Borneo Rainforest Lodge

Just thirty minutes from Kota Kinabalu, this scenic resort is nestled in on a secluded bay with fine white sands on its doorstep and an ancient verdant jungle for its backdrop. With its 48 timbered villas, high quality service and picturesque backdrop, this is the ultimate heavenly hideaway. The hand-crafted villas unite traditional Borneo design with modern-day comforts, ensuring every your every need is met. Private balconies offer beach views, while the larger accommodations boast wraparound decks alongside personal plunge pools. Dining here consists of the contemporary European bistro, Koi, the relaxed, oceanfront Pantai Grill and the atmospheric Wine Cave. Leisure is also well catered for with the use of Solace Spa at sister and nearby property, Gayana Eco Resort, alongside a long list of exciting activities from kayaking to jungle trekking.

Ten minutes out of the city centre, Villa Samadhi sits in one of Kuala Lumpur’s more tranquil and affluent neighbourhoods. Beautiful Asian antiques and a luxury, ethnic Malay style mix to make this a genuine sanctuary amid one of the busiest cities in Asia. The spacious and lavish guestrooms boast an array of luxurious features, with large beds, walk-in wardrobes, oversized plunge tubs and private balconies. Besides these grand, contemporary pieces, exquisite Asian antiquities dot the rooms, adding cultural elements to the decor. All ground floor guestrooms are based beside the lagoon pool; this cool spot is the perfect place to unwind and while away the day. Dining is also taken care of at Villa Samadhi with Mandi-Mandi, the all-day dining room which serves up delicious cuisine exclusively for guests.

The secluded and glamorous villas feature private verandas, staggering views, naturally stylish Asian design, alongside every amenity you could ever want. The open-air Pavilion serves delicious Thai fare in a raised forest environment, while those craving authentic Malaysian or Indian food should head to the award-winning Gulai House. Professional experts are on hand at the Spa to pamper you with decadent and soothing treatments, such as Warm Stone and Balinese massages, while tours through the rainforest and ocean ensure your adventurous appetites are also catered for. Sporting activities are well provided for here with an exclusive 18 hole championship golf course, two tennis courts, two swimming pools plus a health club.

The densely forested Gaya Island sits just off Borneo’s coastline and the Gayana Marine Resort is one of the best places to stay here. The environmentally conscious resort boasts 52 sumptuous villas which not only sit out on the water but command views of the impressive Mount Kinabalu. The villas combines neat local style with an array of modern comforts. The dining options consist of Alu Alu Seafood, Macac Restaurant and Latitude Lounge where healthy, fresh and delicious dishes make up the menus. You can choose to dine here or within the comfort of your own private deck. Gayana also has a good spa but if you want to get active however, this beautiful resort also provides lots to get involved with. Just some of the activities include discovering the ocean’s vibrant gems whist snorkelling, to playing marine biologist for the day at the on-site Marine Ecology Research Centre.