Perched on top of a spur at the southern tip of the hill range of the island of Penang, is Malihom Estate Retreat.
Accommodation comprises of a cluster of ancient Thai rice barns, shipped in from the province of Chengmai, Thailand. Aptly named so because "mali" means the fragrance of jasmine, as in the rice and "hom", a village situated 360 metres above sea level, she commands panoramic views of Penang Bridge and the mainland in the east, the unspoilt mangrove coastline in the west and the tiny islands of Betong and Kendhi on her south.
Surrounding this little hilltop are local fruit orchards and farms, spilling over to the hills beyond. These offer adventurous trails for cycling and trekking. Apart from the agricultural exploits, the hills are abound with small insect and animal life. It is also a haven for local and migratory birds.
The approach might seem a wee bit hazardrous, zig zagging the width of the slope with its narrow winding road, sporadically flanked by flowering trees and undergrowth, but once up the crest, you are transported into another world, a magical world of serenity.
A cross breeze from the Indian Ocean during the South West monsoon and from as far North as the Mongolian Plains during the North East monsoons; help drop the temperature by a few degrees.
At the peak of the hill stands the viewing tower with breathtaking views of the whole village. It overlooks an L-shaped deck, stepping down into a Koi pond which in turn cascades onto a waterlily pond with a caged pavilion for an open air massage. This trilogy of water ends with the swimming pool flowing out into the horizon, fringing a riot of colours emerged from landscaped areas in between rice barns which have been transformed into well appointed suites with every convenience to pamper.
An open deck dining area, augurs well for a romantic and quiet evening. All these makes for a great relaxing escape from the hustle and bustle of the city life.
Accommodation - Each timber chalet barn is as quaint as the original 100 year old barn structures, which is now made obsolete. It was designed for the northern Thai farmer to store his rice sheaths in the middle of his smallholding, to dry after harvest.
The structures are not entirely traditional. Perched at the edge, concrete and brick reinforced them to the slopes.
The brickclad modern bathrooms offer either, open or private choices of ablutions, always encompassing the same great views.
The interior is basic and simple, reflecting the provincial character which is the place.
Each room has a unique view, whether it be overlooking the Penang bridge and its hinterland, or the southern coastline of the island. All rooms have their own private balconies and deck where guests can lounge / dine / do their own thing.
KITCHEN
The state-of-the-art kitchen is equiped to cater for medium sized functions as well as for in house guests. Experienced chefs can whipped up different cuisines upon request. Services are available throughout the day.
DINING
Main dining area is on a covered deck, opening to great views. Besides the main area, dining experiences could extend to the outdoor pool decks and the main deck.
SATELLITE TV
Currently available only at Prana (the main living)..
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Penang : Penang, one of Malaysia’s most popular holiday destinations, is linked to the west coast of mainland Malaysia by a spectacular bridge. As the first British trading post in the Far East, the colonial influence can still be seen in Georgetown – the main town – and some of the remaining old hotels, like the Eastern and Oriental. Penang, facing the straits of Malacca, has beach resort areas like Batu Ferrenghi, with well established international hotels and excellent family facilities. Other attractions include a funicular railway up Penang Hill (830 metres above sea level), The Botanic Gardens, the Snake Temple, parks and local shopping.
