Roland Lefevre
Hiking to the summit of Bali's volcanoes is tipped to be a rewarding activity while on holiday in the Island of the Gods. It's even an endeavour enjoyed by tourists intent on a holiday of no activity.
Mount Agung is Bali's highest point standing at a height of 3,142 metres above sea level. The volcano last erupted way back in 1964 and is remembered as one of the worst volcanic eruptions to date. Mount Agung is made up of layers of volcanic eruptions which is called a stratovolcano. According to local myth Mount Agung is considered to be the very centre of the earth and while being quite an interesting hike the path is the most tedious amongst volcanic treks and should not be endeavoured by those not fit enough. An interesting fact is that all temples in Bali face Mount Agung and the area is inundated with a vast number of ancient temples.
Mount Batur is an active volcano that is only half the height of Mount Agung. It is an easy hike if you are relatively fit; an experienced hiker can reach the summit in a couple of hours while novices may take longer. However the trek is not too tedious and quite rewarding for the sights from Mount Batur are quite breath-taking. The most popular treks are the sunrise hikes which have you scaling the mountain sides from around 3 am in order to catch the perfect sunrise; amidst the cloud cover of Mount Batur. The place is easily reached from a Seminyak beach resort which will also quite conveniently offer you early morning tours to the mountain.
Bratan is located towards north central Bali in an area where there has been no volcanic activity for hundreds of years. The area is made up of 3 lakes and is famous for its beautiful surroundings. In fact Bratan is referred to as Bali's Lake District. Certainly the most stunning side of the island Bratan is home to vintage temples, botanical gardens, waterfalls, adventure parks and the best golf course in the country. Hiking is centred around Gunung Catur; you start at Gua Jepung and take a 3 hour hike to the summit. Here too early morning starts are recommended in order to catch the stunning sunrise. The best part of taking an early morning hike is you are left satisfied and pumped high with adrenaline for enjoying the sea and beach allures of resorts such as Kuta and Seminyak home to such accommodation options as Alila Seminyak.
Located within the West Bali National Park Mount Merbuk is 1,386 metres above sea level; it occupies the western edge of Bali. The park makes up about 10% of Bali's landmass and is home to another volcano by the name of Mount Patas. Hiking there will reward you with stunning vistas of the surrounding area which is also home to a wide variety of flora and fauna within the 3,200 hectares of parkland.
