ONE ISLAND, ONE RESORT
The Pangkor Laut Resort is situated on a privately owned island located 1.6km off the West Coast of Malaysia along the Straits of Malacca. This unique island dates back to over 2 millions years ago and is one of the world’s first premier resorts nestling in the shade of forest gaints as old as the land.
The island itself is over 300 acres but only a small portion of it has been developed to house the resort and its nine estates. Wooden buildings blend seamlessly into the forest and there is no other resorts on this island – just secluded bays curled around pristine beaches and a deep sense of serenity reserved exclusively for their guests.
This resort combines natural beauty and age-old wilderness together to produce an environment where peace and memorable moments are being captured.
Our initial plan was to drive from Singapore to Kuala Lumpur, stay over a night and drive up to Lumut. But obviously, that didn’t happen so Mak and I took a flight to Kuala Lumpur instead of driving. Lumut is the nearest town to Pangkor Laut Resort and we were transported by the resort’s privately owned speed boats to the island. The boat ride took about 30 minutes. Lumut is approximately 3 hours’ drive from Kuala Lumpur if you are wondering.
You can find the ferry timings here >
The speed boats are new, clean and comfortable. Possibly the most relaxing boat ride I ever had. I tend to get sea sick if the ride is bumpy but both journeys to and from the island were smooth.
Once we arrived at the island’s jetty, schools of “silver fishes” greeted us. They swim so close to the surface of the ocean and it was a rather beautiful sight.
The staffs were friendly and helpful. We were given a mini tour of the resort, briefing us about their facilities & services, activities and where to have our meals. Some restaurants only serve breakfast and some only serve dinner but overall, a good spread of delicacies.
There is free shutter bus service from point to point. It takes about 15 to 20 minutes from the Reception to the beach, Emerald Bay and under 10 minutes to the Spa Village.
Library is the only place with free access to wi-fi.
While walking up to our accommodation, I could smell a delicate scent from miles away. The scent came from the flowers pictured below. I don’t know what they are called in English – perhaps you can let me know so I can write it here?
We were taken up the lift – we named it “the lift tower” and to our respective rooms.
Breathtaking architecture. The buildings are very well-kept, walls are white, fittings are intact and surfaces are polished. Very impressed.
A view of the Hill Villas from below.
A view from the Spa Village overlooking the Spa Villas.
The views and scenery of the resort is stunning. All photos taken with various camera scene settings without editing (apart from resizing and adding in my watermark). Air is clean and fresh, weather is still a little too hot and humid for my liking but it’s Malaysia, can’t expect much and it doesn’t bothers me either. We were really lucky to have the sun during our stay, rain is the last thing you want during a Summer vacation.
If you are planning a stay at the Pangkor Laut Resort, I suggest booking early because from what I know, the resort is usually very full especially during special occasions and/or holidays. I would also recommend you to look into getting a package instead of booking just the room. Packages often include return ferry transfers, meals and more. Dining at the resort can be expensive. If I remember correctly, a dinner at Uncle Lim’s Kitchen for 6 adults and 2 children costed over RM1000.
Be prepared to get mosquito bites, insect repellent will be your best friend.
Appointments for the Spa is usually very packed as well. Prices of treatment ranges from RM380++ to RM580++ if I remember correctly. Book at least a day in advance if you have plans for a good massage. We couldn’t get a slot due to last-minute arrangements.
Thank you for reading.