Amanjiwo

Amanjiwo overlooks the UNESCO World Heritage Ste of Borobudur on the Kedu Plain, in central Java’s rural heartland.

Arranged in an arc around a magnificent domed rotunda, the suites at Amanjiwo are fit for a sultan (albeit a minimalist one). Inside you’ll be greeted by a huge pillared bed, polished stone floors, and a beautiful sunken bath – the like of which a Javanese princess would quite happily have a soak in!

Large sliding doors lead to a private walled garden, with a thatched pavilion (and pool, if you’re staying in a Pool Suite) but best of all are the ethereal views. If you’re inspired by these, you’ll find a box of watercolours in your room, and you can also join one of Amanjiwo’s resident artists and do a charcoal sketch of the landscape.

Dining in the central rotunda really is a spectacular experience, with a silver-leaf domed ceiling high above you, and stone columns that frame the rice paddies, volcanoes and Borobudur beyond. The cuisine involves Indonesian specialities as well as Western dishes, which can also be enjoyed on the terrace. Feast on the speciality of makan malam - the Javanese version of tapas, served in brass bowls.

Cool off in style in the 40m infinity pool, which is regally tiled with green stone, and relax in the spa, whose soothing treatments are inspired by ancient Javanese rituals and feature local ingredients known for their healing properties. 

Java as a whole is the arts and cultural centre of Indonesia, whilst the rural heartland where Amanjiwo lies is an area of outstanding natural beauty. A short walk or bike ride will bring you to Borobudur – an incredibly preserved 9th-century Buddhist sanctuary – and further afield at Prambanan is an ancient Hindu complex with hundreds of scattered temples.

If you want a proper trek, you can head to the surrounding hills and rice fields, or if you’re really fit you can attempt the 3,000m Mount Merapi. Finally, in Yogyakarta and Solo you’ll discover the opulent vestiges of sultans: watching traditional dances in palaces, and picking up beautiful artisan pieces at markets.