#legend explores Singapore’s newest eco-retreat, where biophilic design meets world-class hospitality in the heart of the Mandai Wildlife Reserve
For urbanites seeking a respite from the city’s frenetic pace, the search for a true sanctuary often involves long-haul flights to remote corners of the globe. However, a new paradigm of wellness and convenience has emerged with the opening of the Mandai Rainforest Resort by Banyan Tree. Situated within the 4.6-hectare grounds of Singapore’s Mandai Wildlife Reserve, this destination proves that a profound connection with nature does not require sacrificing modern accessibility.
The resort is a testament to sensitive architecture, designed to sit lightly upon the land. Upon arrival, guests are welcomed not by imposing structures, but by the site’s original inhabitants: a towering 12-meter Rain Tree and a native Indian Beech tree, carefully preserved to frame the entrance. This commitment to biophilia extends throughout the property, where wings of the resort are elevated above the ground, allowing native wildlife to move freely across the forest floor beneath.
While the resort features 338 rooms in its main building, complete with artwork depicting the layers of the rainforest, the crown jewels of the property are undoubtedly the 24 treehouses. Shaped to resemble the seed pods of the Purple Millettia plant, these elevated sanctuaries offer guests a rare opportunity to sleep amongst the canopy. Overlooking the Upper Seletar Reservoir, these treehouses blur the line between indoor luxury and the raw beauty of the outdoors.
Sustainability is not merely a buzzword here but a built-in feature. The resort has earned the status of Singapore’s first Super Low Energy (SLE) resort, utilizing smart technology to monitor energy consumption and harvesting rainwater for reuse, ensuring that every stay contributes to a lighter environmental footprint.
No Banyan Tree property is complete without its signature wellness offerings. The Banyan Tree Spa here draws inspiration from the local fauna, featuring treatment pods designed to mimic the protective scales of the Sunda pangolin. Just as the scales shield the animal, these pods provide a secluded haven for guests to undergo rejuvenating treatments rooted in centuries-old Asian traditions.
Culinary experiences at the resort are equally grounded in nature. At the signature restaurant, Forage, the “Harvest to Table” concept comes to life using ingredients sourced directly from the resort’s own rooftop edible garden. Diners can enjoy sustainable gastronomy while taking in unobstructed views of the reservoir, further deepening the connection to the surrounding landscape.
Beyond the confines of the resort, the location offers unparalleled access to wildlife. As the first resort situated within the Mandai Wildlife Reserve, it serves as a gateway to the Singapore Zoo, Night Safari, Bird Paradise, and the upcoming Rainforest Wild. Guests are afforded exclusive privileges, such as the “Wild Walk” guided tours and immersive programmes like the “Wild Zoo Day Camp” for younger explorers.
Mandai Rainforest Resort by Banyan Tree redefines the concept of an urban escape. By seamlessly integrating luxury hospitality with the rhythms of the rainforest, it offers a refreshing perspective on travel, one where recharging the spirit is as simple as stepping into nature’s embrace.
Also see: A quick and convenient wellness retreat lies in Fusion Resort & Villas Da Nang
