THE SCENT OF CLOVES

Start your holiday in Borobudur, at the lovely Villa Borobudur, which sits on the slopes of the Menoreh hills and offers spectacular views over the beautiful temple of Borobudur and the verdant landscapes of hills, rice paddies, villages and volcanoes such as Merapi.

Borobudur dates from the 9^th century and is the world’s largest Buddhist structure. Visit it at sunrise to experience it at its magical best - this is an absolute must! You can also head up Setumbu Hill to see the sun rise over the temple itself.

Borobudur may be this area’s showpiece, but there is so much else to explore here too: hike through the green hills and rice fields to pretty waterfalls, and learn about local crafts such as pottery and batik making in nearby villages.

Today, experience some accommodation with a difference as you head to Tanjung Puting for a stay on a private houseboat on the Sekonyer River, the main river in Tanjung Puting National Park. Spend two nights on the traditional boat as you explore the park, its tropical landscapes and its colourful wildlife - as well as enjoying comfortable accommodation, delicious food prepared by your chef and fabulous views onboard.

Onshore, go on treks into the heart of the forest to see orangutans at the famous Camp Leakey and observe them at feeding time. Back onboard, keep an eye out along the river and its surrounds for crocodiles and proboscis, macaque and silver langur monkeys, and watch a wide variety of birds swooping low over the water.   

Mount Bromo is guaranteed to be a highlight of your trip. This active volcano is set in stunning tropical landscapes - for an unforgettable experience, visit the volcano at sunrise and enjoy the incredible views.

Your base for three nights is the stylish Plataran Bromo, which nestles in the highlands, guaranteeing beautiful views over the hills, and conveniently sits at the gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Bromo Tengger Semeru National Park.

Ubud offers an abundance of history and culture, from arts and crafts markets and colourful ceremonial processions to impressive temples and shrines, and the town is surrounded by terraced rice fields, dense forests, deep valleys and rising volcanoes.

Experience a stay at the gorgeous Mandapa, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve, where you'll have beautiful countryside, dotted with paddy fields, local villages and temples, right on your doorstep - explore your surroundings in style in one of the hotel's vintage VW convertibles. On your return to Mandapa, relax in the serene gardens and blissful spa. 

Your final destination is Lombok, which has some of the best beaches in Indonesia. Their perfect white sand is fringed by aquamarine waters, against a dramatic mountain and jungle backdrop that centres on Mount Rinjani, which dominates the skyline. Climb up the tree-lined slopes of this active volcano to visit the hot springs at the summit and enjoy panoramic island views.

The Lombok Lodge sits on a hill overlooking the sea, and after a relaxing day on the beach, picnicking or swimming and snorkelling in the crystal clear sea, indulge in a scenic sunset cruise before taking in the views from your private deck, accompanied by a glass of champagne.