Countryside Escape ...Villa Escudero, Laguna

If you want to experience tranquility and excitement come to Villa Escudero
Plantations and Resort in San Pablo City, Laguna. The “Hacienda” style resort
offers a countryside experience of lush coconut vegetation and the famous Lake Labasin complete the scenic ambience and not to forget the warm hospitality of the village folks. It’s a vacation everyone deserve.

                          

                                   

Whether staying for a day (day-tour only) or planning for a longer vacation, Villa Escudero offers a variety of accommodation options that will make your stay more enjoyable and memorable. Some of the activities offered are :
The Villa Escudero Memorial Museum
This houses some of the well preserved collection of delicate antique artifacts, religious icons and colonial arts. The intricate carving of woods, stones and ivory most dating from Spanish colonial time that reflects the dedication and devotion of the Filipinos. Antique oriental ceramics, murals, paintings, costumes, natural history and many other though taking photos are not allowed.


                                                           


                                                                    Escudero Ancestral House
Next to the Memorial Museum was the Escudero Ancestral Residence which is exclusive only for family and friends, but guest could have a glimpse of the mansion surrounded by the lush paradise-like garden and fountains.









Water Buffalo ride
Also known as the “Kalabaw” in Pilipino , one will be able to experience and appreciate the alluring scene of the surroundings while village folk musicians serenade the guest with traditional Filipino love songs known as the “Kundiman” as it slowly pulls the carriage on stony road. These carabaos even have their names like Sexy, Djanggo, Pogi and Madonna. Jeepneys and golf cars are also available upon request.



Lake Labasin Waterfalls Restaurant
This is what everyone is waiting for! A rich true Filipino authentic cuisine served buffet style on a native bamboo dining tables while clear, cool spring water running over your feet with the waterfalls and lush green vegetation as a background is a truly memorable experience one can have only in Villa Escudero.

The Philippines Experience Show
Villa Escudero’s very own musician and performers rendering Filipino music, songs and dances with rondalla ensemble.







Bamboo Rafting

Lake Labasin is a narrow lake which serves also as a reservoir for the Hydroelectric power plant, it has the allure for bamboo rafting and fishing. Paddle around the lake while enjoying the sights and sounds of nature, birds chirping and sometime fish jumping as if they were welcoming the guest with acrobatic stunts to show there warm acceptance.



Other amenities and attraction

Explore the bird species of at least 95 recorded residence of the Hacienda. Take a dip at the cool water of the pool or take a tour of the rural village and have a glimpse of the daily life of the village folks. There are endless ways to spend your day with family and friends at Villa Escudero Plantations and Resort where true Filipino hospitality is at its best!

Article written by Bhoy Rebleza Floresca, Dubai based in Media Services. An avid photographer and nature lover. WAFP’s Rookie of the Month for January 2014

This article was published in HKLife Newspaper for the month of April 2014