Lake Toba sparkles like a precious stone, embedded in the
northern highlands of Sumatra and surrounded by steep and fertile
mountains. Filling in a giant volcanic crater it is the largest
lake in South East Asia with depths of up to 1,680ft (525m) in
places. In the middle sits the jade-green island of Samosir, which
is the origin of the friendly Batak people. Evidence of their
culture and traditions is visible in the little Batak villages with
their characteristic curved roofs, the traditional dance
performances at Simanindo's Batak Cultural Centre and distinctive
woodcarvings and weavings sold around the island. Numerous resorts
and villages are scattered around Samosir; the Tuk Tuk peninsula
and village of Ambarita being the most popular places for tourists
to linger. Despite the amount of guesthouses and restaurants on
Samosir, there is little other tourist infrastructure, but the
variety of activities and the cultural experience makes this
Sumatra's most fascinating and relaxing destination.
