Villa Escudero Resort and Plantation

It was a very spontaneous decision to go to Villa Escudero Resorts and Plantation in Tiaong, Quezon. Thirsty for new adventures and escape the woos of the corporate world, we packed our bags and went.

Very convenient, it was just about two hours drive from Manila. My kind of road trip, not too long.

It wasn't necessarily love at first sight when I first came in. I thought the interiors were too old and it needed refurbishing.

Our first stop was the museum of the Escudero family. A very interesting venue. The family collected almost anything that there is in this planet. From preserved dead animals, an elephant hooves stool to antique porcelain doll house pieces. I was intrigued about the lifestyle they led. Must have toured the entire world to have collected such unique pieces.

Next stop was a carabao ride to tour the hacienda. The carabao's name by the way, was Mutya. There was a pair of singers at the back who serenaded us all through out the ride, like a traditional "Harana".

We were exhausted by the trip and the many photo ops on the way in, so we decided to have lunch next. I was excited to experience lunch by the man made "falls" in the resort. They said it actually used to function as a hydro electric plant and was first used in 1937.

The food was not bad, but nothing special either. The grilled meat were really scrumptious though.

Next stop was the raft riding on the lake, this was the best part of the trip for me. I was in awe at the sight of the forest at the background and the vibrant color of the lake. The green was so full of life, I've never seen anything quite like it. The rafting experience was a first for me, so I was giddy happy like a kid the whole time.

We had afternoon drinks at the restaurant/cafe that overlooks the Labasin river. I wanted to stay there forever, with that kind of view and a glass of wine. Ooh, that's how life's meant to be.

Restaurant overlooking the river. Beer is Php50 each. 

The most coveted seats, facing the lake.

We visited the chapel to pray for awhile and was shortly on our way out. We came across a swing and rode it, and had so much fun. There was also this field filled with memorabilia, or maybe old tanks, guns and planes, we took a few photos and called it a day. :) 

The Escuderos' residence