From Bali’s lush rainforests and tropical beaches to the thriving marine life of its coral reefs, you can see why so many people consider this small Indonesian island a vision of paradise. Less than 100 miles long east to west and only 70 miles north to south, Bali is one of the world’s most loved destinations. A joyfully spiritual atmosphere presides here, with roughly 10,000 temples on the island and daily religious processions, while regions and resorts cater to adventure hunters and solitude seekers alike.

In Bali’s south, the luxury spas of Nusa Dua and the high glamour of Seminyak sit side by side with the family-friendly village-style resort of Sanur and the nightlife of Kuta. The more secluded north and west of the island have a back-to-nature vibe; and at the island’s heart, the cultural and sacred hub of Ubud is still sought out by pilgrims of all kinds.

Ngurah Rai International Airport (DPS) offers direct flights from destinations in Asia and Australia, as well as indirect flights from Europe. It’s about a 15-minute taxi ride from the airport to the centre of Kuta, or there’s a public shuttle bus. Ferries connect Bali with the neighbouring islands of Java to the west and Lombok to the east. If you rent a car to see the island, it’s worth hiring a driver, too, as negotiating the chaotic roads can be stressful. As for taxis, you’ll be quoted widely varying prices; in the busier regions, rideshare services are available. You can even hail a scooter driver or rent your own scooter, with or without a driver.

April to October is Bali’s dry season, when the island is at its best. Monsoons can trap you indoors for long periods when the ocean is less safe for enjoying the island’s many water sports. That said, Bali is a place where colourful and engaging festivals happen year round. One of the most fascinating is Saka New Year, which takes place near the end of March or beginning of April, when a series of processions and a noisy New Year’s Eve is followed by an island-wide day of silence and reflection known as Nyepi. Major annual events include the Ubud Food Festival in April, the Bali Arts Festival in June and July, and the Kite Festival between June and August.

Taman Nasional Bali Barat

West Bali’s national park, located on a promontory on the northwest of the island, covers nearly 50,000 acres with a rich variety of habitats including mountainous forests, mangrove swamps, scrubland, savannah, coastline, and coral reef. Many species enjoy its biodiversity, from rare birds and native deer to the wild jungle cattle known as banteng. Trekking, snorkelling, diving, and boat trips are all great ways to explore this park.

Nusa Lembongan

Just off of Bali’s southeast coast, the tiny island of Nusa Lembongan is a great place to get even further away from it all. The boat trip across the Badung Strait takes 30 minutes, and delivers you into a Bali that still moves at island pace, where surfers come for the excellent breaks, and the clear waters make for wonderful snorkelling and diving.

Gunung Agung

Considered the most sacred spot on the island, Bali’s highest mountain is an active volcano some 3,000 metres high. While you can’t currently trek to its crater, its western slopes are deserving of a pilgrimage. Highlights include the views from its lush green landscape and the magnificent temples of Pura Besakih.