Bunga Raya Island Resort, Borneo

rooms

The elegant but simple rustic villas are terraced into the hillside and enjoy spectacular vistas and jungle luxury. There are 18 Superior Villas, with a mix of jungle or ocean views and each have one bedroom. The 8 Deluxe Villas have a separate lounge and views over the South China Sea, whilst the 10 Beachfront Villas have infinity plunge pools and private beach access.

facilities & activities

The adventure setting means that there is a host of activities to keep the intrepid busy. Start with the exhilarating zip-line through the jungle and move on to the guided mangrove walk, spotting the resident monkeys and lizards amongst the exotic flora and fauna. For those that prefer water adventures then dive the colourful reef, teeming with turtles, seahorses, giant clams and, if you are really lucky, the occasional whale shark. Snorkel, kayak, play beach volley-ball or join in the instructor-led workouts on the beach. After all that, head fora restorative drink next to the glistening infinity pool, overlooking the beach. Or if serious pampering is required then the beautiful Jungle Spa will undoubtedly hit the spot.

dining

The flagship place to dine is the 'Koi Restaurant' - elegant beachfront dining at its best. Serving up Malay, Chinese, Western and fusion food in the open-sided spacious timber and stone interior, diners can enjoy pool or waterfall views. For lighter bites during the day then the relaxed 'Pantai Grill' offers freshly cooked fare, grilled as you order. 'Latitude' is the perfect spot for a sundowner - chose a fresh cocktail or select a wine from the award-winning cellar.

family

Children are very welcome here and they will love the jungle setting and soft white beach. Daily activities can be arranged, from art sessions to treasure hunts, sand-castle building and tours of the marine centre. Older ones will love the zip-lining and canopy treks.

An extra bed can be placed in Superior Villas and 2 children can sleep in the sitting room 'pod' of the Deluxe Villas but do note these are attached externally by walkway and there is no second bathroom.  If you are travelling with younger children, then 2 x extra beds can just fit, but space will be cosy. The two bedroom suites are great for families with older children (please note rooms do not connect), or choose the three-bedroom suite, which sits right at the top of the property with extraordinary views, huge bedrooms and wrap around deck with plunge pool.

Cots are free and extra beds for under 12s are available (for a small fee). Babysitting is also offered, giving grown-ups the chance to enjoy those pink sunsets a deux.

location

It’s a speedy transfer from touch down to beachside. A quick 15 minute drive from Kota Kinabalu International Airport takes you to Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal to hop onto the next boat to Bunga Raya which takes approx 20 mins. Scheduled speedboat transfers can also be arranged for those who prefer a timetable or a private helipad when needs must....