Temple Tree at Bon Ton, Langkawi: Authentic Antique Villas for a Luxurious Escape
Whenever I spot a charmingly weathered old building, memories flood back of our deeply relaxing stay at Temple Tree in Langkawi.
Among countless hotels we've visited worldwide, none matched the uniqueness of this resort. Temple Tree comprises eight antique villas sourced from various Malaysian states, carefully dismantled, transported to Langkawi, and lovingly rebuilt on-site. Reflecting Malaysia's multicultural heritage, the villas showcase Chinese, Malay, Indian, and Eurasian architectural styles. Each is uniquely designed in a rustic-luxury aesthetic that enchanted us upon entering our loft in the Oriental villa.
After weeks of intensive travel, we arrived with pressing tasks—writing posts, editing videos, and launching a business. Instead, we savored a fine Chardonnay and shared baths in adjacent wooden tubs in our spacious bathroom.
Adjacent, the wet room featured dual rain showers, organic exfoliating soap, and a daily-refilled clay jar of shampoo. After bathing and wrapping in plush white towels, we sank into a bed engineered for ultimate comfort, surrounded by fluffy pillows and crisp, high-thread-count sheets ideal for Malaysia's humid nights.
Our nine-hour deep sleep was gently interrupted by an exotic bird outside the window. Breakfast, delivered the previous evening, included fresh bread, jams, butter, fruits, yogurt, and spiced pineapple rum cake—perfect for our morning indulgence on the red leather couch while watching a DVD on the 42-inch flat-screen TV.
Post-film, the inviting lap pool drew us in. We lounged with books, cooled by palm breezes and served refreshing iced lemon water.
Eventually, we ventured to the nearby beach (a five-minute cab ride), where we swam and relaxed. Yet, our hearts yearned to return to Temple Tree.
Minor imperfections exist, but staff proactively address them. Mosquitoes, drawn to the open antique structures, were minimized by evening zappers, nets, and natural repellents. Amenities included all-natural bug spray, Gamat antihistamine, flashlights, adapters, a pool caddy, and complimentary Asian sarongs ($8 to purchase).
Temple Tree excels in value: rates start under $200/night. Both Temple Tree and sister Bon Ton offer exceptional dining—Malaysian and Mediterranean. Our Bon Ton meal (goat cheese bruschetta, pizza tapas, Halloumi salad) cost under $30 for two amid a stunning sunset. Desserts like Ice Cream Sandwich Duo tempted us.
Just 10 minutes from the airport, occasional planes add novelty, not nuisance. Note: cat lovers will appreciate the on-site residents from owner Narelle's LASSie shelter; allergies were no issue for us due to open design and breezes.
Standout Feature: Your Private Villa Retreat
The antique furnishings, sumptuous bed, showers, and mood-perfect lighting create an intimate loft within a heritage villa—far superior to standard rooms.
Room for Improvement: Breakfast Variety
The delivered breakfast was delightful initially but could grow repetitive. A simple evening menu slip for choices (fruits, oatmeal, eggs, yogurt, cake) would enhance stays.
Overall: Temple Tree Langkawi
Temple Tree is Langkawi's premier stay and a destination unto itself—luxury without pretension.
Location: Temple Tree at Bon Ton, Pantai Cenang, Langkawi, 07000, Malaysia
Price: From RM650 / $200
LGBT Friendly: Yes
Digital Nomad Friendly: Patchy Wi-Fi, but irresistible relaxation
Amenities: In-room breakfast, Wi-Fi, two restaurants, DVD library
Website: www.templetree.com.my
Check Booking.com for special rates at Temple Tree Langkawi
For more on Bon Ton’s LASSie Animal Shelter, visit langkawilassie.org.my.
