The holiday season is coming soon and most of us are already on vacation mode as we aim to clear off our annual leaves. While most would automatically look to vacationing abroad, there are still so many stunning places in Malaysia which we have yet to visit.

Hence, why not spend your holiday in our country instead and book a luxurious yet still authentically traditional bungalow or villa to treat yourself. Just enjoy the trip with a bunch of friends or family members in a spacious, luxurious abode and consider it a vacation you won’t soon forget. Here are 10 breathtaking places that you can rent for a holiday “staycation” this year-end!

Malacca

1. Home@11

Image Credit: Airbnb
Image Credit: Airbnb
Image Credit: Airbnb
Image Credit: Airbnb

Malacca is known for their historical sites and Jonker Street fare. If you are into villas which preserves its historic qualities, consider Home@11. This villa is strategically located in the heart of the town. With only a 10 minute drive away from the centre of Malacca, you would be able to reach Malacca’s attractions fairly easily. There’s a swimming pool and a jacuzzi that you can chill in for nights when you’re too lazy to head out, and would prefer to stay in instead.

Address: 11, Lorong Laksamana Cheng Ho 5, Malacca.

Website: Home@11

2. Desa Balqis Malacca

Image Credit: letsrestandrelaxinmalaysia.blogspot.my
Image Credit: letsrestandrelaxinmalaysia.blogspot.my
Image Credit: Cheritera Kami
Image Credit: Cheritera Kami
Located in Malacca, Desa Balqis is known for their concept of ‘back-to-nature’ and also of preserving the cultural heritage of Malacca. Desa Balqis is a unique blend between traditional Malay houses and modern living. In fact, the comfy abode would even bring to mind a ‘balik kampung‘ to your grandparents’ kind of feel. There is no air conditioning in this bungalow but the breeze from the nearby beach would suffice.
Address: Desa Balqis, Kampung Bukit Darat, Kuala Lingging, Kuala Sungai Baru, 78200 Masjid Tanah, Malacca.
Website: Desa Balqis
Tel: 03-4022 7728

Negeri Sembilan

3. The Dusun

Image Credit: The Dusun
Image Credit: The Dusun
Image Credit: greatsmallhotels.com
Image Credit: greatsmallhotels.com
The Dusun was once a rural lot in 1984 but slowly, they rebuilt it to make the place the version that it is today. The Dusun is known for its beautiful villa setting in the jungle. This Malay-style home on stilts is called the Berembun house. It has a big carved bench for lazing around in, and there’s even a barbeque pit in this residence for guests to use. The villa is also equipped with daily housekeeping! With a pool outside and a jungle walk leading you to the Berembun Forest Reserve, here’s one way for you to be close to nature again.
Address: The Dusun, 3437, Kampung Kolam Air, Mukim Pantai, 71770 Seremban, Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia
Website: The Dusun
Tel: 013 666 9049

4. The Shorea

Image Credit: MonkeyMedia2u
Image Credit: MonkeyMedia2u
Image Credit: The Shorea
Image Credit: The Shorea

With only a 1.5 hour drive from the city, The Shorea offers you the best place for relaxation and it is also a way for you to be close to nature at the same time. What makes the contemporary wooden villa special is their infinity pool overlooking the forest. You could even map out the jungle trail while you’re chilling in the pool so that you’ll know which route to take while you’re going for a nature walk or jungle trekking to the waterfall.

Address: Village Kolam Air, Mukim Pantai, Jalan Jelebu, 71770 Seremban, Negeri Sembilan

Website: The Shorea
Tel: 017 300 5600 (Roza)

Perak

5. The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat

Image Credit: Lipstiq
Image Credit: Lipstiq
Image Credit: Waynes Retreat
Image Credit: Waynes Retreat

The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat is considered one of the most luxurious places in Malaysia to live at during the holidays. The geothermal hot spring is the main focus of this retreat and what’s more is that you can have your own personal one too! If you are the sort of person who enjoys discovering your inner peace, the meditation cave would be the ideal spot for you. Not only that, they have plenty of other cool features within the villa such as an ice bath, jungle walk, spa, fish therapy and a thermal steam cave. Chances are, you wouldn’t even need to leave this retreat area.

Address:  1 Persiaran Lagun Sunway 3, 31150 Ipoh

Website: The Banjaran Hotsprings Retreat

Tel: 019-990 2680

Kedah

6. Seri Chenang Resort & Spa

Image Credit: Seri Chenang Resort & Spa
Image Credit: Seri Chenang Resort & Spa
Image Credit: Seri Chenang
Image Credit: Seri Chenang Resort & Spa

Seri Chenang Villas is known for their architecture in terms of traditional design and it is also located next to the popular Cenang beach. On top of that, Seri Chenang Villas is a stone’s throw away from some stunning paddy fields and lush tropical gardens which you can pay a visit to. The villa is catered to smaller groups of no more than 6 people and they even provide a personal butler service during your stay! Prepare to be pampered and taken care of while holidaying at Seri Chenang Villas.

Address: Lot 1150, Pantai Chenang, Mukim Kedawang, Langkawi, Malaysia, 07000

Website: Seri Chenang Resort & Spa

7. Pool View Tropical Wooden Villa

Image Credit: Daniel Photography
Image Credit: Daniel Photography
Image Credit: Airbnb
Image Credit: Airbnb

Located in the Langkawi island, this villa still has the unique traditional features it preserves so well. The structure gives the vibe of being in the ‘kampung‘, what with the lush greeneries surrounding it. Perfect for big families or groups of friends, there’s even a pool that you can dip yourselves into during a hot afternoon. Though there aren’t any super snazzy facilities, one thing that you won’t have a shortage of is the amazing sunset views you will have when you lounge on this villa’s spacious verandah.

Address: Jalan Makam Mahsuri, Langkawi, Kedah


Sabah

8. Borneo Villa

Image Credit: Trip Advisor
Image Credit: Trip Advisor
Image Credit: Borneo Beach Villas
Image Credit: Borneo Beach Villas

At the Borneo Beach Villas, there are two villas you can choose from: a Spa Suite where guests can enjoy a personal steam bath and hot tub, or the Pool Villas which comes with a private pool. In every room, you can enjoy the beautiful sunset from the comfort of your own balcony. There’s a seafood restaurant around the corner, as well as a white sandy beach right at your doorstep. What more could you ask of a perfect getaway?

Address: 160, Jalan Selanggar Bar, Karambunai, 88993 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah

Website: Borneo Beach Villa

9. Mabul Water Bungalow

Image Credit: TVOKM
Image Credit: TVOKM
Image Credit: Mabul Water Bungalows
Image Credit: Mabul Water Bungalow
Ever dreamt of staying in a home by the sea and also reside in a place which is suspended several feet above the water? Head over to the Mabul Water Bungalow at Sabah to have your wishes granted! The bungalow is equipped with air conditioning, private bathrooms and a spacious private balcony which gives one full view of the azure blue waters. Ocean lovers and water babies, this is truly a paradise you shouldn’t miss out on. For those who wish to stay connected during their trip, you’d be glad to know that the home is also equipped with WiFi connection.
Address: Lot A-1-G, Block A, Signature Office, KK Times Square, Off Coastal Highway, 88100 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah, Malaysia.

Terengganu

10. Terrapuri

Image Credit: That So Farah
Image Credit: That So Farah
Image Credit: Terrapuri
Image Credit: Terrapuri
Ever wondered what it’s like to live in a fishing village? Terrapuri is definitely a gateway to your dreams. These homes are beautifully restored and still retains the feel of olden day Terengganu. The home is equipped with wooden bathtubs and beautifully-decorated rooms. A swimming pool and sandy beach may be enough for some but at Terrapuri, the Setiu Wetlands Sanctuary is just right around the corner. You’ll be able to enjoy the view of marine turtles and enjoy the fireflies around the mangrove area. This is definitely a place you should tick off your bucket list!
Address: Terrapuri Heritage Village, Kg.Mangkuk, 22120 Setiu, Terengganu
Website: Terrapuri
Tel: 09-6245 020 / 09-6312 081
Feature Image Credit: Mabul Water Bungalow, letsrestandrelaxinmalaysia.blogspot.my, The Dusun
 
 
Also Read
19 scenic islands to explore around M’sia for a relaxing and indulgent vacation

Here's a list of beautiful islands to visit around Malaysia to try fun activities like snorkelling, diving, kayaking, and more.

We will never, ever look at 5-star hotels the same, after our virgin Marina Bay Sands stay

We reviewed Marina Bay Sands' newly renovated luxury rooms, service, and food, and explored the shopping mall and other attractions.

We’re convinced Macao is a must-visit after its fashion, food & culture showcase in S’pore

At The Macao Showcase, Marina Bay Sands, food and fashion SMEs plus parts of Macao's culture were highlighted. Here are some brands we saw.

Looking for your ideal vacay vibe? We’ve matched your star sign to these 26 spots in M’sia.

Based on your zodiac star sign, here are fun local travel ideas to destinations that you can use Malaysia Airlines' flight promo for.

It’s you VS you: How many of these 40 hiking trails in M’sia have you completed?

Here's a list of popular and lesser-known hiking trails in Malaysia that range in difficulty and can be completed in one day, with more info.

If you’re roadtrippin’ around M’sia in 2023, try these 23 Muslim-friendly & aesthetic cafés

Here's a list of interesting and aesthetic Muslim-friendly cafés to try while you explore and cuti-cuti Malaysia in 2023.

Edelweiss is bringing the Alps experience to Genting, here’s how to get a free festival pass

How to get a free ticket to join the Chalet Edelweiss Unwind music festival in Genting Highlands that's happening in October 2022

We walked 6,000+ steps in IOI City Mall Phase 2 to show you what to look forward to

IOI City Mall has opened its phase 2, here's a list of opened stores and what's coming soon in Malaysia's largest shopping mall.