Cozy Room and an Outdoor Jacuzzi // Photo source: Kthy
I couldn’t agree more with this statement. It’s so true how when you allow and give yourself a break from your daily routine; you give yourself the gift of having a moment to stop and breathe. That’s essential especially for those who are stuck in the system – doing the same thing almost every day, five to six days a week. It is exhausting and will cause you to break down at some point.
Up in the mountains of Balamban, is another lush setting – West 35 Eco-mountain Resort; and is ideal for a much-needed mini-holiday. It isn’t too far from the city, yet once you get there, you will feel totally far away from the city hustle and bustle.
I didn’t think much of Balamban as a holiday destination back when I was younger. Funny how I thought of it as just a sleepy little town that didn’t have anything much to offer. However, lately, I’ve discovered that it’s more than that. Throughout the years, there’s been a lot of development within the mountains of Cebu – from Busay to Balamban. One of which is the West 35 Eco-mountain Resort.
Roll down your car windows and feel the cold fresh air sweep through your cheeks as you guys cruise up the hills and head to this mountain resort. Enjoy a 360-degree view of the all-natural landscape – West 35 is a great location for sightseeing the mountains of Balamban and its coastline as well.
Here you will find a number of indigenous species of flowers and animals. Also, they grow their own organic produce – root crops and vegetation. I think that’s pretty sweet and smart, really taking advantage of the fact that they have the perfect spot for farming.
West 35’s working towards helping the preservation and sustaining the diversity of the world’s natural environment, and that’s a really good intention. The mountain resort is also just a few meters away from some tourist spots like JVR Islands in the Sky, Buwakan ni Alejandra, Adventure Cafe, etc.
There is a restaurant here called Haven Café, which serves American, Italian and Filipino cuisines. We wouldn’t mind a 45 minute to an hour drive just to dine here, with the great view and good food. They cook their own produce – farm to table, real sweet. Perfect for couple dates or even group dates.
Guests can stay overnight and have more time to enjoy the peace and green scenery. Room choices include Deluxe Rooms, Suite Rooms, and Group Rooms. Take note though that they do not have Wi-Fi and the signal here isn’t too good. This, I think is great because you will really be disconnected from the virtual world and will take all the time to reconnect with nature. As well as have all the time to talk things out with your friends and or loved ones.
Those who want to change up their date nights a little bit, you guys can do it here. Have dinner, then drink some wine and chill by the bonfire or hop into the outdoor jacuzzi. 🙂 The place is also great for stargazing at night. I’m certain the night sky here is absolutely pretty.
In the mornings, you can practice some meditation outside before getting ready for breakfast. Then enjoy a bubble bath with a view in their open bathroom with a tub. Sounds so relaxing. And you can send the kids to the playground, so you can enjoy some quiet and alone time.
There are also other fun activities you and your loved ones can enjoy – they have a zipline and trekking adventures. Also, you guys can make use of their function rooms for team meetings or private parties.
Day use entrance fee – Php 85 per head; Five (5) years old below are free
Bonfire set up – Php 500 (inclusive of woods)
Extra Person – Php 500 per head
– inclusive of the extra mattress and a complimentary breakfast to be served at Haven Café Restaurant; if you request to have your breakfast served to your room there will be an additional charge of Php 100 per head
Complimentary Breakfast Choices:
– Tapa with Egg and Rice
– Ham with Egg and Rice
– Hotdog with Egg and Rice
– Corned Beef with Egg and Rice
– Native Chorizo with Egg and Rice
– Smoked Fish with Egg and Rice
(A choice of Sunny Side up/ Boiled Egg)
Drink Choices:
– Hot Chocó
– Coffee
– Iced Tea
Read: Balamban’s Adventure Cafe
Read: JVR Island in the Sky
The West 35 Eco-mountain Resort is located in KM 35 Transcentral Highway, Gaas Balamban, Cebu. It is approximately 35km from the city proper, and a 45 minute to an hour drive.
CAR: The easiest way to get there is through a private or rental car. You may use Google Maps or Waze as your guide. There are parking spaces available at the resort.
V-HIRE: You can take a V-hire from the Ayala Terminal going to Balamban. Let the driver know you’d like to be dropped off at the West 35 Eco-mountain Resort.
For inquiries and reservation, you may call the resort through the following numbers: +63 32 514 3262 / +63 923 159 0721 / +63 915 465 1124/ +63 32 520 2633 / +63 933 995 3245 / +63 917 705 9833.
You may also send them an email at [email protected]. Please also check out their Facebook page: West 35 Eco Mountain Resort.
*All photos used are from West 35 Eco Mountain Resort’s Facebook page.
