Enjoy Views of Taal Lake at this Hidden Sanctuary in Batangas

Perfect for recharging in nature.
by Ina Louise Manto | August 20, 2020

Most would go to Tagaytay for a quick staycation for its cool weather and views of the Taal Lake. But if you want to deviate from where the crowd is, Villas by Eco Hotel in Mataas na Kahoy, Batangas is a hidden sanctuary that would give you the same breathtaking views of the lake and volcano as you recharge in nature.

Villas by Eco Hotel

Before opening to the public, Villas by Eco Hotel was once a family vacation home for Fortunato and Milagros Cruz and their 7 kids. With panoramic views of the lake, it was the ideal location for a much-needed retreat for a family who just wanted to take a break from the city. However, the place became neglected when one of their children fell ill. That’s when the family decided to pass the property to Eco Hotel, to let more people enjoy the idyllic space.

Villas by Eco Hotel

Just one or two hours’ drive from the Metro, Villas by Eco Hotel will greet you with lush greenery. You’d be happy to know that no trees were cut down during the construction of the place, preserving its natural beauty. Even the bathrooms have trees in them! It’s the ideal place for appreciating nature.

Nine villas are ready for occupancy, all of which have their own balconies that provide unobstructed views of Taal Lake and Mt. Maculot. They’re perfect for outdoor dining or simply enjoying the cool weather. You might even catch a couple of fireflies when you go stargazing at night! The rooms feature glass sliding doors, which will let you appreciate the view even from your bed.

You can soak in the sun at the resorts’ veranda or cool off at the pool overlooking the lake.

Make your staycation even better by dining at Eco Hotel’s in-house restaurant, Baluk Baluk, where you can treat yourself to authentic Filipino food made with fresh ingredients directly sourced from their farm. The resort promotes sustainability and farm-to-fork principle – they grow plants at the Green Farm and Herb Garden.

Pugad

Kawa and Kamay sa Ulap

Don’t forget to pose for the gram at Villas’ other attractions: Kamay sa Ulap, Duyan, Kawa, and Pugad.

Day Tours

Day Tours are also available for guests who do not wish to stay overnight. For Php 699, you’ll have access to the resort’s facilities like the pool and veranda. The use of lockers and a plated lunch is also included in the fee.

How to get there

By commute: Take a bus to Lipa-Batangas and drop off at Tambo Exit. Ride a jeepney to Mataas na Kahoy and drop off at 711. Then take a tricycle ride to the resort.

By car: Take the SLEX and Star Toll and exit at Tambo. Using Google Maps or Waze, just enter “Villas by Eco Hotel”.

Overnight rates at Villas by Eco Hotel start at Php 4,400 for a Standard Room. For more information, visit their website.