Sunrise in Kuala Penyu

I have to post our trip to Kuala Penyu although it has been two years since we went there. I just thought this gem must be revealed.

We went there to attend hubby's colleague's wedding. Our memories of Kuala Penyu was vague since we haven't been to Kuala Penyu for more than 10 years (I guess). So we decided to stay there for one night. Just to see what Kuala Penyu has in store for us.

We went there via the Beaufort road from Kota Kinabalu. The journey took us roughly about 2 hours. There are two routes to reach Kuala Penyu. We took the one that required us to board a ferry.








Welcome to Sawangan Beach!


We stayed at Sawangan Beach Lodge which is owned by a very friendly local couple, Mr & Mrs Migin.
When we were there, we could only see two chalets provided. However, I found this site that belongs to Sawangan Beach Lodge and they have a 'bungalow' now, besides the two chalets. Great!



Our hut that is called 'Mel'. :)




The sea shells decoration on the bathroom wall was done by the owner herself, an art enthusiast. In fact, there were two lovely paintings that hung on the bedroom wall were painted by her. By the way, Mrs Migin's name is Victoria Kouju. Those from Penampang might know her well. :)



Well equipped for a small hut, on an isolated area I must say.
Mosquito net, fan as well as an air-conditioner.



Sawangan beach has not been well-developed into a tourism area. Yet. Only a certain few and of course the Kuala Penyu people know about this place. Not many come here other than the anglers or school goers doing their camping activity or those aiming for quiet and tranquil stay, out from the hustle and bustle of the city. However, if you are here for the right purpose, you will definitely enjoy what Sawangan beach has to offer.
The Sawangan beach jetty is, in my opinion, makes this beach unique from the rest. Its long straight wooden planks stretched to about 500metres (or maybe more) long towards the sea. A perfect venue for catching up the sun rise like just we did when we were there.



While we were enjoying sun rise, we noticed a freshly-dead squid that measure as long as my hand; from the tip of my longest finger to the wrist. I have not seen a squid that big so yeah, I got myself taking picture with it.
As to how it could got onto the jetty from the sea, that is still a mystery to us.



Thank goodness for timer setting on our camera, we could take picture together at the Sawangan jetty.



Going back, we followed the same route. This time, we lingered a little while more and played silly with just about anything there, including this one below. :)



If you are thinking to do pre-wedding photos and want something different, this might be a good destination to go. Just make sure you have made reservation to Sawangan Beach Lodge so that your stay there would not be as miserable as you think.

Away on high land

This was our second family trip in December 2008. After Kudat in 2007, I thought it's best to go to Ranau this time. So off we went there for a night stay.

Our brief itineraries:

Travel date: 22nd December - 23rd December 2008
Transport : Own - 2 vehicles to accommodate 8 people including two children.
It was a two and half hour drive from Kota Kinabalu to Kundasang.

Stayed at : Mount Kinabalu Heritage hotel (formerly known as Perkasa Hotel Kundasang)


First Day:
We arrived at Poring Hot Spring before noon time, about 3 hours drive from Kota Kinabalu.
Since it was weekend, the place was packed with locals as well as tourist.
All wanting to shower themselves in the famous Sulfur water, the hot spring, the natural hot water that come from under ground. We managed to earn two bath tubs and soaked ourselves inside the warm water while waiting for the rain to stop pouring.
I even managed to dip inside the freezing Rock Pool water. Not long, just enough to wet myself before i turned to the more comfy warm bath tub water

The Poring bamboo, commonly found here. Hence the name of the place, Poring.


Walking to the hot water site.



River stream that looked so tempting to splash in.


The source of the natural hot water. It is believed that you can actually boil egg here by just drowning it in the water. Of course, for hygiene purpose, they do not allow it there.



Japanese tourist enjoying their tea while soaking their feet in the warm sulphur water.


Three people inside, the max. :)


Hungry stomachs after the hot water bath.


Our hotel room. Recently refurbished with free wifi.


Final Day:
After having our complimentary breakfast at the hotel, checked out and straight to Kundasang War Memorial site. It is located just across the road after descending from Mt Kinabalu Heritage hotel.


The entrance to the War Memorial.


The reason it was built.


Pictures of soldiers who have died during the marches from Sandakan to Ranau were placed nicely by family members who visited on annual basis.




Tending to the garden.


One part of the garden.


A very catchy signage at the entrance of one of the garden. Very Sabahan. :)




Overlooking Kundasang valley.


On our way back. Since it was month of December, local traders took the opportunity to sell Poinsettia flowers at RM12 per pot and above depending on pot sizes.

Although it was just a one night trip, we enjoyed it  nonetheless. Hubby and I are planning to visit Ranau again to specifically visit the tea garden in Kundasang.