In Reply to: northern bali posted by occy on Sunday, 18. March 2007 at 20:08 Bali Time:
and take your time. It is a stunning drive, with incredible views and plenty of places to stop at to break up the trip and make it enjoyable.
Firstly a good place to stop would be in the Bedugul region, where the lakes in the middle of Bali are situated in. Pachung Indah, David and Moira's place puts on a great spread and the views from the restaurant are stunning. Then head up to the botanical gardens where you can take the kids tree top climbing, or go the lakes for some para sailing or just a nice gentle boat ride. If you take the direct route then stop at Git Git waterfall on the way down the mountain, or if you take the slightly longer but more scenic route through Munduk, stop of at the water fall there.
You say you then want to head to Candi Dasa the next day. Well you might find another long drive after the previous day too much for you kids, so rest up for one day and enjoy some snorkeling in Lovina, or a swim at the hot spring and a visit to the Buddhist Monastery.
Candi dasa wouldn't be my choice of next destination, as I think Padang Bai is better which is a little further up the hill. Places to stop on the way from Lovina are firstly the cold springs in Air Sanih, then Les water fall is lovely and further up the road if you are into to snorkeling is the ship wreck in Tulumben. After that is Tertagangga the old water palace which in my opinion is a must.
Have fun traveling this beautiful island.