A Life Slowed, A Place Remembered

Samanvaya is nestled in the picturesque village of Tabola, in the heart of Sidemen Valley, Bali. A sanctuary for those seeking tranquillity, connection, and a deeper experience of Bali, Samanvaya is an adults-only retreat designed to blend seamlessly into the landscape, embracing the rhythm of village life.

Founded in 2017 by Tracey and Rob, former police Detective Sergeants from New Zealand, Samanvaya was born from a desire to step away from the ordinary and embrace a slower, more meaningful way of life. After years in the New Zealand Police and a deployment to the Solomon Islands, we realised that life had so much more to offer beyond routine. Bali had always been our refuge, a place where time seemed to move differently, and where the connection to nature and tradition felt effortless. When we discovered Sidemen, we knew we had found something rare—a part of Bali still untouched by mass tourism, where rolling rice fields, lush forests, and sacred temples remain at the heart of daily life.

What makes Samanvaya truly special is the people. Our incredible team, all from Sidemen and nearby villages, bring the warmth and generosity of Balinese hospitality to life. Their kindness and passion are felt in every interaction—whether it’s sharing stories about local traditions, offering a glimpse into their culture, or ensuring that every detail of a guest’s stay is unforgettable.

Tourism has the power to transform communities, but it must be done with care. From the very beginning, we wanted Samanvaya to be a place that gave back, not just to those we employ but to the wider community. This led to Support Sidemen, an initiative dedicated to helping families in need, supporting local schools, and championing sustainability. Through this program, we exchange rice for plastic waste, provide essential supplies to schools, organise clean-up initiatives, and work alongside local farmers to ensure their traditions can thrive in a changing world.

Sustainability is something we’re deeply committed to. We’ve worked hard to minimise our environmental footprint—operating as close to zero waste as possible, reducing plastic use, sourcing locally, using filtered water, and eliminating single-use products wherever we can. It’s our way of ensuring that the breathtaking landscapes of Sidemen remain untouched for generations to come.

Samanvaya is more than just a resort. It’s a place where guests can slow down, immerse themselves in the beauty of Bali, and experience the warmth of a community that has welcomed us so wholeheartedly. By choosing to stay here, you become part of something bigger—a journey of connection, culture, and giving back.

We look forward to welcoming you to Samanvaya.

Warm regards,
Tracey & Rob