The summer season is coming to a close, so why not head out for one last hurrah? Whether you’re looking to venture out for a coastal escape, hide out in the countryside for a creative retreat, or slow down through a hearty meal and meaningful conversations, there’s a perfect spot that’s just a road trip away from Metro Manila.
From distances just under 100 kilometers away to farther destinations up North of Luzon, here are 4 places to check out before summer ends.
Slowed-Down Creativity at Paburo Pots, Batangas
Approx. Distance from Metro Manila: ~ 88.1 km
A full-circle pottery experience — from wedging to firing, and farm-to-table dining while immersed in Batangas’ tranquil landscapes. (Photo by Andy Kelly from Unsplash)
Centered on creativity, nature, and meaningful connection, Paburo Pots in Capati Farm, Batangas, offers a unique pottery-making experience. Visitors can learn the basics of hand building using clay with a calming countryside setting for a refreshing escape from city life and farm-to-table dining included in the package. The experience comes full circle as the multi-course Filipino lunch is prepared with freshly harvested produce and served on unique ceramic pieces created by the studio’s artisans.
All in all, the retreat’s greenery, fresh air, and provincial charm help ground visitors and encourage them to slow down as they shape ceramics by hand and create lasting memories.
An Epicurean Escape in Tagaytay, Cavite
Approx. Distance from Metro Manila: ~ 89.4 km
Michelin-recognized destinations celebrate Cavite’s flavors through rustic charm and elevated gastronomy. (Photo by Lawrence Aritao from Unsplash)
The Michelin-recognized establishments of Asador Alfonso and Antonio’s present a sophisticated dining escape through a thoughtfully paced feast that blends rustic comfort with culinary mastery. Guests can begin the day at the Asador Alfonso, known for its open-fire cooking, relaxed countryside atmosphere, and hearty dishes best enjoyed with friends and family. To cap off the gastronomic journey, they can visit Antonio’s, where lush green surroundings and beautifully prepared cuisine create an intimate and elevated dining atmosphere, perfect for long conversations and unhurried evenings. Together, the destinations showcase different sides of Cavite’s palette-driven offerings.
Brewing Connections in Tarlac City, Tarlac
Approx. Distance from Metro Manila: ~ 137-192 km
Coffee-hunting in Tarlac offers a refreshing countryside escape (Photo by Nathan Dumlao from Unsplash)
An experience embracing slow mornings, local flavors, and meaningful conversations, coffee-hunting through Tarlac offers visitors a refreshing change of pace from the city. Stops at Cafétana, Kapia Farm Cafe, and Hermosa Juanita Cafe offer distinct experiences, from cozy countryside nooks and farm-inspired dining to relaxed spaces surrounded by greenery and open skies. Guests can spend the day discovering thoughtfully crafted brews, local cuisine, and scenic provincial views while enjoying the calm, unhurried atmosphere that defines Tarlac’s emerging cafe culture.
Beyond the coffee itself, these spots become places for reconnection, conversation with friends, exploration of hidden gems, and appreciation for quiet moments away from Metro Manila’s fast pace.
Soak Up the Summer Vibes at Sundowners Beach Villas, Zambales
Approx. Distance from Metro Manila: ~ 185 km
Coastal escapes during the summer intertwine relaxation, outdoor adventures, and unforgettable moments with family and friends. (Photo by Alessandro del Gobbo from Pexels)
Nestled along the shores of Botolan, Zambales, Sundowners Beach Villas’ vibrant atmosphere presents an ideal escape north that instantly slows things down. The destination provides a holistic villa experience: from scenic sunsets and beachfront lounging to experiencing Mt. Calibungan’s rocky trails, island hopping at nearby Nagsasa Cove, Hobie Cat sailing sessions along the coast, and intimate meals and conversations with friends and family, it balances relaxation and outdoor adventure.
Chase the Music at San Juan, La Union
Approx. Distance from Metro Manila: ~ 272 km
San Juan, La Union’s world-class waves, stunning sunsets, live music, and eclectic nightlife come together to create an unforgettable coastal experience. (Photo by Niana from Unsplashed)
San Juan, La Union’s reputation precedes itself, delivering not just surf competition-worthy ocean waves but also an exciting aural adventure riding sound waves through its vibrant after-dark scene. Travelers and music aficionados can catch the Surfing Capital of the North’s unparalleled sunset hues splash across the horizon, accompanied by beachfront dining at Fatwave Restaurant, go for cocktails and music at After Hours, partake in delectable concoctions and community at El Union, and hunker down for vinyl sessions and intimate drinks at Peppercorn Records.
Ford Territory Hybrid: An efficient adventure companion
Spaciousness and fuel efficiency make the Ford Territory Hybrid the ideal summer roadtrip companion.
Summer beach trips, weekend getaways, food crawls, and sound trips hit differently when comfort, efficiency, and meaningful destinations come together seamlessly. With the Ford Territory Hybrid as a travel companion, navigating city traffic, highways, and scenic provincial roads feel smooth, effortless, and stress-free. The refined ride quality, efficient performance, state-of-the-art driver assist technologies, and spacious cabin of Ford’s full hybrid vehicle guarantees a hassle-free sojourn.
The vehicle’s hybrid technology allows passengers to cover long distances with lesser fuel stops with a 19.6 km/L* combined fuel economy offering practicality, agility, and convenience for travel beyond the city.
As the saying goes, “the journey is part of the destination,” and together with locations that encourage adventure, rest, and connection, the Ford Territory Hybrid proves how the road trip can become part of the season’s most memorable moments.
*Combined Fuel Economy figure is based on a laboratory test with controlled conditions and may not perfectly reflect real-world driving conditions. Factors like driving habits, road conditions, weather, and vehicle maintenance can all influence actual fuel consumption.
