The story of Taman Bebek dates back to 1944, when American musicologist Colin McPhee built a Balinese house and beautiful garden on the edge of the ridge above the magnificent Ayung River valley. During the 1930s this area was the playground of many international stars — such as Margaret Mead, Barbara Hutton and Betty Waterson.

In 1980, when landscape artist and writer Made Wijaya acquired the land, only the foundations of these houses remained – the view, however, was still magnificent and unspoiled.

A number of cottages, approximating the scale and layout of the original pavilions, were slowly built. During the years 1985 – 87 these were Made Wijaya’s home. Ten other villas, swimming pools, and a café/library and shop have been added since 1988.

The new villas, all with the lush gardens and views overlooking the river valley, are unique in design and have a tranquil atmosphere. Taman Bebek is a lovely place to soak in the beauty of the Balinese countryside and culture.