Ultimate Family Adventure to Indonesia

Your holiday begins in Borobudur in Java. Hop off the plane and immerse yourself in a tropical landscape of volcanic peaks, swaying palm trees, terraced rice paddies, ornate temples and villages where time has stood still. See the sun rise over the volcanoes at the ethereal UNESCO World Heritage-listed Borobudur temple – a true bucket-list experience. It is also well worth the effort of dragging your children out of bed early – they will thank you for it later! Alternatively (especially if you have younger children) go a little later in the morning – your family will get more sleep, the light is still beautiful and the crowds have largely dispersed.   

As well as the temple, explore the lush green rice fields, undulating hills and secret waterfalls on a hike, bike or horse ride along scenic nature trails, and visit characterful villages to see local artisans at work on traditional crafts such as pottery and batik – these make fantastic souvenirs to take home.

The lovely Villa Borobudur sits the Menoreh mountains overlooking its namesake temple and the cloud-topped volcanoes. At this heavenly jungle hideaway, the villas, or ‘joglos’ come with their own infinity pools – perfect for relaxing in and shaking off that jet lag. Wake up to the sights and sounds of the jungle.

It’s on to Bali and COMO Uma Ubud, set in the heart of the forest – the children will love making their way to their bedroom via the winding trails, surrounded by greenery.

In this pristine forest setting, join an expert guide to explore off-the-beaten-track Bali on a trek or a mountain bike ride, and visit some of the estimated 20,000 temples on the island – Bali is known as ‘the island of the Gods’.  For an action-packed day, zipline through the treetops, or go tubing down a 6km-long river canyon, followed by a quad bike ride through untamed jungle, plantations and villages. One of the most popular tours here is to Mount Batur – get taken up to the edge of its volcanic crater, and freewheel almost all the way down to the scenic village of Sebali, taking in the panoramic views and fresh air as you go.

On your return to the hotel, have a dip in the beautiful pool and dine on fresh, healthy cuisine, such as just-caught seafood and farm-fresh vegetables – and there are menus created especially for children.

Set sail on Tiger Blue, a traditional phinisi yacht, around the islands of the beautiful Indonesian archipelago. Explore Komodo National Park and trek around volcanoes and across wild island landscapes to see the komodo dragon, the world’s largest lizard, whose natural habitat is only accessible by boat, and visit local villages and tribes. These islands are also home to Sunda deer and wild pigs. Visit local villages and tribes, and out on the water, snorkel, dive and kayak in pristine waters amongst diverse and colourful coral reefs and spectacular marine life.

Each itinerary is bespoke and this cruise can be tailored to suit you and your family, and could include snorkelling with the manta rays at Manta Point (one of the top snorkelling and diving spots in the park), kayaking around the coral reefs of Mauan & Kode, scenic hill treks and barbecues on secluded beaches.

Relax on the sundeck, tuck into fresh seafood, and wake up in your comfortable and spacious family cabin to panoramic island views.

Your next stop is the island of Sumba, which as well as being simply beautiful, is known for its arts and cultural scene – soak it all up by visiting villages and traditional markets, and watch expert artisans at work on traditional crafts such as ikat weaving – and the children will love having a go themselves!

Grab a slice of paradise and enjoy a perfect family retreat at Nihi Sumba, which is surrounded by tropical forests and looks out over the Indian Ocean, with secluded white sand beaches on the doorstep. While away the days on the beach, maybe trying your hand at sand sculpting or playing volleyball or the local game of petanque, or go horse riding in the sea, swim with turtles, paddleboard along the Wanukaka River and trek to hidden waterfalls in the rainforest. Your children can also learn to surf or dive here, and go snorkelling around the reef in front of Nihiwatu, and younger children will love exploring the rock pools around the reef at low tide, discovering treasures such as starfish, crabs, sea urchins and octopuses.

Children with a sweet tooth (which is surely all of them) can join the chocolate wizards in the chocolate factory to make some tasty creations, and play on the pirate ship or learn traditional Sumba dancing. To give something back during your holiday, your children could also get involved in painting murals for one of the nearby schools that are supported by the Sumba Foundation.

Glitzy, glamorous Hong Kong, with its towering skyscrapers and melting pot of cultures, is a feast for the senses for everyone, young and old. Browse the bustling markets, take in the many diverse shops and restaurants, and for a scenic journey, take the ferry across the Victoria Harbour between Kowloon and Hong Kong Island.

Check in at the Mandarin Oriental, a beautiful oasis in the heart of the city, which overlooks the harbour (we recommend the afternoon tea here). You’ll be just a 15-minute walk from the steepest tram in the world, which will take you up the mountain to the highest point on Hong Kong Island, Victoria Peak, where you can enjoy panoramic city views. At the peak, you’ll find numerous shops, restaurants and attractions (including a version of London’s Madame Tussauds) and you should time your visit for the evening, as this is a fantastic spot to see the Symphony of Lights, the dazzling nightly music and light display dancing across the glittering skyscrapers and the harbour.