Our stay at Spring Garden, Kota Kinabalu was a unique experience, but there are some important points to consider before booking. There are no TVs and no air-conditioning in the rooms. While the nights are naturally very cold, some guests might still find the lack of facilities inconvenient. The price is also higher compared to other hotels in the area. Breakfast is not provided on-site. Guests need to go to Benjamin Café outside Spring Garden, which closes at 8pm,a bit inconvenient if you want a later dinner. The biggest challenge for us was the access road. It’s uneven, very dark at night, and quite difficult to find. We arrived at 10pm and actually got lost on the way. Thankfully, Mr. Lee, the caretaker, kindly guided us over the phone until we reached the place safely. For this reason, I would recommend arriving during daylight to enjoy the scenery and avoid getting lost. Although the garden entrance is free and the environment is peaceful, overall the value for money feels less compared to other nearby accommodations.

We had a wonderful stay at Spring Garden, Kota Kinabalu. 🌿✨ It’s a cozy little house surrounded by a beautiful garden right at the foothills of the amazing Mount Kinabalu. The atmosphere was peaceful, fresh, and very cooling at night — perfect for a restful sleep. The accommodation was very comfortable: • A spacious and comfy queen-sized double bed • A large bathtub with a fully functional water heater • A clean and well-kept bathroom We were especially touched by the thoughtful gestures a small birthday decoration prepared for my son, along with a ‘small’ bouquet of flowers and fresh avocados waiting at our doorstep. 🥑💐 Such warm hospitality made our stay extra special. Another highlight was the chance to do a short hike to enjoy the waterfall from Mount Kinabalu, which made the experience even more memorable. This place is truly suitable for a small family looking for comfort, nature, and a unique stay experience. Highly recommended! 🌸🏡

Stayed in August 2025

They didn't have tv . This wasn't really an issue, though. If you like nature, then this is the place for you. Kota kinabalu was just at your doorstep. Another thing I would like to highlight is to check on the amenities in the room. Some of the coffee glasses are kind of dirty, but if checked properly, it is fine. It was fine for us because we never used the glasses as we had our coffee in the restaurant nearby, but for those who does please ensure that is clean. That is all, but all other things are cleaned and well taken care of. The manager over there is always catering to the guest. So I will give a thumbs up to this place.

The stay was good. The staff were too friendly and helpful. The location was great. The scenery is mindblowing. It was a getaway from all the stress that city life could give, hahaha.

Stayed in August 2025

None,just they offer ticket entry fot visitor. However, this may reduce the privacy of the guest as anyone can enter

Excellent view and garden, private river view.

Stayed in July 2025

Not a complaint - but would be nice to have a TV in the room!

Loved the serene surroundings, room was simply furnished, but met our needs. Overall clean room. Beautiful views when you just step out of the room.

Stayed in July 2025

None

Nice garden. Excellent service.

Stayed in June 2025

1. The road into the unit was unpaved and not so easy to drive. 2. The path from the carpark to the unit would have been better if there were lined with gravel. We arrived after the gardener cut the grass and everywhere we walked, we brought the grass around. 3. While the unit was pleasant and a good option to be away from all electronics, I would appreciate giving us the option of have cable TV. 4. WiFi was a bit wonky esp at night. 5. The price per night is a bit steep.

The garden and views were fantastic . The little river at the back was a real treat. Mr Lee, the caretaker, helped us carry our luggage from the car to the unit n back. He had photos with information which he conveniently shared with us via WhatsApp.

Stayed in June 2025

Althought its clean theres still some spider webs but its okay. The heater wasnt working at times, but its okay its not everyday we feel the cool weather lol. LOVE IT 10/10

The place is super clean and peaceful place with a beautiful view. The hospitality is very good. The host helped us with our luggages despite us arriving at 11pm. Overall so beautiful. Definitely will come again. Place is so awesome!!!

Stayed in May 2025

The road going down to Spring Garden Villa and the road going up for breakfast to Benjamin.

Beautiful view,amazing room and amazing host Mr. Lee

Stayed in April 2025

I don't really like the infrastructure going there, the road was awful and so bad. Aside from that, the lack of other amenities in the complex is also another downside if you are looking for some other facilities. But that's not a dealbreaker for me :)

I like the surroundings of the hotel, which is surrounded by flowers and is in accordance to the name 'Garden'. Not only that, you can find a small river which allows you to feel very close to the nature.

Stayed in April 2025

The distance to walk for the free breakfast @ HJ Benjamin Residence is approx 1 km. Suggest to rent a car for ease of traveling.

An excellent location to unwind. The surroundings is just spectacular with well maintained beautiful varieties of flowers and garden landscape. With views of Mt Kinabalu can be seen clearly from 6 am to 8 am / 4 pm - 5 pm. There is a small waterfall/river at the back of Spring Garden. Easy 10 mins walk. But pls be careful when you walk towards the grass near the river as the ground is soft. My husband didn’t realize it & had a slipped & was all muddied on jacket & short pants. Although the room rates is high but the view, the quietness, chirping of birds and the beautiful surrounding garden made it worthwhile. If you are looking for nearby breakfast, lunch or dinner, you can visit Tranquera House, serving delicious & reasonable priced Nyonya cuisine, which is only 3 mins drive from Spring Garden. However, you need to call at least 3 - 4 hrs in advance to place orders. Thanks to Mr Lee, the Property Manager for his responsiveness and good customer service.

Stayed in March 2025

We don’t have an issue with this, but just be aware that the road from breakfast place to the hotel is very rocky and has no street lights.

The place was comfortable and clean, with a great view of the mountain. Garden is well maintained, as well as the short trail towards a beautiful river at the back of the garden. Amenities are sufficient, the toilet has heated floor and heated rail for drying clothes. Breakfast is just a few minutes drive away. This place is perfect for switching off to relax,recharge, and offers good privacy. Mr Lee was exceptionally helpful, and goes the extra mile. Thank you, we will be back again.

Stayed in February 2025

The room is quite empty for the price. Doesn’t have tv, doesn’t have wifi, no fridge, no microwave, no mini kitchen. Maybe it’s just me, i’ve always prefer a suite instead.

The scenery was fantastic. Staffs (the gardeners) are very kind and friendly.

Stayed in February 2025

The location is only accessible by car and the breakfast place was about a kilometre away. But the manager of the property was very kind to drive us to and fro each day to the breakfast place. It would have been quite difficult to walk there without that service provided. The breakfast place however could improve on their service level. I think one more chair in the room would also be appreciated.

We like the quietness and serenity of the location as well as the very beautifully manicured garden which was quite extensive. The cabin/room we booked was cleaned, spacious for 4 adults, and the toiletries provided were sufficient except for toilet paper and tissue paper which were not enough for 4 pax in a room.

Stayed in December 2024

The property would be even greater with entertainment devices - if not bring your own. Most come to disconnect entirely if not which is great too

Beautiful views, privacy, space and well maintained area! Lovely staff and it felt like being on another side of the world

Stayed in December 2024

The internet is slow and tv was not provided in the smaller cabin ( I know it is intentional, i.e for guests to stay outdoor rather than indoor). Thus, those coming with family i.e kids, may want to bring their own laptop with data plan etc etc. At night it can get very cold 17dc-15dc, it is advisable to wear socks as the floor heater is not working to our expectation.

It was an 'adventurous' journey to the garden. It was a breathtaking new 'ambience' one can experience upon arriving at Spring Garden. Its location is private, secluded and spacious full with greenery and flowers. Very pleasant scene and I can spent hours/days sitting on the gardens and admiring the scene. The cabin has an excellent architecture. I like it the way it is. The furnishing is simple yet very cosy and comfortable. The sun rises as early as 4.30am - 5.00 am and you will get to see the gorgeous Mount Kinabalu !! I have never been to a place like this and the whole family love it very much.

Stayed in November 2024

Nothing

Spacious and peaceful. Backdrop was very beautiful. Waterfall at the back of the property was worth the walk. Well kept grounds with beautiful hydrangeas. Easy to communicate with host and grounds keepers were all lovely and helpful even though English was not their first language.

Stayed in October 2024

Would have been better if there were a TV in the room.

It's very serene, private, warm and cozy (given the fact that it's situated in a high cold place). Although breakfast is about 5mins drive away, there were plenty of other brunch spots nearby the cabin (relatively 10-20mins away). Water bottles and amenities like soap and shampoo etc were generously given. Room was wide enough for 4 pax, doesn't feel squeezy. Host was very kind to help carry my heavy luggage to the cabin. The view of Mt Kinabalu is as promised in the photos! Very nice place to catch a clear view of the mountain in the early mornings.

Stayed in October 2024

The gravel road leading to the property - uneven and rocky. Can be difficult for passenger vehicle. The road is also not lit - very dark at night.

The view is superb. You wake up to Mount K evryday. The staff are so friendly and helpful, the surrounding environment is all very beautiful and private. Special thanks to Mr Lee - very responsive.

Stayed in October 2024

Hope they have TV at Room

The room View was so good

Stayed in September 2024

Everything is good

Beautiful surroundings with garden

Stayed in September 2024

Nil

We love the garden full of flowers, the stream & of course the view of Mount Kinabalu right outside our door.

Stayed in September 2024

Just no WiFi provider And no signal on mobile

Nice location and view Good for rest and nice air

Stayed in September 2024

In the range of the price upon staying, they should provide at least a mini microwave and mini fridge inside the room.

The garden view is really perfect and feel comfortable, as well the room.

Stayed in August 2024

Would have been nice to have a sofa in the room, for additional seating. More hooks/rack for hanging jackets and clothes would be good. The drive down to lodgings is a dirt road, steep in places. We managed with our regular car but be aware in heavy rain it could be tricky going up and down without a 4WD.

Mr.Lee is very responsive and helpful! Went above and beyond when possible. Even provided softer pillows on request. Beds were comfortable, room was clean and setting was idyllic. Would recommend to anyone wanting a stay that is away from the crowds. View of Mt.Kinabalu every morning was spectacular.

Stayed in July 2024