by Zawani Abdul Ghani
Bali’s largest integrated resort, the Ayana Estate in Jimbaran, is now home to a revitalised gem: the Ayana Farm. Covering two hectares within the vast 90-ha estate, the Ayana Farm reopened in July as an organic oasis; it’s a learning centre that merges tradition with sustainability.
After undergoing extensive enhancements to its production system and infrastructure, the Ayana Farm has emerged as an expanded hub of immersive, educational, and enriching experiences. These experiences offer guests the opportunity to reconnect with nature, gain insight into sustainability techniques, and explore Bali’s centuries-old agricultural practices.
Sustainability meets tradition
Balinese culture places significant importance on agrarian traditions and ecological balance. The Ayana Farm embodies these values, utilising eco-friendly and climate-smart practices. These include maintaining soil health and biodiversity, conserving water, and optimising resources in harmony with the wisdom passed down through generations of Indonesian farmers.
Visitors are invited to join the complimentary farm walk with a guided tour, where you’ll learn about sustainability principles and traditional farming methods while marvelling at the diverse range of crops, from vegetables and fruits to herbs, edible flowers, and medicinal plants.
Immerse in Bali’s unique agricultural heritage
For a deeper dive into the island’s agricultural heritage, the Rediscover Agriculture at Ayana Farm experience offers hands-on learning. It allows guests to explore sustainable farming practices, participate in activities like planting and harvesting, and discover the farm’s living pharmacy, known as Apotek Hidup.
The farm’s Apotek Hidup showcases traditional Balinese and Indonesian medicinal knowledge, allowing participants to create their herbal teas using the farm’s organic edible flowers and herbs.
Enthusiasts of traditional Indonesian herbal remedies can join The Art of Djamoe by the Jamu Bar. Led by expert herbalists and jamu makers, this workshop delves into the rich heritage and medicinal benefits of jamu.
For those who enjoy crafting their own beverages, the Farm-to-Bar workshop. Participants can create personalised cocktails and mocktails using freshly harvested edible flowers, herbs, and spices.
Relaxation amidst nature
If relaxation is your goal, the Afternoon Tea at Ayana Farm is the perfect choice. This experience lets you savor afternoon tea while immersed in the farm’s extraordinary biodiversity.
Additionally, it’s is taking a significant step towards sustainability by shifting to 100 per cent solar energy this year, aligning with the growing interest in eco-friendly travel.
With these new offerings, Ayana Farm is poised to become a standout eco-tourism destination in Bali, allowing travelers to connect with nature, culture, and sustainability while enjoying the resort’s luxurious amenities.
“The opening of the completely reimagined Ayana Farm reaffirms our commitment to using environmentally sustainable practices across our resorts and hotels, while also honouring local traditions,” says Giordano Faggioli, general manager of Ayana Estate. “With the increase in travellers wanting to give back to the communities they visit and to form lasting connections, we believe Ayana Farm is set to become one of Bali’s standout eco-tourism destinations,” he adds.