We spent one night at Ipoh Santorini Hideaway in 2025 with our three boys (then ages 16, 14, and 11), and it turned out to be one of the more memorable stops on our Malaysia trip. We wish we had planned to stay for longer!
Our family’s review of Santorini Hideaway Ipoh: Can we go back yet?
Quick overview: Is Ipoh Santorini Hideaway good for families?
Ipoh Santorini Hideaway is a small, design-focused property in Tambun, about 4 kilometers from Ipoh city center. With only 15 rooms, this Santorini-inspired accommodation feels more like a boutique homestay than a big resort. The whitewashed walls, blue accents, and custom-designed rooms genuinely create that Santorini vibe you see in the photos.
This Ipoh Santorini hideaway hotel works best for families who want a unique stay with pools, outdoor games, and photo-worthy architecture—and who don’t mind using Grab for food and getting around. There’s no on-site restaurant and nothing within easy walking distance, so meal planning is essential.
Our verdict: we’d stay again as a fun, memorable stop in Ipoh. The main pros include the two pools, unique design, and quiet location. For families with school-age kids or teens who want something different from a standard hotel, it delivers. Since each room is unique, if you have a special requirement (like a family of 5 like ours) then book ahead on ipohsantorini.com to secure the limited space.
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Where is Ipoh Santorini Hideaway, and what is it like?
The property sits at 7 Lengkok Tambun Permai 2, 31400 Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia, tucked into a residential-feeling neighborhood in Tambun (a section of Ipoh, Malaysia). When we arrived, it felt like pulling into a quiet village rather than a typical hotel zone. The gated entry and on-site parking made it feel secure, which was reassuring with teenagers who wanted to hang out after dark.
The Santorini-inspired design is the main draw here. Think whitewashed walls, bright blue doors and window trim, tiled pathways, and arched architectural lines throughout. Every room is custom-designed, so no two look exactly alike—a detail our boys found surprisingly cool when they peeked into other rooms. The whole property photographs like a mini Greek village, which made our kids way more interested in posing for family pictures than usual.
A double bed with single bed suite (Bathroom on the left) at Santorini Hideaway in Ipoh
There are two pools at Ipoh Santorini Hideaway
One long pool runs directly in front of several ground-floor suites with steps down from the terrace. A second pool sits behind the main common space and offers a bit more room for kids to splash around. The overall vibe is quiet and tucked away, which is why we’d call it a destination hotel. You come here to enjoy the pools, the design, and the atmosphere—not because it’s next to attractions or shopping.
Two queen suite at Ipoh Santorini Hideaway
This would be a great location for a staff retreat or an extended family getaway with plenty of indoor and outdoor spaces to meet up, and plenty of character for accommodations since each room has a unique design.
This has to be one of the coolest hotel pools in Ipoh
Our family room layout: how we slept five comfortably
Most rooms at Santorini Hideaway sleep 2–3 people, with a few options that can accommodate 4 or 5 guests. We booked one of the larger family room options since we needed beds for five, and the setup worked well for our crew.
Our specific layout included one bedroom with a queen-size bed, then a second room with a queen bed plus a single bed, connected by a shared private bathroom boasting a sink, toilet, and shower. The family room includes enough floor space that our boys could spread out their backpacks without tripping over each other. Our room had pool views from the terrace, and we could walk directly out to the pool area in less than a minute. Every room is individually designed here, so even if you book the same “category” online, your actual decor and layout might differ from what another guest experienced in that same room type.
Check available rooms: ipohsantorini.com
For families with teenagers, we found it easiest to give the boys the queen-plus-single room and take the other queen for ourselves. There wasn’t a dedicated desk area, but there was plenty of space in the common areas to grab a spot to work at a table, counter, or on a comfortable couch.
Room types and unique suites (including outdoor tubs)
The property offers several room configurations depending on how many guests you’re traveling with. You’ll see options labeled as spacious double room, double room includes various bed setups, triple rooms, and family rooms on booking sites. Some rooms feature pool access from a private terrace, while others have a balcony overlooking the courtyard or pool area.
A balcony view over the pool at Santorini Hideaway
Two standout suites sleep just 2 people and include something you won’t find at most Malaysia hotels: a private outdoor patio area with a cement tub, outdoor shower, and hammock. These would be ideal for couples or for parents booking a separate room from older kids who can stay in an adjacent unit. The private patio featuring these outdoor tubs creates a genuinely unique experience that feels more like a boutique villa than a standard hotel (and those rooms also had indoor showers if the weather wasn’t cooperating or two people wanted to shower at once from leaving the pool.
If your family needs specific features—pool access, a bathtub, or a balcony—message the property to confirm the exact bed configuration before you arrive. Keep in mind that cribs and extra beds are not typically provided here. Larger families should book rooms that already have enough beds rather than planning to add rollaways.
For a romantic suite, book the outdoor shower suite that also opens steps into the pool at Santorini Hideaway
Common areas, pools, and on-site activities
The two pool zones give guests plenty of options for swimming throughout the day. The main long pool runs along the front of several ground-floor suites, with steps leading directly down from the terrace—our boys loved the idea of walking out and jumping straight in. The main pool gets sun most of the day, so the water warmed up nicely and held some warmth into the evening.
The second pool behind the indoor common area offered more space and felt a bit better for kids who wanted to swim laps or splash around a bit. It’s shaded most of the day, so best if the sun is a bit too much, or if you’d like a cooler swim.
Inside, the common space includes dining tables and a living-room-style area with sofas. We used this space for foosball in the evening and as a gathering spot when the boys needed a break from the pool. The setup made the property feel more like a shared villa than a traditional hotel, which our kids appreciated.
The outdoor communal area is where our boys spent most of their non-swimming time. The property has kickball billiards (foot pool), a fire pit, and outdoor grills where you can cook if you bring your own supplies. Table tennis was also available, and our 12-year-old challenged me (Adam) to a round. These shared spaces made it easy for them to burn off energy and gave the whole stay a more relaxed, vacation-home feel.
One practical note: If you plan to use the grills, pick up some groceries before you arrive so you don’t have to go out for supplies. Guests can use the common-space fridge, or there is a small fridge (a bar fridge for drinks) in most rooms.
There is no restaurant at Santorini Hideaway Ipoh
Santorini Hideaway does not have its own restaurant or room-service kitchen. There are no restaurants or convenience stores within easy walking distance.
We took a Grab to a nearby evening market (Pusat Makanan Metro), which took less than 10 minutes. We ate at the food stalls there—plenty of options for kids and adults, and very affordable. After dinner, we walked across the road to a grocery store across from the market and picked up pastries and fruit for breakfast before heading back to the hotel.
Other options include using GrabFood delivery, stopping at a supermarket before you check in, or pairing your stay with an evening at Lost World of Tambun (which has restaurants and entertainment) before returning to the property.
Rooms have an electric kettle and minibar fridge and include instant coffee and water bottles. Consider packing some cereal and snacks—you won’t have a full kitchen, but you can handle a simple breakfast and snacking without leaving the property.
Location and getting around (including Lost World of Tambun)
Ipoh Santorini Hideaway hotel sits about 1.3 miles (roughly 2 km) from Lost World of Tambun, making it a convenient base if you’re planning a visit to that theme park. A Grab ride takes about 10 minutes, depending on traffic.
Attractions in Ipoh city center, such as Ipoh Parade mall and the Han Chin Pet Soo Museum, are about 15–20 minutes away by car. Plan to use Grab anytime you want to leave the property. Getting Grab cars was easy during our stay—we never waited more than a few minutes for pickup. Short rides within Tambun and greater Ipoh typically cost between RM 5–30 ($2-$10), depending on distance, for a car for 6 passengers.
This hotel is about enjoying a destination. If you’re only staying a few nights, plan to lounge around and take in the destination. If you have a longer visit in the area and want to be in the city center for the nightlife and restaurant selection, then plan a few nights at Santorini hideaway hotel and a few nights at something in the heart of the city.
Check-in, policies, and what families should know before booking
Standard check-in is from 3:00 PM, and check-out is by 12:00 PM. The property enforces quiet hours at the pool – only open from 8 am-8 pm since it’s right next to guest rooms (although, I’m sure there could be an exception if you rented the entire hotel for a getaway or an extended-family retreat).
Pets are not allowed, and smoking is prohibited in all rooms. Like many Malaysian hotels, durian and mangosteen are typically not permitted inside.
What our boys (16, 14, 11) actually thought
Our boys gave this stay a glowing review – a pleasant surprise for a destination focused on Instagram-worthy photos and relaxation. The foot pool (kickball billiards) kept our 16-year-old and 12-year-old entertained, along with the foosball, and all three of them actually agreed to pose for photos in front of the Santorini-style walls without complaining.
What was the main thing they wished were different? Having snacks and drinks within walking distance, but we would know to plan ahead and bring our own next time.
Overall, the unique design made the stay feel like an adventure rather than just another hotel room. We noticed that the space worked well for teens—enough room to roam and enjoy the pools and games independently, but compact enough that we could keep tabs on them easily.
Who is Ipoh Santorini Hideaway Hotel best for?
After our night at Ipoh Santorini Hideaway, we can confidently say it delivers on its promise of a unique and immersive experience. The Santorini aesthetic is genuine, not gimmicky, and the combination of pools, outdoor games, and custom rooms creates something travellers won’t find at chain hotels.
Key pros for families: The unique Santorini design creates memorable photos and a vacation feel. Two pools mean kids can swim without crowding. The quiet neighborhood and secure parking offer peace of mind. Common areas with fire pit, grills, and games keep older kids entertained. Air conditioning, flat screen TV, free wifi, and free toiletries in every room cover the basics well.
Key considerations: There is no on-site restaurant, and none within walking distance. Grab is easy and gives plenty of delivery options in the area. There’s only one family room that sleeps 5, so book early if that’s what you need (or enjoy separate rooms and spend time together in the pool and common areas).
This stay is ideal for families looking for a getaway in Ipoh who want something unique rather than a cookie-cutter hotel and would like to spend some time on-site.
It works well for school-age kids, teens, couples, or small groups who prioritize experience over convenience. Families who need full resort facilities, kids’ clubs, or walking-distance malls and food courts should look elsewhere.
In a nutshell: Plan to use grab and embrace the destination-hotel concept, Ipoh Santorini Hideaway delivers a memorable stay that your kids will actually remember.
Quick Facts About Santorini Hideaway in Ipoh:
- Pets are not allowed at Ipoh Santorini Hideaway.
- Ipoh Santorini Hideaway offers free Wi-Fi and free parking for guests.
- The hotel provides a 24-hour front desk service for guests.
- Children of all ages are welcome at Ipoh Santorini Hideaway.
- Ipoh Santorini Hideaway is located near the Lost World of Tambun, making it convenient for family adventures.
- The hotel offers a variety of indoor games, including foosball, suitable for both adults and children.
- The Old Town area of Ipoh is about 7–8 km away from Santorini Hideaway and offers a deeper look into heritage.
- Room sizes can be limited for families, so book as soon as you know your dates: ipohsantorini.com
Booking Tips
When booking, pay attention to room type names. If you need pool access, a balcony, or a bath rather than just a shower, book by specific room category and message the property to confirm your bed configuration before you arrive. For the best value from your stay, consider pairing a day at Lost World of Tambun (for entertainment and dinner) with plenty of time seat asside to enjoy the hotel’s pools, fire pit, and outdoor games.
Here are some of our favorite pictures from visiting Santorini Hideaway in Ipoh:
There’s plenty to do in Ipoh
We’d recommend checking out all of the things to do in Ipoh and including it in your Malaysia itinerary
