Located in Ipoh City, Malaysia, about two hours from Kuala Lumpur, The Banjaran is set in a valley surrounded by limestone hills and lush greenery. The property features geothermal hot springs, caves, and waterfalls, and you’ll be hard pressed to decide if you want to wander the grounds, enjoy a geothermal or cave treatment, or relax in your villa.
The all villa property features two options – Garden and Water Villas – with the Garden Villas the larger of the two options. Both villa types feature the same level of amenities and services, it’s merely a matter of a location on the grounds. Villas are spread throughout the property, and while there are no cars allowed on the property, the paved pathways can accommodate the resort golf carts available to take you around the grounds. But since you’re here for a health and wellness getaway, take advantage of the beautiful grounds and walk around, get some exercise, and enjoy the fresh air.
Each villa features an open air living room, with one side of the room opening out onto a private pool, patio, and lounging area. Adjacent to the patio area is geothermal jacuzzi and an outdoor shower. I found that I enjoyed my morning shower outdoors, rather than merely using it to rinse off after a swim. The villa’s sound system lets you enjoy the music library from anywhere in the villa, without disturbing other guests, creating a aura of tranquility both indoors and out. The master bedroom suite features 7-foot king sized beds, aromatherapy products, with butler and nightly turn down service is provided.
With so many amenities offered in your villa, you may find it hard to leave, but a stay at The Banjaran comes with complimentary breakfast and use of the resort’s caves, pools, and other special features.
Breakfast is offered in Pomelo, an indoor/outdoor casual restaurant open for breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner. Menus change monthly, with plenty of flavorful selections, yet always keeping an eye on healthy ingredients and preparation. Try one of their specialty fruit juices, blending together options that you may never have thought of.
Jeff’s Cellar is open for dinner, and is set in a dark and damp limestone cave, beautifully lit and decorated to create a surprisingly romantic atmosphere. You can opt to have dinner at Jeff’s or enjoy a glass of wine from a rare and unusal collection, and I recommend stopping by at least once during your stay. This is also the only place on property serving alcohol (wine only). Reservations are recommended as it is open limited hours daily.
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A big reason to stay at The Banjaran is to escape your every day routine and incorporate some healthy behaviors into your day. In addition to the geothermal pool in your villa, you’ll find a geothermal lake, with partitioned soaking tubs located around the perimeter. You can also enjoy healthy times in the various caves: thermal steam cave, meditation cave, and crystal cave, each offering their own special relaxation and healing properties. Jolt your circulation with an ice bath, banish your dead skin at the fish pool, or get in some laps at the naturally heated, free-form swimming pool. If you don’t want to break from your usual workout routine, a fitness center is available for use.
The spa and wellness center offers holistic Asian treatments and therapies, along with structured wellness programs, for an additional charge.
The Banjaran is located at No 1, Persiaran Lagun Sunway 3, Sunway City Ipoh, Malaysia. Rates start around $425 per night, including breakfast, with a variety of value added packages available. Children under 12 are not permitted. You can book directly online with The Banjaran or compare rates and make reservations through one of the online booking services such as agoda.com or Expedia.
Note: If you can’t relax and get into the treatments, complimentary wifi is available.
