Amanjiwo Borobudur Resort, Indonesia

Both Indonesian and Western cuisines are served in Amanjiwo’s dining venues and the 40 metre pool has awe-inspiring views of the surrounding countryside, across to twin volcanic peaks of Merapi and Merbabu. Drinks, snacks and light lunches are served at the pool club. The 36 suites are built in a crescent shape around the central building Amanjiwo’s Suites feature domed roofs and sliding glass doors that open onto garden terraces. All suits include a thatched-roof bale with a day bed for outdoor lounging and dining, and 15 suites have private pools. Views from the suites are of picturesque terraced farmland and the Menoreh Hills, or of Borobudur and the surrounding valley. Each of the suites is slickly designed with a minimal finish but with local touches to give a sense of place. Unique four pillar beds are set on raised terrazzo platforms with coconut wood and rattan furniture, rawhide lampshades and Javanese textiles to complete the picture.

This region, in Central Java is well known for Borobudur Temple but there is so much to discover from centuries-old temples, vibrant markets and beautiful landscapes. The team at Amanjiwo can create a unique personalised itinerary for you including touring by car, by bicycle, on horseback or even an andong – the horse cart used daily by local villages. Borobudur Temple itself is amongst the best-preserved ancient monuments in the world. This 9th century Buddhist sanctuary features 1,460 stone relief panels and 504 life-size Buddha statues, each sculpted from a single stone. From the top gallery you can enjoy panoramic views of Central Java, particularly beautiful at sunrise and sunset.