Experience Paradise At Laguna Resorts

It is befitting to dub Laguna as the “Resort Capital of the Philippines” because there are about 160 Department of Tourism accredited Laguna resorts.

It also is the only place that produces a magnificent amount of ground water, which is why it also has an abundance of hot springs.

Maintaining a balance of rusticity and modernity, Laguna is the ideal destination for those seeking a quick getaway from stressful city life.
Hidden Valley Springs is one of the better-known resorts in Laguna. It is situated between two extinct volcanoes, Mt. Makiling and Mt. Banahaw.

A paradise for the nature lover, Hidden Valley is a 110-hectare paradise of well-preserved rainforest. It has crystal clear natural springs and streams that also fill man-made pools. A little adventure could be had when trekking to the Hidden Waterfall that has served as a beautiful backdrop to a couple of Filipino movies. Located one to two hours away from Metro Manila in Calauan, Laguna, this resort has facilities for day trips as well as overnight stays or longer. There are gazebos available for guests on a first come first serve occupation basis. Cottages for 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6 persons are also for rent. The rates include a TV, welcome drinks, breakfast, lunch, afternoon snacks, a buffet dinner, and of course, usage of the resort facilities.

Another popular resort in Laguna is the Villa Escudero Plantations & Resort in San Pablo City. Through the South Superhighway and out the 50A exit, this countryside resort built in the late 19th century could be reached in only 2 hours. Coconut trees line the entrance of this working plantation. Visitors have the option to stay in four kinds of lodgings that ranges from simple riverside cottages to exquisite five-star hotel rooms.

One of the highlights of a stay is enjoying scrumptious Escudero family recipes near the Labasin Waterfall. Guests could also visit the Escudero family museum, the Barrio where the plantation workers live, and the Village Chapel. The staff, dressed in national Filipino attire, is very friendly and accommodating.

Lagos del Sol Resort comfortably rests in the middle of Lake Caliraya in Cavinti, Laguna. Either on a business teambuilding trip or just a family holiday, this resort has the necessary equipment and facilities. Those on a tight budget can stay in one of the Makiling rooms, which are very comfortable and have their own baths and toilets. Guests that are there for a luxurious experience are offered one of the family cabanas or the wonderful Banahaw rooms all of which have spacious balconies looking out to the scenic Caliraya Lake. Amenities include TV, mini bar, telephone, and hot and cold water. No one will run out of things to do here. Besides swimming in the pool, guests could also go fishing, waterskiing, wind sailing, and taking boat rides. It also has a tennis court, a fitness center, and a game room. Meals are prepared by expert chefs from fresh catch and organic vegetables.

Other Laguna resorts worth mentioning are La Corona de Pagsanjan Resort in Pagsanjan, the Dona Jovita Garden Resort in Calamba, and the Caliraya Recreational Center in Lumban. Staying in any one of these would surely fulfill one’s need for a dose of rest and relaxation.