10 Large villas/retreats in cool weather near KL for your weekend staycation with family and friends (3 BR, with 6-10 pax)!

Written by Veyroniqa 

Thinking of where to chill (literally) for the weekend out of town? If you are staying in Kuala Lumpur, you know pretty much how it goes – cafe-hopping, food-hunting, shopping, going to the movies… basically anywhere indoors where you can escape the heat and humidity of the tropical city.

If you are bored of the concrete jungle and really want to venture outdoors (but not die in the heat), there are little pockets of paradise in the rainforests and chilly highlands not far from KL where you can enjoy some good ol’ bonding time with your friends and family (yes the entire bunch!). And we are not just referring to Genting or Cameron Highlands!

These often-overlooked retreats (which can stay at least 6 pax with 3 bedrooms) are less than a 3-hour drive from KL so buckle up – we’re going to show you a whole new world!

1. Secret retreat in the highlands – Enderong Resort (1 hour from KL)

A popular wedding destination, Enderong Resort is nothing short of picturesque. Paired with the cool and crisp air, you might forget that you are still in Malaysia.

Take a nature walk around the compound and try your hand at archery, feed the friendly fishes down at the pond or simply go for a refreshing dip in their pool.

You might find that your cellular service is oftentimes weak, but why waste time on your phone when you are surrounded by spectacular views and people? 😉

The cafe is open to the public, so if you’re planning to swing by, make sure to try their Italian and Japanese fusion cuisine.

Note: This stay is not very accessible for the disabled or less athletic as you’ll need to climb a lot of stairs to get to the resort. 

2. Glamp in pretty domes with fairy lights under the stars – Glamz (1 hour from KL)

Have you always wanted to sleep under the stars but comfortably? Glamping is the answer – and what’s more, in an Instagrammable dome!

Despite being located only half an hour from Genting Highlands, the domes might get warm and stuffy in the afternoons, but with the air conditioning, this is no longer a problem. It gets chillier at night so make sure you pack your jackets and warmer PJs!

You get to enjoy the sauna, jacuzzi and kids will love the inflatable playground! The best part about glamping is that each tent comes with its own plumbing and toilet, so you don’t have to worry about showering in a public stall.

Breakfast is included for all but there’s extra charges if you want to get a BBQ going — just make sure you let them know if you need a halal pit and they’ll sort you out. 🙂

3. The perfect big-group getaway, complete with karaoke set! – Rafflesia Villa @ Rainforest Sanctuary (45 minutes from KL)

Complete with its own private pool, this highland stay has it all: foosball, pool, mahjong, BBQ and even its very own karaoke set.

Less than an hour away from central KL, it’s near enough for friends and family to gather for special occasions and spend quality time together, yet away from the city sounds and vibes so you can truly relax, reconnect with one another and be surrounded by nature.

With the views at this mansion, how can you not put down your worries and enjoy the therapeutic sounds of the forest?

P.S. Rainforest Sanctuary has other similar properties in the same compound area too, so if this one is sold out, you have other IG-worthy options!

4. Take a road trip to Taiping and find a different kind of paradise – Meow Homestay at Bukit Larut Hill (3 hours from KL)

Most people travel to Taiping for its attractions, such as the Taiping Lake Gardens or Maxwell Hill (where you’ll find cool breezes). But if you don’t want to follow the masses, why not chill out at this stay?

While not exactly a highland escape, the air here is quite refreshing. Take a peaceful stroll with your loved ones in the beautifully landscaped backyard, where you can enjoy fishing and boating at the pond too.

The space itself is simple but tastefully decorated. Kids would love the treehouse outback, where they have the freedom to climb around and learn about nature hands-on!

5. Infinity pool with jacuzzi and view of limestone cliffs – Templer Park Rainforest Retreat (30 minutes from KL)

Templer Park Rainforest Retreat offers bungalows where you and your friends and family can enjoy a peaceful weekend soaking in the much-needed green therapy and catching up with one another.

The place is rather refreshing during the dry season but it might get a little humid when it rains. But you can always cool off with a dip in their infinity pool with jacuzzi and a view of the limestone cliffs! There’s an outdoor sauna too. And if you’re coming with the active little ones, they will surely go for the trampoline – this will surely drain their hyper energy!

Located within a gated community, you can rest easy here (but note that it’s not wheelchair accessible). As this is a forest stay, there’s inevitably mosquitoes, so just remember to bring along your insect repellent and all will be good! 🙂

Come dinner time, you’ll find that everything’s fully stocked and prepped. You can get the grill going with the firestarters they’ve prepared, have a steamboat or cook in the kitchen. But if you don’t feel like making dinner for yourself, there’s always the option of eating out as the stay is relatively near town (the nearest Tesco is only 8 minutes’ drive away!)

Note: Guests with visitors who do not stay for the night will be charged an additional RM50 per pax. No pork is allowed on the premises. 

6. Play with farm animals at this Kampung-style retreat – Carpe Diem Orchard House (50 minutes from KL)

With neither wifi nor TV here, you’ll be forced to disconnect! 😉

Time to tear yourself away from screens and participate in an array of outdoor activities, such as fruit picking! Subject to season, you can pick as much as you can eat, under the caretaker’s supervision.

The pool looks private but it’s actually open to all Carpe Diem guests so don’t be shy and jump right in! You’ll enjoy the blissful cold after strolling along their grounds filled with farm animals, or after a round of fishing (rods provided, but strictly catch-and-release only). If you’re lucky, you might even see ducklings or chicks hatching!

7. Your Instagrammable stay with private infinity pool – Daun Retreats (45 minutes from KL)

This jungle stay might not be as cold as those in the highlands, but it is definitely cool in the ways that matter.

For intimate gatherings of 6, you want to take the Kasturi Cabin – a beautiful villa that comes with its own private infinity pool. The decor is both rustic and charming – everything is well-integrated with nature. BBQ pit is also provided, along with charcoal and starters.

If you have a group of 10, you might want to check out Gerimis Senja Villa. Or if your party’s hitting the 20s, Norehan’s Place is the one for you.

Note: Daytrippers (non-staying guests) are not permitted and you might forfeit your deposit if you try to sneak your friends in!

8. Solar-powered and with their very own chemical-free water filtration system  – The Plantation Project (1.5 hours from KL)

Wanna go on a holiday but contribute to saving the planet at the same time? This vacation home is powered by solar energy and has its own chemical-free water filters!

Due to the solar power, electricity is turned off automatically around midnight. So if you’re hoping for late-night pillow talks, you might want to bring along your own torchlights (which would be useful when going to the washroom at night).

This also means no wifi, heater nor fridge. They’ve prepared ice boxes but you’ll have to bring your own ice.

While it’s not a highland stay, you won’t even notice the sun overhead due to the dense trees and mountains around here. And it’s cool enough you won’t even need a fan, even though it’s provided. With their open-concept bedrooms, you’ll really be able to bond with each other and fall asleep together after all the htht (heart-to-heart talks)!

9. Rustic charm – Rumah Kebun (30 minutes from KL)

If we have to describe a stay as je ne sais quois, we’d say this is it.

Rumah Kebun has a certain special rustic charm, with the cerulean pool framed by the cottage perched above, surrounded by a lush forest landscape. It almost has a sort of magical touch to it; you won’t want to leave. Although there’s no air conditioning, it’s cool enough at night so you won’t need it!

They also run a camping ground for those of you who want to be closer to nature!

TripCanvas Tip: You can request for the caretaker to get both the BBQ and bonfire going for you, just don’t forget your marshmallows!

Note: Alcohol and pork are prohibited on the premises. 

10. Rustic huts in the cool hills of Janda Baik — Chengal Hill Retreat (1 hour 15 minutes from KL)

Janda Baik boasts of cool temperatures less than 1.5 hours’ drive from KL city centre, with a handful of unique luxury stays. For big families and groups, Chengal Hill Retreat is the perfect choice.

You can choose between the Water Chalet (hidden by the trees with semi-open bathrooms), Dorm Style Chalet or Prime Chalet. There are also super cute Apachis that can sleep two per unit (with external shared bathrooms).

Go swimming in the fish pond or have a picnic under the trees (just come equipped with insect repellent!). And if you’re here with outdoorsy teens, they would love activities such as ATV, archery, 4×4 ride, jungle trekking and cycling, which are provided at an additional cost. Perfect for some family bonding, no?

Also, make sure you bring your own food (no pork or alcohol allowed) for the grill because you won’t find any restaurants in the area. Charcoal provided 😉

Special Mentions

1. Chill by the beach with your entire family on the rooftop – The Kasturi (3 hours from KL)

A luxurious beachfront experience, The Kasturi will rejuvenate you and your loved ones. While this is not a highland stay, it provides luxury at such an affordable price that we can’t not recommend it!

The Rooftop Penthouse overlooks the South China Sea, comes fitted with an expansive balcony and bathtubs, and can house up to 6 people – perfect for a group vacation. (Please note that this stay is not wheelchair accessible.)

Situated at the base of Cherating, you can go for their famous firefly tour or visit the resort’s private turtle hatchery (note: hatching season is between April and October).

A free one-way airport transfer can also be arranged and you will be welcomed with a fruit basket when you arrive.

2. An eco resort with mini zoo and activities for kids! – The Acres Resort (1 hour from KL)

This cool highland stay would have been at the top of our list, if not for its steep price tag. But given what you pay for, it’s still a good deal, especially when you are looking for quality.

With breakfast and dinner included, along with a whole slew of free amenities and facilities such as the KTV room, kids’ playroom, mini zoo, free bikes for hire… It’s well worth the splurge, especially if you have young kids as the resort is very kids-friendly.

Wander around and explore the resort (there’s a waterfall nearby!) and say hi to the furry friends (horses and bunnies) that share the area.

This retreat is also just a 5-minute drive from Bukit Tinggi, where you can visit a French-inspired town!

3. A self-contained paradise with more than you could want – The Chateau Spa & Wellness Retreat (1 hour from KL)

Step in here and you’ll be instantly transported to 18th Century France!

This highland stay has everything from horse-riding trails, an adventure park, an organic farm, a rabbit park and a golf course.

The Japanese Village is one of their main highlights, especially the tea house and botanical gardens.

Rent a kimono and take a leisurely stroll (and many Instagrammable photos!) around the grounds or go for a tatami massage.

Breakfast is included, but be warned that food is not their strong suit.

Start planning your weekend getaway so you can rest and recharge! Which is your favorite stay? Let us know in the comments below and tag your friends and family! 😉

PLEASE NOTE: All the above information is correct at the date of publication. If you come across any changes or updates, please let us know and we will update the information accordingly. Thank you! Tell us

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