Where the naturally untainted foot of Mount Santubong gently welcomes the undulating South China Sea. Where tribal elements subtly influence contemporary sensibilities. Ethnic luxury takes on a refreshingly renewed and refined form at Cove 55.
Built originally as a holiday home for an Iban family, the sprawling villa is now reborn as an intimate retreat with 13 rooms, two suites and thirteen villas. A private boutique hotel hideaway that’s infinitely customisable to personal tastes and differing occasions.
With so much unspoilt beauty surrounding Cove 55, you will be pleasantly surprised to know just how easy it is to reach us. International guests can fly into Kuching Airport on international carriers such as AirAsia, Malaysia Airlines and Singapore Airlines.
Then it is an easy and scenic 30-minute drive to the coastal town of Santubong where you will find us along Jalan Sultan Tengah.
ROOMS & SUITES
At Cove 55, the experience is cosy and intimate, with a combination of guest rooms that have been carved out from two villa wings and a series of luxury villas, both with Ocean and Mangrove views, some with private pools.
Eight 1st floor balcony rooms, flanked by two suites command stunning panoramic views of the surroundings. Garden rooms located on the ground floor feature an intimate courtyard garden, hidden behind an intricate laced brick wall.
For extra space and privacy, guests can chose to stay in a series of one-bedroom and two-bedroom standalone villas, which are either Ocean-facing with private pool, or within a lush Mangrove forest. Every aspect of Cove 55 is detailed to make you feel wonderfully idyllic and as if you are in a private residence.
TWO BEDROOM MANGROVE VILLA
This single unique Two Bedroom Villa is nestled discreetly between the lush mangroves. The master bedroom features a King Size bed with open plan lounging area and an en-suite bathroom with double vanities, bathtub and rain shower.
The 2nd bedroom features a choice of King Size or 2 Single Beds and an en-suite bathroom with double vanities, and rain shower. A spacious indoor living area contains a full-size sofa which converts seamlessly into a bed.
Each bedroom and shared living room has a smart TV, additionally the living area has gourmet espresso machine and fully stocked mini bar. The expansive outdoor deck houses a unique sunken lounge and has plenty of space to relax whilst enjoying the sights and sounds of the natural surroundings.
ONE BEDROOM MANGROVE VILLA
The Mangrove Villas are nestled discreetly between the lush mangroves, designed with stylish simplicity to make the most of the vibrant natural environment.
The bedroom and lounge are open plan in design featuring a luxurious custom-designed King- or Twin-Size Bed. There is also the option of our One Bedroom Mangrove Family Villa, which in addition to a spacious King Bed also has a sofa that converts seamlessly into a comfortable, full Double-Size Bed.
All rooms enjoy an en-suite bathroom with double vanities, bathtub, and rain shower. Each villa has a smart TV, gourmet espresso machine and fully stocked mini bar. The spacious outdoor deck has plenty of space to lounge whilst enjoying the sights and sounds of the natural surroundings.
TWO BEDROOM OCEAN POOL VILLA
This single unique Two Bedroom Villa has a prime ocean front location providing unobstructed views of the South China Sea. The master bedroom features a King Size bed with open plan lounging area and an en-suite bathroom with double vanities, bathtub and rain shower.
The 2nd bedroom features a choice of King Size or 2 Single Beds and an en-suite bathroom with double vanities, and rain shower. A spacious indoor living area contains a full-size sofa, which converts seamlessly into a bed. Each bedroom and shared living room has a smart TV, additionally the living area has a gourmet espresso machine and fully stocked mini bar.
The expansive outdoor deck houses a unique sunken lounge and has plenty of space to relax after enjoying a swim in the villas own swimming pool which also features a separate shallow pool perfect for cooling off with a drink or for children to splash around in.
ONE BEDROOM OCEAN POOL VILLA
The One Bedroom Ocean Pool Villas have a prime ocean front location providing unobstructed views of the South China Sea.
The bedroom and lounge are open plan in design featuring a luxurious custom-designed King- or Twin-Size Bed. There is also the option of our One Bedroom Ocean Pool Family Villa, which in addition to a spacious King Bed also has a sofa that converts seamlessly into a comfortable, full Double-Size Bed.
All rooms enjoy an en-suite bathroom with double vanities, separate bathtub and rain shower. Each villa has smart TV, gourmet espresso machine and fully stocked mini bar. The spacious outdoor deck has plenty of space to lounge after a refreshing dip in the villa’s own private pool.
CORNER SUITE
Our spacious Corner Suite is located on the 1st floor of the property with lovely 180-degree views of the South China Sea and gardens. Chicly appointed, the suite is designed for small families or couples who wish to simply enjoy the luxurious expanse.
BALCONY SUITE
Our spacious and airy Balcony Suite is located on the 1st floor of the property offering wonderful view of the ocean and Mount Santubong. Chicly appointed, the suite is designed for small families or couples who wish to simply enjoy the luxurious expanse.
GARDEN ROOM
Situated on the ground floor, each of our 5 Garden Rooms feature their own private courtyard with an outdoor day bed and dining area. Ideal for unwinding under the shade with a book and drink in hand.
BALCONY ROOM
Located on the first floor across Cove 55’s two villa wings, each of our 8 Balcony Rooms opens out to a spacious balcony with an outdoor day bed and dining area. Perfect for taking in spectacular views.
THE COVE BAR
Perched on the magnificent Sea Deck right next to the infinity pool, Cove Bar is where you can stylishly drink in the stunning surroundings whilst enjoying a tipple from our extensive menu of international wines and spirits. Alternatively, savour one of our many specialty cocktails while listening to the sound of the waves lapping the shore.
KECHALA RESTAURANT
Casual and relaxed, yet sophisticated, Kechala excites your taste buds with local ingredients sourced from the surrounding jungle and organic produce from the chef’s garden.
Dishes are prepared using modern cooking techniques and are infused with Sarawakian flavours, offering a truly unique dining experience. Expect fine selections from an inventive menu that changes regularly, created using only the best seasonal produce.
ENTERTAIN
For events that are truly one-of-a-kind, no other location combines absolute versatility with natural charm and beauty like Cove 55. Take your pick from Sera our brand new Event Hall, Our Lawns, Sunken Lounge & Terrace, Sea Deck, Cove Bar or Kechala as your venue options. Whether you are looking for a place to entertain or be entertained, Cove 55 is your definitive destination of choice.
EVENTS
Cove 55 welcomes guests to its intimate retreat for memorable meetings, corporate retreats, team building and incentive travel. Surrounded by lush tropical jungles, where the naturally untainted foot of Mount Santubong gently welcomes the undulating South China Sea, guests will discover an awe-inspiring destination replete with spacious venues, group activities and luxurious accommodations.
Host your next Executive Retreat in the heart of the rainforest at Cove 55’s state of the art new event destination, ‘SERA’. The resort’s secluded yet capacious setting provides the perfect location for a productive retreat.
Ideal for both leisure and corporate events, the 250-seat multipurpose event facility features floor-to-ceiling windows that ensure unobstructed views of the surrounding mangroves and sea. The venue features a wrap-around outdoor terrace that allows guests to utilize both its indoor and outdoor spaces.
Adding further to the resort’s venue offering is the Ocean Pavilion, featuring hardwood timber frames and all-round floor-to-ceiling screens, which open up to the 360° breath-taking views. This unique location is infinitely customisable, perfect for intimate welcome reception, private dinners or even a rejuvenating group yoga class.
Cove 55’s corporate events team will create a bespoke experience to your company’s requirements, including personalised catering to meet your attendees every need, and tailor-made accommodation arrangements for everyone in your group.
In addition, guests will enjoy the resort’s five-star amenities including luxurious suites, infinity-edge swimming pool with ocean-view Cove Bar, modern Sarawakian cuisine at Kechala restaurant, and gracious Iban hospitality.
Beyond the boardroom, guests can participate in team-building workshops at the resort including lawn games, poolside competitions, volleyball and even yoga! Adventure-seeking guests can explore the region with day trips to Bako National Park, or the Wetlands Animal Adventure.
WEDDINGS
Weddings at Cove 55 are the epitome of bespoke style and elegance. Working closely with your wedding planner, our team will help take care of your requests pertaining to rooms, choice of venue and menu options. Rest assured that we will undertake everything necessary to create an unforgettable experience for you and your guests.
EXCLUSIVELY YOURS
At Cove 55 we specialize in ‘Exclusive Use’ Events, giving you private access to our luxury hideaway. We encourage you to treat our house as your very own home in an undiscovered paradise, offering intimate celebrations with complete privacy in a unique setting. Our specialized team will be on hand throughout to make your stay completely personalized.
RELAX
We hope that you find Cove 55 the perfect place to completely unwind in our tranquil and lush setting. Enjoy the Olympic saltwater swimming pool, perched over the South China Sea with it’s private cabanas, and lunch and beverages available daily. Borrow a book from the library or play a game of cards in the peaceful garden or on Kechala’s terrace.
THE GYM
De-Stress and refresh in our fully equipped fitness centre; open 24 hours a day for our resident guests featuring premium range Life Fitness equipment. Enjoy panoramic views over the South China Sea whilst keeping up with your fitness schedule.
THE SWIMMING POOL
Cool down from the tropical heat in our exquisite infinity pool which blends seamlessly with the South China Sea horizon. With an impressive length of 30m there is ample space to stretch out and swim laps or just enjoy a refreshing dip.
THE LIBRARY
Filled with interesting reads, our peaceful library on the ground floor is perfect for escaping the tropical weather at any hour, or for chilling out after dinner with drinks. Feel free to borrow books to bring to your room, or donate your own finished volumes if you want to free up luggage space on your return home!
MATANG JUNGLE GOLF
An adventure golfer’s dream, Matang Jungle Golf delivers a one-of-a-kind, rough-and-tumble golfing experience that is exclusive to Cove 55 guests. Just 30-minutes outside of downtown Kuching, this is one of the most unique courses in Malaysia, with a natural setting that creates an adventurous round of 9-hole golf.
The mature flora and fauna, together with a hilly terrain that includes some bridges and staircases, make this a challenging golfing experience that comes complete with rolling hills, mighty trees, and the promise that you will certainly get your steps in!
EXPLORE
Beyond rejuvenating urban weary souls, guests are encouraged to discover and immerse in the pride of Sarawakian land during your stay with us. Should you wish to venture out, activities for every level of fitness can be arranged. Book a guide and hike up Mount Santubong.
Spend time observing orangutans in their natural habitat. Search for crocodiles on a boat tour. Explore the nearby national parks, cultural and fishing villages. Cycle to see more of the unspoiled environs or tee off at an Arnold Palmer designed golf course. Whatever you are in the mood for, allow us to facilitate.
TUN JUGAH FOUNDATION
If you would like to learn more about Iban material culture, do approach us to arrange for a private visit to the Tun Jugah Foundation in Kuching city. The foundation features a library, museum and gallery.
WETLANDS WILDLIFE CRUISE
This afternoon tour starts with a hotel pick up at 4PM pick up from hotel, and a 15-minute drive to the Santubong River Boat Club. Board a boat and start your cruise around the rivers, creeks and mangroves of the Santubong Peninsular.
You first cruise to the mouth of the Santubong River, where Irrawaddy dolphins are regularly sighted. From there you cruise the mangrove-lined rivers and estuaries looking for wildlife, including proboscis monkeys.
The tour does not operate during rough sea conditions or heavy rain. Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed. However, wildlife often seen on this cruise includes Irrawaddy dolphins, proboscis monkeys, crocodiles, silver-leaf monkeys, fireflies, long-tailed macaque monkeys, monitor lizards and a range of birds, including egrets, white-bellied sea eagles and kingfishers.
SATANG ISLAND
Board a small boat (12 capacity of passengers) and begin your cruise to the mouth of the Salak River. You should be able to spot the elusive and rare schools of Irrawaddy dolphins which are quite common in this area. Our boatman will stop nearby Bird Island to seethe sea birds before proceed to Satang Island.
Head out to the South China Sea for Satang Island. The island is part of the Satang National Park where a turtle conservation project is located on the island. Green Turtles and the rare Hawksbill Turtles often lay their eggs here.
Spend time on the islands white sandy beach or go snorkelling. You will be able to enjoy the corals and the marine life in the crystalline waters off the island. A packed lunch and refreshments will be provided.
SEMONGGOH NATURE RESERVE
For over 20 years, the wardens at Semenggoh Nature Reserve have been training young orangutans, who had been orphaned or rescued from captivity, how to survive in the wild. The success of this programme has left the surrounding forest reserve with a thriving population of healthy adolescent and young adult orangutans, who are now breeding in the wild.
The programme has since been transforred to Matang Wildlife Centre, but Semenggoh Nature Preserve is still home to its successful graduates, semi-wild orangutans and their babies. This in itself is a good sign and another step on the way to full rehabilitation.
4 IN 1 ORANGUTAN+
Visit the Semenggoh Nature Reserve. The entire facility occupies an area of 740 acres which acts as a sanctuary for Orang Utan. The main attraction is undeniably the Rehabilitation Centre, a temporary home for displaced Orang Utan that has been rescued from captivity and young orphaned primates.
Most Bidayuh longhouses are located nearer villages and towns. This has led to urban migration especially for the younger generation and the result is a new take on communal living.
On arrival at Annah Rais Long House , the sight that greets you is a thriving village which bears no resemblance to a longhouse. As you navigate the detached homes you will notice that they are interconnected by walkways which in itself is still an affirmation of extended family living
The Fairy Cave is about 13-storey high. After a quick climb through the cave with torchlight, the cave opens up into a main chamber. Sunlight streams into the chamber, enabling you to view the limestone formation of several types.
View the beautiful and some eerie shape of nature creations, the stalactites and stalagmites. There is a formation that has been likened to the Goddess of Mercy which at about 3 meters in height resembles a woman dressed in classical Chinese robes, complete with hat, look down benignly upon worshippers.
BAKO NATIONAL PARK
Bako is also home to approximately 275 rare proboscis monkeys, found only in Borneo. The male is an odd-looking creature, with a huge pendulous nose and a large pot-belly, weighing in excess of 20 kg. Both male and female are covered in reddish-brown fur with grey limbs and a white tail.
They are mostly arboreal (tree-dwelling), moving about the forest or mangroves in small groups and feeding on young leaves, shoots, sour fruits and seeds. Although it requires some patience, an encounter with a group of proboscis is likely to be the highlight of your trip to Bako.
Pick up from hotel and drive about 35 minutes to Bako Village. From the village, take about a 25-minute boat ride (depending on the tide) to the park situated in a peninsula. Bako is one of the best places in Sarawak to see wildlife in natural surroundings.
The various types of animals that are commonly spotted at Bako include the proboscis monkeys, silver leaf monkeys,long tail macaques, wild boars, monitor lizards, flying lemur, snake and numerous species of birds.
The tropical rainforest ranges from mangroves to kerangas (heat forest), tropical swamp vegetation, cliff vegetation and beach vegetation. There are several trails inside the park depending on level of fitness and interest.
A BITE OF BORNEO BY BIKE
Paradesa Borneo pride ourselves on our unique guided bike itineraries in Malaysia’s Borneo. We offer the widest range of cycling tours in Malaysia, from the Leisure Local Cycling or Mountain Biking day trips to the multi day Borneo Cycling Holidays in the state of Sarawak.
Embark on an authentic culinary experience, from market to stove to table! Ride through a stretch of centuries-old Malay villages-then go on to learn about what goes into making authentic Sarawak cuisine.
From the market where the ingredients come from, to the kitchen where the magic happens, then onto your palate where the flavors meet, it’s a delight like no other. You might just unleash your inner chef in this Kuching cooking class!