A gorgeous city rich in art, diversity, and history, surrounded by nature, Penang Island is a destination you need to add to your itinerary on your next trip to Malaysia. From the peaceful beachside of Batu Ferringhi to the bustling historic streets of Georgetown, the island is peppered with beautiful Pinterest-worthy boutique hotels with vibrant historical recollections, you would not want to leave! We have put together a list of boutique hotels in Penang that we feel are straight out of Pinterest that you cannot miss out on!
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The Edison, George Town
The Edison is a grand colonial mansion from the pre-war era that has been restored into a chic boutique hotel fit for your Pinterest boards and Instagram feeds. Formerly a mansion serving a Hakka tycoon, then a hotel in the Second World War, followed by an administration office for the Japanese during their occupation, the structure has now been restored to its former opulent glory with a contemporary twist to suit the current taste.
Kick your feet up in their courtyard, a breezy and spacious common area in the heart of the mansion, or soak up the sun by the pool in their cabanas, every corner of The Edison is a picture-perfect moment.
Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion aka “The Blue Mansion”
Sitting on Leith Street, the stately Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion’s striking blue exterior is one you cannot miss. Formerly standing amongst many opulent mansions of other Hakka tycoons, it is the last remaining mansion on the street well-loved by tourists and locals alike. Choose from its offering of 18 lavish rooms and you are sure to be impressed by the intricate details and impressive preservation of every element despite having fallen into disrepair decades ago. The mansion also offers 5 different courtyards, one of which was featured in “Crazy Rich Asians,” as well as several dining options within the compound. We recommend going on their daily tours of the mansion and taking a photo by the iconic spiral staircase for the full tourist experience.
Penaga Hotel
Originally, Penaga Hotel was a three-row, double-storey, terraced building serving as houses and shophouses. Originally restored to house artists on an artist’s residency programme, the hotel now offers 45 rooms with 4 different styles, all adorned in antique Chinese and Nyonya decor to take you back in luxury and class. Take a stroll in their courtyard and garden for some zen away from the hustle and bustle of Georgetown, then soothe your tired body in their Teratak Spa or the private jacuzzis offered in 3 of the 4 room styles.
Lone Pine
Take one look and you will agree that Lone Pine is the epitome of elegance and sophistication. Surrounded by the charming casuarina trees, this 5-star boutique hotel is tucked in an idyllic beach on the coast of Batu Ferringhi, next to well-known global hotel franchises, and stands out from the rest with its oceanside colonial charm. The hotel features colonial architecture from the original bungalow building, with modern touches from its recent refurbishment. Away from the buzz of the city centre, take a dive into their pool followed by a stroll on the beach to immerse yourself in relaxation fully.
The Prestige Hotel
This hotel, situated on Church Street and heavily inspired by the heritage banking districts of old Penang, has an image like no other. An eclectic mix of Victorian glamour and modern art deco style, their interior design is a Pinterest dream come true. With a rooftop infinity pool overlooking Penang and its quayside surrounded by beautiful gazebos, you’d be remiss to not spend hours admiring the view. On top of that, their dining options, like The Glasshouse, also offer delicious food aside from the stunning visuals of its tropical Victorian
Seven Terraces
One of 5 beautiful restoration projects by the George Town Heritage Hotels, Seven Terraces is a stunning hotel made up of rows of terrace houses which was formerly a Lee Kongsi clan building in 1893. The rich interior is of romantic and refined Peranakan Chinese influence, decked with gorgeous antiques, intricately-carved wooden doors and cast iron lace works, offering you a peek into the lavish lifestyle of olden-day Peranakan families.
Muntri Mews
Another project by the George Town Heritage Hotels, Muntri Mews had a more modest start. What once was communal parking for horse carriages of the more affluent houses in the neighbourhood, Muntri Mews is now a contemporary boutique hotel with several pavilions resting in its lush garden, lending it a feel of an airy tropical wonderland.
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Would you visit these boutique hotels in Penang?
No matter your choice, these hotels will surely satisfy your aesthetic needs, so choose whichever from our selection suits your budget and style preferences, and you are set for a welcoming and immersive experience in the beautiful Pearl of the Orient!
