Relaxing and getting rejuvenated in the midst of nature are absolute treasures for city folks to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Now with some restrictions lifted for those who are vaccinated, how about getting away for a weekend to beautiful jungles and lush rainforests.
Malaysia is blessed with beautiful foliage and colourful flora. And what better way to do it than glamping at some nature retreats. Glamping is basically camping in a glamorous way with all the luxuries and comforts of a 5-star hotel.
Some of the retreats even offer guided jungle treks, picturesque waterfalls and barbecue facilities. Some even have luxurious infinity pools overlooking nature.
For those who are adventurous, can indulge in other activities like organic farming lessons, visiting a nearby park, white water rafting, night trekking and so on.
Here are some of the best nature retreats to go and enjoy some quality time with friends and family.
The Sticks
Set in a lush Malaysian jungle an hour away from Kuala Lumpur, The Sticks is an off-grid glamping retreat featuring 12 unique houses furnished with snug beds, plush duvets and water heaters with spring water. By ensuring comfort in every stay, guests can relax and enjoy moments spent swaying in hammocks under the stars, floating down the river or dining on hearty home-cooked meals.
From the peaceful Riverside ‘Tendok’ (tent like pondok) or the Bamboo House designed to accommodate two adults, to larger quarters like the Serengeti Tent or the spacious Opera House, the living spaces here certainly live up to the task of placing guests right in the heart of nature. There are a variety of jungle treks adjacent to the retreat which suit beginners to more advanced hikers. Families here can enjoy home-cooked delights that include a barbecued feast under the stars, Continental breakfast and even afternoon tea. Meals are free for kids under two years of age.
Hillside Batu Retreat
Hillside Batu Retreat is situated in the beautiful town of Kuala Kubu Bharu. The villa is on a private hill, where security and privacy are safeguarded. It is designed with an open concept and the house is sitting on the hillside.
The house consists of living area, 3 bedrooms with doorlocks, 2 bathroom, 2 washrooms, kitchen equipped with cookware and dining table, barbeque area with tools and charcoal, balcony, and a lovely swimming pool.
Adding to its charm, the house is filled with upcycled furnishings and other personalised quirks from its owners. The best part is the view of the surrounding forest. It will put anyone on a zen mode. This is definitely an ultimate luxury getaway with nature to indulge.
Sekeping Serendah
Located not too far away from the sleepy town of Serendah in Selangor, Sekeping Serendah comprises 10 sheds littered across a five acres tropical rainforest. The very transparent and open sheds celebrate the beauty of the natural environment surrounding them.
Amenities and furnishings are purposely kept to a minimum so guests can immerse themselves in the lush nature right before their eyes. Rooms vary in sizes and the largest space can take up to 14 persons at most — ideal for a quiet group getaway if that’s on your mind. There isn’t an on-site restaurant, but there are barbecue pits available for you to cook your own meals. Other alternatives would be driving out to the nearby local restaurants.
The Shorea Seremban
The Shorea is a Boutique Eco-Resort that set in the Berembun Forest Reserve. There are two wings in The Shorea, which are The Shorea Estate and The Shorea Resort with two main infinity pools spread across two wings. The resort was built by recycled Shorea species timber, natural slates & stones and reclaimed terracotta roof tiles in order to maximize the connection between you and the tropical rainforest.
Whether you choose to stay in duplex air-conditioned villas with individual pools, or naturally-ventilated wooden villas. There are two shared infinity pools across the whole resort, with views of the gorgeous rainforest.
La Hilir Tiny House
This Bohemian tent called La Hilir Tiny House is the place to go if you’re in need of some pampering with privacy and seclusion at your disposal. This family-run private glamping compound in Kuala Pilah is just about an hour’s drive from Kuala Lumpur and it only accepts one family at a time, and the exact location of the retreat is only shared once bookings are confirmed via WhatsApp. Follow La Hilir Tiny House on Instagram for updates on a second camping site coming soon.
Outside the of your tent, you’ll see unspoiled greenery, cosy campfires and La Hilir Tiny House’s famous smoked beef sourced from local businesses.
Sailor’s Rest Resort, Janda Baik
Sailor’s Rest offers several accommodation types options such as bungalows, chalets, actual tents and even a boathouse. Immense yourself in the uniqueness of boarding the only boathouse located in the highlands with its own queen bed and attached bathroom. The boathouse can accommodate maximum of 2 pax and comes with its own lounge area to rest and relax.
In fact, a large group of families or friends or even for team-building excursion, this is a fantastic place to stay. There’s a conference hall, field and 10 modern public toilets fitted with rain showers.
The dining hall is a modern wooden structure in the middle of the pond and is great for group gatherings. The retreat also features a well-maintained garden with mangosteen and durian trees whereby guests are welcome to pick and eat the fruits to their hearts content.
