|
The great diversity of Malaysia's attractions includes several hill resorts that are located on the main mountain range of the Peninsular and in Sabah and Sarawak on the island of Borneo. Each of them possess their own unique charms, ranging from the relatively unspoilt retreat of Bukit Larut to the glitzy hill resort of Genting Highlands with its exciting theme park, casino and sophisticated nightlife. For the adventurous,
Mount Kinabalu, with its looming granite massifs, represents the ultimate challenge, while Fraser's Hill and Cameron Highlands with numerous jungle trails, English cottages and gardens will appeal to those inclined towards gentler pursuits.
Whatever one's choice, the jungle clad hills with an average temperature of 16-21 degrees Celsius offer a cool, refreshing getaway from the cities. Here ancient pine trees fringe hauntingly beautiful peaks enshrouded in swirls of mist; delicate ferns heavy with crystals of dew glisten like filigree silver; and temperate flowers in striking shades of colors invite gasps of admiration. Whether you are going for a day excursion or an extended stay,
you will discover a holiday in Malaysia's hill resorts to be an invigorating and pleasantly soothing experience.
Genting Highlands
Genting Highlands, only fifty kilometers from Kuala Lumpur, is the most developed hill resort in Malaysia. At 2,000 meters above sea level, it offers a cool respite from Malaysia's capital city combined with all of the excitement, luxury, and entertainment of an international resort destination. In fact, many Malaysian people head for Genting Highlands specifically for its nightlife. There are international dinner shows and discos, while the world-class Casino de Genting offers Blackjack, Baccarat, Keno, French Bull, Roulette, Tai Sai and slot machines.
The resort also includes two theme parks, both with dozens of amusement rides and attractions suitable for the entire family. In addition, the Awana horse ranch offers equestrian activities, rides for children and lessons for beginners. For golfers, the Awana Golf and Country Resort offers a challenging 18-hole, par-71 golf course.
Accommodation includes the Genting Hotel, the Theme Park Hotel, the Resort Hotel, and the Awana Golf and Country Resort.
Genting Highlands can be reached from Kuala Lumpur via the faster Karak Highway or the slower old Pahang Road (Route 68). The latter passes by Mimaland, which may be a good place to stop by before proceeding to Genting Highlands. The Genting Express Bus leaves every hour from the Puduraya Bus Station in Kuala Lumpur.
Cameron Highlands
Cameron Highlands is the largest and most genteel of the hill resorts in Malaysia, located in Pahang's northwestern corner, at an altitude of 1,829meters. The temperate climate of the Cameron Highlands has made it Malaysia's 'Green Bowl,' supplying cabbages, tomatoes, carrots, green peppers and lettuce to major cities in Malaysia as well as to Singapore. Tea and strawberries are also grown on the terraced slopes of the Cameron Highlands, and the area possesses notable rose gardens as well.
Much of the character of the Cameron Highlands has remained unchanged since colonial times, and in many ways it is at hill stations like the Cameron Highlands that British residents most determinedly recreated an idyllic English environment
The primary activities in the Cameron Highlands are all emphatically relaxing: touring, dining, shopping, and golfing. Among the most popular sights are the area's tea plantations and strawberry farms, its lovely rose gardens and waterfalls, and the busy market square at Brinchang
Driving up to Cameron Highlands is a pleasure in itself, as many interesting stops along the way can be made. From Tapah take Route 59. At Batu 7, you can turn off right to take a short break at the Kuala Woh Forest Recreation Park. There are picnic areas and a hot spring.
|