A game-changing initiative is on the horizon, as Australian footballer Josh Cavallo has taken an exciting step towards inclusivity by announcing the opening of an LGBTQ+ friendly hotel in Bali, set to launch in 2025.
Creating Safe Spaces: The Vision Behind Cavallo Hideaway
As one of the very few openly gay footballers in the Australian Football League, Josh Cavallo knows firsthand how crucial it is to cultivate spaces that promote safety and acceptance. In a heartfelt Instagram announcement to his over one million followers, he expressed his passion for this project, stating, “It’s happening! I’m building a hotel. Cavallo Hideaway. I still can’t believe it’s coming to life.”
Reflecting on his journey, Cavallo shared, “After years of dreaming, planning, and imagining, the moment is finally here.” His vision for Cavallo Hideaway extends beyond just a place to stay—it’s about fostering a community where everyone feels they belong.
A Destination for Everyone: The Dolores of Cavallo Hideaway
Scheduled to open in December 2025, Cavallo Hideaway is being created in partnership with ALAM Villas Cepaka, known for their exquisite villas nestled within Bali’s serene environment. The concept for the hotel revolves around creating a tranquil, inclusive retreat that integrates modern architecture with the breathtaking natural beauty characteristic of Bali.
In describing the hotel, Cavallo emphasized the fusion of bamboo structures, earthy tones, and open spaces, crafting an ambiance where guests can truly unwind. “This is a serene and luxurious atmosphere where judgment is absent, and every guest can feel free to be themselves,” he elaborated.
A Closer Look at the Hotel’s Unique Features
Guests will find that the rooms at Cavallo Hideaway embody a soft, earthy aesthetic, featuring natural curves and abundant daylight. One particularly striking area is the kitchen, designed to foster connection and comfort. Cavallo describes it as “a curved design room surrounded by curved windows and warm tones,” highlighting its intention to blend the beauty of Bali’s outdoors with the coziness of home.
The large floor-to-ceiling windows create an immersive experience, inviting the lush landscape of Bali into the heart of the hotel.
As the first openly gay male professional footballer in Australia to embrace his identity publicly, Cavallo has become a symbol of courage and pride. His efforts have been recognized by prestigious platforms like GQ and Attitude Magazine, where he was awarded ‘Man of the Year’. Balancing his role as a trailblazer and a professional athlete, Cavallo continues to play for Adelaide United while championing the LGBTQ+ cause.
A Community for All: Embracing Inclusivity in Bali
Cavallo Hideaway is designed to be more than just a haven for the LGBTQ+ community; it aims to welcome everyone—creating an atmosphere where members of the queer community can feel safe and embraced in Bali. Given the challenges that the queer community faces in Indonesia, which experiences various levels of prejudice and discrimination, this hotel symbolizes hope and safety.
Although homosexuality is not illegal across most of Indonesia, cultural acceptance is still evolving. Bali is viewed as relatively more liberal, making it an ideal location for such an inclusive space.
The Perfect Location for Your Getaway
Cavallo Hideaway will be situated in the picturesque Cepaka Village, an area that’s currently garnering much attention in Bali. Located just a stone’s throw from Canggu and Seseh, guests will be able to enjoy the buzz of the region while escaping to a peaceful, serene environment. Just a 20-minute drive from Pererenan Beach and a short 40-minute trip to Ubud, the hotel’s location strikes a perfect balance between tranquility and accessibility.
Interestingly, the introduction of Cavallo Hideaway may come at a pivotal moment for Bali’s tourism scene, as the provincial government contemplates a new policy to halt the development of new hotels and resorts in the more popular tourist areas. This decision could reshape the landscape of hospitality in Bali in the coming years.
For travelers seeking a genuine and inclusive experience, Cavallo Hideaway is poised to become a redefining destination in Bali. It offers a promise of safety, warmth, and the opportunity to create cherished memories.
