11 Best Hidden Retreats in Malaysia That Are Perfect For A Short Escape!

If you’re a city urbanite, you would most probably agree with us that all you need after a long and tiring work week, is a relaxing weekend getaway or short escape away from hustle and bustle of the city! But what is stopping most of us is the cost of flight tickets, accommodation prices and mainly time which can break the bank and your job very easily. Now, if you in need of some weekend solace to yourselves, we got good news for you because there are plenty of soothing, relaxing yet budget-friendly retreats in Malaysia that not only do you get to save money, you also don’t have to travel far!

Another good thing about these retreats in Malaysia is that they are lesser-known hidden gems that aren’t filled with heavy commercial tourist crowds which makes them the perfect private zone for some romantic time, family trip or just a self deserved getaway! Most of these retreats offer guided jungle treks, has waterfalls, farms, deer park and barbecue facilities. Some even have luxurious pools and spas. Without further ado, below is Beauty Insider Malaysia’s top 11 retreats in Malaysia that are perfect for to calm your mind, fill your soul with some positive energy while keeping you secluded from toxic people.

1. The Dusun

Started as a simple family retreat back in 1984, today The Dusun is one of the most popular retreats in Malaysia. This grandeur retreat features five uniquely themed houses, an infinity pool, and a spectacular view overlooking the rainforest, nothing short of amazing, right?! You can have your barbeque parties and if you’re feeling a Lil adventurous join their jungle trekking tour or the bird discovery walk. You can explore close landmarks like the Ostrich farm, Sri Menanti Museum and Malacca! One highlight of The Dusun is that it’s only an hour away from KL but it sure feels worlds apart.

Address: 3437, Kampung Kolam Air, Mukim Pantai, 71770 Seremban, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia

Contact Number: +6012 616 2585

Prices: Start from RM400 per night

2. Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat

Surrounded by 280 million-year-old limestone caves, The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat is Malaysia’s first luxury natural hot springs wellness retreat, Built around the beauty of nature, this retreat definitely offers bespoke holistic experiences for ultimate relaxation. Whether if you are looking to restore your overall wellbeing, rekindle your romance or host the wedding or birthday of your dreams, this place is the ultimate tranquil escape that will bring peace to your heart, mind and soul.  On top of that, Banjaran Hotspring Retreat is also equipped with a thermal steam cave, ice bath, geothermally heated swimming pool and luxury spa services for the ultimate zen experience.

Address: 1 Persiaran Lagun Sunway 3, 31150 Ipoh, Perak

Contact Number: +605 210 7777

Prices: Start from RM1300 per night

3. Sea Horizon Resort

Inspired by the culture and architecture of Malay fishermen village, the Sea Horizon Resort embodies the spirit of old seafarers. Tucked away in the serene fishing village of Sedili Besar, this beautiful retreat overlooks the breathtaking South China Sea. This unique space features a variety of rooms but the standout is the Coastal Glamping Suite. The Geodesic Dome comes with an unobstructed view of the sea and can comfortably fit 2-3 people. Each dome has a private bathroom, king bed, adjacent deck and view to die for! Located just 1.5 hrs east of Johor Senai Airport, this resort is can definitely bring you and your inner self closer to nature and serene. 

Address: Lot 901, Kuala Sedili Besar, 81900 Kota Tinggi, Johor

Contact Number: +6012 771 9200

Prices: Start from RM180 per night

4. The Culvert Hotel Resort

One of the most visited retreats in Malaysia, The Culvert is nestled in the dense lush floral environment of Santubong, Kuching. The resort features four different types of eco-friendly room and offers an array of facilities that combines both adventure and relaxation. The hotel is just 45 minutes from Kuching International Airport and is also in the centre of main popular sights in Kuching. In fact, the resort is just 5 mins away from Damai Beach and the Sarawak Cultural Village. Book a stay in The Culvert Resort and go on an epic cultural journey of across Sarawak’s rainforests and rejuvenate your weary soul.

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Address: Lot 285, Off Jalan Sultan Tengah Block 2 Salak Land District Santubong Damai, 93050 Kuching, Sarawak

Contact Number: +6019 889 9925

Prices: Start from RM280 per night

5. Bao Sheng Durian Farm

Planning a visit to Penang anytime soon? Why not consider staying at the Bao Sheng Durian Farm. Established in 1959, this 6.7-acre durian farm produces healthy, high-quality durian that you can enjoy while your stay there. The farm is hidden inside the cliffside and offers a breathtaking view of the mountain. From sunrise to sunset the skyline here is amazing! The resort also features an infinite spring water pool and has a waterfall nearby. The best part is, the resort is located on the island itself so you don’t have to drive far!

Location: 150 Mk2 Sungai Pinang, Balik Pulau, 11000 Penang, Pulau Pinang

Contact Number: +6012 411 0600

Prices: RM280 per night

6. Japalama Boutique Resort

One of the most luxurious retreats in Malaysia, the Japalama has got everything to give you the ultimate sense of relaxation.  Surrounded by 11 acres of lush tropical wilderness, Japamala’s wooden chalets, hillside sarangs and beachside villas mirror the serenity of their surroundings in their design and décor. Each room embodies nature in every sense of the word which is translated in their ‘rustic-luxe’ design. Located in Tioman Island itself, the resort offers a wide range of activities and facilities for you to enjoy. Whether if you are planning a family vacation, romantic getaway with your bae or just to chill with your friends, Japalama is the perfect place!

Address: Kampung Lanting, 26800, Pahang

Contact Number: +09 419 7777

Prices: Start from RM900 per night

7. Sukau Rainforest Lodge 

Voted as one of National Geographic Unique Lodges of the World, Sukau Rainforest Lodge is situated on the majestic Kinabatangan River. It is also one of the first retreats in Malaysia designed in accordance with Malaysian ecotourism principles. Positioned as the gateway to Sabah’s prized wilderness, the lodges have everything to give you the most luxurious experience ever. Stay in one of their 20 well-appointed rooms and you can also take part in any of their activities like star-gazing, wildlife safari and jungle trekking. Overall, this retreat will give you and your family an experience you’ll always remember forever!

Address: Lot 1, Pusat Perindustrian, Kolombong Jaya, Mile 5.5, Jalan Kolombong, 88450 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia

Contact Number: +60 8843 8300 

Prices: Start from RM700 per night

8. Ambong-Ambong Rainforest Retreat

Langkawi is the home some of the best retreats in Malaysia and Ambong-Ambong Rainforest Retreat is one of the hidden gems of the island. Small and strategically located, the resort is actually just a stone throw away from some of the best restaurants and cafes on the island, as well as the calm waters of Tengah beach. Pick your stay in any one of their 11 luxury room and enjoy the breathtaking view of the Andaman Sea. Secluded yet not isolated, Ambong-Amnbong is the perfect getaway to truly enjoy Langkawi while having some peace and quiet time. 

Address: Ambong Ambong Jalan Teluk Baru, Pantai Tengah, 07000 Langkawi, Kedah, Malaysia

Contact Number: +604 955 8428

Prices: Start from RM550 per night

9. The Settlement Hotel

Inspired by old Malay houses, The Settlement Hotel in Malacca si where culture and hospitality meets. Listed as a World UNESCO site, this rustic retreat is only a 5-minute walk from Malacca’s Portuguese Settlement and is also pretty close by to other local attractions like Mahkota Parade, Jonker Street and Hatten Square. The resort itself offers a free shuttle to historical sites and shopping malls in case you don’t want to drive! This contemporary boutique hotel also has a gallery, pool and a cosy garden. Located on the rooftop, Roof Garden will serve light snacks and refreshments as well! 

Address: Jalan Ujong Pasir, Taman Aman, 75050 Melaka

Contact Number: +606 292 1133

Prices: Start from RM128 per night

10. The Sticks

Just 1.5 hour away from Kuala Lumpur, The Sticks is a unique eco-resort tucked away in the rainforests of Kuala Kubu Bharu in Hulu Selangor district. Just getting there feels like a little adventure as you pass across jungle trail, hanging bridge over a shaded and shallow stream. Alternatively, you can also hop on the 4X4 pick-up truck that is used to deliver guests’ luggage to the resort. Upon arriving, you will be transported to a unique wooden experience amidst the unpredictability of nature. You can also feast on scrumptious home-cooked food under the stars and take a long lazy nap in your tendok afterwards. 

Address: Lot 213 Jalan KKB – Fraser’s Hill, 44000 Kuala Kubu Baru, Selangor 

Prices: Start from RM205 per night

11. Sekeping Tenggiri

Last but not least in our best hidden retreats in Malaysia list is Sekeping Tenggiri. Located in Kuala Lumpur, this intimate and relaxing getaway guesthouse is perfect for a staycation. The moment you enter this green retreat located in Bangsar, you would immediately be transported to the likes of Bali or Philippines (honestly wouldn’t feel like you are in KL anymore). Set on a leafy property, this contemporary guesthouse features 7 minimalist rooms with brick and concrete walls. Each room has Wi-Fi and open-air bathrooms. There’s also a serene garden with a swimming pool that you can dip in!

Address: No. 48, Off Kuala Lumpur, Jalan Tenggiri, 59100 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur

Contact Number: +6017 207 5977

Prices: Start from RM220 per night