The chirp of crickets in the background, the crackling of a log fire, eating gooey roasted marshmallows, and falling asleep under the stars… Ah, there’s nothing quite like a few nights of basking in the beauty of Mother Nature to rejuvenate your senses.

Although, it might not be everyone’s idea of relaxation. Friends of mine have returned with angry red marks on their body (courtesy of pesky mosquitoes), a ravenous appetite (because starting a fire was more difficult than rocket science, I was told), and stories of peculiar noises late into the night.

If you have suffered the same fate as my friends and sworn off camping for similar reasons, I’m here to tell you that there is hope. Hope in the form of ‘glamorous camping,’ or glamping for short. It’s the millennial’s way of exploring the great outdoors – but with less dirt and bugs. Here are six options in Malaysia for you to consider.

Camping beginners

For those who are still warming up to the idea of glamping (or dabbling with camping for the first time in your life), these picks will give you an authentic taste of life in the wild, without much sacrifice to your creature comforts.

1. Sekeping Serendah, Selangor

Sekeping Serendah is a lovely way to ease into the glamping lifestyle. Just an hour away from KL, the private retreat is located near the quiet town of Serendah. The bucolic setting favours an open concept, which allows guests to admire the beauty of nature within their very rooms.

Embracing minimalism and intentionally designed to be free from lavishness, the retreat consists of 10 sheds set within five acres of tropical rainforest, right next to a babbling brook. Fill up your free time with nature-loving activities such as swimming, hiking, exploring local villages, nearby waterfalls and plunge pools.

For those who are religiously glued to your electronic devices, this is the tech detox you need as there’s no WiFi or mobile service available here.

Address: N3.368050, E101.631150
Tel: +6012 324 6552
Website: sekeping.com/serendah

2. Japamala Resort, Pahang

Quite possibly the most luxurious option of all, the Japamala Resort is an exclusive boutique resort on Tioman Island with easy access to the lush jungle or the pristine beach. This resort made its way onto this list because of its sumptuous selection of tree-top chalets; a luxurious version of the tree house you dreamed of having as a child.

There is a myriad of interesting activities to get into while glamping in Japamala, such as scuba diving, snorkelling, boat excursions, marine park tours, and even a guided jungle trek to various points on the island. This fashionably luxe eco resort has sublimely preserved the area’s natural landscape, without skimping out on present-day luxuries such as WiFi access, DVD players, spa and even espresso machines.

Address: Kampung Lanting, 86800 Pulau Tioman, Pahang.
Tel: +609 419 7777
Website: japamalaresorts.com

Intermediate campers

Perhaps you tried out camping eons ago as a child and the thought of revisiting those fond memories seem tempting. Fair warning: you’ll most likely change that “Hmm… Maybe?” to a “Yes, let’s do this!” when you’re done scrolling through.

3. Time Capsule Retreat, Pahang

This fascinating family-owned retreat within the lush woodland of Sungai Lembing overlooks a forest reserve, so waking up to an enchanting verdant view is a given. The one-of-a-kind rooms at Time Capsule Retreat are made from 7 x 10-ft concrete pipe cylinders, and have been creatively converted into cosy rooms boasting queen-size beds, plug sockets, and air-conditioning.

They have also recently expanded and designed equally special rooms as well as rustic cottages; we particularly love the Parallel Discovery Room, spacious enough for four with a magnificent panorama of the jungle and a Jacuzzi on the private deck.

In the seemingly obscure town of Kuantan, there is plenty to be seen and experienced. For instance, have a go on the ATV, visit the tin mining museum and tunnels for a visit down memory lane, or ring up the camp owners for a rainbow waterfall tour.

Address: EB4 Belakang Sek Men, Sg. Lembing, Pahang.
Tel: +6013 963 8888
Website: timecapsuleretreat.com

4. Sailor’s Rest, Pahang

Perched on Malaysia’s Titiwangsa Mountain Range, this homestay-turned-resort is located 600 metres above sea level. As an add-on to its coolness factor, it is also smack in the middle of a tropical jungle – which means you’ll get to wake up to cool mountain breezes, sans air-conditioning.

There is a camping site within the family-owned resort, where you will find top-notch tents equipped with firm mattresses and comforters, to keep you warm and toasty when night falls. A caveat for those who are not inclined to hop on the glamping bandwagon: there are chalets and a bungalow for rent, as well.

Day activities include waterfall trekking – an adventure-laden activity which will reward you with a spectacular view of the mountain ranges and the chance to frolic in the nearby river – the gentle rapids, streams of sunshine, and a little bit of aquatic fun are all you need to momentarily forget the cares of the world on your shoulders.

Address: Lot 8592, Lorong Dato Panglima, Kg. Sg. Lurau, Janda Baik, 28750 Bentong, Pahang.
Tel: +603 4292 7036
Website: sailorrest.com

Camping pros

Nature and you are one. Any mention of the words adventure or camping and you’ll be rushing to reach for your already packed bag. Keeping true to the theme, the chosen sites are as close as it gets to the good ol’ camping days, with a sprinkle of amenities thrown in.

5. Caravan Serai, Pahang

A mere 45 minutes away from KL’s skyscrapers and buzzing city life is the charming town of Bentong, blessed with fruit orchards, rolling hills, and rivers that flow at a languid pace.

The perfect passageway to discovering nature, Caravan Serai is equipped with 10 villas, 30 suites, and seven safari tents. Thoughtfully planned out, the site also offers a variety of engaging outdoor activities, from jungle trekking to ATV rides to local historical landmark tours.

If you’re wondering about sustenance after an active day out, the site’s got it covered with a fully functional restaurant that serves delicious Malaysian dishes as well as international favourites.

Address: Jalan Tras, 28700, Bentong Town, Pahang.
Tel: +6016 2137 387
Website: facebook.com/caravanseraibentong

6. Canopy Tribes, Johor

An oasis away from the hustle and bustle of Johor Bahru, Canopy Tribes is an idyllic campsite with bell tents, located approximately 3 km away from Kota Tinggi’s waterfall and rainforest, where you can immerse yourself in the peaceful country life and lap up the genial hospitality.

Sit under the gushing waterfall during the day, take up a hike up Gunung Panti, go bird watching at the Panti Bird Sanctuary, or take a cruise to the riverbank to see the fireflies. For angling enthusiasts, you can even grill your catch of the day with the BBQ facilities onsite, and savour it surrounded by the wonders of nature.

Address: 36, Kg Sungei Melayu, Nusajaya, Johor.
Tel: +6018 – 7865 152
Website: canopytribes.com