From the moment they enter Seseh village and cross the threshold of Villa Belong Dua, guests will experience the warm hospitality, history and culture of Canggu Bali. The name of the villa is taken from a stone water vessel, dating back to a time when these containers could be found in every household, and were used every day to store water for drinking and washing. Several original antique belongs are showcased at the villa, along with an antique ‘jineng’, which is a traditional thatched Balinese rice barn and a symbol of social status, indicating that the family who owned it had land for rice culture. The jineng now serves as a place to relax or as a playhouse for kids. The villa’s imposing entrance gate is a copy of an 8th century Hindu temple gate at Angkor Wat in Cambodia and, after passing through this, guests will cross a lily pond complete with a bubbling water feature and a Balinese guardian statue.
There is also an antique ‘bale gede’ from Bali’s royal Gianyar regency. This lovely old open-sided pavilion made from the timber structure of a Balinese 2 bedroom pavilion was also used for Balinese ceremonies and is now used for relaxation and massage. Villa Belong Dua sits in a traditional street, which is well lit at night. A nearby pathway offers walks through the village to the river, rice fields and beach.
The living pavilion is located close to the main entrance, overlooking the garden and pool. Distinguished by a vaulted roof supported by eight wooden pillars, and open on three sides, it is furnished with a comfy, oversized daybed, and a low dining table sourced from a Javanese ‘warung’ (eatery), surrounded by floor cushions. A large mirror reflects the sunny garden, and the pavilion is beautifully lit at night.