Ever feel like you just need to unplug and get on a bus to anywhere?
I recently discovered Kilyawan Farm Resort in Ibaan, Batangas, just a short 95-kilometer drive from Manila. It is not the typical resort; it is a tranquil bamboo haven that will steal your heart and give peace to your soul.
Kilyawan is not just a pretty place; it’s an experience.
What was once a chicken farm has been transformed into an 8.5-hectare paradise where you can reconnect with nature and find your inner peace.
The name “Kilyawan,” inspired by the local black-naped oriole, perfectly captures the resort’s dedication to preserving the environment.
Whether you’re a solo traveler seeking solitude, a group of friends looking for adventure, or a family wanting a memorable weekend, Kilyawan has something for everyone.
As a solo female traveler, I felt incredibly safe and at peace here. It’s the kind of place where you can wander around without a worry, soaking in the beauty and serenity.
One of the highlights of the Kilyawan experience is the tractor-led farm tour. Explore the lush grounds, learn about the farm’s produce, and get up close and personal with adorable farm animals like black native pigs, rabbits, goats, cows, and heritage chickens.
For both children and adults, feeding time is an absolute joy.
But Kilyawan offers so much more than just farm tours. You can hop on a bike and explore the grounds, breathe in the fresh air, and let the stress melt away. And that’s where the magic of forest bathing and ecotherapy comes in.
I rode a bike again after 30 years during my visit. My inner child was dancing with joy.
The healing power of reconnecting with nature
Spending time in nature isn’t just a pleasant pastime; it’s a powerful way to boost your well-being.
Forest bathing, or “shinrin-yoku” as the Japanese call it, is the practice of immersing yourself in the sights, sounds, and smells of the forest.
Studies have shown that it can reduce stress hormones, lower blood pressure, and even boost your immune system.
At Kilyawan, you’re surrounded by nature at every turn.
Whether you’re strolling through the bamboo groves, listening to the birds sing, or simply relaxing by the pool, you’re giving yourself the gift of ecotherapy.
It’s a chance to disconnect from technology, reconnect with your senses, and find a sense of calm and balance.
Kilyawan also has conference rooms, making it an ideal venue for corporate activities and team-building events. The serene atmosphere makes it a fantastic space for wellness activities like yoga and meditation.
Architect Dominic Galicia’s design is simply breathtaking.
The resort seamlessly blends local materials like bamboo, ecobricks, and recycled wood, creating a rustic yet elegant vibe. The woven mats crafted by local women weavers add a touch of Filipino artistry.
Kilyawan has received prestigious awards like the Good Design Award and recognition at international events like the World Architecture Festival.
If you – like me – are craving a weekend escape that’s safe, rejuvenating, and filled with authentic experiences, Kilyawan Farm Resort is calling your name.
Pack your bags, leave the city behind, and get ready to discover your own little slice of paradise in Batangas.
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