Here in Sabah, no matter what you’re looking for—be it a jungle experience, a beach vacation or a country escapade—there are plenty to choose from.
Here are a handful of options to consider the next time you’re planning a family holiday:
1. Kiram’s Village Cabin, Mesilau Kundasang
With its spring-like weather all year round and tranquil surrounding, Kundasang is a perfect place to visit for a respite from the busy city life and the scorching tropical heat. With six quaint wooden cabins named after vegetables and fruit—Broccoli, Carrot, Chili & Onion, Celery & Tomato, Cabbage and Strawberry — Kiram’s Village Cabin can accommodate both large families and small ones.
The cabins are all equipped with basic holiday necessities such as kitchen utensils, BBQ pits and even cable TV. Apart from that, the rates offered are also very reasonable. Excellent for a budget-friendly fun-filled family holiday!
For more info and reservations, contact +6016-6950057 or email jamalulk @ gmail.com. Check rates and availability here.
2. Sepilok Jungle Resort, Sandakan
Dreaming of a tropical holiday with your family in a place surrounded by lush greenery and wildlife? Pack your bag as we’re going to Sepilok.
Famous for its ‘wild man of Borneo’, Sepilok attracts many tourists each year who are drawn by the endearing antics of the orang utan.
While you’re here, you can opt to stay at the Sepilok Jungle Resort and enjoy the best of Sabah’s tropical jungle.
In addition to reasonable rates, Sepilok Jungle Resort is also equipped with cozy cafes, swimming pools, convention halls, restaurants, a gym and a camping site for you and your clan to do a myriad of exciting activities.
For more info and reservations, contact Sepilok Jungle Resort at +60-89-533031 / 041 / 051, or read honest customer feedback here.
3. Hibiscus Villa, Kudat
For a more luxurious family holiday like that of a high class celebrity, the only place to be is Hibiscus Villa in Kudat.
Perched on a sprawling 2.5-acre tropical garden, the villa overlooks a stretch of white sandy beach, topped with the clear azure waters of the South China Sea. A beautifully designed Balinese architecture masterpiece, it is equipped with an 18-meter long infinity pool, a leisure area with cable TV and a tasteful assortment of DVDs and books, four bedrooms and two gazebos for you and your family to chill out or have a garden barbecue at. The villa also offers laundry and maid services for its guests.
For more info, contact James and Sarah Burns at +60 19 8950704 / +60 19 8406871 or email info @ hibiscusvillaborneo.com. Visit their website at www.hibiscusvillaborneo.com.
4. Maranjak Longhouse Lodge, Matunggong
If you’re planning on a fun and educational family vacation, why not participate in a homestay program?
Located in Kampung Bavanggazo, Matunggong—40 kilometers from Kudat town—Maranjak Longhouse Lodge (formerly known as Maranjak Homestay) provides a cultural exposure into the life of the Rungus people, the indigenous people of Kudat, who still live in bamboo-made longhouses.
Book a stay for the rest of the family and get a taste of Rungus delicacies, explore the verdant Kudat surroundings, learn to make traditional handicrafts and participate in numerous interesting activities together with the locals. It will provide your kids with a chance to meet to friends too.
For more info, contact Maranjak Longhouse Lodge at telephone number +6088-622524, fax to +6088-611513, or email info @ maranjaklonghouselodge.com or maranjaklonghouse @ gmail.com. Visit the website at www.maranjaklonghouselodge.com.
5. Magic Mountain Country Home, Kundasang
Located at a private property within the Mount Kinabalu Golf Club is the Magic Mountain Country Home. Offering only two bedrooms, this bed and breakfast place is targeted to individuals or small families who are looking for a quiet getaway to enjoy nature and good food.
Be prepared to be blown away by the gastronomic experience at Magic Mountain as they put top priority in preparing deliciously healthy meals using all-natural and fresh ingredients.
Interested to try something a little bit different? Sign up for a cooking demonstration for the whole family and discover a whole new culinary experience.
For more info, contact Magic Mountain Country Home at telephone numberv+ (60)19-821 4338 (Lily) / + (60) 16 826 3517(Peter) or email info @ sabahbb.com. Visit the website at www.sabahbb.com.
6. Langkah Syabas Beach Resort, Kinarut
Less than 30 minutes away from the city centre of Kota Kinabalu lies the idyllic Langkah Syabas Beach Resort which offers a wonderful beach vacation destination for a family retreat. Play sandcastle games with the kids or simply laze by the poolside with a good book, either way is fun.
When the kids are already tucked in bed, you and your partner might want to enjoy a glass of wine or two, complemented with the resort’s homemade cheese.
On Sunday, gather the whole family for a sumptuous Sunday roast buffet lunch and savour hearty servings of traditional roasts, Yorkshire pudding and baked potatoes.
For more info, contact Langkah Syabas Beach Resort at telephone number +6088-752000 or email info @ langkahsyabas.com.my. What do customers think about Langkah Syabah, read review here.
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Guest post by: Nova Renata
Nova Renata is a freelance writer and editor based in Kota Kinabalu, Sabah. When not writing at her desk, she will be cuddling her cat, clocking some miles or rolling on the mats. She aspires to be a best-selling author with solid six pack abs one day. Read Nova’s blog at novarenata.tumblr.com
Image credits: trav.com, hibiscusvillaborneo.com, mount-kinabalu-borneo.com,blog.travelpod.com
