There’s nothing quite like an island getaway - and you don’t get much more idyllic than Langkawi, an archipelago of 99 islands off Malaysia’s northwest coast. A 60-minute hop by seaplane from the capital, Kuala Lumpur, this place is ripe for relaxation.
The Place To Stay
****Want to really push the boat out? Then you can’t go wrong with the utterly luxurious Four Seasons. An oasis of calm with miles of beach, elegant spa and dramatic cliffs as a backdrop, it’s no surprise this five-star resort is the cream of the crop.
If you like a spacious room, you’re certainly in the right place. The resort has sixty-eight Melaleuca Pavilions, each with a huge king size bed, gigantisorous bathroom, and not forgetting the highlight: an outdoor bath so you can soak under the stars.
All Pavilions in the Malay-inspired ‘village’ are beautifully decorated with details that hint at the Arabic, Asian and Indian cultures of Malaysia’s melting pot. Families are welcome too - the resort offers ten beach houses, which include a play room and three - yes, THREE! - swimming pools each.
What To Eat
This place has got every taste bud covered. From an authentic Malay meal at Ikan-Ikan to a ‘Viva Italia’ themed night at Serai Restaurant, you’re spoilt for choice. Kelapa Grill is the top choice for fish-lovers, serving the most succulent seafood as well as wood-fired pizzas. Oh, and don’t forget to start your evening with sunset cocktails at the Middle Eastern-inspired Rhu Bar.
If you want something more intimate, then head to the beach for a romantic dinner. Nothing has quite lived up to our evening spent eating lobster alongside the waves before toasting marshmallows over a moonlit bonfire. Bliss.
What To Do
Langkawi is Southeast Asia’s first Geopark so there’s a huge focus on the resort’s ecological wonderland. The resident Naturalist is on hand to show you the mountainous rainforest and take you on a boat tour through tangled mangroves, perfect for spotting eagles and cheeky macaques.
If you’re looking for something more exhilarating, grab the Langkawi Cable Car up to the summit of Mount Machincang. The view of the island - rainforest and all - is truly spectacular. There’s also rock climbing, abseiling and archery for more adventurous Katniss types as well as a water sports centre where you can hire kayaks and Hobie Cats.
Tip: it’s a short boat ride from Langkawi to Koh Lipe where you’ll find sandy white beaches, crystal clear turquoise waters and a trillion brightly-coloured fish. Grab your snorkelling equipment - it’s definitely worth the trip.
A special shout-out must go to the Geo Spa. Think floating pavilions, a beauty salon and the calming smell of rosehips. And reeeeelax. I tried the Biorhythms treatment aimed at ‘awakening your cosmic energy’, which included a body scrub, mud wrap and face massage. Whatever it did, it felt good. Really good.
Visit Four Seasons Langkawi for more information...