Indonesia, off the beaten track Javanese revelations and the coral archipelago

Indonesia’s vastness can overwhelm — where to begin, n what order, how to dive deep, and, above all, how to experience the authentic, far from the crowds? Although legendary among travellers, Java is not an obvious destination for everyone. It is, indeed, a world that must be approached in the right way. Take Yogyakarta,for example, an exhilarating city, the cultural heartbeat of the island, where spirituality is expressed in opulent temples and intimate sanctuaries, nestled among trendy bar, timelesswarungs , and sultans’ palaces. There is also Magelang,also, in the centre of the island. There, at the foot of the Merbabu and Sumbing volcanoes, unfolds a lush region where teak forests and the tops of slender palm trees are often shrouded in mist. You will stay on a coffee plantation just a short distance from the great Buddhist temple of Borobudur, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. You will end your journey beyond the island’s borders: you fly to the Karimunjawa archipelago, in the Java Sea. A string of languid islands where the word “seaside” loses all meaning. The place and the experience are idyllic, out of the ordinary. The -ever-present sea at your feet. And what a sea it is! In water like this, the experience goes beyond swimming. The clarity of the seabed, the colours, and the scents are dizzying, enchanting. Laziness becomes an art. Admittedly, it will take some effort to head home, but nostalgia for a lost paradise inspires the soul of a traveller.  

Your trip

A charismatic city, extraordinary natural surroundings, magnificent attractions, and exceptional hotels - it's easy to find your balance on this trip, with nothing to stress you, as all the logistics have been meticulously planned. A private land transfer between Yogyakarta and Magelang, a fast boat crossing between Java and the Karimunjawa archipelago, and, when necessary, short journeys in a private air-conditioned car. Your travel arrangements are comfortable and spare you precious time. The relaxed pace - three days at each stop-off - allows you to unpack, experience each place fully, and not feel rushed. A residence brimming with historic charm in Yogyakarta, a concentrated expression of Javanese lifestyle in Magelang, a dream beach-front villa in Karimunjawa: the hotels we have selected play a full part in creating the finest memories of the trip. Style, comfort, and, everywhere, a keen understanding of the setting and the landscapes. To complete your relaxation, a spa is available to you at each stop-off. Without turning your days into marathons, several highlights have been scheduled on your itinerary: a bike ride in Yogya with a guide to leisurely wander from temple to temple; a private visit of the incredible Borobudur site; and an inspiring hike through the Javanese countryside, starting in Magelang, and always in good company. If, along the way, you have an unexpected whim or encounter a minor setback, you have the contact details of our  on-site concierge, who can be reached at any time during your trip. In coordination with your travel specialist, the concierge can also help adapt your journey according to your wishes even along the way.