Jungle paradise: Datai Langkawi reveals new look
by Andrew Manns | 01 Jan 2019
Following a 12-month renovation, Malaysia's iconic Datai Langkawi resort has unveiled images of its refurbished interiors and exteriors.
Designed by Didier Lefort Architectes Associés (DL2A), the newly finished, 46-acre getaway is situated in an equatorial forest alongside Langkawi Beach, a natural attraction which has been described by National Geographic as one of the top ten beaches in the world.
Datai Langkawi's US$60m (€52m, £47m) renovations include guestrooms, suites, and villas; a beachside health club; an education-focused Nature Centre supervised by naturalist Irshad Mobarak; additional spa treatment rooms; and a pedicure studio inspired by the podiatric philosophy of Bastien Gonzalez.
In a statement, the resort said: "The spa draws heavily on local traditions, and includes a treatment list based on the Malay concept of ramuan or 'potions' made by infusing oils with hand-picked medicinal foliage from the herb garden and surrounding rainforest."
Among the resort’s other wide-ranging leisure amenities are: an 18-hole golf course, an atelier for local art exhibitions, and multiple on-site pools, bars, and lounges.
Speaking on the project, Didier Lefort, principal at DL2A commented: "It was important to maintain a deep connection to the original vision of a luxurious retreat seamlessly integrated into the 10-million-year-old virgin rainforest. The approach marries simplicity, modernity, and creativity with inspirations from the local environment, culture, and materials.
"Accommodation is refreshed with lighting enhancements and a warm, sophisticated colour palette while the addition of the latest technology ensures the ultimate in contemporary comfort, with the signature Datai DNA still evident throughout."
The project, which began construction in December 2017, represents the hotel’s most extensive remodelling since it opened 23 years ago.
Datai Langkawi Didier Lefort Malaysia
The 46-acre retreat is located alongside the Andaman Sea in Malaysia. Credit: Courtesy of Datai Langkawi
Amenities include 121 suites and villas, as well as a golf course, health club, nature centre, and spa. Credit: Courtesy of Datai Langkawi
The resort's on-site pedicure and manicure studio is inspired by the work of Bastien Gonzalez, an internationally recognised podiatrist. Credit: Courtesy of Datai Langkawi
09 Mar 2018
First look: The US$60m refurbishment of Malaysia's iconic Datai Langkawi jungle resort
25 Nov 2016
Didier Lefort to take on Datai Langkawi's 'most substantial enhancement' in 23 years
01 Aug 2011
New operator for The Datai Langkawi
Following a 12-month renovation, Malaysia's iconic Datai Langkawi resort has unveiled images of its refurbished interiors and exteriors. Designed by Didier Lefort Architectes Associés (DL2A), the newly finished, 46-acre getaway is situated in an equatorial forest alongside Langkawi Beach, a natural attraction which has been described by National Geographic as one of the top ten beaches in the world. Datai Langkawi's US$60m (€52m, £47m) renovations include guestrooms, suites, and villas;
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