Discover timeless journeys in Yogyakarta, Indonesia’s cultural capital
OVERVIEW
Rediscover the beauty in simplicity at Garrya Bianti Yogyakarta. Immerse yourself in serene wellbeing, cultural journeys, and nature-inspired experiences. Explore ancient traditions, countryside tours, and creative workshops that help you reconnect with yourself and the world around you.
- 25/10/2024
- 6 minutes
Let the rigours of city life melt away and rediscover the beauty of simplicity at Gabungan Village in Yogyakarta’s Sleman Regency, a place that is almost untouched by time. Here, amidst the serene landscapes, curated experiences await – encouraging mindful living, a return to peace, and quiet contemplation.
Exploring Kotagede: A heritage walking trail through Yogyakarta’s living history
Embark on a heritage tour of Kotagede, an ancient district that once served as the capital of the Mataram Sultanate. Empires and countless fortunes have risen and fallen here, now remembered through everyday stories and monuments to the past.
Even as you wander through its narrow streets lined with traditional Javanese houses and historic mosques, you'll find that the area is a living, breathing testament to its storied history, with colourful markets that bustle with activity and life, from street vendors peddling delicacies like gudeg, jackfruit cooked in coconut milk, to engaging local artisans.
Silver making—an intricate art that has been passed down through the generations since the 16th century—remains alive and thriving here. Watch master silversmiths in action as you witness the process of making silver jewellery and decorative items—from melting and moulding to engraving and polishing. And then try it for yourself and experience the magnificent legacy behind this centuries-old craft.
Explore the countryside in a classic vintage car
Why rush through life when you can savour each moment? This countryside tour through Gabugan Village in a vintage car offers more than just picturesque views — it’s an immersive journey back in time. Cruise past traditional homes and expansive green fields, where the landscape remains largely unchanged and echoes a simpler, slower-paced era. Your local driver, who knows the area like the back of their hand, will take you to hidden gems, perfect for unforgettable photos, capturing the history and tales of the peaceful village along the way.
The journey also includes a visit to a local mushroom plantation, where you’ll experience the community’s harmonious relationship with nature. Witness the fascinating process of mushroom cultivation and meet the local farmers whose lives are deeply intertwined with the land. This is more than a tour: it’s a chance to connect with both the people and the place on a deeper level.
Mindful moments and wellness experiences
At Garrya, wellbeing is a natural part of every experience, gently woven into the fabric of your stay. Mornings begin with yoga sessions by the river where you’ll find balance between body, mind, and the natural world, enveloped by breathtaking nature. Continue your journey inward with a calming sound healing session, allowing the soothing vibrations to ease you into a state of deep relaxation and introspection.
Find joy in slowing down and creating something beautiful from nature at an eco-pounding workshop. Before mass production, bags were made the natural way: slowly and meticulously, by hand, with a deep appreciation for the materials that are used, knowing they come from nature’s bounty. Using blacu fabric, you’ll craft a tote bag by pounding plant leaves with a wooden mallet, releasing natural pigments that are then transferred onto the fabric, and bringing to life your very own creative and sustainably-made keepsake.
The jamu-making workshop is another unique experience, introducing you to Indonesia’s ancient tradition of herbal remedies. Using ingredients like herbs, seeds, and flowers, you’ll learn how to create jamu, a beverage celebrated for its health benefits and made from nature’s finest offerings, enjoyed in their purest form.
Amid these activities, there are quiet, contemplative spaces across the resort to pause, reflect, and simply be in nature’s embrace. Whether meditating close to the river accompanied by the gentle gurgling of water or curling up with a good book by the balcony with chirping of birds overhead, these serene moments encourage inner peace and celebrate the connection of being in the here and now.
Nourishment for body and soul
Mindfulness extends to dining as well, with nourishing meals crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The signature communal dining experience, epicurean sego bancakan, marries traditional flavours with the elegance of fine dining. Time honoured dishes are presented with a modern twist, allowing guests to savour the richness of local cuisine while preserving the soulful connection to Yogyakarta’s rich culinary roots.
Embrace a slower, more mindful pace of life
In a world that never stops moving, Garrya Bianti Yogyakarta invites you to breathe and rediscover the beauty in slowing down as you immerse yourself in the lush landscapes of verdant paddy fields, whispering breezes, and the comforting sounds of nature. Whether you’re looking for a space for quiet contemplation or immersing yourself in the rich tapestry of local culture, acquaint yourself with a place where time moves gently, and memories are made to last.
Experience serenity in spaces designed for simplified living at Garrya Bianti Yogyakarta.