Enjoy fresh air and a hot bath at Cipanas resort

Enjoy fresh air and a hot bath at Cipanas resort

Simon Howland, Jakarta Post, Cipanas, West Java

It's Friday afternoon and you've just finished a grueling week of
work in the capital. Jakarta is sticky-hot, and the forecasts
indicate little hope of a change in weather over the next few
days.

In short, a weekend in the city looks bleak, and you're eager
to escape to a more hospitable climate, maybe with a few more
trees and even a bit of fresh air. Look no further, Cipanas holds
the key.

Situated above Garut, 64 kilometers southeast of Bandung, is
the picturesque mountain retreat of Cipanas. Bordered by
volcanoes and luscious, forested mountains, the resort is famous
for its hot springs and is renowned as a place to escape the heat
and stress of Java's plains.

During the Dutch colonial era, the area was used as a hill
station for colonial administrators, where government officials
and their families would go to wind down.

Little evidence remains of the colonial Dutch holidaymakers,
but for the history buff, there are the archaeological ruins of
the nearby Cangkuang Temple dating back to the 8th century.

The ever-present peak of Gunung Guntur dominates the visage
behind Cipanas. About an hour's walk up the mountain will bring
you to the Curug Citi waterfall, definitely a worthwhile trek
during the rainy season. For the more eager trekker, the summit
of Guntur is the logical progression.

At 2,249 meters, those who brave the eight-hour return trip
will be rewarded by stunning views of the surrounding plains and
villages.

The crater at the top of this extinct volcano is well worth
the trip alone. Ask the locals about the best routes up; heading
up willy-nilly will make your quest twice as difficult.

Sticking to the mountainy theme, we come to Mount Papandayan,
28 kilometers outside Garut. This is arguably one of the most
spectacular volcanoes in Java and is still active, although no
eruptions have been recorded since the 1920's.

Papandayan made its presence known in 1772 when its side
erupted with an almighty bang and caused the deaths of over three
thousand people. You can get most of the way up by road, after
which an easy half-hour walk will take you to the crater and on
to the peak if you're keen. Try and hit it early, as the clouds
tend to roll in if you leave too late in the day.

If you're not much for the leg action, not to worry, there's
plenty more to see and do. The sulfur springs for which the area
is renowned have been utilized to their utmost potential by all
the hotels, and hot spring baths are to be found in all rooms.

The springs are known to have a purifying effect on the skin,
so take your time. But beware! When they say "hot springs", they
do mean hot, so diving is not recommended and you should probably
dip in a toe or two first to test the water.

There are several areas in and around the resorts where one
can simply lie down and while away the afternoon. The natural
beauty of the surrounding forests make for a very relaxing
environment indeed. Just ask one of the locals or your hotel
staff for the one best suited to your needs.

For those with a sweet tooth, the area is renowned for a
confectionery of palm sugar, coconut milk and rice called dodol.
You'll find locals plying it on every other street corner down in
the village, but the best you can get your hands on is made by
the Picnic brand in Garut.

For somewhere to stay, you have a range of choices from budget
to up-market. Hotel Tirta Merta is a clean, cheery and basic
accommodation in the middle of town. It caters to the budget
traveler, but has everything you'll need to chill out for a few
days.

If you've no qualms about dishing out a couple of extra
rupiah, then the Sumber Alam is for you. The hotel has been
designed with the surrounding environment and ecosystem in mind,
with individual bungalows situated around a huge fresh water
pond, blending into the foliage. You can even fish from your
window, if you so choose!

To get to Cipanas from Jakarta, take a train to Bandung and
then a bus, or simply drive. However, driving is not recommended
during the peak holiday season.

If it's an escape you want, then Cipanas offers an easy,
affordable option for the jaded Jakartan. Get up into the
mountains and clear your head. You know you want to.