Elevator pitch
Aman Resorts have long held a reputation for its affinity for secluded realms, creating hidden sanctuaries across the globe where nature, warm hospitality and experiential design converge. Each property is tailored to its surroundings, its heart beating in tandem with the land it sits upon.
Nestled in the rural heartland of Central Java, Amanjiwo, meaning ‘peaceful soul’, is rooted in the rich and storied cultural heritage of its people, dating eons back. The 33-suite resort overlooks the UNESCO World Heritage side of Borobudur, accompanied by the idyllic Menoreh Hills and majestic volcanoes along the horizon.
The stay
“Welcome home to Amanjiwo,” the team warmly greets as I’m ushered into the lobby. An ambitious statement for some, but one that rings true here. Each interaction with the staff feels warm and genuine, as if we’re familiar friends when we’ve only just met. After a refreshing house-made welcome drink, I’m led to my suite, home for the next few days.
A walled garden surrounds the suite, opening up to a veranda that offers unbridled views of the surrounding hills and rice paddies. There’s an instant ease that falls around you as you’re cocooned in the arms of Mother Nature. Though man-made by design, the suite feels like an extension of its lush surroundings. From the high ceilings and domed roof, to the wooden arches and terrazzo floors, nothing feels out of place. Thoughtful touches are peppered throughout–a mosquito coil helps keep bites away, and earplugs are placed by the bed for an uninterrupted night of sleep. An outdoor bath sits at the back, the perfect activity to unwind at any time of day.
The food
There’s no better morning routine than breakfast at the Gubuk Sawah. Your choice of a Nusantara or Western breakfast spread is served under a traditional thatched pavilion, overlooking green rice paddies and the Merapi and Merbabu volcanoes in the distance. Gentle rays of sun begin to seep through the clouds, as a wide array of regional delicacies are laid out. Amongst plates of tropical fruit and bubur candi, the ketupat meriah takes centre stage. Slices of steaming rice cakes with tender chunks of chicken in a warm, coconut-based broth that makes for a soulful start to the day.
Daily afternoon tea at The Rotunda is sure to satiate any peckish tendency. Freshly-made traditional Javanese snacks and kuihs are served alongside fragrant teas, as the soothing sounds of gamelan, traditional percussion music, lets you waste the afternoon away effortlessly. As dusk falls, look to The Restaurant for a feast under the stars. Flanked by rows of stone columns and an expansive view over Borobudur and the Kedu Plain, take your pick from an Indonesian or continental menu. Ingredients are grown in-house and handpicked daily by Amanjiwo’s chefs, thoughtfully crafted in a plate of Jiwo Gudeg, a regional stew made from slow-cooked jackfruit, or Amanjiwo’s garden eggplant layered in tomato puree and parmesan in the form of Cavatelli alla Norma.
The itinerary
In the land of Central Java, where legacies of legends roam, it is only fitting to step out of the residences and discover the great palaces and temples that lie within. Embark on a cultural tour of the world’s largest Buddhist temple–the Borobodur temple. A trusty guide deftly deciphers hidden meanings behind the carved tales on its facade, unfolding mysterious anecdotes of Javanese kings and ancient kingdoms. Though their empires have since joined the cosmos, you can’t help but notice their presence still lingers as you gradually make your way to the top of the monument.
For an absolute getaway in Amanjiwo, you don’t have to look any further for ways to spend your time. A quick consultation with the front of house will land you a bespoke itinerary, curated to your liking. History buffs may revel in a cultural lecture by resident anthropologist Patrick Vanhoebrouck, while those with a thirst for adventure can dabble in the art of jemparingan, a form of archery native to Keraton Yogyakarta. It is truly a sport like no other, as the deceptively simple practice builds on intuition and self-awareness, imbuing character and a sense of community. You’ll find the days go by and the hands on the clock go still, as you’re immersed in all that the resort has to offer. None can quite equate to Amanjiwo, much like how there’s no place like home.
Book a stay at Amanjiwo here.
