Situ Patenggang, a Legendary Lake Surrounded by Tea Plantations
While Yogyakarta is famous for its exotic temples and beaches, the southern Bandung region boasts a myriad of serene mountain charms. One of the best natural tourist attractions that should be on your Java Overland Tour itinerary is Situ Patenggang (or Situ Patengan).
Located in Ciwidey District, Bandung Regency, East Java, this natural lake sits at an altitude of 1,600 meters above sea level. Surrounded by the green expanse of the Rancabali tea plantations and pristine wilderness, Situ Patenggang offers refreshing cool air and a magical view often shrouded in a thin mist in the morning.
The Romantic Legend Behind the Beauty of Situ Patenggang
The name “Patenggang” is not just a meaningless name. In Sundanese, it comes from the word Pateangan-teangan, which means “to seek each other.”
Locals believe in the legend of the deep love between Ki Santang and Dewi Rengganis, who were separated for a long time. Because of their strong love, they finally searched for each other and finally met on a large rock now known as the Stone of Love. Dewi Rengganis then requested the construction of a lake complete with a sailing boat. This boat is now believed to have transformed into Asmara Island (Pulau Sasaka), a small, heart-shaped island located right in the middle of the lake.
Local myth states that for couples who visit, circle Asmara Island, and stop at Batu Cinta, their love will be long-lasting and filled with happiness.
Main Attractions of Situ Patenggang
Today, Situ Patenggang has developed into a modern ecotourism area with various attractive facilities without compromising its natural beauty:
1. Touring the Lake by Traditional Boat
A must-do activity while here is renting a traditional motorboat or pedal boat to explore the calm waters of the lake. You can ask the boat driver to take you to Batu Cinta or simply take photos with the heart-shaped island in the middle of the lake as a backdrop.
2. Iconic Photo Spot: Pinisi Resto & Glamping Lakeside
On the lakeshore, there is the integrated Glamping Lakeside Rancabali area. One of its main attractions is a magnificent restaurant shaped like a traditional lifeboat, called Pinisi Resto. Standing on this giant wooden boat gives you the best viewpoint to enjoy the splendor of Situ Patenggang from above.
3. Suspension Bridge & Tea Garden Walk
For those who love a leisurely stroll, you can explore the aesthetic wooden bridge that divides the tea plantations surrounding the lake. The clean air and distinctive scent of tea leaves make it a very welcoming place for healing and stress relief.
