Metro Manila is buzzing with life – from endless opportunities to skyscrapers and all the modern conveniences of a cosmopolitan area. But sometimes, the stress of city life can be draining, forcing you to seek out slower and more relaxing experiences away from it all.
Tagaytay, a city on a ridge with cooler temperatures and stunning views of the famous Taal Volcano and Taal Lake, is only a 2-hour from the Metro. Providing a quick weekend respite for city dwellers, Tagaytay is the place to be for a restful, relaxing, and rejuvenating getaway.
In this article, we’ll cover the top places to eat, drink, tour, and stay in Tagaytay, a city on a mountain overlooking an active volcano packed with upscale experiences for those seeking a luxurious vacation but still close to the Metro.
Related article: 10 Coldest Places in the Philippines We Wish We Could Escape to in This Summer Heat
Must-Visit Spots in Tagaytay for the Discerning Traveler
Tagaytay’s claim to fame is the majestic and Instagram-worthy views of Taal. Quickly becoming the playground for those seeking a high-end lifestyle, more and more visitors head to this mountainside city to experience its cooler climate and serene natural beauty.
Related article: 8 Instagram-Perfect Locations Across the Philippines
Here are all the places to visit and explore, based on a frequent Tagaytay visitor’s personal experiences:
Where to Stay
1. Escala
Imagine waking up on a Sunday morning with gorgeous views of the Taal Lake and Volcano from your hotel bed. Escala, an upscale accommodation with top-notch amenities, turns your imagination into reality.
It is a serene retreat offering well-appointed amenities and excellent customer service, providing a spa, pool, fitness center, and restaurant. Creating a space for a restful and eventful weekend, Escala is a top choice for an upscale stay in Tagaytay.
2. Sonya’s Garden
If a cozier accommodation is your cup of tea, then Sonya’s Garden is for you. It is a bed and breakfast with lush gardens, focusing more on wellness and relaxation for guests. Peaceful and rejuvenating, Sonya’s Garden also features a restaurant, with a farm-to-table concept, serving gourmet cuisine and fresh, local ingredients. It is also home to an artisanal boutique of handmade goods from local artisans and a few regional products and unique items.
Related article: 10 Treehouse Accommodations in the Philippines
Where to Eat
1. Antonio’s
Garnering a reputation as the country’s premier fine dining destination, Antonio’s is a renowned restaurant in Tagaytay. It was established by Chef Antonio Carlos, who created a sophisticated menu that blends local and international dishes. Set in a beautiful, elegant, restored house with lush gardens, Antonio’s is fine dining at its finest.
2. Gourmet Farms
Gourmet Farms is a famous farm and restaurant in one, offering fresh, local ingredients grown on the site. Also, having a farm-to-table concept, almost everything served on the menu comes from its garden, which is evident in its commitment to sustainability and organic farming practices. Before ordering, guests can explore the farm for an immersive learning experience.
Where to Drink
1. Tsokolateria
Tsokolateria is a chocolate shop and restaurant in Tagaytay, where unique entrees and desserts from local chocolate are served. Aside from native hot chocolate and decadent sweets, Tsokolateria also serves Filipino dishes, making it a place to eat and sip a good cup of cocoa while experiencing the city’s cooler temperatures and stunning scenery.
2. Papa Doms
Drinks with friends on a Friday night are the perfect way to end a weekday and welcome the weekend in Tagaytay. Papa Doms is the place for the best cocktails, wines, and local beers. A relaxed bar and restaurant with a view, chill on the outdoor seating area, bask in the beautiful Tagaytay weather and natural surroundings, or pick a cozy spot inside for a casual hangout with family and friends.
Where to Tour
1. Ilog Maria Honeybee Farm
Ilog Maria Honeybee Farm is not precisely in Tagaytay, but it’s located in Silang, Cavite, a short 20 to 30-minute ride, depending on traffic conditions. Nevertheless, it is a great activity to add to your Tagaytay itinerary, as it is known for its educational tours and local, organic products. Some of these include beeswax, royal jelly, organic honey, and plenty of artisanal products made on the farm.
2. Museo Orlina
And last on our list, and perfect for art connoisseurs and enthusiasts, is Museo Orlina. Established in 2014 by Ramon Orlina, the privately owned museum is home to the artist’s iconic glass sculptures, as well as the work of other artists. It is a beautiful place to spend your slow afternoons in Tagaytay and the perfect place to find the next art piece in your collection.
Conclusion
If reading about these exciting posts makes you want to plan your next Tagaytay excursion, you’re in for a treat. There are more hidden gems like picturesque trails, wellness facilities, or underrated cafes and restaurants in this resort city, which are all waiting for you to discover.
The next time you feel like having a quick getaway from the hustle culture of the Metro, hop on your car and spend a weekend in Tagaytay, where the climate is excellent, the food is exceptional, the accommodations are luxurious, and, of course, where breathtaking views of the Taal Lake and Volcano can help take away the stress of city life.
Related articles: 10 Best Wellness Resorts in the Philippines, Pedal Hype: Biking Trails to Track In and Around Manila
Click here for more interesting Travel articles.
–
Featured Image by Trip.com
