When planning a trip, we tend to centre the journey based on our unique preferences. For foodies, delicious local food plays a big part and for nature lovers, hiking trails and outdoor adventures are the main draw.
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If you're the type of traveller who can't resist staying in places set against a gorgeous backdrop, Sabah is a great destination to begin with! From majestic mountains to the glistening ocean, we give a rundown of some its most scenic accommodations that are sure to take your breath away ?
Note: As of 21 February 2020, the approximate currency exchange rate is GBP100 = SGD181.43 / MYR539.67 / IDR1, 784, 664.41
Disclaimer: All prices shown are based on a search as of 21 February 2020, for booking periods between April and June 2020 and are subject to changes. To get the best deals at an affordable rate, early booking is recommended.
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1. Umea Glam Kundasang
Named after a city in eastern Sweden, Umea Glam Kundasang is a unique glamping accommodation that promises a stay like no other. Spend the night in domed structures that have clear portions and wake up surrounded by a sweeping view of the valley.
Featuring four domes - Narvik, Abisko, Kiruma and Gallivare, each dome is able to accommodate four people and have been meticulously decorated to create a warm, homey feel for guests. While you admire the starry sky, plan a cook-out with your friends and family by renting a portable stove or barbeque pit available on site.
Rate: Starts from RM250 per night
Address: Umea Glam Kundasang, Jalan Golf Course, Mesilau, Kundasang, Sabah, Malaysia.
Contact: All bookings are to be made on their website
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P.S. Want to know more about this one-of-a-kind stay? Read more about Umea Glam Kundasang here.
2. Mountain Valley
Credit: Mountain Valley Resort, Kundasang on Facebook
A stay at Mountain Valley Resort promises you one thing: a breathtaking view of majestic mountains right outside your window. Situated in Bundu Tuhan, a village near Kinabalu Park, and only a 15-minute drive from Kundasang, this charming resort is the ultimate dream for anyone looking to experience a scenic stay in Sabah.
There are 15 guestrooms on site consisting of Family Room, Signature Deluxe Room and Standard Room where you can choose to stay in the Mountain wing (with a view of Mount Kinabalu) or Valley wing (with a view of Bundu Tuhan valley). Enjoy the stunning landscape further by grabbing a seat at The Glass Bistro & Restaurant located right outside the resort's entrance. As you sip on a cup of hot mocha or cappuccino, let the gorgeous scenery charm in you in complete solitude and serenity.
Rate: Starts at RM360 per night (excluding breakfast)
Address: Mountain Valley Resort, Jalan Tenompok Bundu Tuhan, Bundu Tuhan, 89300 Tenompok, Sabah
Contact: +6017 777 6750
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P.S. For a more in-depth look at Mountain Valley Resort, read our full article here.
3. Cabana Retreat
If a view of the beach is more of your calling, then Cabana Retreat is perfect for you! Escape to this seaside spot in Kota Belud and step into your very own private tent that comes with a scenic view of Rampayan Beach. Five types of tents are available here, ranging from Romantic (ideal for couples) and Deluxe Queen (great for groups of four). With each tent fully furnished with soft beds, pillows, fresh lines and quilts, a comfy beach stay awaits you.
With its beachside location, you can also look forward to plenty of fun activities and amenities available. From a poll to various sea sports and excursions such ATV rides, fireflies tour, river cruise tour and a tour of nearby Mantanani Island, you'll be all set for an adventure! Don't forget to check out the Instagram-worthy photo spots too like the 'stairway to heaven'!
Rates: Starting from RM210 per night
Address: Cabana Retreat, Kampung Rampayan Laut, Jalan Kudat, 89150 Kota Belud, Sabah, Malaysia
Contact: +608 897 1522
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4. Bungaraya Island Resort
Credit: Bungaraya Island Resort on Facebook
Experience a slice of paradise at the Bungaraya Island Resort & Spa - a true favourite among locals and foreigners alike. Surrounded by a lush rainforest, this place offers an enchanting and relaxing atmosphere that you and your loved one can fully immerse in.
With 48 timber villas overlooking a beautiful, white-sand beach, choose the Plunge Pool Villa for the perfect hideout with your loved one - this 87 sqm villa faces the sea and has a private balcony along with the plunge pool. Designed with its very own sun deck, chill on the edge of the pool or laze under the Sun while listening to the soothing sounds of nature. Beyond unwinding at this secluded island hideaway, you can also embark on a jungle adventure by going on a trek or ziplining through the forest ?
Rates: Starts from RM1,149 on Agoda
Address: Polish Bay, Gaya Island, Tunku Abdul Rahman Park, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Contact: +608 838 0390
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5. Gayana Marine Resort
Located on a coral-reef island and overlooking Mount Kinabalu, get ready to fall in love with Gayana Marine Resort where you can get the best of both worlds with these stunning views. Boasting a total of 45 overwater tropical villas, this picturesuqe destination offers the perfect balance between a peaceful and exciting retreat.
Experience the scenic waters on another level by snorkelling or diving into it from anywhere around the resort! Besides that, you can also visit the on-site Marine Ecology Research Centre, which protects and regenerates the island's precious marine environment. Said to be the first of its kind on an island resort, you can learn all about the centre's mission and efforts in propagating endangered giant clams and coral reefs.
Rate: Starts from RM1,220 on Agoda
Address: Malohom Bay Pulau Gaya, 88000, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Contact: +608 8380 390
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6. Shangri-la's Rasa Ria Resort & Spa
Credit: Shangri-La's Rasa Ria Resort & Spa on Facebook
Let the soothing breeze from the South China Sea sweep you away when you check into Shangri-la's Rasa Ria Resort & Spa. For couples who are on their romantic getaway, this gorgeous accommodation is definitely right up your alley.
Credit: Shangri-La's Rasa Ria Resort & Spa on Facebook
Aside from the garden view, the Seaview is highly recommended, so you'll wake up to the sound of crashing waves every morning. Since it comes with a private pool, you can sit back, relax and take your own sweet time in enjoying the trip without any disruption.
Rate: Starts from RM1,232 on Agoda
Address: Pantai Dalit Tuaran, 89208 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Contact: +6088 797 888
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7. Sutera Sanctuary Lodges
If your Sabah adventure includes exploring different natural sites and staying at more than one accommodation, a way to guarantee a scenic stay is by choosing Sutera Sanctuary Lodges. As an integration of tranquil retreats, you won't have to worry about whether your next accommodation comes with a view.
Perfectly positioned at the Kinabalu Park, Poring Hot Springs, Manukan Island and Panalaban, the lodges are especially convenient when you're planning your trip to these attractions. So, whether you choose to scale the highest mountain in Malaysia, get a dose of sunshine at the beach, sail out to sea or all of the above, Sutera Sanctuary Lodges is the perfect start and end to your days of exploring Sabah.
Rates: Starts from RM296 on Agoda
Address: B-G-9, Block B, Ground Floor, Sutera Avenue, Lorong Lebuh Sutera, Sembulan, 88100, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia (main office)
Contact: Check out their website for the dif
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8. Borneo Beach Villas
Dreaming of a calm, relaxing view of the beach that'll greet you first thing in the morning? Then, make plans to stay at Borneo Beach Villas where sounds of the ocean its soothing breeze await you.
Rates: Starts from RM189 on Agoda
Address: 163, Pool Villa & Locked Bag 100, Karambunai, 88993 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Contact: +6016 832 9302
9. Palm Beach Resorts & Spa
Relaxing and laid-back, Palm Beach Resort & Spa hits the nail on the head when it comes to scenic views. Perched on the beachfront of Labuan, this resort is located within a few steps from the pristine beach, making it the perfect location for those in search of a place with an amazing scenery.
Have a go at the different water activities they have on the beach like banana boating and canoeing. If you need a break from the sea waters, unwind by the swimming pool and lounge away with a good book. After sunset, enjoy the amenities of the resort's comfortable rooms such as clean beds, air-conditioning and private balcony.
Rates: Starts from RM180 on Agoda
Address: Jalan Batu Manikar, 87014 Labuan, Labuan Federal Territory
Contact: +608 741 8700
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10. Sepilok Nature Resort
Nestled amid abundant greenery, Sepilok Nature Resort is a haven for nature lovers. No matter where you turn, this charming place should be your accommodation of choice for a full-blown nature retreat.
The best part about this resort? There's an Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre that's only a short walk away from the resort! That's right, you'll be able to observe one of the three extant species of great apes native to Indonesia and Malaysia.
Rates: Starts from RM385
Address: Sepilok, 90000 Sandakan, Sabah
Contact: +6089 673 999
No matter which scenic accommodation you choose to stay at, you'll definitely be able to appreciate the beauty that Sabah has to offer