For travelers who need a pause, not a packed itinerary
With daily life becoming increasingly hectic, many Filipinos are embracing “slow travel” during weekends as a way to relax and recharge.
Temporarily escaping the bustle of metro cities, slow travel means heading to uncrowded, soul-restoring destinations where travelers can rest and unwind without packed itineraries or back-to-back activities.
Results of a 2023 study by travel platform Klook showed that 73 percent of Filipinos like to take advantage of long weekends. Road trips also remain popular among Filipino millennials and Gen Z travelers, who often travel in groups to visit local destinations.
Most Klook users, many of whom are based in Metro Manila, prefer land travel and usually head to neighboring provinces to unwind.
In recent years, many leisure-focused developments just outside Metro Manila have emerged. With the help of social media and word of mouth, farm estates and nature-centric boutique destinations have gained popularity among travelers seeking a restorative pause from their busy weekdays.
Here are some popular destinations near Metro Manila for a less rushed weekend escape.
Laguna
Given its accessibility, Laguna is a popular weekend escape for those in Metro Manila, offering natural wonders for those who want to reconnect with nature. But beyond the usual tourist spots, several creative destinations have also piqued the interest of travelers.
In San Pablo City, Road Trip San Pablo by Casa San Pablo, a small, artsy bed and breakfast, takes guests on guided tours featuring easy creative activities such as native cooking, lakeshore painting, clay figure making, and organic farming workshops. The trip also includes visits to restored turn-of-the-century homes and artist studios, making San Pablo a favorite among tourists seeking an inspiring break.
The municipalities of Cavinti and Bay have also been attracting weekend guests looking for beautiful scenery and a more laidback pace. Beyond the adventure activities these areas are known for, several resorts and glamping spots have emerged and gained visitors in recent years.
Rizal
Rizal is an easy go-to destination for those living in the metro because of its proximity. Developers of leisure destinations here have enhanced the province’s natural offerings to create more memorable destinations.
In Tanay, peaceful spots on higher ground attract visitors wanting sweeping views and a slower pace. Idyllic accommodations like House of Clouds in Sitio Ibucao offer views of a sea of clouds, giving visitors a restorative break without much pressure. Muni Land in Sitio Paydas is ideal for those looking for a riverfront staycation over a slow weekend.
In Antipolo City, A Farm is a campsite that offers stunning views of the Sierra Madre mountains, allowing visitors to savor the serene ambiance and spend their rest days without worry.
Bulacan
Bulacan holds plenty of untapped potential as a leisure destination, with developers gradually unlocking new spots to attract more tourists. It also offers travelers a fast and easy destination for a weekend trip.
Doña Remedios Trinidad (DRT), a municipality in Bulacan, is known as a premier ecotourism destination offering a refreshing retreat with breathtaking natural scenery. Bakuran in DRT, a small private resort, offers a quiet rural escape for those who want to go off-grid for a few days.
La Mirage Resort in San Rafael, Bulacan, offers more urban accommodations but with the luxury of a serene escape. Located just an hour away from Manila, it allows visitors to enjoy private time lounging around and resting.
