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18 Nature and Outdoor Retreats in Malaysia

18 Nature and Outdoor Retreats in Malaysia

nature-retreat-getaway-from-kuala-lumpur 18 Nature and Outdoor Retreats in Malaysia

Are you looking for a nature retreat for a weekend getaway in Malaysia? You came to the right place, as I have compiled a master list of the best retreats out of Kuala Lumpur.

This list caters to everyone, especially locals who have little time but need an escape from city life to somewhere nearby. 

Suppose you are a traveller or tourist with a couple of free days in Malaysia and want to experience a rainforest retreat. In that case, this list will provide you with some valuable information.

Some nature retreats are located near Kuala Lumpur or just a short drive or flight from here.

The retreats listed here are also based on price for entire villas or bungalows or by persons; therefore, you need to double check when booking. Weekends and public holidays are always priced higher than weekdays. 

Ultimate Nature Retreat Getaway Guide From Kuala Lumpur

Below is a list of 18 rainforest and nature retreats built in Malaysia’s lush tropical rainforest.

The list is also for Peninsular Malaysia only, as it is not easy to find resorts or retreats in this genre for this part of Malaysia. They are also in no order and vary from state to state around here. 

malihom 18 Nature and Outdoor Retreats in Malaysia
The Thai-style Malihom Private Estate Resort in Penang. (Photo by http://grauboat.jalbum.net)

1. Malihom Penang
One of the much-talked-about rainforest resorts is the Malihom Private Estate in Penang. This is a luxurious retreat set in the lush rainforest of Balik Pulau on the island of Penang (Pulau Pinang). Malihom comprises eight Thai-style rice barns converted to modern-day resort living.
Malihom feels more like a private estate resort with a 16-acre hilltop property with an infinity pool overlooking the lush scenery. Those seeking something different can expect quality over quantity when you stay here.

Slightly on the pricier side but well worth it for anyone wanting a bit of luxury away from the mainstream tourist places of Penang but still within reach. 


Malihom Penang
Address: Kiri N/T 168, Bukit Penara, Mukim 6 Balik Pulau, 11000 Penang, Malaysia
Price: From RM520+ per night
Website: http://malihom.com/
Booking: Book Malihom
sekeping-serendah 18 Nature and Outdoor Retreats in Malaysia
Luxury in the Rainforest at Sekeping Serendah (Photo by https://www.sekeping.com/serendah/)

2. Sekeping Serendah
A very popular weekend escape from Kuala Lumpur is Sekeping Serendah, just outside the Rawang area of Selangor.

This Eco retreat has been the talk of social media for many years and attracts all walks of life, namely millennials, hipsters and the occasional corporate group or family. 

Surrounded by five acres of rainforest, Sekeping Serendah brands itself as a luxurious escape with a robust minimalist design that plays with glass and rustic designs. The seclusion is nature-perfect, with a lot of greens everywhere.

There are a total of 10 units available, and a lot of companies use this place for group retreats or events. Avoid long holiday periods here as it can get crowded or booked quickly. 

Sekeping Serendah
Address: N3.368050 E101.631150, Malaysia
Price: From RM300+ per night
Website: https://www.sekeping.com/serendah/
awanmlan 18 Nature and Outdoor Retreats in Malaysia
The beautiful natural scenery at Awanmulan. (Photo by http://www.goasiaplus.com)

3. Awanmulan
In neighbouring Selangor, you can find Awanmulan, one of the nature escapes providing a peaceful and quiet experience.

This rainforest escape is located in Negeri Sembilan and provides eight individual homes with unique names. Six units cater to four or six people, while the remaining two villas are for couples only. 

The highlight of Awanmulan, apart from the beautiful lush scenery, are the two salted swimming pools, a jungle pool and a sky pool, which provide the ultimate relaxation in the rainforest. Nothing beats lounging by the pool with a cocktail and nature surrounding you.

Nature activities like hiking are available for those who want to explore the area, and transport options are available for those needing it to get here. 


Awalmulan
Address: Kampung Baru Pantai, Jalan Jelebu, Jelebu, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia
Price: From RM774 – RM2,445 per night
Website: http://www.awanmulan.com/
fig-tree-hill-resort 18 Nature and Outdoor Retreats in Malaysia
Penang’s Fig Tree Hill Resort (Photo by http://www.figtreehill-resort.com/)

4. Fig Tree Hill Resort Penang
The Fig Tree Hill Resort in Penang is another luxurious nature escape located in the Sungai Ara area, far from the main tourist and commercial areas.

This beautiful rustic property offers six beautiful wooden villas suitable for couples or families. 

Each villa comes with its own name and is themed accordingly, with a spacious living room, a dining area and a private balcony area.

Each villa is around 150 to 200 square meters, with king-sized beds, LCD television, complete bathroom and coffee amenities.

The showers are pretty cool as they provide open-aired bathrooms with outdoor showers. Only breakfast is provided, so you must arrange other meals.

The property can also be rented for private events or photography, but avoid booking during the rainy season. 

Fig Tree Hill Resort
Address: Jalan Kenari, mkm 10, Sungai Ara, Balik Pulau, 11900 Penang, Malaysia
Price: From RM500+ per night
Website: http://www.figtreehill-resort.com/
green-acres-penang 18 Nature and Outdoor Retreats in Malaysia
Green Acres is a luxury orchard stay in Penang (Photo by http://greenacrespenang.com/)

5. Green Acres Penang
Green Acres in Penang is one of the more unique and exciting weekend escapes. This getaway is located in a Durian orchard, so if you are a durian lover, this can be considered heaven for you.

Green Acres is an organic farm with over 500 fruit trees and a selection of unique spice plants, and it is perfect for the green traveller. 

Created with an organic and Eco theme, the resort sits on a 16-acre farm property which has been around for the last 50 years.

The villas are styled towards a Malaysian ‘Kampung’ home and are 250 meters above sea level.

Green Acres is suitable for groups, families or even couples and the property is nestled away from commercialization. If you love durians or local fruits, this is your mecca and highly recommended. 

Green Acres Penang
Address: Batu Itam, Balik Pulau, Penang
Price: From RM500 per night
Website: http://greenacrespenang.com/
terras-treehouse-cameron-highlands 18 Nature and Outdoor Retreats in Malaysia
Back to basics at Terra’s Treehouse in Cameron Highlands.

6. Terra’s Treehouse Cameron Highlands
This natural experience is well suited for the adventurous traveller or family who needs to take a 4WD into the lush rainforest of Cameron Highlands in Pahang. After reaching your stop, you trek 400 meters to Terra’s Treehouse. 
An experience suited for the serious outdoor and nature lover, this treehouse accommodation is not your luxury escape but more of an experiential tourism getaway.

Terra’s Treehouse is located in the cool climate of Brinchang in Cameron Highlands, and you can expect the best of nature here.

A total of six treehouses are available, with a shared kitchen and an activity hall. Electricity is powered by a generator from 6.30 AM to 10.00 PM.

Here, you can expect temperatures from around 14-25 degrees Celsius in a natural and organic retreat. If you are looking for something different and back to basic, this is it. 

Terra’s Treehouse Cameron Highlands
Address: Address: Jalan Sungai Mansion, Brinchang, Pahang, Cameron Highlands, Malaysia 39010
Price: From RM160+ per person
Website: http://www.terrafarm.com.my/2013/02/tree-house.html
rainforest-treehouse-johor 18 Nature and Outdoor Retreats in Malaysia
Gunung Pulai’s Rainforest Treehouse Accommodation (Photo by https://www.facebook.com/rainforest.treehouse.johor/)

7. Rainforest Treehouse Gunung Pulai Johor
One of the raw-styled nature retreats in Johor is the Rainforest Treehouse at Gunung Pulai. Just like Terra’s Treehouse, six treehouses are available for nature and outdoor lovers.

Four treehouses cater to six people, while two accommodate up to 12. It is very natural but a little modern; there are electrical outlets, proper bedding, mosquito nets, a shared bathroom and an activity area.


All of this was built by the owner, who was passionate and determined. He worked with the locals in the area to create this fantastic place which uses all-natural resources. 
Again, this is not your luxury escape but more of an experience in the rainforest of Johor. Please do not bring your wheeled luggage as you must trek to the treehouses. 

Rainforest Treehouse Gunung Pulai
Address: Gunung Pulai, 81000 Kulai, Johor
Price: RM250+ per person, including food
Website: https://www.facebook.com/rainforest.treehouse.johor/
dusuntara-jungle-resort 18 Nature and Outdoor Retreats in Malaysia
Bali Villa at Dusuntara Jungle Retreat in Batang Kali. (Photo by http://dusuntarajungleretreat.com/)

8. Dusuntara Jungle Retreat
In Batang Kali, you can find the Dusuntara Jungle Retreat, only about an hour’s drive from Kuala Lumpur. This retreat is more of a modern resort with wood, brick and mortar villas, saltwater swimming pool, Jacuzzi and facilities. 
Camping is available, provided you bring your own tents, and for activities, there is trekking, fishing, bird watching and anything outdoors. Otherwise, it’s swimming and just taking a break from the fast city life.
Getting into the resort takes you off-road, and Kamal, the owner, can arrange the 4WD drive if needed. There are three acres of land here for you to explore the wilderness.

I recommend coming here on a weekday because the place is famous for groups and team-building activities on weekends. 

Dusuntara Jungle Retreat
Address: No.1, Dusun Drive, Batang Kali Estate | Kg. Sungei Kamin, Batang Kali 48300
Price: RM180+ per person
Website: http://dusuntarajungleretreat.com/
the-dusun-seremban 18 Nature and Outdoor Retreats in Malaysia
Luxury in the rainforest at The Dusun in Seremban (Photo by http://thedusun.com.my/)

9. The Dusun
One of the old-timers in the rainforest retreats of Malaysia is The Dusun, which has been around since 1984 and turned into an Eco retreat in 2009.

The resort sits in a 12-acre orchard, which is 800 meters above sea level in the Berembun Forest Resort here. There are six different bungalows which cater to families, groups or couples. 

Operated by Helen and David, they have been living here since the beginning and sharing this beautiful retreat with passionate people who believe in responsible tourism.

Activities include trekking, bird watching, waterfall visits, and a cooking workshop. 

Due to the higher pricing, you can expect quality service, accommodations, and privacy without mass tourism.

From Kuala Lumpur, it is only an hour and a half to get here, and this would be one of the closing weekend retreats from KL. 


The Dusun Negeri Sembilan
Address: 3437, Kampung Kolam Air, Mukim Pantai, 71770 Seremban, Negeri Sembilan
Price: From RM400 – RM900
Website: http://thedusun.com.my/
the-shorea 18 Nature and Outdoor Retreats in Malaysia
Two of the beautiful villas at The Shorea in Seremban.

10. The Shorea
Around the Berembun Forest Reserve, you can find The Shorea Resort, one of the new players for the weekend getaway category. They are branded as a boutique Eco-resort with eight bungalows and 15 rooms. 
The Shorea is divided into two sections: the Shorea Estate and the Shorea Resort, which is in line with the rustic and Eco theme surrounded by the lush rainforest.

Swimming pools face the beautifully landscaped forest where sunsets can be enjoyed. 

A full-facility resort, The Shorea provides fine dining, Asian dining and private dining; hence, this is an excellent choice for a romantic getaway for couples.

Activities around here include trekking, waterfall visits and good old nature walks. 

Need a family retreat? Book a villa of your own at The Shorea, an architectural wonder built within the tropical forest reserves of Berembun.

Set on natural terrains, meandering paths lead to a jungle stream and a waterfall. The resort is also constructed using recycled timber, so you know it’s a natural Eco retreat.


The Shorea
Address: Village Kolam Air, Mukim Pantai,, Jalan Jelebu, 71770 Seremban, Negeri Sembilan
Price: RM530+ per night
Website: http://www.theshorea.com/
tanah-aina-resort 18 Nature and Outdoor Retreats in Malaysia
Farrah Soraya villas by Tanah Aina in Raub, Pahang. (Photo by http://www.tanahaina.com/farrah-soraya/)

11. Tanah Aina – Farrah Soraya Eco Tourism Resort
Located in the Raub area, one hour from Kuala Lumpur, is the Farrah Soraya Resort, under the Tanah Aina brand of retreats.

Yes, the name sounds confusing as many people think it is Tanah Aina Resort, the group name. 

Puan Sri Sharifah Sabrina Syed Akil created this multiple resort concept, passionate about protecting and conserving Malaysia’s rainforests and natural environment.

She has also branded this as an exclusive Eco resort, which sits 1,700 meters above sea level. This equals a cooling and private getaway in the rainforest of Pahang. 

Activities are abundant with nature-related experiences as they boast three private waterfalls, trekking and a flying fox through the lush tropical rainforest.

For accommodations, there are villas and camping available. Based on reviews, Farrah Soraya Resort gets really busy on weekends and long holidays; hence, I recommend visiting this place on a weekday. 

Tanah Aina Resort (Tanah Aina Farrah Soraya)
Address: 8, Jalan Tras, 27600 Raub, Pahang, Malaysia
Price: RM100+ per night per person
Website: http://www.tanahaina.com/farrah-soraya/
templer-park-rainforest-retreat 18 Nature and Outdoor Retreats in Malaysia
The stunning pool at the Templer Park Rainforest Retreat (Photo by https://www.pinterest.com)

12. Templer Park Rainforest Retreat
The closest rainforest retreat in Kuala Lumpur is the all-new Templer Park Rainforest Retreat, which is only about 40 minutes drive from the city. This urban rainforest escape sprawls over three acres on the Kanching Rainforest Reserve’s hilltop. 
Only two houses are located at this weekend escape, making this one of the most private retreats out of Kuala Lumpur.

One unit is a luxurious villa, while the other is a container-style unit, and both are far apart. Activities include trekking and hiking to the Kanching Waterfalls and its surroundings. 

Generally, this place is suitable for large families or groups who want to do private gatherings, events, parties or just a massive escape from the hustle and bustle of the fast city life.

After all, if you desire to book the entire place for a romantic escape, that would work, but you must pay the entire fee. 


Templer Park Rainforest Retreat
Address: 22, Jalan 3/2, Templer Heights, Templer Park, 48000 Rawang, Selangor
Price: RM1,000 weekdays, RM1,500 weekends for 6 pax. 
Website: https://www.tprr.net/

casabrina 18 Nature and Outdoor Retreats in Malaysia
The incredible views at Casabrina Villa (Photo by http://www.casabrina.net/)

13. Casabrina Vacation Villas

Another luxurious rainforest retreat is Casabrina Villas, located in the hills of Raub, Pahang and about an hour’s drive from Kuala Lumpur. There are only two villas here with four suites; hence, you can expect privacy at its best. 
The theme is tropical-rustic, and fine details are not missed. The owners have invested quite a bit to ensure this falls into the luxury category in a rainforest.

Cssabrina is perfect for small families or groups that seek hidden and private property away from it all. 

As for activities, there is quite a bit to do around here, meaning trips out of the main resort area to popular tourist places around Raub, Lancang and Karak. I recommend staying here and absorbing nature by the pool. 
Casabrina Villas
Address: Lot 1460, Jalan Tras, Mukim Tras, 27600 Raub Pahang
Price: RM800+ per night
Website: http://www.casabrina.net/

tanah-larwina 18 Nature and Outdoor Retreats in Malaysia
Natural landscapes surrounding Tanah Larwina (Photo by http://www.tanahlarwina.com/)

14. Tanah Larwina Retreat 

A nature retreat in an orchard and animal farm in Hulu Langat, Selangor? Introducing Tanah Larwina Retreat is a single-unit getaway for families or friends who want to experience design in a rainforest. 
Overall, this is a one-unit resort with four queen-sized beds in an open room concept that lets you be one with nature.

The unit sits just by a river, while there is a special campfire site outside the unit. There is also a barbecue and cooking area and for larger groups, there is a campsite available.

The owner is currently adding two pods which cater to couples wanting privacy. They are to be opened in early 2018. Extension plans are also in the process for an additional villa in 2018.

Tanah Larwina Retreat
Address: Lot 4075, Kg Paya Lebar, Batu 23,  Jalan Sg Lui, Hulu Langat, Selangor
Price: RM1,679 per night for 8 guests
Website: http://www.tanahlarwina.com/

selepas-hujan 18 Nature and Outdoor Retreats in Malaysia
Kampung style villa at Selepas Hujan (Phot by http://selepashujan.com/wp/)

15. Selepas Hujan 


Deep in the Berembun Rainforest of Negeri Sembilan lies a retreat perfect for couples, tiny families or groups.

Only two bungalows or villas are available here, traditionally built in wood combined with modern designs and fittings.

Selepas Hujan means after the rain, and it is here that you will find one of the best private escapes to nature.

Consider this place one of the premium luxury escapes in a pristine forest reserve near Kuala Lumpur, as it only takes about one hour to drive here.

Activities include trekking, bird watching, and simply doing nothing but relaxing. One of the villas is a honeymoon villa, perfect for the newlyweds with little time to travel.

Selepas Hujan 
Address: 43A (Lot 3154) Pantai Hill Orchard Resort, Jalan Kampung Pantai, 71770 Pantai Negeri Sembilan
Price: RM700 to RM1,500+ per night
Tel: +6012-931 5147

Website: http://selepashujan.com/wp/

enderong-resort 18 Nature and Outdoor Retreats in Malaysia
The beautiful Enderong Resort in Janda Baik (Photo by https://enderong.wixsite.com/enderongresort)

16. Enderong Resort


Located 2000 feet above sea level is a retreat called Enderong Resort in the Janda Baik area of Pahang. This means it only takes you no more than an hour to get here from Kuala Lumpur using the Karak Highway.

The Enderong Resort has one villa with eight rooms, a four-room cottage, an Annexe with 18 rooms, and a multipurpose function hall.

All of this combined, and you get the perfect venue for small gatherings, retreats, weddings and anything else that says ‘Out of KL, but near KL’.

The location is pretty close to Bukit Tinggi and Genting Highlands, making this one of the logistically perfect retreats for just about anyone.

The critical factor is that it is only 45 minutes from Kuala Lumpur. Tends to get crowded on long weekends and holidays; therefore, book on a weekday for privacy.


Enderong Resort
Address: Lot C21, Persiaran Enderong, Jalan Tanarimba Pine, Tanarimba, Janda Baik, Bukit Tinggi, 28750 Bentong, Pahang
Price: RM370 to RM4,200 per night
Tel: +609 2330533

Website: https://enderong.wixsite.com/enderongresort

waterway-villa 18 Nature and Outdoor Retreats in Malaysia
One of the villas at the Waterway Villas in Bukit Tinggi (Photo by http://www.thewaterwayvilla.com/)

17. The Waterway Villa


Another rainforest retreat near Kuala Lumpur is The Waterway Villa, located in Pahang’s Bukit Tinggi area. This part of Bukit Tinggi has numerous retreats and resorts catering to weekend escapes.

Waterway Villa consists of five different types of villas, each representing a different type of material.

Choose from Balinese, Timber, Stone, Glass and Bamboo design villas as each provides a different staying experience. The resort also comes with a shared swimming pool.

The catch is that you either visit on a weekday when the retreat is less crowded or just book the entire place for your own function or event. Otherwise, you will be sharing the place with other visitors. 



Waterway Villa
Address: PT 21564,Bt. 7,Jalan Kuala Lumpur Lama, Bukit Tinggi, Bentong Pahang
Price: RM400 to RM1,920 per night
Tel: +60 3 3343 3888
Website: http://www.thewaterwayvilla.com/

plassid-villa 18 Nature and Outdoor Retreats in Malaysia
Stand-alone Plasid Villa in Seremban. (Photo by http://gan-lifewalker.blogspot.my)

18. Plassid Villa


Located in the Pantai area of Seremban is the Plassid bungalow or villa, which is perfect for tiny groups of travellers.

This villa, owned by Patrick, is a stand-alone unit that sits on a hill overlooking the beautiful natural landscapes.

The villa is designed after a traditional ‘Kampung House’ that is modern, contemporary, and simple. For accommodations, the villa comes with two bedrooms, eight beds and two baths with standard amenities.

Privately owned, the owner takes the initiative to complete the villa with almost anything you can think of in terms of snacks or drinks.

Locals from Kuala Lumpur take a quick weekend break here with friends or family to escape the busy city life. 


Plassid Villa
Address: Lot 3173 Pantai Hill Resort, Jalan Pantai Batu 8, Kg Orang Asli, Negeri Sembilan
Price: RM1,200 per night
Website: https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/3399685

casabrina-rooms 18 Nature and Outdoor Retreats in Malaysia
This is what some of the villa retreats look like inside. (Photo by http://www.casabrina.net/)

What To Bring For Your Retreat or Getaway?

Depending on which retreat you book, some only provide basic amenities, while others offer full service.

You need to double check when booking. Most of them provide breakfast only, and you can buy your own food to cook there or barbecue.

Some retreats also provide fridges, complete kitchen utensils and storage spaces. As for snacks, it is always best to bring them as there are no places for you to buy them at night, so stock up if needed.

As for mosquitoes, these places are located in the rainforest, and some areas may have mosquitoes, so it is best to bring insect repellent. And if you plan to swim or go trekking or hiking, please bring the necessary attire for them.

And finally, because these are purely nature retreats, please, I repeat, please do not throw your rubbish everywhere. Especially smokers, please use an ashtray or a makeshift one.

We all know this reminds you of a hotel, where you can leave the place in a mess, but please practice good ethics at these places.

the-dusun-retreat 18 Nature and Outdoor Retreats in Malaysia
Trekking to a waterfall at The Dusun (Photo by http://thedusun.com.my/)

This list was specially created for reader requests as many people want to know where to find some nature resorts or retreats for a family getaway over the weekend from Kuala Lumpur. I have yet to visit any of these resorts to date.  

However, I have been to some of Malaysia’s most beautiful rainforest resorts since 2010 for my work, bird watching, and wildlife watching activities.
And if you are looking for something totally different, read about my experiences visiting some of the most beautiful private island resorts in Malaysia, where I have stayed. And you should know that many kinds of resorts are in Malaysia. 
Conclusion
Hopefully, soon, I will have the opportunity to visit some of the nature retreats, resorts or villas listed here to thoroughly review them.
Also, if you know of any other weekend getaways that are rainforest or Eco-related, share them in the comment form below. If they meet the criteria, I will look into them and list them here.

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