Another go-to destination for a quick weekend getaway is the city of Antipolo. Located just around 16 miles from Manila, Antipolo has a higher elevation enabling one to see a scenic view of the entire Metro Manila. It is home to several natural attractions, though it is already a highly-urbanized city.
Ramon FVelasquez [CC BY-SA 3.0], via Wikimedia Commons
Pinto Art Museum
If you are into arts, you should visit the Pinto Art Museum. It displays a collection of contemporary Filipino paintings and sculptures. The Museum of Indigenous Art houses items from the Cordillera such as functional and ritual objects, textiles, jewelry, and other indigenous artwork. The entire compound itself is a work of art with its tropical gardens and Mediterranean-style villas.
Phillip’s Sanctuary
A venue fit for team buildings and other similar activities, the Phillip’s Sanctuary is also a place where you can go biking, kayaking, rafting, and camping. It also has a butterfly garden, organic fruit farm, and a pond with hoards of tilapia and other fish.
Luljetta’s Hanging Gardens and Spa
If you want to unwind, relax, and recharge your weary soul, then you should head off to Loreland Farm Resort and visit Luljetta’s Hanging Gardens and Spa. It has an infinity pool where you can enjoy the relaxing view of the entire farm resort. Take advantage of the hydromassage pool, fish spa, jacuzzi, and get a massage inside one of their bamboo huts. If you get hungry, you never have to go out of the resort as snacks and full-course meals are being served inside.
Mount Purro Nature Reserve
One day is not enough to see the entirety of the Mount Purro Nature Reserve. Perfect for families, friends, and couples, the park offers a lot of activities such as rope courses, treks, and tree-planting. There is also a restaurant inside that offers an extensive menu of home-cooked Filipino foods.