(TANJUNG SIMPANG MENGAYAU KUDAT)

MERRIMAS VILLA

Located just a short walk away from the northern-most tip of Borneo’s Tanjung Simpang Mengayau is Merrimas Villa. A colony of 14 chalets and a restaurant makes this destination a pit-stop to those visiting the Tip of Borneo. Settled between the heavy greenery beyond its chalets and the clashing seas up ahead, the chalets are designed using materials incorporating its natural surroundings. Using several types of wood and bamboo for the construction of its chalets, Merrimas Villa gives guest the ultimate feel of the Bornean Rainforest. There are 3 types of Chalets available ; Honeymoon, Hyperstar and Happyfamily. As its name may suggest, the Honeymoon chalet is most suited for couples with its queen-size bed. The Hyperstar is ideal for small groups as it comprises of two Queen-sized beds. For a family or larger travelling groups, the Happyfamily chalet has 2 rooms, a total of 4 Queen-size beds and a living room. Although settled in wooden chalets, guest are given the comfort of home with air-conditioned rooms, hot and cold showers, free WIFI, cable TV and standard furnishing.

The breezy afternoons are ideal for strolls around the grounds, where guest will find a hanging bridge, and a downhill pathway leading to a breath-taking view of the vast stretch of sea ahead and the Pulau Kalampunian Light-house standing in its wake. The Pulau Kalampunian Light house stands as a reminder of the treacherous coastline and of past shipwrecks. For guests who are looking for a bit of a thrill on their trip, ATV bikes are available for hire to storm the shore lines and explore the neighboring beaches. Such as the Kalampunian beach which is gaining popularity among surfers for its rolling waves and at times, rough waters. The rough waters primarily found on the shores of Simpang Mengayau are due to it being the meeting point of the South China Sea with the Sulu Sea. Causing violent waves and strong winds at the Tip of Borneo. As they are many beaches along the coastline of Simpang Mengayau, guest may ride their ATV bikes in search of an isolated beach for some privacy. As each chalet is equipped with a built-in BBQ pit, evenings are great for BBQ’s where guest can gather and get to know one another. In the village like arrangement of their chalets, Merrimas creates a great atmosphere where guest can easily interact with each other, while still having the privacy of their chalets.

The open air and wooden deck of the Merrimas Restaurant serves local and western cuisine, as well as famed Sabah seafood. Opens daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner, guest who aren’t out looking for adventure can relax on the deck accompanied by the sea breeze and a freshly chopped coconut to finish off their trip to the tip.

Author: Mariana