Reasons To Visit Indonesia
Heading up Krakatau is like trekking over Mars and as the guides tell you once you get half way: "No further or our boots melt". The basic nature of camping out on the island is outshone by the fact you will probably be the only people staying overnight and will be sleeping just metres from the ocean in the shadow of a volcano. A beautiful coral reef around one side of the island offers excellent snorkelling and the views over to the peak of the smoking Anak Krakatau are superb.
The most obvious choice for a beach destination in Indonesia would be the island of Bali. Places like Seminyak, Sanur and Jimbiran are idyllic retreats.
Indonesia is scattered with many temples and ancient monuments. Perhaps the most famous is the vast pyramidal structure of Borobudur, considered to be one of Southeast Asia’s greatest religious relics. Hundreds of Buddha images stare impassively out over the plains and the detailed galleries and terraces that lead up to its central stupa tell tales of ancient gods and battles.
There is never really a 'bad' time to go to Indonesia and the weather is good during the British summer months unlike many other Southeast Asian destinations. Even during the wet season, the rain won't dampen the enjoyment of your holiday as it falls in short downpours and it means that the scenery around you will be lush and colourful.
Indonesia is home to some incredible wildlife and the national parks in Kalimantan and Sumatra are some of the best places to see it. Trek through jungles, rivers and waterfalls on foot or by elephant to discover the wonders of nature from the orang-utan to the world's largest flower.
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Bali, with its glorious beaches, rice-terraced mountains and vivid Hindu culture, has attracted writers and artists since the beginning of last century but they have done little to change the islanders’ traditional way of life.
This 111 room property is located directly on Jimbaran Bay's beautiful secluded white sandy beach and next to the popular Jimbaran beachfront seafood market.
The private beachfront and traditional Balinese thatched roof architecture of Puri Bagus Lovina offers 40 spacious villas including two suites with private pool and dining room.
Putu Bali is made up of 16 Balinese style rooms set in the fashionable suburb of Seminyak.
Hidden away in the paddy fields just south of central Ubud, this is a real favourite and represents outstanding value.
Alam Shanti is located just outside Ubud along the tranquil rice fields of Nyuh Kuning village. The surrounding area is extremely rural which makes for a peaceful experience.
While on most traditional Buginese live-aboards the cabins are squeezed in below decks, Atasita has a totally different personality.
The Damai consists of just eight private bungalows, all of which feature antiques, fine woods and beautiful textiles recreating ancient Indonesian patterns.
One of the best located hotels for those wishing to stay in the heart of Ubud on the famous Monkey Forest Road.
Another oasis in the heart of Ubud, Komaneka at Rasa Sayang is perfectly located along Monkey Forest Road with its many wonderful shops, excellent restaurants and easy access to temples.
La Taverna is a Balinese-style hotel that provides European comfort. It is set in beautiful, lush gardens, where a swimming pool and restaurant nestle beneath the palms overlooking the sea.
Munduk Moding Plantation is a boutique hotel and spa found on a working coffee plantation that has one of the most picturesque locations in central Bali.
The 18 cottages at Puri Dajuma are located in lush tropical gardens that meet an expansive beach, home to row upon row of colourful fishing boats that head out past the breaking waters every day.
Taman Sari blends wonderfully with nature, the simple cottages and suites were built using natural indigenous materials in a relaxed setting surrounded by tranquil gardens and ponds.
Formerly the traditional house of an extended Balinese family, the charming Tandjung Sari opened in 1962 as a hotel. The bungalows, of which there are only 28, have been furnished with Balinese...
An intimate property set amidst beautiful tropical gardens, Tepi Sawah offers spacious, locally owned, Balinese style accommodation on the outskirts of Ubud.
Located just west of central Ubud, in lush tropical gardens with wonderful views of the Wos River, this property is built in a traditional Balinese style.
Located on the beautiful island of Bali, the gently sloping rice terraces and the invigorating sea air make this a sanctum for a complete 'get away from it all' destination.
Set amidst a coconut grove, the resort is nestled between the sea and the majestic Mount Agung, Bali's most sacred mountain. All rooms and suites face the ocean.
Alila Ubud is a tranquil and secluded hillside retreat that sits high up on the edge of the rich green Ayung River valley in Bali’s central foothills.
Situated between the crystal-clear water of Pemuteran beach and a line of nine lush green mountains behind, the Amertha Bali Villas offer truly mesmerising views.
A fantastic all villa property in Seminyak. Whilst not directly on the beach, you are only a short stroll away and the villas more than make up for its lack of beach location.
The Ibah has a fabulous location about ten minutes walk from Ubud's central market. With a traditional Balinese design, Ibah is one of Ubud's most established boutique hotels.
As far as beaches go, Jimbaran Bay is arguably one of the best on the island and the quality of the hotel matches this.
The Kayana is a collection of private villas, hidden in the heart of the fashionable Seminyak district and supported by exemplary service and facilities.
The Komaneka at Bisma is located upon the hillsides by the Tjampuhan river valley just ten minutes walk from central Ubud.
An excellent value boutique option for those wanting to take advantage of beautiful valley views only a short drive outside Ubud.
Maya Ubud has an enviable location (even by Ubud's high standards), set in ten acres of hillside gardens, each of the 60 rooms and villas offer views over either a small valley or rice terraces.
Each of the villas are individually furnished with interesting antique pieces from all over the archipelago and the soft furnishings have been specially printed or woven locally to Diana's designs.
Inspired by the award-winning Spa Village Pangkor Laut, the new Spa Village Resort Tembok Bali embraces the same healing ethos of celebrating the local culture, honouring the ancient...
The Menjangan is spread over four locations within Bali Barat and is ideal for those looking for luxury in an idyllic, natural setting.
This small boutique property is great value and a fantastic setting for couples. A hotel in tune with the creative atmosphere of Ubud.
Surrounded by rice fields, Villa Mathis is a stunning 22 room property located in the village of Umalas. There is a free shuttle during the day to Seminyak for shopping, beaches and restaurants plus complimentary wifi, mountain bikes and afternoon tea.
The Waka Di Ume is located just outside of Ubud and is away from the hustle and bustle of the market town. Facilities include a temple-like pool, relaxing spa and restaurant overlooking the paddy fields.
Located along the southwest coast of Bali, all the individual villas are generous with space and light, and contain all the critical design elements and amenities associated with modern luxury living.
This ia a great new five star beachfront option for the ever popular upmarket Seminyak area of Bali.
The JW Marriott was completed in 2010 and is the best option in the city for some much needed comfort after spending time in the jungle or after a long flight.
Although not on the beach, the hotel represents excellent value for private pool villas and some of the best restaurants in Seminyak such as Sarong and Metis are on your doorstep.
Hidden in a quiet part of Bali, Matahari echoes a traditional Balinese village and is a perfect place for those seeking a relaxing stay. It's also A great choice for keen snorkellers.
Pure indulgence. A friendly relaxed atmosphere on a pleasant stretch of beach surrounded by understated elegance.
A wonderfully stylish property with 23 villas situated in peaceful gardens behind the beach resort of Sanur.
This hotel is located ten minutes outside Ubud amongst lush rice paddy fields, in some of the most picturesque grounds of any hotel in Bali. It oozes style whilst remaining small and intimate and is superb value for money.
The Legian is one of Bali's finest beach hotels and being so close to the sophisticated area of Seminyak it has numerous superb restaurants just a short walk away.
Tugu Bali is unique in style and is a favourite of Audley due to its environmental awareness and desire to remain in tune with its natural surroundings.
Ubud Hanging Gardens is surrounded by ancient trees and situated in gravity-defying terraced gardens, this unique haven nestles on a dramatic hillside overlooking the Ayung river gorge.
The contemporary Balinese villas are designed to make the most of these stunning views and all have a private pool looking out over the Indian Ocean.
Amandari is perched above the verdant Ayung River gorge outside the artist’s community of Ubud, it overlooks natural forest and an emerald green cascade of rice paddies, tilled as they have been for centuries.
This property is undoubtedly one of the most luxurious in Indonesia. It has world class accommodation with fine dining and discreet service.
Without doubt the most stunning property in Bali's arid Bukit peninsula. The Amanusa has an enviable position overlooking the white sands of Nusa Dua and is conveniently located just 20...
Located on the hillside this resort affords stunning views over Jimbaran Bay. The beach, although not private, offers peace and tranquillity away from all the hawkers found on other beaches....
16 days from £2,595pp
16 days from £1,930pp
20 days from £2,590pp
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Further reading:IndonesiaWhen to GoHighlightsItinerary IdeasPlaces to GoThings to DoAccommodationAbout IndonesiaCountry Guides
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