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Manila Bulletin devider Lifestyle devider Travel devider Bound for Batangas: Discover the ultimate Valentine's weekend destination drive

Bound for Batangas: Discover the ultimate Valentine's weekend destination drive

Published Feb 11, 2022 05:55 am

I've been to so many places in the country, but there's still always something new to discover. A lot of friends have been asking me where to go this Love Month not only to celebrate Valentine's but also to shake off the gloom of the pandemic.

Where? I want to introduce you to these Instagrammable and romantic farms near Metro Manila--just near even for a day drive and perfect outdoor destinations for couples, friends, and the entire family.

So, get ready and take a short road trip this Valentine's weekend. For those on a date, I'm sure you will love these sites. Start creating memories here to last for a lifetime.

Bali and New Zealand-Inspired Farm

Have you been to Bali with a view of New Zealand? If not, now is the time. But you don't have to go so far away. Just drive to this farm and resort in Agoncillo, Batangas, just two hours away from Metro Manila via South Luzon Expressway.

This place, called Villa Jovita Resort, offers plenty of amenities for everyone to enjoy. Of course, get ready to take as many photos as you want as there are so many picture-worthy spots for your social media profile. I'm sure you'll get a lot of "hearts" from your followers and secret admirers.

Villa Jovita Resort features a swimming pool and river where you can dip while listening to the chirping birds. Feel nature's embrace since you are surrounded by a vast garden filled with swaying bamboos.

Drop by its viewing deck to get a bird's-eye view of the river with a rustic bamboo boardwalk. You have to walk the bamboo boardwalk as it leads to a life-sized bird's nest similar to the one seen in Bali, Indonesia. On the other side of the passage is a life-sized heart where couples can sit down and take pictures overlooking the river and acres of rice farms surrounded by trees and bamboos. This is truly a naturally romantic and relaxing place.

Before heading to the bamboo boardwalk, you'll pass by the stone stairs leading to the replica of tiny houses of the Hobbit Village, which were inspired by the fantasy movie "Lord of the Rings." Indeed a walk in this small Hobbit Village is like being inside the fantasy movie, which was shot in the heart of Matamata, a small town in New Zealand.

The Netherlands of Batangas

Just 30 minutes away from Agoncillo is this farm dubbed as the "Netherlands of Batangas." The Old Grove Farmstead, located in Lipa, is a romantic farm famous for its Netherlands-inspired windmill, barn, and sheep farm. As a matter of fact, the landscape of this farm featuring a pond enjoyed by friendly white ducks overlooking a sheep farm and barn makes this place an excellent venue for weddings.

The Old Grove Farmstead offers a glimpse of the beauty of countryside living in the Netherlands. Guests can enjoy a sumptuous lunch and dinner at its cabin-inspired restaurant. The restaurant is surrounded by a "swoon-worthy" landscape of small hills adorned with pockets of herb gardens, a children's playground, and a nearby private pool.

So, have you finally made your plans this love season? You don't have to spend much and a weekend drive is a perfect way to bond with loved ones. Before you visit these places, make sure to check their social media pages and find out their fees, operating hours, and reservation guidelines.

May love bloom and flourish as you savor these romantic farms in Batangas for a stress-free weekend getaway!

Related Tags

Agoncillo Old Grove Farmstead Villa Jovita Resort Batangas Lipa
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