Based on the site of Langkawi’s first resort, the Westin Langkawi boasts an enviable location both in terms of it’s vista and expansive grounds. Set far from the hordes of tourists that descend upon Cenang beach, the Westin’s villas are a perfect spot for a relaxing beachside vacay.
There are many room types available, housed in the main resort building, however we chose to review the luxurious stand alone villas that line the beach. One and two bedroom villas are available either beachside (direct access to the beach from the pool patio area) or partial ocean view (set one row of villas back from the beach). There’s also a whopping FIVE bedroom villa set in seclusion at the opposite end of the resort. Word is that this palatial villa has hosted rockstars and royalty alike. It’s the perfect venue for a wedding party or extended family vacation.
The Westin’s one bedroom villas come in at 96sqm, comprising of an open plan lounge/dining/kitchenette, guest toilet and shower, bedroom with Westin Heavenly Bed, dressing area and spacious bathroom with bath and double vanities. The villas are gorgeous and airy, with that quintessential ‘island feel’ that visitors to other luxe island destinations such as the Pacific Islands will no doubt be familiar (and fond). There’s something about the space that instantly relaxes you and ushers in that ‘on holiday’ feeling.
Of course, the piece de resistance is the private pool and patio area. It’s very spacious by private pool standards with an excellent covered day bed, dining table and loungers. Beachfront villas have a door that connects the garden directly to the beach, and let me tell you – having those beach views as soon as you step outside is pretty special. It’s definitely worth it to go for the beachfront upgrade. The villas are very private, each being separated by quite some distance, but if TOTAL privacy is a requirement, extra temporary fences can be built around the villas upon request.
Staying in the villas gives you a range of in-villa dining options in addition to the standard room service. You can choose to have a private barbecue in your villa, available as a cook-your-own set up if you want to roll to your own schedule, or a fully staffed affair complete with private chef to man the barbecue for you.
Breakfast needn’t require stepping outside the villa gates either – why not indulge in the Romance breakfast for two? For just 240 MYR you’ll have a delectable breakfast set up for you either inside our out (we chose poolside) complete with prosecco and peach puree for Bellinis. Heart shaped pancakes, pastries, chocolate dipped strawberries and more ensure you won’t go hungry. The perfect start to a day in paradise.
There are plenty of activities to keep you busy should you want to leave the serenity of your private pool – non-motorized watersports are available right in front of the villas at the Westin’s own beach (charges apply), or if you prefer something with a little more horsepower, take a trip to Naam’s newly created island, Paradise 101, around a half an hour journey from the resort. Here you can head out on a jetski safari where the waters are calm and empty – unlike other jetskiing spots on the island. There are other activities opening there soon such as water park obstacle courses – ask the concierge for an update when you arrive.
There are pools aplenty in the main resort also (again, I have no idea why you’d want to leave your private pool) – an adults pool, children’s pool and a landscaped rock/fountain pool area. Children will also find entertainment at the Westin’s recreation centre which houses a kids’ club, table tennis etc, and there’s a fitness centre and tennis courts for those dedicated enough to work off breakfast.
Head to TheLuxeologist’s Langkawi Guide for more activity suggestions.
If you just want to relax within the resort (probably my recommendation) then why not take home a few tips and tricks of the trade from the Westin’s chefs? The Westin will organize a private cooking class for curious cooks which I highly recommend. We learned how to make Malaysian Curry, Char Kway Teow and Roti Canai. These fresh, fragrant and delicious dishes were the best we had during our stay – I had a seriously hard time saying goodbye to the leftovers! I’m still perfecting the recipes now that I’m back home, but hopefully I’ll be able to share one with you soon.
Tailor made dinners and experiences can also be curated for you at the Westin’s pier venue, FLOAT. Whether it’s a private dinner for two or for a group, the sky’s the limit as to what they can create for you. We even had a private cocktail class at FLOAT while watching the sunset – magical.
Seasonal Tastes host the daily buffet breakfast which has all the usual breakfast suspects and is very child friendly – right down to having plastic cutlery available for the little ones. Couples might want to seek out the sparkling wine also on offer at the breakfast by necessity – it’s hectic, loud, and full of children. The great news, however, is that it runs until 11am.
Your other dining options in the resort are Splash (the pool bar), Tide (great ocean views), Breeze Bar (stunning views from the elevated lobby level) and in the evening, Seasonal Tastes hosts theme nights either inside or outdoors. There’s also a private dining location, Anjung Damai. The dining options feel slightly limited for this size of resort, but I gather that this is because most of the custom falls into the family category. Couples might want to pop next door to the St. Regis to Kayu Puti for a true fine dining experience.
If you’re worn out from all the lazing in and around your private pool, head to the Westin’s Heavenly Spa for a rejuvenating treatment – it runs until late evening so there’s always time to squeeze in some pampering (couples suites are available). There’s a private pool for spa guests if you fancy a post-treatment dip, and you can even enjoy your massage al fresco if you wish.
The Westin’s well-appointed villas are sure to detox you from the hectic pace of city life. Spacious yet cosy, private without obstructing the gorgeous surroundings – it’s just the right balance. Couples and families will enjoy the ability to have space away from the main resort and create their own bespoke island getaway. Bliss!
The Details:
Style: Laidback Beachfront
Would I return? Yes – these villas are hard to leave!
Suitable for: Couples, families
Room Type Reviewed: Beachfront One Bedroom Villa
Room Size: 95sqm, King size bed
Room Amenities: Private pool and patio, direct beach access, day bed, kitchen, lounge, dining table, two televisions, DVD player, bath, robes, jandal slippers, bottled water, air conditioning, coffee making facilities, large fridge, guest toilet and shower, international power sockets.
On request services: Non-Motorized waterspouts, 24-hour room service, rollaway beds and infant cribs.
Hotel Facilities: Adults pool, kids pool, rock pools, fitness and leisure facilities, Heavenly Spa by Westin.
Price Guide: From around 2350 MYR including taxes (AED 2030, $550 USD, 475 EUR)