Review: Amanjiwo offers an enchanting and luxurious journey through Java’s spiritual landscape

In the spiritual heart of Indonesia’s Central Java, where the lush horizons are etched with volcanic silhouettes and the air resonates with mysticism, lies Amanjiwo.

Here, within the shadows of the ancient Borobudur, the world’s largest Buddhist temple, Amanjiwo emerges as a sanctuary that connects the threads of history with modern comforts.

Crafted with a reverence that honours its sacred surroundings, Amanjiwo (meaning ‘peaceful soul’) is woven into the area’s fabric.

Every element of its design pays homage to the iconic temple it overlooks, from the bell-shaped rotunda that mirrors Borobudur’s stupas to the spiritually aligned suites that open up to the stunning surrounding landscape – radiating outwards like the ancient temple’s concentric mandalas.

Stone columns and sandstone walls resonate with the natural palette of the surrounding landscapes, providing a timeless connection to the storied past of Central Java.

The resort’s seamless blend of elegance and cultural authenticity invites guests to immerse themselves in an atmosphere that transcends the typical luxury experience, transporting them to a realm where the ancient and contemporary are in balance.

With a gentle architectural embrace that complements the UNESCO World Heritage site it faces, Amanjiwo provides an unrivaled vantage point from which to contemplate the profound beauty and spirituality of Central Java.

It is a sanctuary where the passage of time is marked by the beat of the gamelan, and the soul is nourished by the beauty of simplicity and the luxury of being truly present in the moment.

The Room

Amanjiwo Borobudur Suite in Central Java

The Borobudur Suite, a 243 square meter sanctuary of Javanese elegance, encapsulates the essence of tranquil luxury.

The private walled garden boasts unrivaled views of the temple and the lush valley, while the interior, with its central four-pillar king-size bed on a raised terrazzo platform, embodies regal comfort.

Artisanal details like the thatched-roof pavilion and the sunken outdoor bathtub reflect a commitment to cultural authenticity and indulgent relaxation.

>> Click here to read our review of the Borobudur Suite

The Service

Amanjiwo’s service philosophy is all about anticipation and discretion.

From the moment of arrival, staff members, with their intuitive understanding of guest needs, seamlessly ensure that every experience is personalised.

With complimentary services like round-trip airport transfers, daily cultural lectures, afternoon tea and a personal butler for each suite, the resort’s hospitality extends far beyond expectations, achieving a bespoke level of care that is both attentive and unobtrusive.

>> Click here to read our review of Amanjiwo’s afternoon tea

The Restaurants

The hotel’s culinary offerings are a vibrant celebration of Indonesia’s diverse gastronomic heritage.

The Restaurant & Bar, with its magnificent terrace overlooking the rice fields and volcanic horizons, serves a fusion of Indonesian and international dishes, promising a journey through local flavours and beyond.

The Makan Malam degustation menu is a nightly homage to Java’s seasonal fare, while the terrace and rotunda offer immersive dining experiences that blend tradition with innovation.

>> Click here to read our review of Amanjiwo’s restaurant

The Facilities

Amanjiwo not only dazzles with its luxurious facilities but also entices with its bespoke cultural excursions and activities, such as jemparingan archery – an ancient Indonesian practice taught by an expert on the hotel’s grounds.

The expansive swimming pool offers a sanctuary of relaxation, while the resort’s tailored experiences transport guests into the heart of Javanese tradition.

Embark on a spiritual ascent to Borobudur, delve into the craft of batik, or wander through villages on a guided tour that reveals the daily rhythms of vibrant community life.

Each excursion is a thread woven into the rich tapestry of local heritage, offering an insightful glimpse into the soul of Central Java.

>> Click here to read our review of Amanjiwo’s private Borobodur temple tour

Why Stay

Borobudur temple in Central Java in Indonesia

To stay at Amanjiwo is to experience the essence of Central Java in unparalleled luxury.

The resort is not just a place to sleep, but a destination that enriches one’s understanding of Javanese culture and history.

It’s a retreat for those seeking peace, an inspiration for the artistically inclined (with a painting set included in each room) and a true sanctuary away from the hustle and bustle.

Amidst the beautiful backdrop of Borobudur, Amanjiwo stands as a bastion of cultural preservation and luxurious escape, inviting guests to step into a world where ancient tradition and modern comfort converge.