubud rice fields”.

“Should we check this out?” I asked. It’s either the greatest idea or the dumbest idea due to the sketchiness of the path before us. We decide to be brave and turn off the main road on this small windy path sandwiched between the buildings on either side,crossing a high bridge, twisting up and around some local dwellings. We almost turned back twice because it felt intrusive to be so close to their homes. I’m so happy we kept going because when we finally stepped out into the rice fields it was glorious!! Just a small minute off the busy street and here we are in a field of greenery.

The entry to this magical oasis is along Jalan Raya just west of the Ubud palace/market intersection. I highly recommend turning here and having a wee adventure.

After we filled our eyes with green, we were off to our destination of Campuhan Ridge. To get here is fairly simple if you have good directions (which I will give you!)

Beginning in the palace/market intersection in downtown Ubud, head west down Jalan Raya. You should pass a Starbucks on your right shortly. Keep walking down this road until the shops begin to thin out and there will be a bridge thing overhead as you begin to go downhill through a mossy corridor.

At the bottom of the hill the road will bend to the left and the Ibah Hotel will be on your right. Follow the Ibah Hotel sign like you’re going to stay there and you should start seeing signs for Campuhan Ridge trek and/or Karsa Kafe.

From here just keep following the signs and you’re golden.

We went mid-day which may not have been the best time of day, but it was not unbearable by any means. Yes, it gets really hot and humid here – what do you expect?

There is little to no shade along the trek, but at the top is the Karsa Kafe and Spa – a fantastic spot for lunch or a cool drink before you head back down.

I think this took us about 40-60 minutes from downtown Ubud one way. Not too challenging and the path is very nice and maintained.

Definitely don’t go without sunscreen and water, your camera, and maybe even a hat. Have fun!