Swap city noise for forest calm at these Malaysian treehouse escapes designed for slow travel and restorative nature retreats. (Left image by @syaqilafelix. Right image by @huienlow.)
The influx of information we receive daily often feels overwhelming. When the daily grind starts to feel like too much, we like to plan a no-itinerary trip — preferably somewhere quiet, stress-free and surrounded by nature.
Our personal prescription for the weary? Retreat to a treehouse far away from the noise and bustle of the city. Perched among forest canopies or tucked into misty hillsides, these elevated escapes offer the kind of slow, restorative travel many of us quietly crave.
We invite you to give it a try, starting with these seven treehouse stays across Malaysia.
1. Awanmulan, Seremban
A desperate need for respite from the heat and city traffic once led my girlfriends and I to Awanmulan, a charming bed-and-breakfast set in the hills of Seremban. This family-owned property features five villas, or “rumah,” making it the perfect place for a short retreat.
Each villa comes complete with a kitchen, dining area and BBQ space, allowing guests to cook and enjoy meals without leaving the site. Wake up to stunning views and catch the sunset from the saltwater pool. The days feel slow and peaceful here, and we certainly had some of the best sleep we’d had in a long time.
Keep an eye out for the friendly resident dogs who welcome pets and belly rubs as they keep you company during your stay.
Address: Awanmulan, Berembun, Pantai, Jln Jelebu, 71770 Seremban, Negeri Sembilan
2. Plateau Farm Treehouse, Camp, Janda Baik
An eco-friendly treehouse set on a farm in the hills of Janda Baik sounds like exactly what the doctor ordered. Plateau Farm is a campsite and sustainable treehouse retreat in Bentong.
While the adventurous are welcome to pitch a tent, build a fire and sleep under the stars, we prefer the comfort of the treehouse. Built using recycled materials and set amongst the trees with sweeping views of green rolling hills, the space is modest yet perfect for two travellers seeking a quiet nature escape.
Address: 8RFH+84, 28750 Bentong, Pahang
Contact: 012-317 9175
3. Gibbon Retreat, Bentong
Another great spot in the Bentong area is Gibbon Retreat, an eco-tourism destination nestled in a century-old forest reserve that is home to native gibbons.
The chalets and villas offer complete serenity, with guests surrounded by trees and the sounds of the forest. Wake up to the gibbons’ distinctive morning calls, spot local birds, monkeys and other wildlife from the comfort of your room, or head out for short treks nearby.
Later, bathe in the rock pool before spending the night stargazing in what feels like a natural planetarium as you exchange stories around the campfire.
Address: Lot 17799 Sungei Semantut, 27600 Bentong, Pahang
Contact: 011-3602 3507
4. Terra Tree House, Cameron Highlands
The Terra Tree House is a secluded jungle lodge deep in the mountain range of Brinchang, Cameron Highlands. Accessible only via four-wheel drive, getting here requires a little more than a cruise up the hill.
The bamboo treehouses built by the Orang Asli (Indigenous communities) are rustic and reminiscent of a time long past. It’s simple living here, with limited phone coverage, no internet and restricted electricity.
Alright, we know — it doesn’t sound like the stress-free escape most of us have in mind. But where it lacks in tech-driven comforts, it more than makes up for it with a truly tranquil setting immersed in nature.
Guests can cook organic vegetables grown on the farm or dine at the restaurant, which serves breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Address: 39000 Brinchang, Pahang
Contact: 012-661 3299
>5. Vanavasa Eco Resort, Janda Baik
If a total escape from urban life isn’t quite what you’re looking for, VanaVasa offers a more luxurious nature retreat.
Perched at the highest point of Tanarimba in Janda Baik, this high-end resort is a true feast for the eyes. Buggy services transport guests to rooms set on stilts overlooking the surrounding forest.
During the rainy months, the property is wrapped in a veil of mist, making the entire landscape feel mystical and dreamlike.
With several dining options, a heated infinity pool, hiking trails and a gym, it’s easy to see why guests feel thoroughly spoiled here.
Address: Lot C12 Lorong Tanarimba Tinggi Dua, Janda Baik, 28750 Bentong, Pahang
Contact: 09-233 1010
6. Tabin Wildlife Resort, Sabah
For wildlife lovers and adventure seekers, Tabin Wildlife Resort in Sabah offers one of Malaysia’s most immersive nature experiences.
Located within the Tabin Wildlife Reserve, the resort is surrounded by rich flora and fauna and has welcomed visitors to the area for many years.
The river and hill lodges provide all the basic comforts, including private bathrooms and hot showers. Being situated in one of Malaysia’s largest protected reserves, safari excursions give guests the chance to encounter some of Borneo’s most iconic wildlife.
These include the Borneo Big Five: the Pygmy Elephant, Proboscis Monkey, Rhinoceros Hornbill, Estuarine Crocodile and Orangutan. Lucky visitors have even spotted the rare Bornean Clouded Leopard.
Address: Lahad Datu, Sabah
Contact: +60 17-450 2009
7. The Shorea, Seremban
Ending the list is The Shorea, a luxury eco-resort built within a private forest retreat in the Berembun Forest Reserve.
While not a traditional treehouse, the elevated timber-built villas set on the natural terrain create the feeling of staying in a contemporary treetop hideaway.
Eight private villas and two stunning infinity saltwater pools offer breathtaking views of the surrounding forest and hills. Guests can enjoy a floating breakfast in the pool, watch a movie under the stars or indulge in a traditional massage.
If you’re up for exploring, the Seremban Equine Centre is just 15 minutes away for horse riding, or you can take a scenic drive to Kuala Pilah town.
Address: Village Kolam Air, Mukim Pantai, Jln Jelebu, 71770 Seremban, Negeri Sembilan
Contact: 017-338 5698
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Elevated above the forest floor and surrounded by nature, these retreats invite us to slow down, breathe deeply and reconnect. It’s the perfect excuse to step away from the noise and return refreshed.
