Lake Ranau in Lampung offers the charm of a beautiful lake with stunning panoramas, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the natural beauty.
Lake Ranau is one of the best natural tourist destinations in Lampung which offers extraordinary views and a calming atmosphere.
As the second largest lake in Sumatra after Lake Toba, Lake Ranau is known for its natural beauty which is still pristine and has not been touched by modernization.
Located on the border of Lampung Province and South Sumatra, this lake offers a stunning panorama, thus attracting the interest of tourists from various regions.
History and Legend of Lake Ranau
Lake Ranau was formed from volcanic activity thousands of years ago, where volcanic eruptions caused the formation of a large basin which then filled with water and created a lake.
Mount Seminung which still stands firmly on the edge of Lake Ranau adds to the beauty of the surrounding scenery. According to local stories, the name “Ranau” is taken from the local language which means “big lake” or “wide waters”.
Apart from geological history, the beauty of Lake Ranau also has a legendary story that is believed by the local residents. One of the popular legends is the story of a princess who fell in love with a fisherman.
This love story ended tragically, and it is said that the princess’s tears turned into Lake Ranau. This legend is a special attraction for tourists who are interested in local folk tales.
The Natural Beauty of Lake Ranau
Lake Ranau is surrounded by extraordinary natural scenery. Mount Seminung towers on one side of the lake providing a dramatic backdrop, while all around it are stretches of green rice fields and pristine forest.
The beauty of this lake is complemented by a calm atmosphere and cool air, making it an ideal place for a vacation and to unwind from the stresses of city life.
The clear bluish lake water also adds to the natural charm of Lake Ranau. Around the lake, visitors can see a small island called Marisa Island which can be used as a place to relax or fish.
This island is one of the favorite places for tourists who want to enjoy the tranquility while seeing the beauty of the lake from a distance.
In the morning, a thin mist covers the surface of the lake creating a magical view. The sunlight slowly emerging from behind Mount Seminung adds to the beauty of the atmosphere at Lake Ranau. This view is often captured by photographers who come to this place to get stunning natural portraits.
Tourist Activities at Lake Ranau
Lake Ranau offers a variety of interesting tourist activities that can be enjoyed by visitors. Here are some of the most popular activities around Lake Ranau:
1. Enjoy the Beauty of Nature
One of the main attractions of Lake Ranau is its stunning natural beauty. Tourists often come here just to relax and enjoy the amazing view. There are many areas around the lake that can be used as a picnic spot or just to sit back and enjoy the fresh air .
2. Explore the Lake by Boat
Visitors can rent a boat to go around Lake Ranau. Sailing around the lake by boat is a perfect way to enjoy the beauty of the clear lake water, as well as see Mount Seminung up close. Tourists can also head to Marisa Island, a quiet place to enjoy the view from a different angle.
3. Climbing Mount Seminung
For tourists who like challenges, climbing Mount Seminung can be a fun activity choice. This mountain is not too high so it is suitable for beginner climbers, but still offers extraordinary views from the top.
From the top of Mount Seminung, tourists can see the entirety of Lake Ranau which looks like a beautiful blue carpet.
4. Fishing
Lake Ranau is also a paradise for fishing lovers. With various types of freshwater fish living in this lake, visitors can enjoy fishing while enjoying the peaceful atmosphere. Fishing in Lake Ranau is usually done from a boat or on the edge of the lake.
5. Hot Springs
Around Lake Ranau, there are natural hot springs that originate from the volcanic activity of Mount Seminung.
This hot spring is often visited by tourists who want to relax after doing activities such as hiking or going around the lake. The hot water here is believed to have health benefits, especially in relieving aches and stress.
Accommodation and Facilities Around Lake Ranau
For tourists who want to enjoy the beauty of Lake Ranau longer, there are several accommodation options around the lake, ranging from simple lodgings to resorts that offer direct views of the lake.
Accommodations around Lake Ranau are usually managed by the local community, so visitors can also experience the warm and friendly village atmosphere.
In addition to accommodation, there are also facilities such as food stalls serving local food typical of Lampung and South Sumatra.
Grilled fish and various dishes from the catch of Kemaro Island, Palembang are one of the favorite menus for visiting tourists. In addition, several stalls also offer warm traditional drinks that are perfect to enjoy in the cool air around the lake.
Conclusion
Lake Ranau is a perfect tourist destination for nature lovers and those seeking tranquility amidst stunning scenery. With various interesting activities such as boating, climbing Mount Seminung, or simply enjoying the hot springs, this place offers a complete tourist experience.
The calm atmosphere, fresh air, and stunning views make Kemaro Island one of the best destinations in Lampung that must be visited.
