With over 17,000 islands, the landscapes in Indonesia are spellbinding. If you’re looking for ‘nature therapy’, combined with wellness, culture and a sense of peace, we think it’s one of most remarkable places on earth. Begin your holiday in Java amidst serene plantations and volcanic vistas on the horizon, before a boutique retreat on one of the renowned beaches of Bali.
Begin your Javanese adventure at Mesastila, a beautiful property of small villas spread throughout lush grounds. The central location of this hotel takes you off the usual tourist trail and into a land of volcanoes, rice fields and tales of ancient royal dynasties. Yet it is also close enough to visit Java’s main attractions, such as Borobudur and Prambanan, on day trips. The real highlights of Mesastila, however, are its focus on wellness, and its outstanding views: think coffee plantations, verdant paddy fields and a horizon spiked with volcanic peaks.
OVERNIGHT FLIGHT // 6 NIGHTS AT MESASTILA
Enjoy the yoga sessions and complimentary massages, before heading out on a cycle tour along the old steam train railway lines. Be sure to visit the 10th century Majapahit baths, too: continuously replenished by spring water, this is the perfect place for a refreshing dip.
Discover the temples of central Java on this insightful morning tour. An early wake-up call is well worth the effort to witness the sunrise from the world’s largest Buddhist temple, Borobudur. You’ll then break up the morning with a visit to a local market, before visiting the magnificent Prambanan Temple, a 10th century masterpiece considered one of the most beautiful Hindu temples in the world.
Encompassed by the most unimaginable scenery - those volcanic peaks on the horizon feel almost otherworldly - and with a real emphasis on your comfort and wellbeing, it’s the perfect place to step away from the everyday. Equally, with a distinctly Javanese spirit and proximity to everything that makes the island wonderful, you will still come away truly connected with the destination.
Next it’s an hour’s flight to the neighbouring island of Bali. Though it’s more popular than Java, we know where to find the very best of Bali, maximising the beauty while minimising the crowds. Your beautiful hotel, Waka Gangga, is close enough to the vibrant bustle of Canggu should you wish to experience it. However, it is also surrounded by abundant natural delights, so you can spend your time simply enjoying scenic walks along the beach and through the paddy fields.
6 NIGHTS AT WAKA GANGGA
We have included a private tour of the iconic 15th century temple of Tanah Lot. Dramatically located on a rocky ledge, the temple forms one of a line of sea temples that dot Bali’s southern coastline. Afterwards, head for a delicious dinner at the Warisan restaurant, which serves a mouth-watering array of traditional Balinese dishes.
If simply relaxing by the pool and beach is all you are looking to do, then Waka Gangga is already the ideal place to stay. And yet for those who prefer to immerse in the local way of life, there are cultural performances, spiritual offerings, and opportunities to learn traditional Balinese crafts. Be sure to enjoy the complimentary Balinese afternoon tea at Waka Gangga, too.
Each villa has amazing views of either the ocean, paddy fields or mountains, which means it’s the ideal place to relax with a perfect natural vista. Equally, it’s close to local villages with restaurants, markets and easy day trips to Canggu, Tabanan and Tanah Lot. Essentially, it is that perfect combination of remote but accessible (and trust us, that’s tricky to come by – we wish all beach destinations had a spot like this!)
The best time of year to visit Java and Bali is during the British spring/summer, or from April to September. At this time, days are hot and sunny with minimal rainfall, making it perfect beach weather for Waka Gangga. The rainy season runs from November to March, though temperatures are consistently warm year-round.
As you can imagine, there are a number of different weather systems at play in a national covering over 17,000 islands so take a look at our guide to the best time to visit Indonesia to get your head around when is best to visit which island or region.
At Mesastila, we have arranged a complimentary plantation tour. Start in the hotel gardens, your guide will explain the history of how coffee came to the island as you stroll through the surrounding farms and coffee plantations. At Waka Gangga, you can enjoy a free Balinese kite-making and ‘Canang’ temple offering class. Kite flying is a traditional ritual for sending messages to the Hindu gods, while 'Canang' is the name for the decoration made from young coconut leaves and flowers that the Balinese leave as an offering at temples.
Revitalise is a culmination of 16 years’ work, research and client feedback. Our travel team take annual trips to each of our destinations, testing the experiences and inspecting the hotels (someone’s got to do it, right?). We are passionate travellers in our own lives, and we have all visited Asia with our friends, family or backpacks. Basically, we’ve done the legwork: we know travel. And that’s why these trips are nothing short of magical.
We understand that while you may be itching to travel again, committing to a trip right now feels daunting. That’s why we have introduced our COVID-19 promise. We promise that if you book a holiday with us, but for any reason cannot travel due to COVID-19, we will refund you the bulk of your money, up to the day of your departure. We hope that this will give our travellers a little peace of mind and help you enjoy the magic of travel anticipation once again.
An ETG experience cannot begin unless our travellers feel secure in every respect. Financially secure: we are fully ABTA and ATOL bonded. Fully supported: our friendly team is on hand to help 24/7 before, during and after your trip. Free from hassle: we will ensure your trip runs like clockwork. Plus, all our experiences are tried and tested by our discerning team, so you can rest assured every excursion you book with us is both worthwhile and ethically sound.
With ETG, the experience starts the moment you pick up the phone. We are committed to seamless service at every stage of your journey. Before you depart, your dedicated travel consultant will provide all the information and insider tips you need to get you prepared (and excited!). Your in-country experiences will be distinctive, tailored to you, and always reveal the fabric of the destination. And you will come home with memories to share - not just photos to show.