Tuesday, October 25, 2011

Travel: Bukit Tinggi, Pahang



Bukit Tinggi is just over an hour's drive from Kuala Lumpur City centre and lies some 2,500 feet above sea level.



Colmar Tropicale


Colmar Tropicale, located in Bukit Tinggi, Pahang, is a replica of a collection of buildings from a north-eastern village in France dating back to the 16th Century. It's just like a picture postcard. The French themed resort was opened in July 2000. 



It's surrounded by lush tropical forest land. Just RM 16 for adults and RM 8 for children below twelve, you can enjoy the various entertainment at Colmar Tropicale. A clock tower at the entrance welcomes the visitors. You need to walk up (and down) curvy concrete staircases to view the entire development.



The theme hotel is made up of eight blocks of architectural wonder, each with its unique style, from its colourful roof tiles to cobblestone ground. The hotel has several outlets, where you can dine in the French way. Central to the village is Colmar Square where the aroma of the blooms will tantalise your senses. 



There are fountains and park benches in the square for relaxation after a hard day's work browsing in the 17 theme shops, or should one wish to take a breather from participating in the various activities. The drawbridge reminiscent of ancient castles, clock tower with an original cuckoo bird clock, and the viewing tower complements the ambience.



Live bands and snake performances entertain the visitors on a stage. A clown juggles balls and pins, rides on his cycle, hops around playing tricks and acting merry. Authentic French food is served from sidewalk cafes and restaurants. The tables are placed strategically around the square so you can enjoy a meal or glass of wine whilst taking in the ambience.






The Rabbit Park




The children can play with the adorable furry beings at The Rabbit Park and you can discover Japanese authenticity at the Japanese Village. The rabbit farm is not included in the entrance fee to Colmar Tropicale. Its only RM3 for each person to get in. We can buy rabbit foods here and have fun feeding the rabbits. They were tame and cute. 





There was a small playground next to the park, as well as a small petting zoo. If you were in the mood you can also take up a ride on a pony here. It will only cost you RM6. There was also a cage for deer, and also breeding area for the rabbit. 



The Japanese Village








The Japanese Village is located at 3,500 feet above sea level. The first of its kind outside Japan. It encompasses a Japanese Tea House, Sakura and Ume Tatami Suites, and a Botanical Garden. An hour long authentic Japanese Tea Ceremony conducted by Kimono clad ladies can be observed at the Japanese Tea House located within a Japanese garden with mini waterfalls and a pond of multi-coloured Koi.









Botanical Garden





A one kilometre walk path built on four acres of virgin forest lies the Botanical Garden. Here amidst lush greenery, one can appreciate the sight of multi coloured and multi shaped floral and fauna, hear the call of birds and monkeys, insects buzzing and the fragrance of the growing forest. Signs with names and information snippets of trees, plants and flowers were put up for visitors.