The green surroundings of Tea Garden Resort Bandung

During our stay in Jakarta we love to escape the big city for (long) weekends surrounded by the tea plantations near Bandung. A three hour drive brings you (either through Bandung city, through Baros or Subang) to Ciater, the small town well known for its hot springs. Following the signs off the main road onto a bumpy road, you are led through hills with gorgeously green tea plantations and just when you are starting to wonder if maybe you are lost, a side way goes up to a secluded resort with surprisingly modern architecture, a beautiful contrast.

The resort itself also offers some entertainment: a swimming pool, hot spring baths and a tennis court are available on site. The friendly staff at reception can also arrange massages, horse riding and (with prior arrangement) ceramic & batik workshops and other activities. At non-rush hour times a 30-45 minute drive takes you straight into the heart of Bandung.

There's a small restaurant at the resort where you can order room service or dine in with a nice view from the rooftop terrace. The food was average, so we preferred to just bring our own bbq and enjoy the view from our hammock. The kitchen is only equipped with some basics (though reception can supply some extra items) and two gas burners, so cooking requires some flexibility. The fridge and freezer offer plenty of storage room for groceries. The chalets come in different sizes and all have private bathroom, tv (dvd player can be rented at small surcharge), a fireplace for those 'cold' Bandung nights, rooftop terrace and a Japanese relax area, great for family games. For the best view, ask for a chalet on the front row (though with very small children beware as there is no fence!).