Set on a picturesque island off the coast of Sabah in Borneo, Bunga Raya is a stunning and secluded island hideaway. Framed by a crescent of white sand beach in a tranquil bay, and backed by centuries-old virgin rainforest, Bunga Raya is rather special.
Highlights
'Bunga Raya' is the Malay Bahasa word for 'hibiscus', the country's national flower, and each villa is named after a different variety
For complete privacy, opt for one of their Tree House Villas reached by a jungle walkway high up among the tree tops, and with incredible views across the bay
Bunga Raya boasts a stunning jungle spa, which is set high up in the rainforest and accessed by its own suspended bridge
If you fancy yourself as a bit of a wine buff, then venture down to Bunga Raya's own award-winning wine cellar, which is considered to be one of the best stocked wine cellars in the whole of Malaysia
Situated on Pulau Gaya (Gaya Island), just off the coast of Sabah's capital, Kota Kinabalu, Bunga Raya Island Resort is a luxurious and laid back property. Boasting stunning accommodation and a beautiful location on a white sand beach with a rainforest backdrop, Bunga Raya is the ideal spot to end your adventures in the wilds of Borneo.
Each villa has been hand crafted by local tradesmen. Terraced into the hillside, the design reflects traditional Bornean architecture, with local timber and simple but stylish soft furnishings, all blending seamlessly with sophisticated modern comforts. Private balconies offer wonderful vistas of the beach below and the South China Sea beyond.
Bunga Raya boasts some fantastic dining options, including the Pantai Restaurant and Bar with its laid back, beachfront setting, the Longhouse, an alfresco restaurant serving authentic local cuisine and The Longhouse Wine Cellar offering the largest wine selection in the region; there is something to suit every taste.
The resort has a large infinity pool with stunning views and a beautiful jungle spa, where each pavilion is entwined amongst the natural boulders and rainforest. For those feeling adventurous, there is a zipline through the rainforest. It is also possible to explore the local area with a guided jungle and mangrove walk, looking out for the amazing flora and fauna that cover the island, from tropical hardwood trees and forest flowers to hornbills, monkeys and lizards.
There is also plenty to see and do on the beach and in the sea. There are non-motorised watersports such as kayaking and hobie-cat sailing, and there is great diving and snorkelling on the reefs that surround the island. The PADI Certified Dive Centre, located at the resort's nearby sister property, is fully equipped to address the needs of both the novice and experienced diver, and the local waters are home to a myriad of species, from sea turtles, giant groupers and clown fish to colourful corals, trigger fish and occasionally the majestic whale shark. The nearby Marine Ecology Research Centre is a must-visit for those interested in the underwater ecology of the area, where you are able to actively participate in restoring the vibrant life back into the ocean, with their coral and Giant Clam projects.
When to visit
I had the most amazing spa treatment in one of their over water sala's down by the beach, or if you prefer visit their jungle spa for a treatment in the heart of the rainforest.
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Sailing
Bunga Raya Resort is located on Gaya Island, a pristine coral reef island off the coast of Kota Kinabalu in Sabah, Borneo.
17-hour international flight (one change) to Kota Kinabalu International Airport. A quick drive from the airport will take you to the Jesselton Point Ferry Terminal, and from there, it's a 30-minute boat out to Bunga Raya. Airport and ferry terminal transfers can be easily arranged through the resort.
Epic Malaysia and Borneo
We’ve set the bar high with this incredible two-week adventure to Borneo and Malaysia. Get ready for wildlife encounters in lush emerald jungles and tropical marine underworlds, dine at world-class restaurants and enjoy romantic moments under the moonlight on a deserted beach. This is a unique opportunity to discover new things and relax with the one you love.
Ultimate Borneo
A journey through the heart of Malaysian Borneo showcasing the very best this diverse country has to offer. Discover metropolitan Kuala Lumpur before exploring the dense Borneo Rainforest. See pygmy elephants and orangutans in the pristine Kinabatangan Wetlands area before enjoying some respite on one of Sabah's beautiful outer islands, Gaya Island.
Gaya Island Resort
Gaya Island Resort is a luxurious retreat just off the coast of Kota Kinabulu in Borneo. Backed by lush green forest, and facing sandy shores and cerulean-blue sea, offering beautiful views towards Mt Kinabalu, this is an idyllic place to unwind.
Kinabatangan River - Afternoon River Cruise
In the late afternoon set off by boat to explore the Kinabatangan River. Enjoy the scenery as the sun sets, watching the colours change across the sky. You may be lucky enough to spot the fireflies begin to twinkle along the riverbanks as night falls.
Tabin - Lipad Waterfall
After breakfast, travel by vehicle to the 'core area' of the reserve, stopping off en route for some wildlife spotting and photography opportunities before starting your trek into the rainforest to visit the Lipad Waterfall.
Borneo Rainforest Lodge - Rainforest Trek
Accompanied by your expert guide, trek through the pristine primary rainforest of the Danum Valley. This is one of the oldest rainforests in the world, filled with wonderful wildlife, astonishing plants, tumbling waterfalls and mysterious rock pools.
Borneo Rainforest Lodge - Night Safari
Hop into the back of an open-air truck for a night safari; a great time to see nocturnal primates such as the slow loris, flying red squirrel, samba deer, and civets. Your guide will use a strong torch to search for wildlife as you bump along the track.
Sukau Rainforest Lodge - Hornbill Boardwalk
Accompanied by the lodge's in-house naturalist, take a stroll along the Hornbill Boardwalk, keeping a eye out for the wildlife that can often been seen around the property.
Sukau Rainforest Lodge - Kelenanap Oxbow Lake
Start early this morning and take a boat cruise up the Kinabatangan River to the Kelenanap Oxbow Lake. The early morning is a great time to spot wildlife, and experience the rainforest coming alive as the sun rises.
Borneo Rainforest Lodge - “Coffin Cliff” Trek
Trek up to the “Coffin Cliff”, an ancient burial site of the Kadazandusun tribe, passing through picturesque rainforest and past waterfalls. You will also take in the best views of Danum Valley, and enjoy a refreshing dip in a natural Jacuzzi pool.
Sepilok Orangutan and Sun Bear Sanctuary
Visit the famous Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre. Here you will have a chance to see successfully rehabilitated orangutans coming to feeding platforms, and perhaps even juvenile orangutans during one of their daily training sessions.
Sukau Rainforest Lodge - River Cruise
Take a cruise along the Kinabatangan River, keeping an eye out for the local wildlife, which can include crocodiles, proboscis monkeys, pygmy elephants, hornbills and sometimes even the elusive orangutan.
