I was in Bali for Ubud Writers and Readers Festival and have one full day off before the volunteer work. I planned to go to Padang Bai, playing on the beach, feel the sun and the sand. But, as it takes more than an hour ride from Ubud, where I stay, I finally changed my plan to take a bike riding in an eco-tour.
Being picked up on time is something really I like. It quiet sometimes to have experienced and work with people who appreciate time in Indonesia. Most of people in Indonesia has a rubber time (jam karet). There were 12 of us on the mini van headed to Kintamani for breakfast. The view along the way was breathtaking. I never have seen the green looks that green before. The padi field, look like terraces with many different gradation green.
We reached Kintamani after one hour drive, and ready for breakfast. They served us many different kind of breakfast to choose, from Balinese nasi campur to pancake with maple syrup, fruit juices, tea and of course Balinese coffee. The most stunning thing was the view in front of us while sipping our coffee, it was caldera. We were 1500 meters above sea level.
After finished our breakfast, we visited coffee plantation, along with cocoa, jackfruit, durian, and many tropical fruit and spices like cinnamon, pepper, ginger and many more.
We start cycling from here after the plantation. We didn’t really pedaling at the start. The view alongside were very interesting. Even for me Indonesian. I came from very different culture background to this thing. Funny to know actually, I found there was no other Indonesian taking this kind of tour. Still wonder why.
We stop at some spot to learn about culture and what it tells behind what we have seen. Very interesting. I believe not so many Indonesian even learnt about this.
We reached Pejeng as final stop. Had our delicious lunch and return to Ubud. Worth every penny. You should try this cycling tour.