Batak Houses on the Lake

Today you’ll head to Berastagi, it is a lot cooler here and home to some of Sumatras most breathtaking scenery. The city is surrounded by green fields of the Karo highlands and two volcanoes that dominate the landscape. Take the family to the local markets to sharpen their senses, in addition to classic spices, you’ll find local fruits, fish, vegetables and locally made jewellery. Your hotel is located on a hill overlooking the vast green landscape. It’s large and not particularly atmospheric for its lush location, but with beautiful views, big rooms and a large swimming pool, it’ll keep the whole family happy.

As you explore the island over the next couple of days, you’ll find typical Batak houses surrounding the lake. Tomok is the most important village on the island and a brilliant place to see wooden Batak houses with ritual graves and unique tombs. For a greater experience of the local culture and deeper insight for the kids, pay a visit to Simanindo village, where you can watch the daily Batak dance performances accompanied by homemade instruments. If you’d rather get around the island on wheels, bicycles are available for hire on the island.

In the evenings, try some local Indonesian specialities in one of the little restaurants lining the roads of Tuk-Tuk, before sitting back and watching the sun go down over the lake.