Sometimes, we’ve just got to take a break from hectic metropolitan life and retreat to a serene getaway, not far from home. The best options for frazzled Klang Valley folks, in our opinion, are the top nature retreats near Ipoh, Perak. Surprised? Well, you shouldn’t be!
Despite being one of Malaysia’s largest cities and just a stone’s-throw away from Greater Kuala Lumpur, Ipoh is surrounded by untouched greenery which is caressed by cooling breezes – making it a great spot for nature resorts. And one of the stars of the beloved getaway destination is The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat.
Nestled in a 22.7-acre valley, and surrounded by a 260-million-year-old rainforest, soaring limestone peaks and hidden caves, The Banjaran is an extraordinary place to relax, refresh and reconnect with the world. Recently, The Banjaran – Sunway’s five-star sanctuary in Malaysia – unveiled its new Royal Banjaran Villa, a breathtaking private residence that immerses guests in a world of tropical luxury and tranquility amid the lush rainforest and healing waters of Ipoh.
For centuries, local people have understood the therapeutic benefits of the mineral-rich waters, which flow through the mountains and are purified by the prehistoric limestone rocks. Bathing in the geothermal pools can help to revitalize the skin, improve circulation, reduce stress and even ease pain in the body. The Banjaran harnesses this ancient wisdom to help every guest achieve complete wellbeing.
Now, guests can blend these natural health benefits with the highest levels of luxury at the Royal Villa, a magnificent 355sqm villa representing the pinnacle of premium hospitality in Ipoh, and a potential stage for life’s most important occasions, including family vacations, heavenly honeymoons and extraordinary events.
After being escorted through the villa’s grand gateway and personally checked-in at the entrance foyer amid exotic gardens, guests are greeted with Champagne and canapés for an indulgent first impression. Throughout their stay, visitors can relax in a naturally-lit living space, with two spacious bedrooms fitted with plush beds, premium linens, pillow menus and en suite bathrooms with “his and hers” vanity areas, intelligent Japanese toilets, outdoor showers and warm geothermal hot spring whirlpool – the ultimate eco wellness experience.
The bright and inviting interiors are fully equipped with comfy sofas, a large dining area and state-of-the-art technology, including Nespresso Barista coffee machines, Bose sound systems, high-speed Wi-Fi and more. Stepping out into the sun-kissed outdoor courtyard, guests can slide into their private pool or unwind on the sundeck with designer Italian outdoor furniture. The pantry kitchen allows a personal chef to create exclusive culinary evenings, from outdoor family barbecues to romantic candlelit dinners. Every traveller who books the Royal Villa will also be treated to afternoon tea and evening cocktails, all served in the peace and privacy of the villa.
For the grandest gatherings, the Royal Villa can connect to two of the resort’s four new Grand Garden Villas to create an awe-inspiring estate with over 1,000sqm of contemporary living space, four bedrooms, multiple hot spring geothermal whirlpools and three swimming pools. This sets The Banjaran apart as one of Malaysia’s most spectacular places to stay, dine, meet and unwind, and one of the most exceptional wellness resorts in the world.
The new Royal Villa joins a curated collection of Grand Garden Villas, Garden Villas, Water Villas and Lake Villas, each of which features its own geothermal hot tub, allowing every guest to be immersed in the natural, healing qualities of Ipoh’s ancient hills.
Ipoh’s pure hot springs underpin the resort’s concept of physical, mental and spiritual rejuvenation. The Spa & Wellness Centre presents authentic Asian therapies, Ayurvedic treatments and other unique elements, such as the Thermal Steam Cave, Ice Bath, Crystal Cave, Meditation Cave, Garra Rufa Pool and Geothermal Hot Spring Dipping Pools. A fitness centre allows visitors to stay in shape and the outdoor swimming pool is the perfect place to cool off. Beyond the spa, expert-guided jungle walks will introduce the region’s rich local flora and fauna.
As for foodies, Jeff’s Cellar, the multi-award-winning signature restaurant, is set in the softly-illuminated chamber of a limestone cave, while Pomelo is an elegant all-day dining destination with indoor and alfresco seating, perched over rippling ponds. Led by Ipoh-born Chef Lee Choon Boon, the resort specialises in farm-to-table produce, using ingredients sourced from 100 sqm of organic gardens. As the sun sets, the Star Deck features its own telescope for stargazing and cocktails.
If you’re looking to embark on a journey close to nature, The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat is the place to be. It’s just a two-hour drive from Kuala Lumpur and KLIA, making it an outstanding option for local and international travellers alike.
For more details on The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat, visit their website.
