Mango picking & nature tripping in Batangas

(The Philippine Star) Updated April 04, 2009 12:00 AM

Villa Crisanta Garden Resort is a rustic, well-appointed resort in Rosario, Batangas. Located on a farm estate, it has mango orchards, pools, gardens, spa, reception and party venues. Cabanas are scattered all around where guests can relax and watch the sun set.

MANILA, Philippines - City dwellers are spoiled for choice when it comes to venues for wedding receptions, large gatherings or company activities.

However, some are now seeking a change from the air-conditioned comforts of these locations, preferring the charms offered by open-air settings. The reasons are obvious. Barring inclement weather, garden venues have a more natural ambience — fresh air, natural lighting, and a relaxed setting.

Those who prefer something rustic and yet blessed with the amenities of the city can hie off to Villa Crisanta Garden Resort in Rosario, Batangas.

Villa Crisanta Garden Resort is on a family-owned farm estate with orchards of mango and papaya trees. The family transformed part of the farm into a garden resort to give their guests an opportunity to take pleasure in the bounties of nature as they have enjoyed it here for many generations.

Travelers to Rosario, Batangas, will surely appreciate the resort’s pastoral setting. The two-hour drive from Manila via the Star Tollway is a breeze, with views that are free of billboards.

Villa Crisanta is not just known for its pools and resort facilities. It is also becoming quite popular for wedding receptions since it is just a few minutes away from the church in Rosario town or from the Lipa Cathedral. Some have even taken their vows at the resort’s gardens.

Villa Crisanta has three garden venues and an indoor pavilion. The Poolside Garden, which can easily accommodate up to 300 guests, is perfect for parties and outings. There are three pools to choose from, including a kiddie and a lap pool for adults, as well as huts where guests can dine and take a break from the activities.

The Garden by the Pond is an idyllic location for garden weddings and receptions, and private parties. Located near the resort’s spa, it can accommodate 150 to 300 guests. A lotus pond is an added touch to the spot, while a quaint bridgeway will serve as a perfect backdrop to many picture-pretty photographs.

The Cabana Garden, which is just a few steps away from pool area, can make room for up to 150 guests. There are also cabanas, where guests can relax.

Those seeking a more intimate venue for their events can choose the Gazebo, which is tucked away inside the property. It is spacious enough to accommodate up to 50 guests in a roofed venue that is perfect for small receptions, parties or company meetings. The swimming pool by the gazebo is an added treat for those planning a casual affair.

The Pavilion at the main house is large enough to fit in up to 500 guests. The main house has an opulent façade, while an intricate Balinese carved door frames the main entrance. The pavilion opens up to garden settings at the side, which can accommodate more guests. Guests have a choice of using the Pavilion al fresco. By leaving the doors open, fresh natural air will cool this huge space. The venue also has air-conditioning units for balmy days.

Connected to the Pavilion is the formal dining hall, which can seat up to 24 guests. The venue is perfect for company meetings and seminars. A fully equipped kitchen at the back is available for the use of guests.

Villa Crisanta also has a main house and a number of casitas and cottages. All rooms are fully furnished, air-conditioned, and come with TV sets, mini-refs, and private baths and toilets.

Kids can go horseback riding at the stables or go around the property with guides. They can also explore the gardens and learn about the different plants and flowers on the property.

When it’s time to harvest the estate’s mango trees, guests can go mango picking for a fee.

There are a number of recreation amenities to keep everyone busy. There is a billiard table, videoke machine, a trampoline, and swimming pools within the resort.

Villa Crisanta has also partnered with Orange Home Spa. The Manila-based home spa service offers a variety of treatments including anti-aging services, lymphatic drainage, reflexology, Shiatsu, couple’s sensual, arthritic, post-chemo, hypertensive, infant, postnatal with lactation, prenatal, Hawaiian lomi-lomi, deep tissue, and Swedish massages.

The spa has separate facilities for male and female guests, and a separate area for reflexology services. Spa services are available all day long, although prior reservation is required.

For inquiries, visit villacrisanta.com.