During my recent trip to Bali, I stayed in for a couple of nights in one of the Bali’s most interesting hotel at Mason Elephant Lodge situated within the world-renowned mason elephant park and sanctuary near Ubud. I came across the Mason elephant lodge while doing some extensive research about interesting and luxurious hotels in Bali. I found it a very unique resort where you could literally live right in the middle of an elephant sanctuary. Read on more for my experience at Mason Elephant Lodge where I will be covering everything from luxurious room to the beautiful encounter with most magical creature.
Location: This luxurious Boutique resort is located about 50 mints away from Ubud, near a village called Taro, Mason Elephant lodge is located off the beaten path in a fairly secluded area that would best be travelled by car.
Arrival: On arrival I was warmly greeted by the staff at reception, although I arrived late in the evening after sunset. (I did note that there were only a couple of tired looking staff at the lobby, but this is understandable as it was quite late) After smooth check in I was given a 2 days itinerary and list of different elephant activities and then was guided to the room.
Rooms: My room was in a beautiful wooden villa within a short walk of the lobby and not far from the breakfast lounge and the spa. The room was very large and the interior of the room was beautifully decorated with natural wooden tones and wooden furniture along with elephant inspired art. Even the towels were folded in the shape of an elephant. The room was surrounded by lush botanical garden and also with an “Elephant Chauffeur” service at the door step. CLICK HERE to see the latest rate and offers at elephant lodge.
Amenities: The lodge has an on-site spa, gym, swimming pool and 2 great restaurants, one lounge and breakfast area for lodge guests only and another lunch and dinner area for lodge and park guests. Of course, the elephant sanctuary to which the lodge is attached is likely the main reason for choosing this resort. Finally, there is a museum full of interesting elephant related information and artifacts and a small café.
Spa: The spa was conveniently located across of the room I was staying and offers a selection of relaxing therapies, massages and Bali’s famous flower baths. I had an amazing flower bath with a view of the elephant park, and it was such a blissful experience.
Restaurant/ food: As the lodge is a bit of a distance away from Ubud, eating out was not a very practical activity. Luckily, the food was amazing in the resort. I had dinner the first night under the stars at the main restaurant, a simple but very delicious dinner, and that in itself is impressive as the culinary experience I’ve had in Bali was just fantastic overall. The following morning, I had breakfast which was served from 7am-10am, which is included with the room. A starter spread of fruits, yoghurts, cereals, tea, coffee is available and also a set menu to order a main meal. The next day, I tried their pizza and boy was it good, probably good enough to rival even the most iconic Italian pizzerias!
what’s so special about Mason Elephant lodge?
I’ve always found elephants to be fascinating creatures; not only are they the largest land animals, they are also incredibly intelligent and emotional. I am aware of frequent animal abuse that occurs, especially when they are used for rides and other entertainment, so before booking my stay at this resort, I did some extensive research regarding the environment elephants are kept in at Mason Elephant Lodge. Although I was still not entirely comfortable with riding on an elephant, from what I could find online, most reviews appeared to agree that the elephants were well treated. During my stay, I was informed that most of the 27 adult elephants which reside at Mason Elephant Lodge were rescue Asian elephants from Sumatra, where their habitat had been destroyed by deforestation. Additionally, there are also 4 which were naturally born and raised in this sanctuary. I know that some compromises needed to be made as the elephants are kept in captivity and not free roaming, but they do get fed a very healthy diet (over 250kg of food per day!), are cleaned, have medical care and appear to be treated very well, apparently living far longer than in the wild. None seemed to be suffering and they even seemed excited when tourists were feeding them treats; one was even prancing from side to side, as I fed her a basket of fruits. There are many additional elephant experience packages that you can purchase, such as washing an elephant, and elephant safari ride, etc. but for myself, feeding these beautiful creatures and posing for a few beautiful shots was enough.
The Mason Elephant Lodge is for everyone from elephant lovers, families with children and even for couple seeking an intimate and unique romantic gateway.
Overall, I had an amazing time, and the promised unique experience lived up to its expectations. Even spending a rainy afternoon sitting at the main restaurant having a drink and a light snack while watching the elephants freely roaming inside the park was quite enjoyable. The resort is beautifully maintained, the rooms is impeccable, and the food was fantastic. 3 days I stayed here was definitely the highlight of my Bali trip and I would definitely recommend this resort for a special getaway.
To everyone who commented negatively on Instagram and social media after seeing me stories I ask you to please do your research. I would have a very negative review if I thought the elephants were mistreated in any way. These animals are cared 24 hours and looks very happy and each elephant has their own personal mahout (caretaker) and they make sure they get the food at right time.
The only thing I dint like or I am against is exclusive “Elephant chauffeur ” ride which was complimentary with my room, where elephants comes to your room to pickup for the dinner and drop you to the restaurant.
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Checkout more pictures from mason elephant lodge below 🙂
Oh wow this hotel looks incredible , hope to stay there when I am in bali 🙂 thanks for sharing
thanks , I am sure you going to love it 🙂 xoxo.