A Charming Escape, But Manage

A Charming Escape, But Manage Your Expectations
★★★★☆ (4 Stars)

If you're looking for a quick, picturesque escape that feels a world away from Kuala Lumpur, the French Village (Colmar Tropicale) in Berjaya Hills is a lovely day-trip option. It's not France, but it's a charming and photogenic homage.

The Ambiance & Setting:
Nestled in the cool,misty hills of Bukit Tinggi, the first thing you'll appreciate is the climate. After the city heat, the fresh mountain air is a welcome relief. The architecture is undeniably cute—half-timbered buildings, colourful flower boxes, cobblestone-patterned pathways, and a central square with a carousel. It feels like you've stepped into a storybook version of a French alpine village. It's an incredibly instagrammable spot, and we spent a good hour just taking photos.

Things to Do:
It's a relatively small site,so it's perfect for a leisurely stroll. You can browse a few souvenir shops, enjoy a coffee and a croissant (managing expectations here—it's decent, but not Parisian-level) at one of the cafes, or simply sit and enjoy the scenery. The highlight for us was the live musical performance in the central square, which added a nice festive atmosphere.

The Not-So-Good:
It's important to be aware of a few things.The village is showing its age in some spots and could use a fresh coat of paint. Some visitors might find it a bit "theme-park-ish" rather than an authentic cultural experience. Also, the entrance fee is on the steeper side for what is essentially a 2-3 hour experience.

Combine Your Visit:
To make the trip truly worth it,I highly recommend purchasing the combo ticket that also grants you access to the adjacent Japanese Village and the Botanical Garden. The Japanese Village, with its serene zen garden and peaceful tea house, was actually a quieter and more tranquil highlight of our trip. The walk up to it is a bit steep but very rewarding.

Verdict:
Colmar Tropicale is a fun and whimsical destination,ideal for couples and families with young children who will love the fairy-tale setting. Don't come expecting the real France. Instead, come for a pleasant day in the cool hills, beautiful photo opportunities, and a unique themed experience. It's a solid 4-star experience when you plan correctly and see it as part of the larger Berjaya Hills attraction.

Tips:
· Come early if you plan to visit both Japanese Village & French Village together.
· Wear comfortable shoes for walking, especially if you plan to visit the Japanese Village.
· Go on a weekday to avoid the crowds.
· Drive yourself (if you are an expert hill track driver or hire a private car for the most flexibility.