Sinagtala Farm Resort and Retreat Park

SINAGTALA FARM RESORT & RETREAT PARK

A perfect place to give myself a time to rewind.

Are you tired of working for 8 hours a day, 5 or 6 times a week, 26 days a month and approximately 312 days a Year? If yes, then you should give yourself a break, laid-back and relax.

Sometimes, we want to be alone in a peaceful environment  to set our mind free,  which is very helpful to regain our inner self.

According to Catherine Pulsifer "To help have less stress, take time to relax." 

Because stress and pressure also weaken our mind and body, we need a place to release these toxins. And the power of nature can heal and revitalize our inner soul.

    

And there's  Sinagtala Farm Resort and Retreat Park a piece of Paradise for total rejuvenation and exhilaration of our mind and body. This hidden paradise lies on the slopes of the mountain ranges of Orani, Bataan in an upland village 500 meters above sea level with 50 hectares of land.

 

The farms climate is four degrees lower in temperature than the lowland which makes it a rival retreat park among  the famous city of tagaytay, Batangas and Antipolo.

According to Felicito Payumo,  Chairman of the Bases Conversion Development Authority and one of the shareholders of this semi-private resort, Sinagtala is also planted with coffee, citrus, lanzones, coconut, rambutan, etc. And is home to ferns, wild orchids and animals, birds and bats that feed on flowers of the Anae trees, nurse to coffee trees.

A 30- minute hike to the spine rewards one with the view of Subic Bay to the west and Manila Bay to the east. From the top, one can descend through lush forests to the crater where the Pasukulan waterfalls cascade more than 100 feet down to a clear pool which drains to one of two rivers that bound the village.

This is definitely a place for people searching for a peaceful and environmentally friendly place to stay and to relax. Which is only 3 hours drive away from the busy district of Metro Manila. 

What will you do if you're given a chance to have a 2D/1N vacation?

Possible answers are:

• ·         I'll go and eat in my favorite restaurant.
• ·         Just rest at home and watch TV with my families.
• ·         Maybe, go shopping and watch movies later.
• ·         Do household chores.
• ·         Invite my Friends for a Tagaytay Day trip.
• ·         Pamper myself to a salon or Spa.
• ·         Road trip to laguna for a hot spring experience.
• ·         Read books and magazines.              

Well, people have different views on how to spend their free time. It depends on their lifestyle, character, financial capabilities, and self-contentment.

For me, I chose to find myself in a serene place that is surrounded by plants and trees. Far from the chaotic city that I usually travelled around.

I'm exhausted from the hassle and bustle way of living in the city. Working everyday for 6 times a week but not getting my desired pay is like a hell. Definitely, having a second thought on either to retain my expertise or shift to a new career is difficult. It's crucial to decide when it comes to thinking what is right and wrong.

That's why, I decided to search my inner soul and find myself at Sinagtala Farm Resort and Retreat Park by doing a nature trip. A perfect place to give myself a time to rewind.

NATURE TRIPPING IN A STARLIGHT PARADISE

Being close to nature was the first thing that came into my mind. One gloomy night, I was surrounded by negativity and I wanted to be revive. So I think going somewhere else with a good environment will give me time for myself to think and to decide.

I started looking for promos on the Internet for the right place to do my soul searching activities and luckily, I found one that passed my criteria. The place should be inexpensive, must be close to nature, relaxing, peaceful, safe, not too crowded, and nearby  metro manila.      

I found out that during that time the Sinagtala Farm Resort was on a promotional deal of 50% OFF for 2D/1N stay with complimentary breakfast . The Original price was P2400, but I only got it for P1,200. I was worried that it would be sold out easily, so I purchased it right away.

I booked a reservation for June 15-16, 2014 through an email to Ms. Francy Pascual the one who is in charge for the booking in Sinagtala. And I'm happy that she was able to answered all my questions with a courteous reply, even though I texted her brutally, I guessed. My preparation goes well with my back pack and a camera. And now I'm ready for my short expedition.

From Gen. Luis Q,C. it took me 1.5 hours going to Cubao. First stop was in Puregold Supermarket, it's open as early as 8:00AM and I need to buy some drinks and snacks for my 2 days journey.

I looked for Bataan Transit same terminal as 5 Star buses in Cubao. I waited for Balanga route but the driver said that I can also take the Mariveles Route as it will also pass by Orani, Crossing.

It 's Sunday so it only took me 2.5 Hours to reached Orani, Crossing. Over there, I rode the Tricycle going to Sinagtala Farm Resort which is 8kms away that cost me P50.00 for an ordinary trip, but the actual fare was only P40.00/head for 4 pax for an ordinary trip. Maybe, the tricycle driver charged me an extra P10.00 because he dropped me off exactly inside the resort.

I checked in at exactly 2:00PM in DUYAN Bed and Breakfast for an overnight stay.

DUYAN BED & BREAKFAST

This is perfect for people who wants to be practical in terms of cost and value

but love simplicity. Overall, there are 12 rooms and the price range from P2,400-4,400 that can accommodate up to 2-6 pax.

 

I was excited to check my room and the lady assisted me towards the door and gave me the key. The room was fully furnish,  it's clean and organize. The toilet was just okay, maybe because it lacks decorative stuff like putting a flower vase or artificial flowers on top of the sink or the toilet bowl to add more colors that will compliment the white tiles. It was solely my own opinion though, but the good thing was that there's a hot and cold shower and a  complimentary soap and tissue as well. I also have my own balcony with tables and chairs overlooking the mountain ranges of Bataan that gave me the feeling of being close to nature.  If you're travelling with a partner, family or friends they also have designated rooms for you to share.

Here's a look inside my room. 

 

If you have a bigger budget then you can rent a whole house. Around the Farm there were 3 beautiful private houses own by different shareholders. But only 2 are available for rent namely, the Beacon House and Tanawin Bed & Breakfast that can accommodate 10 up to 15 person.

BEACON HOUSE

This house can be rented from P7,000-10,000 with 3 bedrooms that can accommodate up to 10 pax. 

TANAWIN BED & BREAKFAST

This big house can be rented from P12,000-15,000 that can accommodate 12-15 pax.

 

This is Chairman Felicito Payumo's vacation house. He usually stays here every weekend traveling from Makati to Bataan. I'm so lucky that he approached me by accident. It's a shame not knowing that he was a very important person. A person who served and contributed to the development of the province of Olongapo and Bataan for more than a decade. He asked me, how did I find Sinagtala Farm and I said, I was looking over the Internet when I found a promotion. He was very down to earth when he told me to visit the rooftop of his house. His caretaker can assist me, if I want to take a 360 degree panoramic view of Central Luzon.

 

I was surprised with Gods creation, the fantastic  view of the mountain ranges of Bataan could be easily seen here clearly from top. 

 From top you can see a 360 degree view of the mountain ranges of Bataan.

 

Located in front of my room was the Duyan restaurant. It's interior is quaint and simple, but it's very spacious and can accommodate large groups. It is also surrounded by trees, flowers and orchids making it more natural. There's a washing area near the comfort room and a shelves where you can borrow books and magazines while sipping your hot Kafe Sinagtala. I had my complimentary breakfast here and some add on, but it's very affordable.

Cooking and grilling area with Clean faucets and enough water supply for cooking preparations.

 

If you love cooking then you can use there grilling area for FREE. All you need to do is bring you own bags of charcoal, lighter, tongs, marinated liempo, chicken inasal, tilapia, bangus, hotdog on stick, pork barbecue, pineapple, corn, marshmallow  and a lot more mouthwatering ideas. it's just some of my recommendations you can have your own recipes. For me, it's more fun to grill rather than buying your food outside. Because doing this activity with friends and families create a strong bond while helping each other out and keeping those memories alive.

This photo I took was courtesy of my neighboring room. They brought all kinds of meat to grill and I saw some alcoholic beverages too. It's damn obvious that they were all prepared and here I am on the other side looking envious of them.

 

Near the grilling area was the FAMOUS INFINITY POOL! With an overlooking view of Manila Bay.  

   

 

Don't forget to bring your own proper swimwear and food is prohibited inside the pool area. Because they set some restrictions regarding the use of the infinity pool, policies should be strictly follow.

It's getting late so I decided to use the pool the next day. However, using the pool was not free even if you were staying at one of the houses inside the resort. Fee is P200 per head for overnight guest.

 

 

While roving around the garden, I found this Icebuco stall  just in front of Duyan Restaurant. It's quite small but I was curious to check out their menu. 

So I approached the buko lady and asked her what their  customers usually order. And she said that the fresh Buko was the best seller, but I could also try their Kapeng Barako and ice cream. They only offered 4 refreshments and the rest were souvenirs and pasalubongs.

They also market their very own Kafe Sinagtala, a very rich and aromatic kapeng barako harvested in there own farm. A 250g of kapeng barako was sold for only PHP 274.00/pack. It's affordable because you only need a small amount to satisfy your coffee cravings. I've tasted their kapeng barako twice and it's not too strong, but it has a distinct taste similar to a cocoa drink. 

The buko juice was really refreshing  and sweet.

 

 

The lady opened the shell for me, so I could get the soft buko meat inside. It was very kind of her because she served me well. 

 

My empty BuKo Shell. 

 

Ohhhh! These cute chickens and roosters were having a feast on a Jack fruit. They're lucky that fruits and vegetables are abundant here.

 

There's also a spa and wellness program  that you can avail. And a Multi-Purpose Recreational Hall for events, activities  and retreats that can accommodate up to 300 people. 

Strengthening your spiritual belief with GOD can be found in this solemn Chapel. Creating a strong connection to our mighty creator is significant where ever we are.

Celebrating your most awaited weddings, renewal of vows and anniversaries can be held here.

 

Trivia: This is the only Chapel where the image of Jesus Christ is made from a coffee tree.

 

It's already dark outside but colorful lights filled the darkness of the night. As SINAGTALA was originated from the word SINAG and TALA which means Starlight. Because you can see the stars shining bright from the sky!

 

My room neighbors having a night pool party!

 

Night Landscape @ Sinagtala Farm Resort And Retreat Park. It's beauty never fade even at night!

 

Spiders starting to crawl at night waiting for their prey to arrive. The bright lights were attracting more insects. I can hear their sounds, seems music to my ear. But beware of their deadly bite put some insect repellent on the expose area, because I was bitten thrice by a mosquito. I guess that's the reason why they put an insect device in my room.

Early in the morning, the sunrise already started facing the east side of the pool! The dramatic view of the sun's interchanging colors mesmerized my attention.

At 8:00AM, the pool was opened for everyone and I rushed into the pool wearing my favorite rash guard.

 

I'm still working on my belly abs haha... Hopefully, someday I should wear sexy tops too!

Sinagtala's Famous Infinity Pool with the bracing view of Central Luzon and Manila Bay. It's very photogenic and it creates an illusion as like walking or floating on top of the water, Amazing!

 

   The real water bed!

However, going at the edge of the pool was scary, but it's the best view ever for photo addicts like me.

 

If I had more time and money, I would definitely tried the 30mins trek going to Bataan National Park.

This could be the last but not the least,  I would truly missed. This last summer solstice, a remarkable experienced I would cherished. The End.

For people out there who share the same feelings and experience, don't hesitate to go northbound as nature has it's own healing power! Promise!

Verdict:

Pros: The Price is affordable compared to other similar resorts that offer the same services. You get more than what you've paid for because the garden is surrounded by earthy elements that give people more energy and a relaxing feeling. Accommodation is fantastic because all you need is pack in one place like swimming in the infinity pool with an amazing view of the mountains, trying their fresh buko juice and ice cream located near Duyan restaurant, preparing food to grill near the pool area, eating a delicious breakfast while drinking a cup of kapeng barako, having a massage in the spa and wellness center, visiting the chapel, socialize with other people in the recreational hall or hike a 30mins trail to the Bataan National Park.

Location wise because it's just 3 hours away from metro manila and many bus companies can take you there. The staff and the people around are very accommodating as well.

Cons: What I dislike most is the additional PHP 200 swimming pool fee, it should be free of charge for people staying in the resort they should have included it in the package . Right now, they are still in the progress of developing some activities like hiking, zip lining, wall climbing and etc. So it means it's not yet available and one more thing, the place is surrounded by plants and trees so bugs and insects are present too.

Over all, I had fun staying in this starlight Paradise making it a very relaxing place to revisit. I would truly recommend this place to everyone specially to nature lovers and photographer enthusiasts and for people who like peace and tranquility.

How to Commute:

There are several bus companies plying the highways from Manila to Bataan. These are Bataan Transit, Saulog Transit, , Genesis  and Victory Liner.

Genesis has terminals at Pasay (beside the MRT Terminal) and Avenida (at the back of Philippine Rabbit terminal). Bataan Transit in Avenida (beside Genesis) and in Cubao (same terminal as 5 Star buses)

From Cubao ride  a bus  going to Balanga or Mariveles  but tell the conductor  to drop you off at the Orani Crossing  Brgy. Tala. The fare would be P177.00 for a one way ticket to Orani, Bataan.

Over there, you can see Tricycle's in line waiting for passengers. You can see it right away because a sign is posted that Sinagtala is 8 kilometers away.

The only public transport going to Sinagtala Farm Resort is by riding a tricycle. Ordinary trip cost P40.00/head for 4 person. Unfortunately, if you are the only passenger a special trip will cost P150.00. It depends, if you are willing to wait for an extra person or to go solo.

For Private Vehicles:

Take SCTEX then exit at Dinalupihan, turn right going to Balanga and take the road leading Roman Super Highway and just few meters after the Orani Town Proper signage, then follow the sign to Sinagtala Farm Resort (right side of the highway).

From Subic-Clark-Tarlac Expressway, (SCTEX), it is accessible from Subic or Clark within 30 minutes.

Additional Info:

NO WALK-INS STRICTLY FOR RESERVATION

check in time: 2:00PM  check out time: 12:00NN

Address: Barangay Tala, Orani, Bataan 2112 Philippines (Sinagtala Farm Resort & Retreat Park)

Telephone:

+63 02 454-7592
+63 02 441-0856

Sinagtala Farm Resort Price / Room Rates as of April 2014

Contact Person: Ms. Francy Pascual

Contact no: 09209017584

I. DUYAN BED AND BREAKFAST
Old	Rates	Capacity		Extra		New	Rates	Capacity	Extra
Wing	(Good for 2 persons)			Person		Wing	(Good for 2 persons		Person
							except Rooms 11&12)
Room 1	Php2,300.00	2		1		Room 7	Php2,500.00	2	1
Room 2	Php2,300.00	2		1		Room 8	Php2,500.00	2	1
Room 3	Php2,300.00	2		2		Room 9	Php2,500.00	2	1
Room 4	Php2,300.00	2		4		Room 10	Php2,500.00	2	1
Room 5	Php2,300.00	2		3		Room 11	Php4,400.00	6	2
Room 6	Php2,300.00	2		1		Room 12	Php4,400.00	6	2
Remarks-Php 350.00/extra person
* with FREE Breakfast

Contact Person: Ms. Tonjee

Contact no: 02-664-7733 / 0917-554-7530

			Weekday		Weekend
II. BEACON HOUSE			Rate		Rate
Whole House	10	5	Php7,000.00	Dec. 01-19, 2014	Php10,000.00
			Php10,000.00	Dec 20-Jan.4,2014	Php10,000.00
Remarks-Php 500.00/extra person
* with FREE Breakfast

Contact person: Ms. Monique

Contact no: 09486417171 or 09215544274.

III. TANAWIN BED AND BREAKFAST
	Capacity				Rates
Main House	15				Php15,000.00
Annex	12				Php12,000.00
Remarks-Php 500.00/extra person
* with FREE Breakfast

SWIMMING RATE:

 Swimming Fee for overnight guests – Php200.00 per head
 Proper swimming attire is required.
 pool use is from 8am to 9pm only

 Day Tour Rate – Php 300.00 per person
- 500 / cottage good for 10 persons only
children 5 yrs and below are free of charge, but only 5 children per group.
pool use is from 8am to 5pm

Things to bring:

•    Food to grill / snacks / charcoal / tongs / disposable plates and spoon /     paper/ lighter
•    Swimwear / sunblock / lotion / shampoo
•    Camera / tripod / monopad
•    Insect Repellent
•   Extra clothes / slippers
•    Board games

My Expenses:

P1,200 - Accomodation

P200 - Swimming fee /pax

P250 - Dinner/Snacks

P177 - Cubao  to Orani, Crossing Bataan (Bataan Transit)

P 50 -Tricycle Orani, crossing to Sinagtala Farm (ordinary trip)

P 150 -Tricycle Sinagtala Farm to Orani, crossing- (Special trip)

P177 - Orani, crossing to Cubao (Bataan Transit/Genesis)

Total: PHP 2,204

Note: If travelling by group then expenses can be divided individually that will result in smaller cost.