Trekking Edge Resort: Western Gate of Gunung Sewu UNESCO Global Geopark and Tropical Forest

Trekking mountains near Yogyakarta?

The South Coast of Java is truly amazing.  Hidden beaches, high cliffs, huge waves, stunning limestone mountains and tropical forests teeming with wildlife.  It is so beautiful that UNESCO designated this 85 kilometer stretch of coastal mountains as a UNESCO Global Geopark at the Gunung Sewu site (Thousand Mountains).  The area is famous for its geological diversity (e.g. many caves), biodiversity (stunning wildlife) and cultural diversity (ancient Javanese village culture).  Unfortunately, some of these treasures are lost because forests are cut down and developers build tourist attractions without paying attention to the complex ecosystems affected.  On the densely populated island of Java, is there a hiking trail to explore the natural wonders of the southern coast of Java?

Luckily, the answer is yes.  There are many amazing hiking trails along the cliffs and beaches of the South Coast.  Unfortunately, most of these areas are unmapped and cut off from each other.  It takes time and persistence to find it.  I hiked the largely uncharted trail from Parangtritis to Pacitan, but it took a lot of trying and failing to find the trail.  One day I hope there will be an integrated long-distance trekking route along the South Coast of Java.

Meanwhile, visitors can enjoy an afternoon hike or morning walk along the shore near some of the more developed beaches.  One of the most beautiful and easily accessible beaches is Parangtritis which is located about 1 hour’s drive from Yogyakarta and a little closer to YIA airport.   Visitors who want to be away from the crowds, to hike and explore the wilderness along the coastline near Yogyakarta should visit Parangtritis.  There are many accommodation options at a range of prices near Parangtritis.  The best of them, for beautiful accommodations, stunning sea and sunset views, and hiking trails through forests and mountains near the beach, is Edge Resort Yogyakarta (www.edgeresortyogya.com).

Edge Resort Yogyakarta offers peace and adventure on the cliffs of the Java Sea.  There are many hiking trails around the resort, along cliff tops overlooking the sea, through forests and up and down limestone mountains.  They range from easy 30 minute hikes with beautiful views, to challenging hikes on very steep and rocky trails that take 3 hours or more (depending on how often you stop to take pictures!).  Hikers are likely to see wild monkeys, flying lizards and various types of birds.  Forests offer a variety of trees, plants, insects, and flowers.  Most of the trail is still a bit rough, so sturdy hiking boots or walking shoes are recommended.

For those who are truly adventurous, Edge Resort Yogyakarta offers day hikes including a trip to the ancient mystical cave Goa Langse.  Javanese mystics make pilgrimages to the cave, where famous heroes from Javanese history (such as Prince Diponegoro), claimed to have met the legendary Queen of the South Seas.  To reach the cave requires a steep climb down the cliff, including extending a ladder bolted into the rock.  Nearby there are also opportunities for kite flying, rock climbing or off-road adventures on the beach or riverbank.  Just a 5 minute drive along an unpaved concrete road from Watu Gupit, a famous hang gliding spot, you will find Edge Resort Yogyakarta. The adventure on this bumpy road was rewarded by meeting stunning beauty after arriving at Edge Resort Yogyakarta.

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