MALIHOM ESTATE RETREAT

Perched on top of a spur at the southern tip of the hill range of the island of Penang, is Malihom Estate Retreat.

She 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.