GO: Hilltop getaway

2009/10/03

ANUSHA K

ANUSHA K. heads for the hills in Pahang’s Bukit Tinggi to enjoy a retreat replicating a French countryside village.

IMAGINE a resort where you can enjoy the chilly breeze of a rainforest high in the hills. A great escapade for children and adults alike, where a myriad of activities await you to make for an exhilarating retreat.

The view of the stars at night is a sight to behold, for example, and come dusk, you can watch elegant swans glide along the moat, easing your woes away.

Then there are stage performances to see and a flea market to visit during the weekend.

Only a 45-minute-drive from Kuala Lumpur, you’ll be able to enjoy the scenery and lush greenery along the way, a relaxing drive that prepares you for some pampering and feasting up on the hills.

Once you reach your destination, the Colmar-Tropicale, also known as Berjaya Hills, you’ll see several scenic spots ideal for wedding and other photography shoots.

The French-themed resort at Bukit Tinggi in Pahang is 823m above sea level and is modelled after Colmar Village in Alsace, France.

Look out for the fountain, wishing well, and the majestic viewing and cuckoo clock towers (designed after the Riquewihr Tower in Alsace, France). As I walked around bustling Colmar Square, it reminded me of a French village in the countryside.

For accommodation, there are the superior rooms or bedroom suites.

The one-bedroom suite is similar to an apartment with an attached bathroom, and a dining and lounge area. The rooms are cosy and designed along French themes.

Start your day to the sounds of birds chirping as you enjoy a scrumptious array of delicious croissants and scones at the La Boulangerie deli.

Make time to enjoy a cold swim.

It’s a homemade French bakery which serves fresh artisan breads and pastries (which are freshly baked daily) complemented by specialty teas and coffees.

Then burn some calories with some horse riding at Berjaya Hills Horse Trails. Shuttle services are available throughout the day from Colmar Square to the horse trails, but check the schedules beforehand, just in case.

The horses used here are steady and easy-going by nature, making them good mounts for beginners. A jungle ride in the tranquil setting of the mountains where you can enjoy the beauty of the flora and fauna of the rainforest is recommended. The more adventurous can opt for the Creek and River Ride, which is a leisurely ride along the banks of a secluded mountain stream and then a ride across the waterway to further explore the jungle.

The Picnic Ride is ideal for those wanting a relaxing day trip as it comes with a picnic lunch specially prepared by the trail guides.

Savour your meal at a scenic spot and appreciate the serenity of the countryside.

Besides trails rides, there are also riding lessons available. Lead rides around the paddock are also conducted for children. Trail rides start from RM100 (non-peak seasons) and RM120 (peak seasons). After the picnic lunch, head towards the Rabbit Park a few metres away. It houses over 200 rabbits of four species. They are a big hit with the children as they are free to cuddle and feed the adorable creatures.

Also at the rabbit park are donkey rides available for tots. With a short trail up two low hills, it’s a thrilling experience for little ones.

At the end of the day, ease your tired feet with an hour of foot reflexology at La Lavande Massage. The skilled therapist will knead your muscles and loosen their knots, rejuvenating you in the process.

If you’re still up for some exercise, take a dip in the cool waters of the hills at the swimming pool.

For dinner, choose any of the delis for a wholesome meal before enjoying a restful sleep at your luxurious suite. How to get there HEAD towards the Gombak toll plaza using the Kuala Lumpur-Karak Highway and then follow the signboards to the resort.

There are also shuttle services available from Berjaya Times Square, KL to Berjaya Hills (located at Kilometre 48, Persimpangan Bertingkat, Lebuhraya Karak, Bukit Tinggi in Bentong).

An entrance fee of RM10 and RM8 (children) is charged for Colmar Tropicale Resort, Japanese Village and the Botanical Garden if you’re not staying the night there.

If you are, entry to the above is free, but there will be a fee of RM3 for entry to the Rabbit Park. For more information, visit www.berjayahills.com


Sense the pleasures

See: Colmar Square and its beautiful architecture is a replica of Colmar Village in Alsace, France.

Listen: To the sounds of trees swaying, birds chirping and the breeze blowing in the hills of the rainforest.

Touch: Friendly horses at Berjaya Horse Trails and adorable rabbits at the Rabbit park. Apparently, bonding with animals lowers your blood pressure. Give your health a boost!

Taste: Delicious homemade croissants and pastries as you sip your latte at La Boulangerie.

Smell: The strong whiffs of lavender oil in the air at La Lavande Massage. Its interior is a lighter shade of lavender filled with lavender buds at every corner.