Having recently celebrated its 10th anniversary, The Farm at San Benito is considered one of the pioneers of Asia's wellness movement. A 90-minute drive from Manila airport, this healing sanctuary in the foothills of Mount Malarayat delivers the latest medical services alongside luxe spa treatments and gourmet raw cuisine.
Accessed via a dirt road surrounded by wild forest and coconut plantations, the property looks more like a tropical paradise than a holistic retreat. Ducks lounge by the lagoon while peacocks and goats roam around happily. There are three pools, including one hidden in a secret garden, complete with a romantic waterfall. A 250-year-old mango tree takes pride of place on the 48 hectare property and is said to have healing energy. This together with unobstructed views of the jungle and the mountains create a postcard-worthy backdrop.
On-site organic gardens provide all the grains and vegetables for the raw vegan restaurant Alive. Coconuts are used in everything - from the food and furniture to spa treatments.
Guests are encouraged to take the complimentary daily Oil of Life tour which details the process behind harvesting the oil to the making of products such as the in-house lemon grass, sea salt and coconut body polish.
The luxury accommodation on offer has an eco-chic vibe. The Sulu Terraces are modelled after traditional Philippine rice barns and look like rustic tree houses. The Palmeira Suites and Garden Villas provide all the modern comforts of home (including free Wi-fi) while the spacious Master Villa - which apparently sits on an energy vortex - can house a family of six and has a massive pool and terrace.
City folks will love the spacious Narra Pool villas, which stand on pillars built into the side of the San Benito ridge. The interiors feature narra wood fixtures, 600-thread-count bed linen, energy saving air conditioning, floor-to-ceiling glass, LCD TV and a private heated swimming pool with hydro jets.