Fly overnight to Yogyakarta and head into the heart of the island of Java. Stay at Plataran Borobudur for two nights amid the hills and lush tropical landscapes of the cultural centre of Indonesia. From the hotel there are views of the temples in the distance, why not stay a little longer and be immersed in Java’s slow way of life.

At sunrise, arrive at one of Asia’s great temples, Borobudur. Rising out of lush, misty hills in the heart of Java, and over a thousand years old, Borobudur is the largest Buddhist temple in the world. It is a remarkable feat of construction with its intricate Buddha statues and impressive central stupa, in a spectacular setting.
Then cycle or take a traditional buggy to nearby Candirejo village, surrounded by plantations and where the pace of life is slow. Enjoy lunch at the village with the sounds of gamelan music.

Experience the dynamic energy of Yogyakarta, which is complemented by a lively cultural scene where ancient traditions live on. Visit a traditional kris maker to see iron daggers forged, a piece of intangible heritage. Visit the Sultan’s Palace and gardens in the heart of the city. Head out among the mountains to Prambanan Hindu temple, as sunset casts a golden glow on the ancient stones.
There’s also plenty of time to visit the batik weavers and taste the many flavours of ‘Yogya’ and fertile Java with two nights at The Garrya Bianti hotel.

The mode of transport changes today with the slow train to Mojokerto, travelling through volcano-dotted terrain. Continuing higher into the mountains by road, with plenty of time to stop and admire the scenery, arrive at Plataran Bromo for a night in the wilderness.

Rise before dawn for an adventure which will love long in the memory. Journey by jeep to the rim of Mount Penanjakan and see sun rise over the moon-like landscape of three volcanoes, Bromo, Batok and Semeru. Take the jeep over the sand sea and in the serene morning light trek to the rim of Mount Bromo.
Then a well deserved breakfast, a visit to Madakaripura Waterfall, and it’s a short hop to Bali, 3 nights at Como Ubud and ready for the next adventure.

There’s plenty of time to relax amid the rice terraces, temples and mystical forests of Ubud. And time to unwind in the cafes and explore the markets of this enchanting melting pot. Also included is a choice of any of Ubud’s must-do tours: visit the villages, temples and highlands, go rafting on the Ayung river or mountain biking through the hills and terraces, all with an expert local guide.

To end in style head to Bali’s wild and dramatic coast and the beach resorts of the south. There’s many areas to choose from including hip Canggu or lively Sanur. We like the Oberoi Hotel on Seminyak beach, one of the original luxury resorts in a prime position.

Transfer to the airport and fly home, or with more time head further east to the traditional island of Sumba or fly to Flores and see the Komodo dragons.