Earth Love, In Practice

In Indonesian, “Bumi” means Earth and “Cinta” means Love. These two words express the fundamental philosophy that shapes our approach to hospitality, sustainability, and community.

Every aspect of our retreat center reflects this Earth Love philosophy, redefining luxury through sustainable construction, regenerative water and waste systems, farm-to-table dining, and meaningful community partnerships that provide local employment, fair wages, and economic opportunities.

When we set out to build Bumi Cinta, we searched for an architect who understood that the land was not a canvas to build upon but a living thing to build with. We found Pablo Luna. Every material here was chosen with intention: bamboo structure, recycled stone and earth from the excavations themselves, repurposed to form staircases and retaining walls that hold the land rather than disrupt it.

Existing trees were preserved. Cross ventilation replaces air conditioning. Natural light replaces artificial. The architecture breathes with the terrain, elevated above it, in quiet dialogue with it. Arrival at Bumi Cinta is not a formality. It is the beginning of the experience itself.

Our mature Cacao and Rambutan forest forms the foundation for an expanding Food Forest with ground crops, climbers, and shrubs.

Organic vegetable gardens provide fresh ingredients to our restaurant.

When we source beyond our land, we prioritize local organic suppliers to support regional farmers and minimize transportation emissions.

Guardianship at Bumi Cinta begins with the land and extends outward in every direction. To the village of Les, to the coastline, to the mountains, and to the growing global community of earth lovers who find their way here. It is a living commitment, not a policy.

On the ground, that means fair wages, ongoing skills training, and deep respect for the Balinese families whose knowledge and care make this place what it is. Madé and Nyoman are not staff. They are guardians in the truest sense, holding the cultural and spiritual integrity of the land alongside us.

And then there is the wider circle. The retreat leaders who bring their communities here. The healers, creatives, and conscious travelers who arrive from around the world and leave having added something to the story of this place. Bumi Cinta exists at the intersection of local rootedness and global connection, and it is that exchange, held with care on both sides, that we believe a more beautiful world is made of.

In 2026, Cher and Dakotah stepped into advising operations at Bumi Cinta. Cher brings a deep background in retreats, yoga, and conscious leadership, and has been building on the offerings and service culture alongside Nyoman. Dakotah brings an unwavering commitment to land, community, and craft, and has been guiding property upgrades and new builds as an advisor to Madé, expanding the grounds and deepening the vision.

Bungalows are being upgraded. The villa and yoga shala are expanding. New features are coming to life across the property.

And what comes next? Stay tuned. Bumi Pantai is on the horizon: a community co-op farm project with beachfront activities, coral restoration, and partnerships with local fisheries, waste programs, and youth initiatives. Earth Love in practice.