Those looking for a quiet vacation on a gorgeous tropical island should look no further than The Datai Langkawi. This 5-star Malaysian resort is a favourite with celebrities, honeymooners and those who can afford to escape the real world, at least for a little while. Surrounded by rainforest and overlooking its own secluded white sandy beach, the Datai is an idyllic haven of tranquillity.
Set on the duty-free Malaysian island of Langkawi, the Datai is a beautiful place to swim in the blue waters of Datai Bay, play a round of golf, sunbathe on the pool terrace, relax in the spa or do absolutely nothing at all.
Accommodation at this luxury eco-resort is in comfortable suites and villas with beach or rainforest views.
All guest rooms have well-planned private outdoor space for relaxing, acres of marble in the bathroom, a comfortable sitting area with oversized daybed, Lavazza coffee maker and all the technological wizardry you could wish for. Families may prefer a stilted villa, which showcases floor-to-ceiling hardwood. Crisp white linens and quality Balinese-style furnishings create a cocoon of pampered luxury. Relax on the shady terrace and listen to the sound of the nearby rainforest stream flowing down to the sea. At night-time, a serenade of crickets and cicadas is a gentle reminder of this extraordinary setting.
If you want to get closer to nature, swap your hectic morning commute for a complimentary nature walk in the company of the Datai’s resident naturalist. As well as learning about medicinal plants, your guide will point out cheeky dusky-leaf monkeys, macaques, lizards, eagles and a host of tropical birds.
A stroll in his company after dark will reveal rare lemurs, flying squirrels, bats and other nocturnal creatures that inhabit this pristine eco-paradise.
Days can be lazily spent at the Beach Club, enjoying watersports or taking a cruise after a champagne buffet breakfast in the dining room. If you can bear to leave this decadent retreat, the island offers upscale shopping at duty-free prices, boat cruises around the nearby islands, a stunning Sky Bridge, snorkelling trips, hikes to waterfalls and a host of watersports.
End the day with a private candlelit dinner beneath the starry sky, or perhaps enjoy authentic Malay cuisine in the traditional Gulai House. Low tables, handwoven mats and organza drapes set the scene for an unforgettable cultural dining experience that’s just another delightful aspect of this rainforest retreat.
The Datai Langkawi – even more amazing
The Datai Langkawi will embark on an extensive renovation project from 4 September 2017, signifying the most substantial enhancement project since its inception over 23 years ago. The hotel will be closed for around 10 months, re-opening mid-2018.
www.thedatai.com/langkawi
