Metro

Sunday August 16, 2009

Step into hot springs

By RENITA CHE WAN


The Felda Residence Hot Springs in Sungai Klah, Sungkai, Perak, is said to have the most well-kept hot springs in the country.

THERE was a time when the mention of Felda (Federal Land Development Authority) just brought up images of plantations, land development, and settlers.

But there’s so much more to Felda these days, and among them is the tourism attraction in some of the Felda locations.

One that is gradually drawing in the tourists is the Felda Residence Hot Springs in Sungai Klah, Sungkai, Perak, which is said to have the most well-kept hot springs in the country.

Lush greenery: Take in the breathtaking scenery while soaking in the cool pool.

Opened in 2000, Felda Residence Hot Springs is located 61m above sea level on the foothills of the Titiwangsa Range, the so-called backbone of Peninsular Malaysia.

Once you arrive there, the lush greenery, hills, streams and rivers that abound in the vicinity will amaze you.

It is sprawled over a huge area but getting from one place to another is not a problem as there is a tram to take visitors around.

And as the name implies, the main attraction is the hot springs which have been artfully harnessed into a network of pools of different sizes. Dipping into one of these pools is like stepping into a sanctuary where the mind and body are calmed by the steady steam, the sound of running water and the casual banter of bathers.

The water temperature ranges between 30°C and 102°C and the sulphur content is very low at only 0.01%.

Cozy hut: The jacuzzi is able to fit eight adults and is located in a small hut, away from prying eyes.

When things get too warm, you can step into the cooling pool, which is fed by water from a mountain spring.

There are two Olympic-sized pools, one hot and the other cool. There are water slides to try out at the cooling pool. These are safe even for the kids to play in as the water is not too deep.

There are also private family Jacuzzis located in small cabins. These are able to accommodate as many as eight adults at one time and are ideal for those who prefer privacy while having their hot water dip.

Then there is the 30m water reflexology path, where you can walk barefooted on irregular stones to boost your blood circulation. The hot water combined with the stones give the best foot therapy, au naturale. Try it, you won’t regret it.

Located just a metre away from the water reflexology path is another tiny pool where you can dip your feet in water with the temperature ranging between 35°C and 38°C. After a long walk around the resort, resting your feet in this pool is just to die for!

And if all the relaxing in the pool, whether cool or hot, is not enough, a traditional Malay massage and Ayurveda treatment are also available. They should be the perfect way to end a day.

Spacious: The villas at Felda Residence Hot Springs comes with a double bed, perfect for couples and family gatherings.

Another interesting fact about the hot springs is that it is famous for its algae, which is said to have medicinal benefits.

Initial reports by www.buzzle.com/articles/health-benefits-of-algae.html claim that the algae can help fight cancer and heart disease, lower cholesterol, boost the immune system, and detoxify the body. It is also said to be efficacious as a beauty treament for the skin.

The Raja Puan Besar of Perak Tuanku Zara Salim Davidson has been spotted there a few times, slathered in algae.

“I’ll wager with anyone that the algae can work miracles. It is even better than having a botox treatment,” quips Pak Said, the campy tour guide who adds that he also uses them and has been told that he looks years younger than his real age.

Since rumour has it that dipping in the pools at night is an experience not to be missed, one should spend at least a night there. It is said that the experience is so relaxing one can fall asleep while soaking in the water.

If you do decide to stay, there is a hotel with 64 rooms that have been designed to resemble a typical Malaysian house.

In case the hotel doesn’t provide enough privacy, there are 13 villas to choose from and each are designed quite differently from the others. Each also comes with a private Jacuzzi.

Boiling hot: Try boiling an egg to see how hot the water is at the hot spring in Felda Residence.

Where dining is concerned, there is the option of having an Asian meal or a Western one. Each day there are more than five dishes to satiate your hunger, not including the desserts! Try the four outlets – Coffee House, The Rock Café, Hot Café and Villa Lounge.

If you’re feeling a little more adventurous, try boiling an egg.

“I was told the sulphur content is low so that is probably why there’s no foul smell and the eggs taste awesome!” says Masranee Yusoff, one of the guests.

Managed by Plantation Resorts Sdn Bhd (PRSB), a subsidiary of Felda Agricultural Services Sdn Bhd (FASSB), the resort is 160km away from Kuala Lumpur and 100km away from Ipoh. A stay of at least two nights is recommended.

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