Karuna Hill, a resort in a durian orchard
If your dream staycation involves having peaceful slumbers over breathtaking green landscapes and a whole lot of fresh air, Karuna Hill might just be the perfect place for you.
This nature getaway is located amidst a blissful durian orchard in Balik Pulau, Penang, away from the hustle and bustle of neighbouring George Town. Here, you can book a staycay at charming chalets with gorgeous hilltop views of the surrounding orchard.
Serene staycation at Karuna Hill
Image credit: Karuna Hill
Karuna Hill began as an intimate retirement lodge for a friendly couple, the Valentis. During its construction, they decided to add four chalets around their property so that others are able to experience the stunning hilltop views.
Image credit: @karunahillpg
There are four villas here – Indriel, Llhamo, Astara and KuTumba. Each one has its own unique interior decor for guests looking for a tranquil getaway in nature, with expansive windows that bring the outdoor greenery inside.
Image credit: Karuna Hill
For couples who want a cosy and romantic stay, opt for a night or two at Villa Indriel (RM598/night) or Villa Llhamo (RM718/night). These rooms accommodate up to two guests in a comfortable space with nature-framing windows, so you can enjoy sunset views and starry nights from your bed.
Families can choose between Villa Astara (RM798/night) and Villa KuTumba (RM1,638/night), which provide sufficient space for groups.
Image credit: Karuna Hill
Secluded as they are, the chalets here have amenities that do not fall short in luxury. The rooms are fully equipped with welcoming beds, rain shower bathrooms, TVs and WiFi so you can fully immerse in nature without having to give up on modern comforts.
Image credit: Airbnb, Karuna Hills
These sanctuaries make the most of their idyllic setting – there’s even an outdoor jacuzzi overlooking the surrounding hillsides if you check-in at Villa Astara. A common al-fresco dining area is where guests can have complimentary fusion breakfast with spectacular views of nature.
If you’re looking to enjoy lunch or dinner over the same views, you can bring your own ingredients to cook as the resort provides barbecue and steamboat facilities to guests for free.
Image credit: @karunahillpg
As the resort is smack dab in the middle of a durian orchard, it goes without saying that guests can look forward to feasting on the mighty fruit when it’s in season. The orchard is home to over 40 types of durian trees, including Musang King, Red Prawn, Black Thorn and Tekka.
Image credit: Karuna Hill
What makes a stay at Karuna Hills all the more special is a personal tour of the grounds with the resort’s owner, Carl Valenti. The friendly host is known to drive guests around the property in a golf cart, so they can fully take in sweeping views of the hills to which the resort owes much of its charms.
Image credit: Hooi Lin Quah
Karuna Hill at Balik Pulau, Penang
If you’re in need of a break from city life and your everyday routine, a staycay at Karuna Hill might just be what you need to recharge your batteries. Here, you can spend a night in complete seclusion while immersing yourself in lush nature.
Address: Karuna Hill, 849, BHRN 125, Bukit Kechil Mukim 2, 11010 Balik Pulau, Pulau Pinang
Opening hours: 24 Hours, Daily
Telephone: 016-441 4488 | 016-441 0808
Karuna Hill Facebook | Instagram
Check out these other places to stay at in Malaysia:
- Manta Blue Cruises, a yacht with 3-course meal and sunset views
- The Blue Mansion, a heritage boutique hotel in Penang
- Sea Horizon Resort, glamping resort with dome tents and sea views in Johor
- The Banjaran Hot Springs Retreat, luxury spa resort in nature
- Hobbit Home in Sabah with views of Mount Kinabalu
Cover image adapted from: Airbnb, Karuna Hill, Karuna Hill and Hooi Lin Quah