Facing the South China Sea, the property (17 hectares which I did not fully explore...) is located about 9 km from Dungun, a sleepy seaside town. As Kuala Terengganu is not a very "happening" place, visitors tend to give this town a miss and head straight for Pulau Redang instead. However, this resort, which was first set up in 1979 by the Tourism Development Corporation has been taken over & re-furbished by the YTL Hotel & Properties Group (who also run the world famous Pangkor Laut Resort), is certainly worth a visit.
Even if you do not get to stay there, do visit the resort and take a stroll around on the beach and its gardens. Although tended by a bevy of garderners they have been left for the most part untouched, and therefore exude a natural, and untamed feel.
Monsoon Season: the winds blow incessantly, reminding us that Mother Nature is everywhere and capable of unleashing her fury upon us! It does add to the character and charm of the resort. In the dark of the otherwise quiet night, snuggle up with your loved ones and listen to the waves pounding on the rocks and beach just 100 meters away from your chalet window!
Tips For Corporate Groups: The staff (under the guidance of the affable & friendly Cap't Mok) can organise some interesting and fun team-building activities on the beach, or if you like, a night treasure hunt which takes you through the grounds searching for clues!
I was really lucky and got to stay at the Anjung Room, (total size 88 square meters & there are only 10 such rooms in the Resort). The bathroom is a marvel, it features two sinks, a shower that is practically outdoors, an outdoor sunken bath set within your own private garden (walls high enough so you can bath privately) Be warned - there are mirrors everywhere ...if you're in the bathroom with the sliding door open, your reflection will be seen by anyone who's in the room (oops, no visitors when I'm in the shower please)!
Luxurious toiletries (I loved the Banana Shampoo) such as those available at their sister resort, Pangkor Laut are available to all hotel guests.
Laze your day away on the Day-Bed (See pics) or on the King size bed. The day bed is set in front of the floor to ceiling windows, and you can relax in cool air-conditioned comfort just a stone's throw from the beach. This would be perfect for a honeymoon couple who want to do little more than gaze into each others eyes or at the sunset together! (and perhaps also the reflections of their lovers from all angles!)
Serambi (ground floor with large verandah) and Bumbung (first floor with balcony) are the other types of rooms. All are spacious and equally charming in their own right.
Hot Tip For Locals: Visit during the tail end of the monsoon season each January for a fixed 3D/2N package, which includes meals and accommodation. Dine in style at Di Atas Sungei or by the beach
Monsoon season warning: Do NOT swim in the sea, because even when it looks calm, it can be dangerous!
