For 27 years, The Datai Langkawi has been a favoured hideout for discerning travellers. Enveloped by a 10-million-year pristine old rainforest and surrounded by primordial mountains of Machincang, the luxury resort bristles with ancient trees, waterfalls, and mangroves, as its conception by architect Kerry Hill and interior designer Didier Lefort. Nestled in the heart of the island, the retreat serves up panoramic views of the Andaman Sea and direct access to the white-sand beach of Datai Bay.
This charming rainforest refuge is as intertwined with its environment as you can get, edged by 750 hectares of rainforest that abounds with dusky langurs, long-tailed macaques, and all manner of birdlife. Current conservation projects include regrowing damaged coral, drawing fish back to its waters to allow for sustainable fishing, replanting native trees, and developing “wildlife corridors” so animals can move between wilderness areas divided by roads. Add a permaculture garden and regular beach clean-ups—both involving the local community—and it’s a master class in sustainability.
Following a tip-to-toe refresh, led by Lefort, the legendary 121-room property has reopened to include a re-shape of the lobby, entrance, and landscaping, three new Rainforest Pool Villas, a new five-room villa with 24-hour butler service, and a dedicated Nature Centre with its own lab and a resident team of naturalists and marine biologists on hand for activities from guided nature walks to kayaking in the mangroves. From the airport, The Datai is a 40-minute drive, which is, ideally, covered in one of the hotel’s luxurious limousine fleet, complete with a cooled and scented towel.
It’s this mix of modern sophistication and raw jungle that’s remained unchanged for perhaps millions of years which makes Langkawi so attractive. Add some excellent beaches, near-perfect weather, and friendly locals and you can see why the island is revered by those who know Asia well. The island will certainly remain on the backpackers’ list of places to visit. Round-the-world yachtsmen will still arrive to enjoy its deserted coves. But it’s sophisticated travellers looking for a pinch of luxury in the peaceful rainforest who will ensure this treasure of an island joins the growing list of must-see destinations.
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