Made it to Medan II: To the Lake

Bright and early the next morning, we checked out of Mikie Holiday Resort & Hotel. During the day, one can get a clear view of Gunung Sinabung in the distance. Gunung Sinabung is an active volcano located on the Karo highlands. Our first destination of the day was Taman Ziarah Kerahiman Ilahi Puncak 2000, a pilgrimage site dedicated to the Divine Mercy. As its located on a peak, the spiritual park offers peaceful and majestic views of the surrounding highlands. Private mass was celebrated at the chapel. The drive from Puncak Siosar down to Danau Toba was very scenic, especially when winding down the crater towards to volcanic lake. Our lunch was at Vhi Vhi Resto, featuring local catch from the lake.  When I looked out the window, I saw the local fisherman casting their lines at the water's edge. Not a pretty sight because the edge was lined with garbage. 

From the water's edge, we went back up the crater for some sightseeing at Maulana Cafe. For a small fee, we could explore the glass bridge with its unobstructed views of Danau Toba. Took tonnes of photos there. Before it got dark we headed to Taman Simalem Resort, our hotel for the night and also an agricultural farm. A sprawling estate. The agro farm was an underwhelming affair with some flowers, vegetables and coffee plants. Once we were done there, we headed to the hotel to check in. The front desk and the rooms were separated by a short buggy ride. Instead of elevators, the hotel uses a system spiralling ramps. A bit of a challenge to bring our luggage up and down. 

Each room has a breathtaking view of Lake Toba as the building is built on the slope. With no activity till dinner time, some us roamed the grounds, while some of the uncles and aunties started a Chinese "hill song" session from the balcony! They had so much fun belting out the traditional songs, but I wonder if some of the other guests lodged complaints with hotel reception. When it comes to the highlands, for some reason the food of choice is always hotpot! Dinner doubled as a birthday celebration for one of the oldest pilgrims in the group.