Cameron Highlands Resort

It’s not exactly what comes to mind when you think of Malaysia. The Cameron Highlands is a cool, mild region, almost a mile above sea level, a few hours north and inland from Kuala Lumpur. Here, in a place named for a British explorer (and known for its tea) it’s perhaps no surprise to find a hotel like the Cameron Highlands Resort, a contemporary colonial-style hotel, packed with civilized attractions like stone fireplaces, a reading room (complete with wireless internet access), and, of course, a daily high tea.

The 56 rooms and suites are handsomely furnished, with timber floors, beamed ceilings, four-poster beds, and linens in neutral tones of cream and beige. Many of the guest quarters contain private balconies overlooking the adjacent golf course; the spacious Jim Thompson and Cameron suites have French doors leading out to particularly panoramic terrace views. Too old-fashioned for your taste? Flat-screen televisions and in-room coffee makers cater to guests who’ve had their fill of tea and books.

There’s no pool — it’s cooler up here than you think, so it’s not a glaring omission. There is, however, a Spa Village, which offers a variety of unique treatments using the area’s natural resources of tea and strawberries. Guests can choose from a number of onsite dining options, including the region’s only Japanese cuisine. Visitors to Malaysia may not have been expecting high tea and sushi — somehow the Cameron Highlands Resort makes it work.

Getting there:

Cameron Highlands Resort is approximately 3 1/2 hours from Kuala Lumpur International Airport. Private transfers are available for approximately US$200 one way.