So you want to roam Malaysia's Cameron Highlands, stroll in tea plantations, and pause for cream-slathered scones along the way? You aren't alone. Verdant views and refreshing temperatures lure travellers from around the country (and beyond) to this hilly region on the westernmost edge of Pahang state.

Traffic in the Cameron Highlands can be fiendish at weekends, big-hitting attractions often turn into a scrum, and some travellers are starting to murmur about spoiled hiking trails and 'green-washing' by a few rogue tour operators. Despite these grumbles, a little preparation will ensure you find much to enjoy in this lush corner of Malaysia: excellent hiking, wondrous fauna and the occasional glimpse of serenity amid the tour group mayhem.

Tea plantation, Cameron Highlands, Malaysia — Tea plantation in the Cameron Highlands, Malaysia. Image by Simon Long / Getty Images

Thirty seconds of Highlands history

British explorer Sir William Cameron first spied these heights in 1885 and gleefully reported back about their mild climate (at the time, temperatures barely exceeded 20°C). Sadly Cameron's maps were lost and little came of his discovery, until a second expedition was sent out 40 years later. Led by Sir George Maxwell, another colonial explorer, the mission to rediscover the highlands succeeded and their future was soon sealed with plans to develop plantations, holiday homes for perspiring Brits, and even a golf course.

The Cameron Highlands today

Tourist brochure spin trades on the Cameron Highlands’ colonial history. Cream teas and beef Wellington grace menus; townhouses have been developed into hotels with no expense spared on period detail; and it's virtually impossible to leave without at least one cuppa.

Hotel, Cameron Highlands — The Smokehouse hotel and restaurant, Cameron Highlands. Image by Jochen Schlenker / Getty Images

Much of this nostalgia is manufactured, with Tudor-style fittings clamped onto the exteriors of modern hotels and a lively trade in strawberry-shaped souvenirs. A few other attractions, like Cactus Valley and the Lavender Farm, were conceived largely as money-spinners that loosely fit the organic vibe of the highlands. But that's not to say they're not fun: visitors rock up in their thousands to Instagram purple flowers or take home souvenir succulents.

The impact of tourism on the land, however, is cause for concern. Popular nature walk the Mossy Forest boardwalk has been dubbed 'Muddy Forest' as a result of travellers snatching flowers from along the path. Meanwhile there are whispered reports of a few supposedly ecofriendly outfits doing more harm than good on guided walks, especially regarding damage to rafflesia flowers. Choose your tour provider or guide with care, and take care to stay on marked paths, refrain from touching plants or feeding wildlife, and take all rubbish out with you.

Treks, teas or temples: choose your Cameron Highlands adventure

Forearmed with the potential pitfalls, here are the unmissable attractions to weave into your trip:

The Mossy Forest boardwalk, Gunung Brinchang, Cameron Highlands. Image by Jochen Schlenke / Getty Images

Hiking and nature spotting
Fantastic hiking trails through lush forests extend from Tanah Rata, though the trail markings could be improved. Seek advice locally, especially on weather conditions that may make trails impassable or dangerous. Always let your guesthouse know your timing and intended route, and never leave without water, maps and some layers. Engage a guide from reputable Eco Cameron to hike through a pristine section of the Mossy Forest or plan a route to take in some of the Camerons' best birdwatching sites. For independent hikes, Trail 4 to Parit Falls is one of the easier and more popular routes. Only hardcore hikers with excellent fitness and trekking should attempt Trail 1 (start from the summit and work down) and Trail 8, but both return the effort with remarkable scenery.

High tea, Cameron Highlands — Traditional English afternoon tea, served up in the Cameron Highlands. Image by Kevin Miller / Getty Images

Gourmandise and high teas
These hills were made for chilling. The Brits knew it, and you'll know it too, over a cup of tea at scenic Boh Sungei Palas. Tea aficionados will want to book in for a tea appreciation tour (9am and 11am Tue-Sun); part-time tea drinkers will be satisfied with a wander in the display rooms and a cuppa overlooking the hills. Cameron Bharat is also a fine choice for a brew with a view. The best strawberries can be found at Raaju's; blended fresh drinks and a range of berry-themed cakes are in abundance (if plucking your own strawberries sounds like hard work).

Golden lions and ornate gateways at Sam Poh Tong temple, Cameron Highlands. Image by Ani

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