The not-so-secret places to go Tagaytay IN
The city’s homey ambiance makes it a favorite destination for religious retreats as well as weddings. Annually, hundreds of couples exchange vows inside the beautiful churches in and around Tagaytay.
Covered with rolling hills and grasslands on the eastern and southern sides, and thick forests in the remaining expanse up to the steep ridge, Tagaytay used to be an effective hideaway for Southern Tagalog revolutionaries in the late 19th century. Today, the altitudinous city (around 700 meters above sea level) remains a perfect hideaway, in a happier sense. The famous ridgetop has become a handy sanctuary for urbanites looking for cool climate and a quiet retreat.
Only two hours away from Manila, with various routes to avoid the weekend traffic, Tagaytay is a perfect respite from pollution and noise of the nearby Metro. A traditional visit to green city includes a picnic and a horseback ride at the Picnic
Grove Park, which stretches a panoramic view of the Taal Lake and Volcano. Aside from renting cottages for picnics, visitors can now try the Tagaytay Ridge Zipline and Cable Car, which offers a breathtaking ride of up to 60 km/h on a zipline hung 300 feet off the ground.
Also nestled on the highest part of the city is the exclusive Tagaytay Highlands Golf & Country Club, which essentially has a Midland and Lowland, and covers eight barangays and three provinces. When not in the mood for golf, members can pick-and-pay organic fruits and vegetables and enjoy the fresh produce at one of the property’s restaurants.
The beauty of Tagaytay does not end with the handsome view of Taal Volcano. On the other side of Tagaytay-Calamba
The beauty of Tagaytay does not end with the handsome view of Taal Volcano. On the other side of Tagaytay-Calamba Road, two kilometers east of the Picnic Grove, lies a Swissinspired resort with 23,000 pine trees.
Road, two kilometers east of the Picnic Grove, lies the Swiss-inspired Crosswinds Resort Suites. The first-class luxury resort welcomes every guest with the crisp scent of 23,000 pine trees planted across the 130-hectare property. Fortunately, the developer does not restrict nonhomeowners to get mesmerized by the year-round Christmas atmosphere. The multitower condotel offers studio type to three-bedroom options.
The city’s homey ambiance also makes it a favorite destination for religious retreats as well as weddings. Among the places of worship located beside the Picnic Grove is Our Lady of Manaoag at Tierra De Maria, where stands a 50-foot image of Mother Mary — her hands outstretched as if welcoming every weary pilgrim to experience spiritual healing.
Annually, hundreds of couples exchange their vows inside the beautiful churches in and around Tagaytay. Among those tagged as the “most romantic” Catholic churches are the charming Caleruega Church and Chapel on the Hill in Calaca, Batangas, both located within awe-inspiring spiritual retreat centers; and Our Lady of Candelaria Parish, which was declared as National Cultural Treasures by the National Museum of the Philippines, and San Antonio de Padua Quasi-Parish in Silang, Cavite.
The touristy feel never stops in Tagaytay. After feeding the spirit, families can choose to enjoy a hearty meal in any of the famous, tried-and-tested food places such as the Antonio’s Garden, Bag of Beans, Sonya’s Secret Garden, Chateau Hestia Garden Restaurant, Josephine, Mushroom-burger, RSM Lutong Bahay and the endless list of bulalo spots. Some of the city’s gastronomic places also offer bed and breakfast or day nature trips that feature the city’s well-rounded beauty.
A finishing touch to a truly relaxing weekend in Tagaytay may call for an indulgent scrub, massage or any relaxing treatment. Always searchable and on call are Nurture Spa, Tagaytay Highlands Spa and Lodge, Asmara Spa at Tagaytay Vista Hotel, Touch Point Spa or La Costa Spa.
A weekend is not enough to embrace all the offerings of a Tagaytay escape. In fact, as more real estate edifices rise in the city — which are hopefully sustainable and do not compromise the classic beauty of the place — the more hole-in-the-wall restaurants, places to visit, and other surprises emerge. Again, the only challenge is to find the best route
free from the usual traffic.