The most luxurious hotel in the Highlands, the Cameron Highlands Resort has been developed from a 1930s tea plantation. As such, it has a distinct Colonial British flavour, and is supremely old school. It's all very afternoon tea, slightly formal, and calls for a soft piano soundtrack...
The facade is a mixture of different periods, both original and various successive renovations, but in places it still pays effective homage to its pre-war heritage. Acres of dark wood line the walls and there are comfy soft furnishings everywhere, ideal for taking the load off your feet. Rooms are large with polished, warm wood floors. It definitely feels like a hotel, rather than a boutique, but with a level of intimacy that feels welcome after the hustle of KL. The crisper air of the region means there’s no pool, but golfers can play a good 18 holes just across the road.
3 hours north of Kuala Lumpur, close to the town of Tanah Rata, this elegant heritage hotel overlooks manicured gardens towards the densely forested hillside beyond.
Nostalgic restaurant & elegant bar
18 hole golf course
Full service spa
Hill walking
The staff were very friendly and it really was a very nice place to stay. The restaurant was beyond our expectations. I was especially happy to arrive there after the bustle of KL.
Discover what to expect from staying at Cameron Highlands Resort
Despite their controversial origins, there’s no doubt about the beauty of many of Asia’s colonial-era buildings, and some of them have been refurbished into very lavish hotels. We’ve been including the Cameron Highlands Resort in our itineraries for many years, and though it may not quite be at the top of Asia’s ‘old-world luxury’ pile, it’s certainly the most deluxe property in the region and a wonderful place to arrive at. Both the tea hills location and the resort’s history provide a fitting background to afternoon high tea on the lawn, where it all seems to slot into place.
For golfers, the allure of the golf course may be too much to pass by, and the extensive spa treatments are very tempting. Indulge in a mystery trail into the jungle with a guide, and explore the fields of Boh tea plantations, a short drive away from the property, before stopping for refreshments at the lovely little cafe atop the hill.
The food at the resort is generally very good, with European dishes served in an Asian fusion style. If you’re hankering after something a little more local, in the nearby town of Tanah Rata (5 mins away by car) you can find some seriously delicious street food.