Cover From Sutera at Mantanani to One & Only Desaru Coast, visit these secluded resorts and glamping sites for stargazing (Photo: Courtesy of Sutera at Mantanani)
From Sutera at Mantanani to One & Only Desaru Coast, visit these secluded resorts and glamping sites for stargazing (Photo: Courtesy of Sutera at Mantanani)
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From One&Only Desaru Coast in Johor to the pristine Ambong Pool Villas in Langkawi, visit these secluded resorts and glamping sites for stargazing
I may not be an astronomer or a psychologist, but I believe there’s something about stargazing that is good for the soul. City-dwellers in particular will appreciate the fleeting beauty of the stars on a clear night when you know the right places to visit that are least affected by light pollution.
In August, astronomy buffs and stargazers alike in Malaysia were abuzz with the news of the Perseids meteor shower that was reported to take place on August 12, Monday, from nighttime till the early hours of Tuesday morning. Despite rainy weather, stargazing enthusiasts flocked to ‘dark sky’ locations like Lundu in Sarawak and others to catch a better glimpse of the meteor showers. Dark skies or dark sites refer to areas where the night sky is unobstructed by light pollution that typically comes from cities or highly developed areas, making them ideal locations for seeing the stars and celestial events such as meteor showers.
Read more: Need a break? These 4 women-only retreats have just the thing
In light of this (first and last pun of the day, I promise), we look at seven remote but cosy destinations in Malaysia with wide open spaces and clear skies to enjoy the stars while in lush surroundings.
Tatler Tip: Keep in mind that the stars aren’t guaranteed to be visible at all spots at all times due to weather circumstances, ideal seasons, and other factors. Look out for platforms such as Dark Sky Malaysia, the Malaysian Space Agency (Mysa), the Stargazer Society and others to learn more about responsible stargazing.
The Sticks, Kuala Kubu Bharu, Selangor
Above A view of the Milky Way from The Sticks in Fraser's Hill (Photo: Courtesy of The Sticks)
Above A view of the Milky Way from The Sticks in Fraser's Hill (Photo: Courtesy of The Sticks)
A view of the Milky Way from The Sticks in Fraser's Hill (Photo: Courtesy of The Sticks)
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The Sticks is an off-grid glamping retreat situated in a lush jungle in Fraser’s Hill, Kuala Kubu Bharu. Known for its pristine hiking spots and eco-retreats, Kuala Kubu Bharu is also an ideal place for stargazing in Selangor.
The retreat offers 12 rustic houses designed to let guests enjoy the beauty of the natural surroundings, with plenty of dreamy hammocks and more spots to curl up and enjoy the bright night sky in peace.
One&Only Desaru Coast, Johor
Bordered by the South China Sea, powder-white sandy shores, and a lush jungle, One&Only Desaru Coast is an ultra-luxe resort in Desaru Coast comprising secluded villas and rainforest suites that offer privacy, comfort and plenty of outdoor nooks to enjoy the free light show that is the stars over Desaru Coast at midnight.
See also: Malaysia’s Desaru Coast Named One Of The World’s Greatest Places In 2021
Other extremely popular stargazing locations in Johor include Mersing, Batu Pahat and Tanjung Balau in Kota Tinggi.
Sutera at Mantanani, Kota Belud, Sabah
Sabah’s Kota Belud is a veritable stargazing paradise, with sites like Tegudon Tourism Village campsite and Tambatuon Homestead among the top camping spots to relax and enjoy the stars.
But if you prefer to enjoy these same starry skies in more pristine, upscale settings (read: beachside luxury), Sutera at Mantanani is an ideal spot that is hugely popular for selfies under the stars. Mantanani Island’s secluded location and minimal light pollution allow for clear views of the Milky Way, as captured by many resort guests on Instagram.
Read more: What’s it like to travel through Malaysia’s Jungle Railway on Eastern & Oriental Express
Club Med Cherating
This family-friendly resort in Cherating Beach sits in the heart of an 80-hectare forest which enjoys the glow of stars under clear night skies. This untouched natural paradise is perfect for a getaway in the arms of nature, where the sounds of the ocean greet you as you enjoy a massage in the open-air pagoda, or when macaques and gibbons make an appearance from out of the trees in the early morning.
Tiarasa Escapes Glamping Resort, Janda Baik, Pahang
Above Nighttime views at Tiarasa Escapes in Janda Baik (Photo: Tiarasa Escapes Glamping Resort)
Nighttime views at Tiarasa Escapes in Janda Baik (Photo: Tiarasa Escapes Glamping Resort)
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Tiarasa Escapes in Janda Baik has not stopped creating a buzz amongst nature lovers since it first opened. Did you know that this glamping resort has hosted guest astronomers and their telescopes set up to enjoy the celestial sights in its dark sky? Given its secluded, seven-acre location in the breezy foothills of Janda Baik, it’s no surprise that this eco-friendly glamping retreat is a prime spot for stargazing in sublime style.
See also: 6 beautiful equestrian clubs and resorts in Malaysia
Ambong Pool Villas, Langkawi, Kedah
Langkawi also boasts several astro-tourism spots, and Ambong Pool Villas is one of many prime locations to enjoy the night sky. If the name didn’t already give it away, Rimba Sky, the rooftop dining area at Ambong Pool Villas, boasts stellar panoramic views of the Pulau Tepor in the Andaman Sea and is the perfect place to enjoy sundowners as well as get in some stargazing when night falls.
Don’t miss: The Datai Langkawi celebrates its 30th anniversary in style
Fun fact: Last December, Ambong Pool Villas hosted renowned Malaysian astrophysicist Tan Sri Professor Mazlan Othman, artist Professor Jailani Abu Hassan, and Professor Dr Haji Muhammad Haji Salleh for the launch of the Academy of Sciences Malaysia-commissioned book Cosmic Connections Langkawi, which delves into astronomy, arts, and culture in Kedah.
9 Huts on a Hill, Kudat, Sabah
For a serene stargazing experience, 9 Huts on a Hill in Kudat, Sabah offers an eco-friendly retreat with sea-facing Runggus-style huts. Surrounded by pristine nature and designed using locally sourced materials, the retreat provides ultimate comfort and relaxation to enjoy the stars in Kudat–a hot area for stargazers and astronomy buffs. Just a three-hour drive from Kota Kinabalu, it’s the perfect destination to reconnect with nature while enjoying breathtaking night skies.
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Previously contributing to Esquire Malaysia, Expat Lifestyle and Newsweek, Tania oversees digital stories across Tatler’s key content pillars, also leading the Front & Female platform exploring issues and topics affecting women today.
