7 Weekend Getaways for Digital Nomads Living in Alabang

Digital nomads living in Alabang have the unique advantage of being close to both the hustle and bustle of Metro Manila and a variety of quick getaway destinations perfect for a weekend adventure. Whether you're looking for popular tourist spots or hidden gems off the beaten path, there's something for everyone within a few hours' drive or boat ride. Here are seven fun weekend getaways from Alabang that offer a mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences.

Tagaytay

Just a short drive from Alabang, Tagaytay is a favorite among locals and tourists for its cooler climate and stunning views of Taal Volcano. Visitors can enjoy horseback riding, ziplining, and picnicking with a view at Picnic Grove. The Sky Ranch amusement park offers fun rides and attractions, while the serene atmosphere of the Tierra de Maria shrine provides a peaceful retreat. Don't miss the chance to try the famous Bulalo, a local beef marrow stew, at one of the roadside restaurants with a view of the volcano.

How to Get There: The best way to get to Tagaytay is by car, which takes about an hour from Alabang via the South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) and the Santa Rosa-Tagaytay Road.

Travel Tip: Visit the People's Park in the Sky for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including Taal Lake and Volcano. It's a great spot for photos and to enjoy the cool breeze.

Where to Stay: Tagaytay has numerous accommodations ranging from budget-friendly to luxury. The Taal Vista Hotel offers a great view of the volcano, while the Escala Tagaytay features an infinity pool with a stunning vista.

Where to Eat: Antonio's is a must-visit for foodies, known for its fine dining experience and beautiful garden setting. For a more casual meal, Bag of Beans offers a variety of dishes and freshly baked pastries in a cozy atmosphere.

Pagsanjan Falls

Pagsanjan Falls, also known as Cavinti Falls, is a thrilling destination for those seeking adventure. Embark on a river canoeing experience, known locally as "shooting the rapids," where skilled boatmen navigate through rocky streams to reach the majestic waterfall. Once there, you can take a raft ride to venture behind the falls into a hidden cave. The journey to the falls is as exhilarating as the destination itself, with lush greenery and the sounds of nature surrounding you.

How to Get There: The journey to Pagsanjan Falls from Alabang typically takes around 2 to 2.5 hours by car via the SLEX and the Calamba-Pagsanjan Road.

Travel Tip: Bring waterproof bags to protect your gadgets and valuables during the boat ride, as you're likely to get wet from the splashing water.

Where to Stay: Pagsanjan has several resorts and lodges, such as Pagsanjan Falls Lodge and Summer Resort, which offer comfortable accommodations and local tours.

Where to Eat: Calle Arco Restaurant is a popular choice for its traditional Filipino dishes and rustic ambiance. Try their specialty, the Pagsanjan Falls Binagoongan, a savory pork dish.

Anilao, Batangas

Anilao is a diver's paradise, renowned for its rich marine biodiversity and clear waters. It's a prime spot for snorkeling, diving, and underwater photography, with numerous dive sites catering to all levels of experience. Non-divers can also enjoy the beautiful beaches, island hopping, and kayaking. Anilao's sunset views are spectacular, making it a perfect place to unwind after a day in the water.

How to Get There: To reach Anilao from Alabang, it takes about 2 to 3 hours by car via the SLEX and the STAR Tollway, exiting at Batangas City.

Travel Tip: Even if you're not into diving, take a boat trip to nearby islands like Sombrero Island or Sepoc Beach for snorkeling and pristine beaches.

Where to Stay: Eagle Point Resort offers great amenities and access to dive sites, while Vivere Azure has a boutique feel with stunning ocean views.

Where to Eat: The Anilao Beach Club serves up fresh seafood and local dishes with a beachfront view. Their grilled squid and kinilaw are local favorites.

Corregidor Island

Corregidor Island is a historical landmark and a testament to the Philippines' wartime history. Visitors can explore the remnants of barracks, tunnels, and gun emplacements from World War II. The Malinta Tunnel Light and Sound Show, guided historical tours, and the Pacific War Memorial are must-see attractions. Corregidor is not only about history; it also offers hiking, bird watching, and stunning views of Manila Bay.

How to Get There: From Alabang, drive to the Esplanade Seaside Terminal in Pasay City, which is about an hour away, and take a Sun Cruises ferry to Corregidor Island, which takes another hour.

Travel Tip: Bring comfortable walking shoes as there's a lot of ground to cover on foot, and the island's terrain can be uneven.

Where to Stay: Corregidor Inn provides simple accommodations on the island, allowing for an overnight stay and more time to explore.

Where to Eat: La Playa Restaurant at Corregidor Inn offers a variety of Filipino and international dishes, with the convenience of being the main dining option on the island.

Mount Makiling

For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure, Mount Makiling in Laguna is a challenging and rewarding hike. The mountain is shrouded in folklore and is said to be home to the mythical nymph Maria Makiling. The trek through dense forests and steep trails leads to the peak, where hikers are rewarded with panoramic views of Laguna and Batangas. The Makiling Botanic Gardens and the mud springs are also worth visiting for their unique natural features.

How to Get There: Mount Makiling is about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Alabang. Take the SLEX and exit at Calamba, then follow the signs leading to the University of the Philippines Los Baños, which is at the foot of the mountain.

Travel Tip: Check the weather forecast before your hike and start early in the morning to avoid the midday heat and to ensure you have enough daylight for your descent.

Where to Stay: There are no accommodations on the mountain itself, but nearby Los Baños offers various hotels and resorts, such as Trace Suites and Splash Mountain Resort.

Where to Eat: Herb Republic Restaurant, located near the university, is known for its healthy and organic menu options, including dishes made with locally grown herbs and vegetables.

Maragondon, Cavite

Maragondon is a hidden gem for history buffs and nature lovers. The town is home to the Bonifacio Trial House, where the Filipino revolutionary leader Andres Bonifacio was tried, and the Maragondon Church, one of the oldest in the Philippines. For outdoor enthusiasts, a hike to Mount Pico de Loro offers breathtaking views and a chance to see the famous monolith. The nearby Patungan Beach is a quiet spot to relax and enjoy the sea.

How to Get There: To get to Maragondon from Alabang, it takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours by car via the CAVITEX and Ternate-Nasugbu Highway.

Travel Tip: If you're planning to climb Mount Pico de Loro, be prepared for a challenging hike and bring enough water and snacks. The monolith climb is optional but provides a thrilling experience for those who dare.

Where to Stay: There are no major hotels in Maragondon, but homestays and small inns are available for an authentic local experience. Alternatively, stay in nearby beach resorts in Ternate or Nasugbu.

Where to Eat: Lolo Claro's Restaurant is a local favorite in Maragondon, offering delicious Filipino dishes like crispy pata and kare-kare in a homey setting.

Los Baños, Laguna

Los Baños is a quaint town known for its hot spring resorts, the University of the Philippines Los Baños (UPLB) campus, and the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI). The town's hot springs are said to have therapeutic properties, and a dip in one of the many private pools can be a relaxing way to spend the day. Nature lovers can visit the UPLB campus for its lush greenery, Freedom Park, and the Makiling Botanic Gardens. The IRRI Rice World Museum offers an educational experience about rice cultivation and its importance to the country.

How to Get There: Los Baños is about an hour's drive from Alabang via the SLEX, exiting at Calamba and following the national highway towards Los Baños.

Travel Tip: Visit the flat rocks of Mount Makiling for a natural spa experience where you can enjoy the warm water flowing from the mountain's hot springs.

Where to Stay: Splash Suites Hotel Laguna offers comfortable accommodations with access to hot spring pools, while Sol Y Viento Mountain Hot Springs Resort provides a more upscale experience with panoramic views.

Where to Eat: Dalcielo's is a popular restaurant in Los Baños, known for its home-cooked meals and desserts, particularly the Ube Halaya Cheesecake and the suman (rice cake) with latik (coconut syrup).