Bali’s highpoint (3 014m), a landmark in all views of the south and east of the island, the Agung volcano is the navel of the Balinese world: along with Mount Batur, it was born of the splitting in two of the mythical Mount Meru, the centre of the cosmos. Its 1963 eruption covered Bali in ash and claimed 2 000 victims: climbing it is for fit walkers only, accompanied by a guide. Less challenging, the route from Redang to Putung halfway up its slopes heads through traditional villages and offers spectacular views.