From the country’s pristine and peaceful secluded beaches to its lush tropical forests, you can enjoy a soul-nourishing break in any way you please in the Philippines. Better still, unlike many well-trodden wellness destinations around the world, frequent low-cost and full-service flight connections from Australia and New Zealand and around the islands, as well as affordable accommodation offerings, makes the Philippines the ideal destination for a quick fix of R&R.
Here’s a selection of some of the Philippines’ most unique and idyllic overnight retreats that’ll soothe your body and mind and send you away feeling rejuvenated.
Qi Palawan, El Nido
Made up of only 8 rustic cottages tucked behind the beach in leafy surrounds, a stay at Qi Palawan is your chance to feel totally disconnected in paradise. Amongst the peace and tranquillity of Palawan’s pristine and unspoilt north-eastern coastline, the resort invites guests to enjoy a mix of Swedish and traditional Filipino massages, herbal baths in a luxurious soaking tub, yoga classes, and a range of other water and land activities from scuba diving to cycling.
Nay Palad Hideaway, Siargao
For the ultimate feeling of seclusion and freedom, Nay Palad Hideaway on the small palm-fringed island of Siargao offers 9 luxuriously designed villas – each with its own private terrace and views of the lush tropical surrounds. The resort’s beautiful infinity pool offers a perfect place to relax while the decadent onsite spa facilities provide guests with a selection of world-class treatments including therapists specialising in Hilot, a traditional Filipino massage recognised for its healing qualities. Offering a more tailored approach to the concept of wellness, yoga, and meditation classes are offered to guests in any place they desire, whether it be in the sea pagoda, treehouse, or even on a stand-up paddleboard floating in the bay. Guests at the resort can also support their inner wellness by enjoying fresh meals to order and participating in cooking classes that feature local catch and produce from the resort’s very own organic farm.
Luljetta’s Place Hanging Gardens and Spa, Antipolo
With incredible elevated views over Antipolo and Laguna de Bay, and conveniently located only an hour away from the gateway city of Manila, Luljetta’s Place Hanging Gardens and Spa is the perfect place to unwind. While you’ll enjoy relaxing in the mountainside infinity pool and soaking up the captivating landscape in front of you, the resort also offers an invigorating hydromassage pool set within lush open-air surrounds. In line with its holistic wellness ethos, Luljetta’s Place offers guests delicious wholesome food and an extensive choice of wellness services including tailored natural skin treatments, full body scrubs, and massages suited to your body’s needs.
Badian Island Wellness Resort, Cebu
Recognised for its therapeutic open-air approach to wellness, the jewel in the crown at Badian Island Wellness Resort is undoubtedly its beautifully landscaped “Thalasso” ionised seawater pools which are said to promote relaxation, revitalise the body, and re-balance mineral deficiencies. Set among the greenery of Cebu’s Badian Island, the resort is nestled in spacious grounds with private white sand beaches which are ideal for calming walks and yoga sessions. Signature wellness treatments at Badian Island Wellness Resort also include warm seaweed baths and pure virgin coconut oil massages.
The Farm, San Benito
Located in the lush leafy region of Batangas, south of Manila, The Farm at San Benito is an eco-luxury medical wellness resort spread across 48 hectares of green jungle.
With views of majestic mountains, an appetising menu of delicious nutrient-rich cuisine, and a range of onsite wellness treatments, The Farm is the ideal environment to unwind, re-energise, and detox.
Wellness treatments include anything from detox cleanses and private ‘mindful movement’ sessions to hydrotherapy and anti-aging treatments. Overnight, guests are spoilt for choice at The Farm at San Benito – rooms include the luxurious Palmera Glass Villa with an outdoor bathtub and shower, and a range of stunning garden suites and villas, pool villas, and luxury residences.
Lotus Shores, Siargao
Within the surfer’s paradise of Siargao Island, the leafy Lotus Shores yoga retreat gives guests the chance to truly focus on their yoga techniques by making the most of the resort’s professionally led classes which take place throughout the day.
And you’ll never be stuck for sustenance to keep you going – the onsite vegan café serves an extensive menu of delicious plant-based whole foods sourced from organic farms around Siargao Island. In between classes, Lotus Shores is ideally located to make the most of Siargao’s many highlights including its waterfalls, caves, rivers, and many surf beaches.
Nurture Wellness Village, Tagaytay
Made up of a collective of thatched roof garden and forest villas, guests are encouraged to feel part of village life at the Nurture Wellness Village in the green and peaceful highlands of Tagaytay. With its unique brand of “ecotherapy”, the resort aims to promote a holistic approach to health and wellbeing through a mix of sustainably produced farm-to-plate food, mindful exercise, and a selection of indulgent spa treatments. From enjoying colourful and nutritious homemade soups and salads to detoxifying steam baths and massages, the Nurture Wellness Village is a top destination to escape life’s daily stresses and restore balance.
