A Personal Review by Joanna Macdonald – Events Manager
In December of 2017, I met Max Loong, Owner and Founder of Hidden Hills Villas, at our Hotel Awards event in St. Moritz. On this night, he invited me for a stay if ever I am “in the area”, to see what they do and how they do it. I never knew that this invitation would extend to 7 years later, or that I would ever, actually, even make it to Bali!
I am glad he is a man of his word…
In April 2024 while conducting a site inspection at our gala ceremony host property, Max held true on his word and we were afforded a 3-night stay, in what I call “the paradise-on-earth villa” – the Seychelles Villa!
It’s one thing to say Bali is hot, until you actually experience it with 100% humidity! On arrival, there were cold towels, face spritzers and cocktails being served at their Hidden Gem Restaurant which overlooks Uluwatu from the top of the hill, down to the seemingly never-ending horizon of blue. Max was there to personally greet us, give us some information on Bali, advice on where and more importantly, where NOT to eat and update us via a brief tour on the upgrades and renovations to the property.
I’ve always said, “the true heart of a hotel, and what makes your stay memorable, is the hospitality of the staff that surround you.”, and that echoes truth at Hidden Hills Villas. The small things counted more than even the absolute blissful and luxurious setting we found ourselves in. Arriving in 34 degree weather with 100% humidity, the first thing I noticed when taken to our villa was the swimming pool filled with floaties and loungers, even one to hold your drinks – that tells me personally, friends are coming! Let’s make this memorable!
To speak about service excellence and not reference Hidden Hillas Villas for the rest of my life would not make sense… every single member of their team has a warm, charming and most hospitable way of helping you with anything that you need. From the start of the reservation until the moment we left, we felt like we were at a home away from home. We wanted and waited for nothing, and all this while sitting in the lap of luxury in one of the most beautiful destinations in the world.
Speaking of which, Hidden Hills Villas – being so centrally located, is a stone’s-throw from the bustling and beautiful nightlife that the famous Uluwatu boasts. It takes no time to take a transfer down to “the strip” where more than enough options of shops, clubs, pubs, restaurants and bars are available to choose from, for whatever you may be feeling for the night. Uluwatu Beach, Bingin Beach and Padang Padang Beach are also within a 10-minute drive and the shopping options are vibrant!
The World Luxury Hotel Awards would like to thank every member of staff for everything you offered in smiles, kindness and hospitality during our stay with you.
We would also like to give a very special mention and thank you to Tara for all your wonderful planning assistance and opportunities granted for us to experience Bali and Uluwatu in all her glory. The sites and visits you recommended will not be forgotten. Also, to Putu, the resident driver and tour guide while there, for your beautiful hospitality and time taken to explain everything Balinese to us as we spent, sometimes, hours in the car with you. You never made us feel like all our questions were too much.
Max, you and your family have built something magical and full of heart, a haven that one just does not often find in their lives.
The only part about Hidden Hills Villas that I would not recommend, is leaving!
Reviewed by Joanna Macdonald – Events Manager for the World Luxury Awards.
To book your stay at Hidden Hills Villas, visit their website: www.hiddenhillsvillas.com