Hickory Penang Hill

A great hilltop escape if you need some time away or a retreat. There's a beautiful view, coffee and tea whenever you want, and plenty of hiking options. Food is available not far from the top, and another cafe is a 45-minute walk away.

Raj has done a great job restoring Hickory, an historic bungalow tucked away from the main path on Penang Hill. I prefer it to Eythrope or Bellvue if you're looking for that kind of stay and want to avoid crowds. The views are fantastic, especially at sunrise, with the bungalow facing west and a clear view of Butterworth and the mainland. Rates are reasonable, the funicular makes access easy, and the staff are friendly and available. My only complaint was that the drapes on one window were too short to close all the way. I can't recommend the place highly enough.

Jackie, the resident pet, is adorable, and the staff were incredibly helpful. We spent our New Year retreat here on Jan 1, 2026, and the cool weather and breathtaking views made it a great setting for focus and clarity. My friends had recommended the place, and it exceeded my expectations. The service was top-notch and the food delicious. I'm already thinking about hosting a 3D2N or 4D3N training getaway here. It seems ideal for a retreat or training camp, and I'd recommend it to anyone looking to recharge or hold a purposeful event.

The view is amazing, and it's a convenient three-minute walk from Lower Tunnel St. We had a simple seafood buffet that was fresh and flavourful, and beverages were available free-flow throughout the day. The Western breakfast was disappointing, though. The rooms don't have air conditioning, so they can feel stuffy unless you open the windows. When we did, two cockroaches flew in at night.