It has been said that, for great journeys, getting there is half the fun. This saying proves true for these scenic drives to some of Malaysia’s favourite weekend getaways. You can savour beautiful views of the country’s coastline, tropical rainforests, mountains, padi fields and farms, and villages, along the way.
1. Simpang Pulai to Cameron Highlands
One of the more scenic and relaxing routes to get to Cameron Highlands is from Simpang Pulai, a little town by the North South Expressway. It is an 80km drive which takes about an hour 40 minutes. Be sure to fill up at the Caltex station in Simpang Pulai before you start your ascent, to ensure a smooth and uninterrupted drive, as there are no petrol stations from town all the way up to Kampung Raja, some 50km uphill. This is a comfortable route, and suitable for families with young children because it is less winding compared to other pathways. Enjoy the view of the mountains, farms and villages along the way, and take in the cool mountain air as you make your ascent to Brinchang and Tanah Rata.
When you arrive in Cameron Highlands, relax at the tea house at the Sungai Palas Tea Plantation. Photo: Wikimedia Commons
2. Teluk Intan to Lumut
Once a small fishing village, Lumut is now a happening coastal town where you can take a ferry to Pangkor Island. There is also the Teluk Batik beach where you can relax or go for a swim. The drive from Teluk Intan to Lumut is a scenic one, passing by villages, plantations and lots of greenery. The distance is 67.5km, which takes around an hour 10 minutes by car.
3. Kuantan to Cherating
Cherating has an idyllic rustic atmosphere, and offers many cosy chalets as well as mid-range to luxury resorts, including Club Med. It is a lovely 60km coastal drive from Kuantan which takes less than an hour. Some interesting sights you will see along the way are Beserah, a fishing village known for its seafood and numerous cottage industries; and Balok, which is famous for its white sandy beaches and clear blue skies.
Beautiful seaside resorts like Club Med Cherating await you along the scenic drive from Kuantan to Cherating.
4. Butterworth to Alor Setar
Alor Setar is the capital city of Kedah, and second largest city in the state, after Sungai Petani. It has several historical buildings, museums and other interesting places to visit. It’s a 95km drive from Butterworth, taking slightly over an hour, with beautiful views of padi fields, mountains and villages along the way.
Lush green padi fields along the way from Butterworth to Alor Setar.
5. Kota Tinggi to Mersing
Both local and international tourists would be familiar with the Mersing jetty as it’s the gateway to islands like Pulau Tioman, Pulau Besar and Pulau Tinggi. However, the town itself has a tranquil charm, with markets selling local handicrafts and foodstuff, as well as nearby beaches and forests for those who love nature. It’s a 91km drive from Kota Tinggi to Mersing, which takes around an hour 15 minutes.
Fishing boats at Mersing Jetty.
