Mile 36 Lodge

This lodge offers a tranquil retreat for nature lovers and hikers, with its signature feature being the stunning mountain views available from many rooms and areas, particularly the Begonia building. Its prime location near Kinabalu Park makes it an ideal base for exploring the surrounding natural beauty. Guests consistently highlight the peaceful environment and the friendly, helpful staff as key positives. While the accommodations are generally basic but clean, they provide a comfortable stay for budget travelers and couples seeking a quiet escape. For families, the availability of spacious rooms and board games adds to the appeal. To enhance your experience, consider requesting a room with a direct mountain view and be prepared for potential noise from other guests due to the lodge's rustic construction.

Facilities & Amenities
The lodge provides essential amenities to ensure a comfortable stay, though some guests note their basic nature. Wi-Fi is available, primarily in the reception and restaurant areas, with connectivity often reported as weak or unreliable in individual rooms, and mobile signal can be poor. Guests appreciate the convenience of filtered hot and cold water dispensers for refilling personal bottles, and some rooms include a kettle and thermos. While there isn't a traditional fitness center or pool, the lodge offers board games for entertainment and has mini shops on-site for basic necessities. Parking is available, though it can be limited, especially during peak times, and some areas may require careful navigation due to narrow or bumpy access roads.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on room cleanliness is generally positive, with many noting that rooms are clean and tidy, and towels are changed daily. However, some guests reported issues with dusty surfaces or dirty floors upon arrival. Room comfort varies, with comfortable beds often mentioned, but the overall condition of rooms can be old or rustic. A recurring concern is the significant noise levels due to thin walls, allowing sounds like footsteps from upstairs, conversations, and even snoring to be easily heard. Some rooms have been described as having a musty smell or being damp and cold. In-room amenities are basic, with some rooms lacking a closet or sufficient shelves, and TVs often have no signal, though a DVD player with CDs might be provided. Hot water in bathrooms can be inconsistent, with low pressure or requiring a long wait.

Dining & Food Quality
The breakfast offered at the lodge is consistently described as simple and basic, typically featuring fried rice, fried noodles, and toast with spreads like peanut butter or coconut jam. Coffee and tea are also available. While some guests find the breakfast acceptable and appreciate its convenience, many express a desire for more variety, noting that the same options are served daily. Some reviews mention the fried dishes can be oily or lack flavor, and the absence of eggs (or an additional charge for them) is a common point of feedback. The on-site restaurant primarily serves these basic meals, with limited options for lunch or dinner, sometimes requiring advance request. A few guests noted the availability of vegetarian meal options upon request.

Location & Accessibility
The lodge boasts an excellent location for those looking to explore the region, being very close to Kinabalu Park, often just a few minutes' drive away. Its position right beside the main road makes it easily accessible for vehicles. While the proximity to the park is a major advantage for hikers, walking to the park is not recommended due to the lack of footpaths along the busy road, necessitating a taxi or private transport, which can be costly for short distances. The lodge offers parking facilities, though spaces can be limited, especially during peak seasons. Guests appreciate the ease of finding the property and its convenient access to other local attractions, despite some areas being hilly or requiring steps.

Staff & Service
The staff at the lodge consistently receive high praise from guests for their friendly, helpful, and accommodating demeanor. Many reviews highlight their willingness to assist with requests, such as providing extra amenities, arranging transport, or addressing room issues. The check-in and check-out processes are generally described as quick and efficient. Guests appreciate the housekeeping service, which ensures rooms are tidied daily and towels are refreshed. The staff's attentiveness, particularly in the restaurant and at reception, contributes positively to the overall guest experience, making visitors feel welcome and well-cared for despite the lodge's rustic nature.

Additional Information
A notable aspect of the lodge is the presence of dogs on the property, which some guests find friendly, while others express concerns about their behavior, occasional aggression, or uncleaned waste, particularly in the evenings. The lodge's construction, featuring wooden floors and louvered windows, means that while it embraces a rustic charm, it can lead to significant noise transfer between rooms and may not fully block out cool air, though the climate is generally cold. Guests should be aware that mobile signal is often poor or non-existent in rooms, and while Wi-Fi is provided, it can be unreliable. Some guests have experienced power cuts, so it's advisable to have a backup light source. The lodge offers board games for guest use, adding a unique recreational option.