High in the central mountains of Bali, Beratan Lake in Bedugul is one of three beautiful caldera lakes in the area. Since it is the shallowest in Bali, with the deepest spot being 22 metres, its surface is unruffled and presents the ideal condition for water sports. Located at 1231 meters above sea level, the weather is also cool and inviting, which encourages visitors to linger here just a little longer than planned. Bedugul itself is an area of great natural beauty and hence a popular tourist destination. Since it is a closed lake, Bedugul is fed by rainfall runoff from the surrounding mountains. The lake is the main source of irrigation for the rice fields of central Bali.
Visitors come to Bedugul to experience Bali as it was centuries ago. The lake and its adjacent area offer green and calming surroundings for frazzled travelers to take a break and rejuvenate. For those desiring adrenaline-pumping activity, the southern shore of Beratan Lake offers a range of attractions including banana boat rides, parasailing, speed boating and jet skiing for water sport enthusiasts. If environmental scruples obtrude on enjoying the water this way, pedal boats and row boats can be hired for a more leisurely ride and it is the best way to absorb the calm and beautiful surroundings.
Trekking and walks in the forests of Mt Catur bordering the lake, biking, fishing, bird-watching or simply absorbing the views are other ways of experiencing the exceptional landscape. The lake can be accessed from a pier or from the 17th century Ulun Danu Temple on the edge of the lake. Images of the temple’s 11-storey tower silhouetted against the setting sun are famous, as they have been used to promote Bali for many decades. The early morning tranquility of the mist-swathed mountains around the lake is an experience ‘not to be missed’. For day visitors from the coastal areas of Bali, taking a trip up to the mountain will provide a glimpse into a unique part of the island.
If you’re seeking a quality Bali luxury spa resort to make the most of your island excursion, the lush surroundings of the COMO Shambhala Estate Bali with its luxurious suites, villas and residences is known to provide guests with the right setting for relaxing holidays. However, what sets this property apart is its life-enhancing combination of yoga, individually designed diets by the resident Ayurvedic physician and massage therapies targeting total wellbeing. As a premier Bali spa resort it succeeds in making its guests feel thoroughly rejuvenated at the end of their holiday.
Angela Fernando is an impassioned travel writer who composes pieces under the pen name Sumaira Narayan. She loves writing about new and exciting places around the world and hopes to visit them all someday. Google+
