Shaped much like a horseshoe, Penaga Hotel occupies a busy crossroads in the heritage zone but proves a surprisingly peaceful enclave. Made up of more than ten traditional Chinese shop-houses, the hotel also boasts of more space than its competitors. Owned by a Malaysian and Australian couple with a shared passion for art, the hotel is festooned with artwork created by artists who have participated in their artist-in-residence programme.
The first ‘Green Hotel’ in Penang, Penanga utilises 99 solar panels to heat their bathing water. Take a dip in the small saline swimming pool – a rarity at most boutique hotels in the city – which gives the feeling of being in an aquarium, as the glass walled sides are flanked by alfresco seating and the hotel’s restaurant.
15 pre-war terrace houses and shophouses were converted into the 45 rooms and suites you see here. As a whole, the rooms can best be described as Straits Eclectic with a touch of Art Deco. Individually, each room category has distinct traits. Hutton Deluxe keep couples in mind with grand four-poster beds. The Transfer Suites see double-beds and spacious balconies just high enough to enjoy a panoramic view of East George Town. Meanwhile, the Clarke Terraces cater to families; each two-storey suite is complete with a kitchenette and a large living area. Lastly, the Penaga Suites are ideal for families with young kids or older guests, as there aren't any flights of stairs to be climbed.