10 Hidden Nature Getaways Less than an Hour Away from Kuala Lumpur for your Next Family Staycation

Travelling has always been a way for us to escape the everyday humdrum of life – something many of us are longing for right now! With movement between Selangor, Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya currently being allowed, fully vaccinated individuals and families within these states are starting to explore their holiday options again. 

Looking to ease your pandemic burnout with a weekend getaway? Here are some of makchic‘s top picks of family-friendly places that are off the beaten path, nestled amongst lush greenery, and away from the city crowd for your next staycation. 

Kuala Kubu Bahru (KKB)

1. The Sticks

The Sticks is an off-grid glamping retreat, featuring 12 unique houses ranging from serene ‘tendoks’ (a cross between a tent and a pondok), to larger family rooms. All rooms are furnished with water heaters with spring water, and have attached bathrooms. Hearty home cooked meals are prepared for you every day, including a choice of steamboat or BBQ for dinner. Meals are free for those below 2 years old. Just sit back and relax in the hammocks, or enjoy a leisurely float down the river in a rented tube! 

Kid-Friendly Appeal: Jungle trekking, nature walks, rafting and tubing activities

[Take Note: A 4-wheel-drive ride is needed to enter the premise]

Website | Facebook | Instagram 

Contact: https://thesticks.my/contact-us/

2. Woodhouse Retreat

Located just 100m away from their sky villa, the Woodhouse villa comes equipped with modern facilities for a comfortable stay, while offering breathtaking hilltop views of the KKB town. Wake up,, surrounded by private forest reserves and mountain ranges, and enjoy a floating breakfast in your own private infinity pool!

Kid-Friendly Appeal: Mini swan farm within the compound, unique breakfast setup

Website | Facebook | Instagram | Airbnb

Contact: 011 6226 5257

Serendah

3. Two Sungai Residence

Strategically located around nature where 2 rivers meet, this villa allows for a fuss-free, relaxing getaway. Enjoy your breakfast right by the riverside, while the kids run wild in the large field by the front porch. Head down the pathway for a dip in a semi-private section of the river. Don’t worry if you want a break from cooking too, as local delights can easily be ordered in.

Kid-Friendly Appeal: Children’s room (with a bed designed as a truck, and a bunk bed), swing, river adjacent to house, pool table and arcade machine

[Take Note: The rivers located right in front of the house are deep, even for an adult.]

Website | Facebook | Instagram | Airbnb 

Contact: 013 635 6083

4. The Brickhouse, Serendah River Retreat  (SRR)

The Brickhouse is located in a rainforest/ fruit plantation of about 5 acres with a natural river stream running across the site. The only house at SRR currently is the Brickhouse, which has private access to a river section. A private bridge with gates provides security. Perfect for those who want to have a safe, socially distanced getaway in nature! 

Kid-Friendly Appeal: 30 minute jungle trekking guide to a private and secluded waterfall, suitable for those age 10 years and above. Do refer to our tips on hiking with kids!

Website | Facebook | Airbnb

Contact: 016 367 0067

5. Carpe Diem Orchard Home 

Discover kampung style living at its best at Carpe Diem. Chalets are set amidst an abundance of fruit trees, across 18 acres of lush greenery. There is a huge array of educational activities for the kids, keeping them busy as they learn to appreciate nature and the simpler things in life. In line with Covid safety precautions, Carpe Diem has also implemented a Single Group Booking Policy, which means that each group will have the entire orchard to themselves.

Kid-Friendly Appeal: Fruit harvesting, farm animal feeding, free bicycles for rent, fishing (catch and release) and a stingless bee farm. 

Website | Facebook | Instagram  

Contact: 013 228 8223/ 018 8738 223

Rawang

6.  Dolomite Templer

A perfect blend of nature and modern entertainment under one roof! This homestay is  designed with a stunning view of Bukit Taku and has an outdoor swing perched over a private plunge pool. Enjoy a BBQ dinner under the stars, then spend the evening competing in the game box, or singing your hearts out in the karaoke room.

Kid-Friendly Appeal: First E-gaming capsule available on a staycation 

Website | Airbnb

Contact: 011 6226 5257

Hulu Langat

7. Glamgoat Aman Dusun Farm Retreat 

This retreat is perfect for the little ones who adore farm animals. Choose between the Riverview house, or the Blue House (an open concept with no bedrooms). Experience farm life and enjoy fresh goat’s milk and yoghurt daily for breakfast. If you happen to visit during the fruit season (June to August), the whole family is guaranteed to have fun, handpicking an array of local fruits from around the compound.

Kid-Friendly Appeal: Farm animals, bicycles for rent, fishing (visitors are required to bring their own rods)

[Take Note: Swimming in the nearby river is not recommended, due to the unpredictable current]

Website | Facebook | Instagram | Airbnb 

Contact: 012 395 0503

8. Rumah Kebun 

This private villa has a rustic and minimalist design, surrounded by lush hills and greenery. Enjoy a refreshing plunge in the natural pool that’s fed by natural spring water, or take a splash in the pristine waters of the Semungkis River, which runs across the property. If you’re up for something more intense, head on a 3 to 4km hike to the nearby waterfall!

Kid-Friendly Appeal: Natural spring water pool, fish pond, feeding goats and free range kampung chicken

Website | Facebook | Airbnb 

9. Nouri Villas

Enjoy your stay in this lovely villa with its unique, enveloping glass walls. These walls may be fully opened out to encompass the feeling of being immersed in nature, providing visitors with a stunning view of the garden, swimming pool, rivers and tropical plants that surround the property. Opt to cook for yourselves, have a BBQ feast or just order in from the local restaurant nearby!

Kid-Friendly Appeal: Shallow stream without strong currents in front of the villa

Facebook | Instagram | Airbnb 

Sungai Buloh

10.  Kuang Kampung Retreat 

Have a simple and cosy getaway at this traditional Malay-style house. Spend the hot afternoons relaxing in your very own private indoor plunge pool. (Don’t worry though: there are high glass sliding doors to prevent the little ones from falling in!) For golf enthusiasts, the Rahman Putra Golf Club is located just under 10 minutes away.

Kid Friendly Appeal: Chicken, geese and goats within the compound

[Take Note: Outdoor timber deck has bushes instead of handrails to act as a barrier, no barriers to the jacuzzi]

Airbnb

We hope that this list has gets you all geared up for your next green getaway! While the retreats we’ve listed above have been categorised as kid-friendly, they’re nevertheless situated amidst nature and are bound to have some elements of unpredictability. If you’re planning on booking a stay, do keep vigilant and make sure to supervise your children at all times.

Stay safe, #makchicmumtribe – and happy holidays!