Back to nature at Eight Acres, Raub

Eight Acres is an eco-friendly country retreat in Raub, Pahang, nestled in greenery of real forest and palm oil plantations. This down-to-earth place is a result of passion for nature of Uncle Kam – the owner-manager and the soul of Eight Acres. Uncle Kam’s keen interest in flora and fauna is visible in every corner of this amazingly landscaped retreat.

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We easily convinced some friends to join us for a relaxing getaway from all things urban, just 90 minutes drive from KL. We felt a bit like visiting remote relatives on a farm – things move at a leisurely pace, simple but delicious local food is served in the common area and kids are free to roam around as they wish.

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There is a small waterfall just behind the main house and this was where we found ourselves cooling down after activities. It doubles as a natural fish spa – not for the squeamish! The kids loved climbing on the rocks and playing in the stream.

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Simple entertainment like good swings can keep the kids busy for ages. They can also whack each other and fall off – but that’s bound to happen, right?

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Accomodation at Eight Acres

We stayed in the Brick house, where the rooms all have a different theme. Most of the rooms share a bathroom in the corridor, some have air conditioning. We were grateful for choosing rooms with AC to cool down after a sweaty day outdoors. We slept like babies thanks to all that fresh air but there were only a few other guests – the rooms are not very well soundproof so it may be noisy when full. Rooms are simple but clean. No toiletries or towels are provided. We spent the evening sitting on the rooftop terrace just outside the rooms, under the stars, surrounded by the forest and the sound of the waterfall.

A lucky couple on their honeymoon was staying in the beautiful Java house, overlooking the waterfall and the glorious greenery around.

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The common areas are in the downstairs of the Brick House. They get a lot of guests on team building events, hence there is a lot of space. Kids were drawn to tatami hall and its stools that are not only suitable for sitting, but building castles and obstacle courses too. Meals are served in the communal area and are fresh and tasty – Uncle Kam has banned MSG from the kitchen, we were told. Recycling is part of the green ideology of Eight Acres. Some of the energy comes from a small hydroelectricity plant, and they are experimenting with air conditioners that run partly on solar power.

Animals make Eight Acres feel a bit like a farm. Athena the friendly pony is available for short rides. Geese and ducks roam around and the resident bunnies had a cute little baby that was obviously a favourite among the kids.

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In the morning the kids were invited along for a round of fish feeding and catching. That day we had fish for lunch!

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Some activities like table tennis and the pony ride are included in the price. For a fee you can try out archery or ride an ATV around the lake. The flying fox and climbing wall were closed when we visited, and the kids’ bikes were not in working order, so if activities are important to you, do check in advance to avoid disappointment.

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Uncle Kam is a fountain of knowledge on trees and herbs, and he takes his guests on a walkabout on the premises, pointing out all kinds of interesting facts about the tropical trees – native and exotic – that he has planted and nurtured. We were also told that come durian season the place is heaven for friends of the king of fruit.

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They have six different types of accommodation in different price categories. The gorgeous two-bedroom Java House (up to 6 pax) is currently RM1800/night and the smaller Mulberry Place houses RM230/person. Rooms such as ours in the Brick House are RM230/person with en-suite and RM210 with a shared bathroom. Air conditioning will be charged a one-off RM40 and kids pay R160/night. Rates include three meals and GST. RM20 surcharge per person applies for Public Holidays and School holidays. You can check their latest promotion here.

We always appreciate a chance for the kids to explore nature and get off their screens – and that’s what we got. Eight Acres is suitable for those looking for a serene, comfortable stay in a rural setting but are happy without all the luxuries of city life. A warm welcome from the staff made up for the fact that some activities were not available – and the truth to be told we were pretty content just chilling by the waterfall and playing table tennis.

Eight Acres is an easy 1.5 hour drive from KL. On the way back you can easily drive up to Kuala Gandah Elephant Sanctuary or stop at the Chamang waterfall near Bentong. You should pack swimming gear for the waterfall, hats and plenty of mozzie repellent.

*We were guests of Eight Acres. All opinions are our own, as usual.

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