Rich in culture, hospitality, culinary wonders, history and natural heritage, Malaysia is a destination of endless posibilities. From its picture-perfect beaches and sumptuous cuisine to amazing outdoor adventures, there’s so much for couples to do here. Thinking of honeymooning here or getting away for a loved-up escape? Here are our top five romantic resorts in Malaysia for your next holiday…
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The Datai, Langkawi
Situated on the mystical island of Langkawi, The Datai is the perfect getaway for couples seeking refuge from their busy lives. Nestled in the heart of an ancient rainforest and overlooking one of the world’s best beaches (as rated by National Geographic), this captivating resort smoothly blends in with its surroundings. A stay here is not only guaranteed to reignite romance and passion with your loved one, it’s also a great opportunity to reconnect with nature.
Each sleek guest-room, suite and villa embraces the beauty of its surrounds, offering unbeatable Andaman Sea views. Decked out with tropical wood floors, shantung-silk wall panels and sprawling marble baths, they’re the perfect place for escaping from the rest of the world. Throw in some award-winning dining options, an induglent spa and a variety of fabulous amenities, and you’ve got a retreat that’s hard to ever leave.
For adventurous couples, there are plenty of inviting activities on offer nearby. Participate in an interactive Thai culinary cooking class paired with complementary wine, meander along one of Langkawi’s breathtaking nature walks or tee off at a golf course-with-a-view – it’s all there for you to enjoy. The Datai is currently closed for renovations but will reopen in September, 2018.
Cameron Highlands Resort, Pahang
Set amidst tea plantations at the highest point of Malaysia’s spectacular Titiwangsa mountain range, Cameron Highlands Resort embodies all the romance of Cameron Highlands’ grand colonial heritage. The boutique hideaway is surrounded by breathtaking scenery, lush greenery and Tudor-style cottages, and offers plenty to enchant couples.
Featuring 56 beautifully appointed rooms and suites, and fronting Cameron Highlands’ 18-hole golf course, Cameron Highlands Resort also houses the third wellness centre of the award-winning Spa Village group, which offers exotic treatments focusing on the healing and restorative properties of tea.
Exploring the surrounding area is something couples shouldn’t miss. Endearingly known to some as the “little corner of England in Asia”, this region has remained largely unchanged since colonial times. And with a blissfully cool climate, it’s ideal for an escape all year round.
The Majestic, Kuala Lumpur
Malaysia’s largest and most cosmopolitan city, Kuala Lumpur offers up the bright lights and all the sophistication you’d expect. For a romantic getaway, take a break from the hustle and bustle by making your way to The Majestic. Regarded as one of the best colonial hotels in Southeast Asia (and the only heritage hotel in Kuala Lumpur), this iconic landmark offers couples a relaxing and luxurious oasis within the heart of the city’s busy downtown area.
Originally built in the 1930s, The Majestic has long been the venue of choice for glamorous social events and historical political meetings. Conveniently located in one of the city’s most intriguing and walkable neighbourhoods, the hotel is a great base to return to after an evening stroll (with plenty of sight-seeing along the way, of course). The Majestic also stands opposite the grand 1910 railway station, and many of the city’s favourite tourist attractions are also close by, including the National Museum, National Mosque, Islamic Arts Museum, the Perdana Botanical Gardens (often referred to as Lake Gardens), and bird and butterfly parks. In other words, it’s the ideal setting for a romantic rendezvous in the city.
The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat, Ipoh
For those keen to combine romance with the ultimate wellness experience, Ipoh’s Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat is not to be missed. Only 15 minutes from the city’s centre, The Banjaran is built around natural geothermal springs and a naturally heated swimming pool. It’s all set in lush green rainforest, against the dramatic backdrop of Ipoh’s limestone hills, making an escape here totally relaxing.
Amidst the tranquil surroundings guests can enjoy a broad range of bespoke holistic experiences and treatments in the retreat’s eco-friendly spa, including Ayurvedic therapies and traditional Malay healing rituals. The resort’s 25 secluded villas are also perfect for unwinding, each with a private pool and an outdoor hotub.
The retreat’s Pomelo restaurant serves healthy and organic food, plus there’s a large menu of fresh fruit and vegetable juices. In the evening guests can also head to Jeff ’s Cellar, set inside a vast cave adjacent to the geothermal springs. Just named one of the world’s five most magnificent bars by CNN Greece, it’s a must-visit for toasting the occasion!
Shangri-La’s Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa, Penang
On the beautiful shores of the famous Batu Ferringi Beach lies the luxurious, award-winningShangri-La’s Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa. Complete with all the amenities and sophistication that you’d expect from one of the Shangri-La Group’s signature properties, this coastal hideaway has plenty to enchant romantics.
What really sets this fully integrated resort apart is its sense of history, place and tradition. Its design incorporates distinctive Minangkabau architecture and is decorated throughout with Malaysian antiques and cultural artifacts, from artfully arranged traditional jewellery and coral sculptures to batik-printing moulds. The result is a stylish and unique haven that seems straight out of a daydream. Not too shabby, if you ask us.
Related article: Two islands for two: Penang and LangkawiHelpful links:The DataiCameron Highlands ResortThe MajesticThe Bangaran Hotsprings RetreatShangri-La’s Rasa Sayang Resort & Spa
