Temple Tree

Rooms

Each of the houses that make up the resort (plus the huge Ipoh house that was under construction when we visited) has its own story, and together they tell quite a tale of Malaysian architectural history over the past century.

The Colonial House comprises 4 suites, the Penang and Chinese 2 apiece; then there is a long Estate House with 5 separate rooms. Two Plantation Houses total 6 suites of various sizes and, finally, we stayed in the stunning Black and White House, which holds a single suite.

The suites share common characteristics: plenty of natural light and cool breezes circulating, helped by fans (or air-conditioning if necessary); lots of authentic antique objets - vases, lacquered boxes, intricately carved furniture and woven tapestries; sofas littered with bright throw cushions; wide firm beds in pristine white cotton; a generous selection of books and magazines; a large DVD-only television (satellite TV is available in the Clubhouse); double rainfall showers and a quirky wooden bathtub, more often than not in an atmospheric outdoor bathroom. Each has its own distinct identity though - we loved the red and black luxe of the Chinese House, and the meditative greens and blues of the Penang House.

Our own, the wooden Black and White House, proved our favourite. Set on stilts, it’s immaculately painted in black and white, with stained glass shutters that let in the breeze during the day and filter light in the evening. A porch with a sofa leads to the main living room, with rainbow rugs, comfy seating, a coffee table and a curvy wooden dining table with 2 chairs. It’s a successful combination of themes and textures, too: an ornately carved wardrobe and black ivory-inlaid lacquered box complement the patterned satin throw cushions and red Chinese lantern vase. Somehow, it just works - an inspirational space of total tranquillity.

In the spacious bedroom, a white mosquito net is suspended on four posts over the bed, in keeping with the traditional style and adding a touch of fairytale magic. A shelving unit provides plenty of hanging space, and holds 2 bright sarongs for you to wear during your stay. Beyond the bed, centre stage, is a wooden bathtub complete with soothing salts, and Chinese cabinets with ornaments.

The bathroom is simple (apart from the indulgent his’n’hers showers and sinks), with a plain white porcelain suite and unvarnished wood planked flooring, through which shower water trickles directly onto stones under the house. Large bath towels are rolled up in a cabinet, which also holds body lotion, a vanity set and pretty ornamental baskets. And, finally, there is a room designated as a gym, should you feel the need, complete with running machine and bike. Alas, your reviewer found there was simply no time to test this out.