Here’s a short review on the Lone Pine Hotel Penang during my recent trip to Batu Ferringhi. I’ve made several trips to this popular stretch of beach on the northern part of Penang Island over the last few years, and I’ve always wanted to stay at this boutique hotel. Who can resist the lure of a historical quaint hotel with pretty casuarina trees?
Overview
The history of the Lone Pine Hotel dates back to 1948, being the first hotel to open along the Batu Ferringhi coast. Over the years, the hotel has been refurbished, renovated and expanded; and from a small bungalow with 10 rooms, it now boasts a total of 90 rooms.
Some of the old buildings from the yesteryears still stand today, and it gives the resort an old colonial charm. Because of that, as well as its wide open spaces, the Lone Pine Hotel is a pretty popular spot for events– during my weekend visit, there was a company’s annual dinner, and a wedding party.
Arriving at the Hotel
I love the lush greenery that covers the walls and entrance of the Lone Pine Hotel. The hotel lobby is located at the newest building of the hotel (added in 2010) with its white walls and modern design. The lobby itself is covered in glass, which gives it a very airy and open feel.
Further in, a little more tidiness on the surrounding landscape and maybe a fresh coat of paint on the older buildings would have made the hotel seem more elegant and alluring. Thankfully, this is compensated by the pretty bougainvilleas and the lovely rows of casuarina trees that shade the hotel’s wide open space, just a step from the beach. There was a company event being held there when I arrived; and the emcee’s voice and loud music blasting through the speakers kinda disrupted the otherwise peaceful and serene atmosphere .
My Lone Pine Experience
During my stay, I checked into the Deluxe Room on the 3rd floor of the hotel’s new building. It is the most basic room of the resort and set me back approximately RM420 (US$110) per night. I got the best deal by heading to HotelsCombined to compare the many hotel booking sites. This search site is pretty handy when it comes to researching for the cheapest hotel rates.
What I liked about my room is that it faces the sea (albeit the obscure view from the casuarina trees) and that it has its very own plunge bath at the balcony. Other room types include those with garden settings, as well as the suites.
After the music and noise from the hotel’s many events have died down for the night; I enjoyed soaking myself in my outdoor bubble-filled bath, while enjoying the gentle sea breeze and the sounds of the waves crashing onto the shore.
Breakfast in the morning is served at the hotel’s Bungalow. The spread was pretty decent; they had continental and local selections, and switched the choices up a little the two mornings that I was there. The restaurant itself though, could do with a little spring cleaning– dirty canvas roof, leaf strewn floors and ants on the table. I didn’t visit the other 2 dining places, the Japanese restaurant, Matsu, or the hotel’s BatuBar; so I can’t comment on them.
I whiled the day away lazing by the hotel’s lovely pool. I also played a round of congkak (a local Malay mancala board game) at the Lepak Corner (which translates to ‘chill-out’ corner). For a more relaxing time, there’s the hotel’s Pure Energy Spa; and for the health conscious, there’s the gym.
End of the Day
The Lone Pine Hotel has been around for a long time; and even with the recent refurbishments, I believe it could do with a little more update and upkeep. Despite that, my weekend stay at the hotel was pleasant and relaxing. I had a lovely time. It’s great to get away for a little while and any vacation by the beach is always a treat– and Lone Pine Hotel’s intimate and charming setting made it all the more delightful.
And while you’re enjoying your stay at the hotel, remember that it is also a good base to head out to the many restaurants in the Batu Ferringhi area to try some of the island’s famous local street food. You’re in Penang, so eat!
Lone Pine Hotel Penang
Where: 97 Batu Ferringhi, 11100 Batu Feringgi, Malaysia.
Website: www.lonepinehotel.com
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Categories: Asia, Beachside, Boutique, Hotels and Resorts, Island Loving, Luxury, Malaysia, Penang, Southeast Asia
