When I travel for rest and relaxation, I look for a very specific formula: a comfortable hotel with a spacious room, a central location in the heart of the city, and—ideally—a heated swimming pool to soak away the day. That is exactly the kind of “free and easy” escape I found at Yats Colony in Patangpuluhan, Yogyakarta.
Situated just a stone’s throw from the West Gate of Benteng Baluwerti—the historic walls encircling the Keraton Yogyakarta—Yats Colony is perfectly placed for exploring the city’s rich heritage. Upon arrival, we dropped off our bags at reception and took a quick, ten-minute taxi ride to grab lunch near the iconic Jalan Malioboro. For those who want to explore even more of the city’s regal history, the Royal Palace itself is a mere five minutes away, offering a rare opportunity to witness the last functional royal residence in Indonesia.
Our room was ready by the time we returned to Yats Colony. We had booked a stay at HA Sendang, a semi-private compound tucked away from the rest of the hotel for extra seclusion. A heated pool sat right outside our door, its warm water practically inviting us to spend the afternoon soothing tense muscles and a weary mind. After a quick change, I slowly dipped into the water with a book and a cup of coffee, as soothing music played softly in the background. I let myself become fully immersed in the gentle flow of the water, finally leaving the hustle of the world behind.
Once it grew too dark to read, I retreated from the pool and back into the comfort of our room. The split-level layout felt incredibly generous and defined. Grace was already settled on the built-in terracotta-colored sofa in the lounge area, while across the room, a large study desk sat perfectly positioned facing a private, small garden. Every detail, from the woven rattan headboard to the intricate crochet wall art, added to the calm ambiance. Tucked in the corner, we found a well-stocked station featuring both an Dolce Gusto coffee machine and a kettle. I spent the evening utilizing the latter, brewing a pot of Wedang Uwuh—a traditional Yogyakarta herbal drink. It was the perfect way to end the day, sipping the warm, spiced tea while watching the moonlight settle over our garden view.
The following morning, after a refreshing five-kilometer run around the historic walls of Benteng Baluwerti and the Royal Palace, I spent some time unwinding at the patio near the front desk. The morning sunshine filtered through the geometric structure of the patio, casting intricate shadows across the warm wood and stone. It was a moment of pure stillness. After one last session in the heated pool to soothe my muscles, I felt completely recharged and ready for another relaxing day in Yogyakarta.