When we first moved to Ubud, we quickly discovered one of its hidden secrets and totally quite by accident.

We were invited to a roast lunch, hosted by the S.O’s friend, at a place called Han Snel.

The Sunday roast lunch we enjoyed.

Having no idea what it was – A restuarant? A warung? Someone’s home? – we had to call the organiser for directions, before and even during our journey down to the venue, which was located on Jalan Kajeng near central Ubud.

When we arrived, the sign at the entrance of the place read: Han Snel Bungalows & Gallery.

There was a driveway sufficiently large for two APVs to pass side-by-side but could only park three similar vehicles length wise.

Walking through the entrance of the property and down a short pebbled path flanked by tropical plants, we passed the reception area on the right, which was immediately followed by the on-site restaurant’s dining area.

Straight ahead was the bar, which was flanked on the right by a medium fish pond and on the the left by a Balinese gate entrance.

Looking at the bar while approaching from the entrance.

The Balinese gate entrance.

Walking through that entrance, we arrived at a collection of rooms that were cosy yet looked comfortable.

Each of the rooms had an attached bathroom and terrace.

One of the rooms, viewed from the terrace.

Beyond the fish pond mentioned early was another area that was transformed in to an art gallery exhibiting the paintings of Han Snel, the man that this place was named after.

The fish pond, with the art gallery in the back.

Turns out that this is a homestay bungalow cum art gallery established by the Dutch man Han Snel and his Balinese wife when he was living in Ubud. Snel has passed on, but Ibu Siti still lives on the premises and runs the place.

It seems that back when Snel was alive, this was the place to be seen at. There were several dinner parties, and after-party parties where many long-time Bali expatriates and some more open-minded locals always attended.

However, as with all places that attract a crowd based on the charm and charisma of its owner, the place died a natural death with Snel’s passing.

The gallery is still open and free for whomever wants to find out more about the artist and view his works.

The rooms at the Han Snel Bungalow are available for rent. Rates start from Rp150,000 (approximately US$17 / €12) per night for a garden view room with fan, when we asked back in April of 2009. It is advisable to check directly with them, view their website: http://www.hansnelbungalow.com/reservation.html

For more information about Han Snel, click to this Wikipedia article on Han Snel.

Here are a few more pictures of the place for your enjoyment.

Exterior of the river view room.

View looking out from the above room. There is also a swimming pool located on the level below the room.

View of the restaurant and bar from the same room.

Portrait of Han Snel at the end of the bar area.