Tucked away on a tranquil riverside in Sleman, this modern, minimalist haven stands out by providing sophisticated travellers with not just a restful space, but an invitation to connect deeply with authentic Indonesian culture. Unique to Garrya Bianti, guests immerse themselves in hands-on sustainable practices and embrace a simpler way of life.
Stepping into the resort, you will notice a sophisticated sense of bygone elegance and timeless architecture, one that pays homage to Java’s cultural legacy, blending the contemplative Sukuh Temple with the warm terracotta of Kotagede. The panoramic, serene views that guide you to your villa will encourage a calm feeling that is the beginning of your transformational journey.
Mornings begin with the delicate rustle of bamboo and the murmur of the gentle river, setting a tone for restorative experiences. On the Riverside Deck, sound healing and yoga are accompanied by ethnic music to melt away the stress of urban life, while at the 8lements Spa, Asian-inspired rituals nurture both body and mind. To complement, a curated dining journey showcases fresh, local produce crafted into thoughtful menus that nourish from within, served at Refresh all-day dining. T Be it by the river, admiring the sunset, or simply as a sanctuary, this all-villa luxury resort provides guests with ample space to unwind and rejuvenate in sheer comfort.
Ethnic Music Yoga and Meditation
On the occasion of our visit, Inclover was able to experience the yoga meditation and ethnic music. Depending on the weather conditions, this can be done indoors at the movement studio or outdoors by the river, guided by a yoga meditation instructor with the assistance of the ethnic instrument player. The rhythms of traditional melodies come from diverse instruments, like flutes, lutes, percussion pieces, and a metallophone from the Javanese gamelan family. This soulful experience certainly helps to release stress, while restoring balance and bringing clarity to the mind.
The two-hour immersive session begins with meditation and a breathing sequence, followed by several simple yoga movements. Here, you are free to explore your body more deeply, as you relax, and focus on the melodies that soothe your mind. As the session flows, you will feel your body stretch to self-heal any inner pain. Some unique moves adopted from the Javanese culture are the “Kapang-kapang” walk, which refers to a traditional Javanese dance movement, walking like a small creature with firm steps, hands straight down, and looking straight ahead. Then, lying down and with your eyes closed, the musician brings instruments closer to your body, so as to resonate as one.
By the end of the session, with your mind and body at ease, the yoga instructor presented a series of “Wayang” oracle and wisdom cards. The oracle card is inspired by characters and stories from the traditional “Wayang Kulit” that blends Javanese culture with spiritual guidance to offer insights for personal reflection, decision-making, and spiritual direction. Meanwhile, the wisdom card refers to inspirational decks that serve as a tool for personal growth, self-reflection, and transformation.
Rejuvenate at 8lements Spa – Best Spa in Yogyakarta
The 8elements Spa offers a unique journey of rejuvenation, blending time-honored rituals with contemporary techniques to restore balance and harmony. The thoughtfully curated treatments, inspired by nature, are designed to soothe the body, calm the mind, and elevate your well-being in a serene, tranquil setting. The name 8LEMENTS Spa is derived from the 8 pillars of wellbeing, and brings this philosophy to life through personal wellbeing practices that are evidence-based, accessible to the wellbeing-curious, and built on the ethos of authenticity and sustainability. A wide range spa menu of 60 and 90-minute signature massages is available, offering Rest Essence, Natural Detox, Deep Bodyworks, Thai Stretch, Soothing Touch for expectant mothers, children, and the elderly, as well as an extensive range of body care treatments for ultimate rejuvenation.
Taste of Thai
Executive Chef Edy Santoso, with his extensive years of experience in Thai and International cuisines, has created a degustation-style Thai feast that will delight your palate with the locally sourced ingredients. The Orchid Thai is served as a sharing for two, with appetizers Khong Wang Ruam, Goong Sarong, Gai Hor Bai Tuey – the deep-fried chicken in pandan leaf, Pho Pia Phak – the fresh vegetable spring roll, the iconic Tom Yum Goong soup, and main courses of Gaeng Kiew Waan Gai, Pla Neung Manao, Phad Thai Goong, and Phad Phak Ruam, complemented by a selection of jasmine rice, yellow rice, and brown rice. Ultimately, the meal ends on a sweet note with everyone’s favourite Khao Niew Mamuang – mango sticky rice, Kluay Thod – banana fritter, and Phon Lamai Ruam Chaeyen.
Visiting Cage-Free Farming, Fostered by Garrya
Garrya’s brand commitment to practicing eco-conscious hospitality, where every choice reflects care for people and the planet, includes using 100% cage-free eggs. These are sourced from the fostered women farmer groups in nearby villages, in collaboration with Global Food Partners and Animal Science Development Center, Faculty of Animal Science, Gajah Mada University. Inclover was given the opportunity to visit the Jaya Mandiri Abadi farm which was established in 2015 and has actively participated in local region competitions since 2022. Funding from Garrya has now further diversified and managed the farm with cage-free eggs from 300 chickens, 500 catfish, mushrooms, and various vegetables that now supply the daily consumption of the resort. In addition, every “Jum’at Wage” they donate their harvest products. This part of the women’s empowerment initiative has been widely recognized to better educate farming techniques and methods, thus helping and supporting their finances and welfare.
As your wellness journey draws to a close, you will be left with a peaceful and restful state, ready to endure the future with strength, resilience, and a positive mindset.