Bayu Gita’s manager will have a wealth of information about nearby places of interest and will help arrange transport and make any bookings required. Do also ask the staff about the local area. Many of them live nearby and will be able to give an interesting insight into some of the fascinating aspects of Bali life. In the meantime, here is a taste of the many and varied activities on offer within reach of the villas. 1. The stretch of beach between Sanur and Ketewel is well known as a surfer’s heaven (especially in East Coast Season, which runs from November to May, when the winds turn offshore on this side of the island), but beginners should be aware of strong, swirling currents. Good breaks can be found in front of the Grand Bali and Sanur Beach Hotels. 2. Saba Bay Horse Riding has a special horse-riding track (suitable for beginners) on a beautiful black sandy beach overlooking the Indian Ocean and Nusa Penida Island. 3. There is a 9-hole golf course at the Bali Beach Hotel in Sanur, but golf enthusiasts might want to travel further afield to Bali Golf and Country Club in Nusa Dua for 18-hole courses. 4. Ubud and the villages in the surrounding area contain dozens of examples of beautiful Hindu Temples. Most temples are free to visit or ask for a small donation. Proper attire is required, although many temples will loan or rent a sarong for your visit. Pura Penataran Asih in nearby Pejeng is a charming temple containing the largest bronze kettle drum in the world. Pura Besakih on the slopes of Mount Agung is Bali’s most sacred temple site. A complex of 23 temples can be explored on a day trip from Ubud. 5. If you are a bold and brave bargain hunter, a shopping spree at one of Denpasar’s markets within the heart of Bali’s bustling provincial capital, is an exciting and rewarding experience. 6. The most exclusive Bali trekking tour promises breathtaking vistas and heart-warming encounters while supporting sustainable social change in the once-forgotten villages of Muntigunung. Elite Havens is a proud partner of Muntigunung Community Social Enterprise. 7. Other family attractions to enjoy in the area include the Bali Safari & Marine Park and the Bali Bird and Reptile Park. 8. An annual international kite festival takes place at Padang Galak beach (just north of Sanur) every July. Traditional Balinese giant kites up to ten meters in length are made and flown competitively by teams from different villages around Bali. Originally, these kites were intended to send a message to the Hindu Gods to create abundant crops and harvests. 9. About 7 km north of Ketewel is the village of Sukawati, famous for its cheap local arts and crafts market, although better quality goods can be found in Ubud (art), Celuk (silverware), and Mas (woodwork) all within an easy drive of the villa. 10. Covering 3.8 hectares of tropical parkland in Kuta, Waterbom Bali has 16 water slides (including The Climax with its 360-degree loop) to entertain the young and the young at heart. A great family day out, but go early to beat the crowds.