PureandCure review: Marleen's retreat in Fivelements in Bali

Arrival in Fivelements

The journey to Fivelements takes me through a patchwork of emerald-green rice fields and sleepy villages, where life moves at an unhurried pace. As we drive deeper into the countryside, the roads become narrower, weaving through hidden corners of Bali. Just when I begin to wonder if we’re still on the right path, a wooden sign appears: 'Fivelements Retreat'. Tucked away in the heart of a village, it sits beside a sacred temple, its entrance marked by an imposing wooden door. The moment I step inside, a Balinese receptionist welcomes me with a warm smile, a chilled towel, and a refreshing drink—setting the tone for the serene escape that awaits.

Sustainability with soul: the heart of Fivelements

Fivelements proves that eco-consciousness can be both beautiful and impactful. Built entirely from bamboo, thatch, and recycled wood, the retreat blends into its lush surroundings. But its commitment goes far beyond architecture. Fivelements generates its own energy, recycles waste, and provides jobs for the local community. Balinese traditions are deeply woven into every healing session, while the retreat actively supports the village temple, funds education for local children, and leads a reforestation project. As I stroll past ponds filled with koi, I absorb the serene atmosphere and reflect on how luxury is not only mindful and sustainable, but also deeply rooted in a profound respect for nature and tradition.

My room

The rooms are spread across the grounds: you’ll stay amidst trees, plants, and flowers in one of the 20 Suites or Villas, each featuring a veranda with loungers and a sofa. The River Front Suites come with a balcony and an outdoor bathroom, including a rain shower and a bathtub. The Hillside Suite and River Suite have an indoor bathroom with a rain shower, a bathtub, and a plunge pool (around 4 by 2 meters). The beds are large and equipped with mosquito nets, and everything is ready for you in the room: bathrobe, slippers, toiletries, and towels.

Flowers in all rainbow colors

In the afternoon, my first treatment at the spa is about to begin, and I’m eagerly anticipating it as the perfect moment to truly unwind. I start with a soothing massage that melts away my tension, so much so that I find myself drifting off. Afterward, I’m Invited to a flower bath, with petals - grown right from the garden - floating in vibrant hues of green, yellow, red, orange, purple, and pink. I have the option to enjoy the bath in my room for complete privacy, or in the spa itself. I choose the quiet comfort of my own room, allowing me to end the day in tranquility before slipping into bed.

Plant-based meals

The calming sound of the Ayung River flows past the open-air restaurant, which offers plant-based meals. The manager explains: 'We don’t label ourselves as 100% vegan since we sometimes use ingredients like honey. But we serve plant-based dishes, most of which are grown in our own garden'. I sit down at one of the outdoor tables, instantly feeling a sense of calm from the sound of the river. Inside, there’s a communal dining table called the 'Friendship Table,' where you can easily connect with others. About 70% of all guests are solo travelers. The picture shows my breakfast, and for dinner, I opt for the incredible plant-based burger.

Emotional Healing

Fivelements is a place for profound emotional healing—not through traditional therapy, but with Balinese healers who are deeply connected to their spiritual roots. Today, I have a chakra energy session with Pak Terbu. Using a powerful blend of acupressure and chakra balancing, he helps release blocked energy. His intuitive touch and the spiritual depth of the session made a real impact on me. It's hard to put into words, but it reminded me of the meditation sessions with the life coaches at Kamalaya - like emotions were being gently massaged out of my body. It’s something you truly have to experience to understand.

Mindfulness sound healing

Each of the therapists carries a deep wisdom with them. They have a calm acceptance of what is, and what isn’t. Is that what we call surrender? The next day, I experience something equally profound: a mindfulness sound healing session with Pak Sadhi. With his singing bowls, he guides me on a meditative journey. So this is what they call 'the art of being fully present', as I occasionally drift off to sleep. The vibrations from the bowls help me relax deeply. My jaw loosens, my face softens, and I feel myself sinking deeper into the relaxation of my body. It’s the perfect complement to the chakra healing.

Gym

There's a small gym equipped with cardio machines and weights. While it’s not the most modern or spacious, it gets the job done for a good daily workout. It’s simple, but if you're looking to get in some exercise during your stay, it offers everything you need to stay active.

Unique Experiences at Fivelements

• Once a month, Fivelements hosts a special Full Moon Hindu Ceremony, starting at 6 PM, which is open to all guests. It’s a wonderful opportunity to experience Bali’s spiritual traditions in a communal setting. The ceremony is a deeply reflective experience and a beautiful way to connect with local culture.
• Fivelements offers daily yoga classes at 9 AM, which all guests are welcome to join.

Explore more about Fivelements Retreat and it's healing programmes?

At this intimate luxury retreat, every detail is designed to connect you with nature. The soothing sounds of the Ayung River flow gently through the air, while the 20 bamboo and wood suites and villas blend into the lush greenery that surrounds them. Fivelements is a sanctuary for emotional healing and mental clarity, offering you a complete reset for body, mind, and soul. Here, you’ll work alongside traditional Balinese healers—spiritual therapists whose intuitive methods are deeply rooted in their cultural and spiritual heritage. With a range of programs focused on emotional balance, stress relief, healing, relaxation, mindfulness, meditation, and breathwork, programs can be booked for three nights or longer. 

About Marleen

This blog is written by Marleen, the founder of PureandCure.com in 2005. She travels around the world in search of the best Health & Wellbeing Hotels, Spas and Retreats and shares her know-how, experiences and observations through her blogs.