Sometimes work takes me to really cool places, and this is how I died up at Tabo Cottages on Samosir Island, the largest “island within an island” and the 4th largest lake island inn the world.
Said trip occurred after my late arrival to Medan and involved me getting off a plane and then having to drive for 5 hours straight. Thankfully Tabo Cottages turned out to be a great place to relax.
What the Samosir Island?
As stated this is the largest island within an island, as well as the 4th largest lake island in the world, both of which are no mean feat.
Located in North Sumatra province of Indonesia there are various ways to get here, but via Medan is the most frequently used. From there it is 5 hours drive too the ferry which then takes an hour to get to Samosir Island. If you like boats you will enjoy this wee trip.
Tomorrow I am touring the island, so will give a full Samosir review in due course.
What the Tabo Cottages?
Located on the waterside of Samosir this seems to be a popular area for tourists. Tabo Cottages itself has a main building with the reception, bar and restaurant, as well as some rooms. Aside from this and as you might expect they have cottages.
My cottage was of the suite variety and was both spacious and good value at about $50. There are of cours echeaper options available.
Aside from this the restaurant is pretty decent and the beer is cheap. The only downside I could see was that cocktails are a bit expensive, but this seems to be an Indonesia rather than Tabo Cottages thing.
In my mind though the real coup here is the swimming pool overlooking the lake, the swimming area on the lake and the sunset view.
The crowd here seemed fairly eclectic and even included a school group – something I am planning to as a business.
With all this in mind though it also meant I could not really misbehave, probably for the best after two months drinking fire water quite literally like water……
Conclusion on Tabo Cottages
While it is too early for me to say too much about Samosir island I can already recommend Tabo Cottages. Yes it is not my usual scene, but hey good to try new things.
Ona a side note the thunder and lightning here in September is epic, although to be fair the hotel didn’t provide that.
You can check out YPT’s tours both indy and group on this link.