Traveloka SG
12 Dec 2017 - 10 min read
Admittedly, when we think about resorts, we often visualize a beachside property. But who says you need a beach to have a good time?
Malaysia has a good share of beach-free resorts that offer just the same amount of fun – we’ve got a list of the best resorts set by scenic lakes and spacious golf courses, or hidden away in lush rainforests to help you plan your next beach-less holiday:
Sit back and relax at Mangala Resort & Spa’s beautifully-designed lakeside villas, some of which come complete with its own pool and private verandah so you can enjoy the view in total seclusion. If you’re feeling stressed, let the professionals at Mangala Spa massage all your worries away. As for activities, there’s plenty to do, such as cycling and kayaking, or excursions to nearby attractions, like Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary and the Cherating Turtle Sanctuary.
Rates start from: RM580++
*****
La Grandeur Palm Resort is just a 3-minute drive from Senai International Airport, and has all the facilities you’d want, from spa and swimming pool to golf and fine dining. Its Sport & Leisure Center offers a variety of sports and recreational activities to keep you busy, including an 8-lane bowling alley and children’s playground. However, if you feel like venturing out to explore Johor’s capital, Johor Bahru, it’s only a smooth 30-minute drive away from the resort.
Rates start from: RM160++
*****
At Meru Valley Resort, you’ve got an international championship golf course right at your doorstep, alongside a wide range of well-maintained amenities, such as tennis courts and a gym. Its modern suites and villas are comfortably and tastefully furnished, ensuring that you get all the fun and rest you need.
Rates start from: RM330++
*****
Pulai Springs Resort is a world-class golf and recreational resort hotel designed in the style of a traditional royal Malay palace. Tucked away in the tropical forests outside Johor Bahru, its cozy apartment-style serviced suites are a blend of modern luxury and traditional craftsmanship. For those who like a little bite to their Chinese cuisine, the resort’s award-winning Qing Palace Chinese Restaurant specializes in Szechuan dishes.
Rates start from: RM150++
*****
Slip on your cowboy boots and get ready for a rollicking fun time at Eagle Ranch Resort, where you can live out your American Old Western fantasies. Between log cabins, paddock chalets, bandwagons or teepees, you’ll have a tough time choosing where to stay. Don’t worry about having to use an outdoor lavatory, though – all rooms are equipped with en-suite bathrooms.
Rates start from: RM80++
*****
Escape from the daily grind at The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat, nestled in a valley surrounded by towering limestone karsts. Here, you can rejuvenate yourself by taking a therapeutic dip in the natural geothermal hot springs or a refreshing swim at the cascading waterfalls. The resort’s luxury villas offer the utmost privacy, while its spa provides unending bliss by combining Traditional Chinese Medicine, Ayurvedic therapy, Malay healing rituals in its treatments.
Rates start from: RM1,400++
*****
Welcome to your tropical hideaway. At Aiman Batang Ai Resort, you’re surrounded by untouched nature that will leave you feeling renewed. Take an exhilarating walk through the jungle several meters above the ground on the Canopy Walk. For the best view of the sunset, the “tanju” (veranda) is the perfect place to be, as it overlooks the lake and resort grounds. You also won’t want to miss out on sampling iconic Sarawakian cuisine at the Nanga Mepi Restaurant, such as chicken cooked in bamboo.
The Canopy Walk.
Rates start from: RM330++
*****
Located in a prime area not far from Cenang Beach and popular tourist attractions, The Daun Resort is just far enough away from the action to allow you some time and space to simply unwind. Its Malay architecture-inspired design mixes traditional elements while including all the modern amenities you would expect at a resort – imagine a thatched roof and fancy outdoor jacuzzi!
Rates start from: RM340++
*****
A’Famosa Villa offers sublime countryside living at an affordable price. Its large 3-bedroom and 4-bedroom villas are just what you need for your next family vacation. Each villa even has its own swimming pool for you to dive into. The kids will also want to drag you to the resort’s exciting attractions, such as Safari Wonderland and the Water Theme Park.
Rates start from: RM970++
*****
Located a mere 3-hour drive from Kuala Lumpur, Bukit Merah is a popular spot for family holidays. At Bukit Merah Laketown Resort, you can choose to either stay at Kampung Air (Water Village) or Laketown Hotel. Kampung Air’s suites and villas offer unparallelled views of the lake, while Laketown Hotel’s rooms provide comfort and convenience. The resort’s connecting Ecopark allows you to get up-close with cute critters and you’re sure to have a blast at the Waterpark’s rides and slides.
Rates start from: RM80++
With such a wide range of accommodation options across the country, it can be a challenge to pick the one that’s best for you. To be in the know when it comes to Malaysia’s stand-out stays, keep your eyes peeled for Traveloka’s ‘Super Stays’ posts, a bi-weekly hotel special featuring our top picks!