Passions

7 places in the Philippines you probably didn't know exist

Boracay? Check! Fort Bonifacio. Been there. Burnham Park? Yep. If you think, you’ve seen ‘em all, better think again. Check out these best-kept getaway spots in the PH only seasoned travelers will know.

While it’s nice to visit landmarks, it can become a drag when you see the same view as the one in hundreds of photos that featured it before. Same angles. Same sights.


If you’re up for a change in scenery, here’s a list of places in the Philippines we bet you won’t know half or even a quarter of. They’re the best-kept secret getaway spots that only seasoned travelers would know.


1. Cintai-Corito’s Garden, Batangas

This Balinese-inspired sanctuary in Balete, Batangas is home to exotic animals such as alpacas, spotted deer, mini horses, and peacocks. Originally built as a family rest house, it was soon turned into a resort so its beauty can be enjoyed by everyone. The garden hotel has 18 villas and four swimming pools.


2. Hinagdanan Cave, Bohol

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Here’s one place you should not dare miss when in Bohol!

“Hinagdan” in Tagalog connotes to the presence of a “man-made ladder.” True enough, tourists have to climb up a ladder to experience the extraordinary beauty of this hidden paradise in Bohol. Inside the cave is a 10 to 12 meters deep lagoon that is just Instagram-worthy especially when hit by natural light.


3. Qiwellness Living, Tagaytay

Only an hour away from the city, this Chinese-inspired teahouse/spa/resto in Tagaytay offers an absolutely breathtaking view of Taal Lake and an equally wonderful massage.


4. Gefseis Greek Grill, La Union

Greek-themed restaurants are becoming a trend and this Santorini-inspired restaurant in La Union is leading the pack. The resto gives you the perfect view of the beach and is the go-to chill spot after a surfing adventure.


5. Temple of Leah, Cebu

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This huge mansion has a library, museum, and art gallery.

This piece of Roman architecture masterpiece in the Queen City of the South was built by Teodorico Adarna for his wife Leah Villa Albino-Adarna. It is a temple with an art gallery, museum, and a library. What’s more, it is open 24/7, with no entrance fee!


6. Sirao Flower Farm, Cebu

Who says you can only see fields of flowers like these in the Netherlands? For just ₱30, you can explore this off-the-beaten-path flower farm in Cebu during peak seasons, April to May and October to November and take selfies with these gorgeous Celosia flowers, which are the official flowers of the Sinulog Festival.


7. Camping Date, Baguio

Yes. We’ve all heard of Burnham Park and Mine’s View. But the next time you visit Baguio City, try to go camping…well, inside a resto. This innovative concept has the camping set up down to a T. Plus you can choose from different pizza flavors, chicken, and Korean dishes.