Boutique hotels in Malaysia

Malaysia is a country of many layers, and its boutique hotels reflect them: Peranakan townhouses in Penang and Malacca, colonial hill cottages in the Cameron Highlands, rainforest lodges in Borneo and island resorts on the east and west coasts.

Heritage towns

George Town in Penang has the best choice of heritage stays, with shophouses and mansions around its UNESCO-listed center. Malacca and Ipoh follow, and Kuala Lumpur has a few colonial and design hotels.

Islands and beaches

Langkawi leads on luxury, with rainforest resorts on the northwest coast. Pangkor Laut, Tioman, Redang and the Perhentians add quieter choices, while Semporna and Mabul serve Sipadan's divers.

Highlands and jungle

The Cameron Highlands and Fraser's Hill are cool hill stations. In Borneo, Kuching, Kota Kinabalu, Danum Valley and Mulu offer gateways to rainforest, caves and mountains.

When to go

The west coast is best from December to April and the east coast from March to October. Many east coast islands close during the monsoon from November to February.