Two of Indonesia’s most renowned volcanoes are Bromo and Ijen. Bromo is just a 4-hour drive from Surabaya, making it a popular choice for those eager to climb the mountain right away and save on a night’s accommodation. However, like many travelers, I opted to find a comfortable hotel near the crater, rest for half a night, and then embark on the climb.
Initially, I thought that since it was only for a few hours, any place would do. But after a bit of research, I discovered that by spending just a little more, I could enjoy a much better stay. Without hesitation, I upgraded my booking, deciding that a good night’s sleep was worth the extra cost.
Upon arriving at the hotel, I was pleasantly surprised by the quality of the accommodation. The property is divided into two areas by a road: one side for lodging and the other for dining. The room, while not overly spacious, was clean and well-maintained. The hotel grounds were lush with greenery, and vibrant hydrangeas added a splash of color.
The serene atmosphere made it a perfect place to relax. In the late afternoon, around 3 or 4 PM, the hotel offers a delightful afternoon tea with light refreshments. Since we planned to set off in the middle of the night, we had a quick bowl of noodles before heading back to our room to shower and rest.
The higher altitude means it can get chilly after sunset, so packing extra layers is a must. For stargazers, the hotel’s minimal light pollution provides a stunning view of the night sky, filled with twinkling stars.
The hotel is conveniently located, just a 20-minute drive from the viewing platform. After our early morning adventure, we returned to the hotel for a hearty buffet breakfast, which included a variety of Western-style dishes. The food was quite tasty, and the overall experience was very satisfying.
Climbing Mount Bromo sounds tough but amazing! The views must be breathtaking if you can push through the early morning cold and fatigue. I’d probably need some convincing to do the pre-dawn climb though.