Twin Lakes: Your sweet escape in the south

Nothing beats driving down south for a sweet weekend escape, well away from the city’s frenzied pace.

Just an hour or two out of the metro and into the charming, laidback countryside, one starts to relax and breathe easy with the cool fresh air, stunning views of lush forests and rolling terrain. The easygoing and unhurried pace of rural living will surely do wonders for one’s mind and body.

It thus comes as no surprise that the provinces of Laguna, Cavite and Batangas have become the fave stomping grounds of many city dwellers seeking for a quick recharge.

Choices abound for the weary urbanite, the foodies and even the adventurous in these haunts. And just because you’ve been in Tagaytay, Nasugbu or Taal for so many times that you can’t even recall, it doesn’t mean you won’t find new things to do here. So pack that two-day suitcase and cooler in the trunk and you’re good to go.

Breakfast with a view

Best to go for an early drive so you’ll avoid the weekend traffic in the metro. Take the South Luzon Expressway and head off to the Tagaytay-Nasugbu area where you can have breakfast with a stunning view.

Having coffee and a pastry in the most beautiful Starbucks in the country will elevate your breakfast or brunch experience to a whole new level. Located at the Twin Lakes’ Shopping Village, this Starbucks branch and its Mediterranean-inspired design, accented with wood displays, patterned windows and brick walls, coupled with the calming gorgeous views of the Taal Lake and Volcano would tell you that you are definitely starting the day right.

Twin Lakes Hotel

As soon as you finish up, head down to the Twin Lakes Hotel, just a few meters away from the Shopping Village. Best, of course, to book a room in advance as this newest hotel destination gets full easily on most weekends.

Tucked in the quiet side of the Tagaytay-Nasugbu Road in Laurel, Batangas, the Twin Lakes Hotel exudes a nostalgic old European vibe coupled with that distinct Filipino brand of hospitality and the expertise of Megaworld subsidiary Global-Estate Resorts Inc. (GERI). Not only does Twin Lakes offer a much needed breathing space, it also features key amenities and an exciting line up of activities for guests.

While waiting for your room, you might want to check out the Twin Lakes Cafe, an all-day dining restaurant that serves  breakfast buffet and an a la carte lunch and dinner. Enjoy local favorites like bulalo, pochero and more, either at the air-conditioned  dining section or at the al fresco balcony overlooking Taal Lake.

And if you happen to stay on April 21, you can revel in the Easter festivities at Twin Lakes Hotel. Avail of the lunch buffet on that day for P899 (per person for adults) and P499 (per person for kids) and enjoy Easter activities with family and friends like face painting, a magic show, egg hunt, egg painting, hip hop, and candy station, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

You can celebrate Mother’s Day there, too, on May 12, and avail of the hotel’s Special Lunch Buffet for P899 per person, starting at 11:30 a.m.

Exploring the grounds

As soon as you drop your bags in your room, check out the stunning views of the nearby 10-ha vineyard that will bring Europe’s revered winemaking traditions to the Philippines. Snap a few photos as these picturesque views are surely what you call Instagram worthy.

Go around the hotel to look at the facilities you can try: take a dip in the heated infinity pool amid Batangas’ cool, balmy weather; relax at the pool deck; commune with nature at the outdoor lounge or at the rooftop; or while away the time at the game room, among others.

But if relaxation is all you’re after for this quick weekend getaway, you really don’t have to leave Twin Lakes Hotel as everything you need is here, along with the tranquil ambience, elegant but homey vibe, and cool weather that will easily put your mind and body to ease.

Gastronomic adventure

You will definitely be spoiled for choice when it comes to dining options. The Twin Lakes Shopping Village offers a curated mix that will satisfy any discerning palate.

A wide range of cuisines and a delectable selection of dishes can be had here. Have a feast at the Bag of Beans, Seafood Dining, Bagoong Club, The Farm Organics, Buon Giorno Caffe & Bistro, or at Santis Delicatessen and then satisfy your sweet cravings at La Creperie.

The newly opened Purple Beetle, an art-themed cafe that serves comfort food and great coffee, allows you to unwind with its colorful artsy vibe, books and board games.

Enjoy a nightcap with friends at the TAP Station, also at the Shopping Village. If you prefer to stay at the hotel, you can go for a drink at the Zabana Bar, which serves its signature Zabana Rum, along with a selection of wines, cocktails and mocktails.

Of course, before you go home, make sure to bring  some pasalubong treats from Amira’s Buco Tart House and Greg’s Fruitcakery. Of course, buy some for yourself, too.

Hearing Mass

After you’ve checked out of Twin Lakes Hotel, and maybe after a hearty lunch, too, from the Twin Lakes Cafe, devout Catholics can hear Mass at any of the nearby churches.

Caleruega in Nasugbu, Batangas, is among the more popular churches in the area. Its Transfiguration Chapel, a brick chapel atop a hill, offering a landscape view of the Batulao mountains and forests. The chapel is a picturesque venue as it is surrounded by pine trees, terraced gardens and koi pond.

Towards the Tagaytay area one can also find the Our Lady of Lourdes Chapel and Ina ng Laging Saklolo, among others.

For sure, a relaxing weekend spent at the Twin Lakes is all you need to give you that boost for another hectic workweek ahead.