Set deep in a lush tranquil rainforest at the foothills of Mount Malarayat lies The Farm at San Benito – an eco-luxury holistic medical wellness resort. Whether you are looking to detox and clear your mind, shed some pounds or recover from a serious illness, award-winning (60 awards to be exact) The Farm at San Benito, has a really impressive selection of unique evidence-based treatments conducted by licensed practitioners using state-of-the-art equipment. It truly is a life-changing holiday where physical, mental and emotional needs are catered to with five-star personalised service. For those of you who do not wish to enrol in a health program, you can simply stay at the serene resort and make use of the three pools, spa, fitness centre and more.
Read all about the Detox Program I experienced here.
Who Visits: Discerning travellers, couples, families as well as patients recovering from various illnesses looking for a luxurious wellness experience amidst nature.
What it’s Best For: Detoxing, weight loss, holistic healing, skin treatments (all by licensed practitioners) and rejuvenation.
The Style: Think lush tropical paradise with pretty ponds, lakes and waterfalls together with tall swaying palms and majestic mountains in the distance. Traditional Filipino elements such as leaf roofs and thatched, wood-beamed ceilings are also found throughout the property.
The Service: Impeccable and friendly service by each and everyone throughout the property.
Accommodation: There are 33 well-appointed air-conditioned suites and villas at The Farm at San Benito- each with something unique to offer. I stayed in the bright and airy Garden Glass Villa, which comes with a living area, lounge area, a sprawling glass-walled bathroom and shower as well as an outdoor soaking tub. There are satellite TVs but this is a good time to take a break from it all and immerse oneself in the breathtaking nature that surrounds each suite and villa.
Room Amenities: You will find bottled water, flip-flops, bathrobes, a mini-bar (filled with natural healthy snacks), a hairdryer and handmade bath products including a lemongrass salt scrub. You will also be provided with a glass water bottle, lip jelly, coconut and lemongrass soaps, coconut oil and mosquito repellent on check-in – all natural, of course.
Savour: Enjoy award-winning gourmet vegan cuisine at The Farm at San Benito’s award-winning restaurant, Alive! Most of the food consumed here is grown onsite at The Farm’s own organic garden (overseen by Executive Chef Francis and farmer, Abby) while the rest is acquired through local organic farmers. Most dishes use dehydrated raw foods instead of cooked and are prepared in a way that ensures the nutritional properties and enzymes of the foods are intact. Expect lots of coconut in the dishes and even vegan burgers, fries and pizzas, which don’t worry, are natural and nutritious. Although nearly everything on the menu is healthy, they also offer delicious desserts such as freshly-made sorbets, chocolate pecan cake and organic wine for guests who are just there for a break and not necessarily on a program. As a meat-eater, I thought I was going to have a hard time eating vegan food but to be honest, I loved the creativity and how much flavour each dish had. P.S They are launching a new pescatarian restaurant, Pesce! any day now.
Unwind: Whether you are on a program or not, indulge in unique spa treatments, while away the time in the infinity pool or simply curl up with a good book anywhere in this stunning property. Sounds like bliss? Well, it is.
What’s Unique: Nowhere else in the world will you be able to find the variety of treatments and state-of-the-art medical equipment all under one roof like you can at The Farm at San Benito. Also, the wildlife at the property – over thirty gorgeous peacocks and peahens along with ducks, geese and hens roam freely.
Love-Hate: If I had to pick one thing, it would be to change the iPod docks in the room as they support the older iPhones at the moment. Also, some treatments may be expensive to add on but more than likely, they’re really worth it.
The Damage: An All-inclusive Life-Changing Holiday starts at USD 545++ per person per night based on double occupancy; USD 655++ per night based on single occupancy. This price will vary based on the accommodation type and program you choose (Holistic Wellness, Detox Cleanse, Weight Management, Diabetes Prevention & Heart Health).
Children: Unlike most wellness resorts, kids are welcome here. They even have a family-friendly pool, a kids’ food menu and a baby-sitting service.
Dress Code: Anything goes here but be sure to pack your sunnies, swimsuit, hat and sunblock.
Wi-Fi: Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the property. It’s pretty quick too.
What’s Around: The Farm at San Benito has an essentials store by the reception but it’s always best to pack everything you need.
When to Go: There is really no wrong time to visit but a popular time to go is from December to April due to the cooler climate and non-rainy season.
How to Get There: You will need to fly into Ninoy Aquino International Airport in Manila and drive around 90-minutes south to Lipa, Batangas where the resort is located. The resort offers a pick-up and drop-off service at an extra charge of approximately $250 – this is complimentary when you book a four night program.
Voyageur Chic Insider Tip: Sit under the mango tree, which is over 250-years old and read a book or meditate, as it is believed to be an energy vortex. Who knows one of the gorgeous rare albino peacocks might join you while you’re here. Also, try to make it to the morning yoga class overlooking the lagoon- it’s a beautiful way to start the day.
Good to Know:
–Useful Filipino phrases: Kamusta (hello), Palaam (goodbye), Salamat (thank you), Kamusta Ka (how are you).
–Currency: (PHP) Philippine Peso. Check the conversion rate here.
–Visa requirements: Visit here for more information.
Address: 119 Barangay Tipakan 4217 Lipa City, Batangas, Philippines
Website: www.thefarmatsanbenito.com
Instagram: @thefarmatsanbenito
Pictures: The Farm at San Benito, Martin San Diego, Jonathan Keh and Voyageur Chic.
Have you stayed at this property before? Share your experience with us below.
A very warm thank you to The Farm at San Benito for welcoming me to their beautiful sanctuary. It was an incredible stay and as always, all opinions are my own.
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