The hectic pace of city life means that many of us are often looking for the next retreat for some rest and relaxation. While many people turn to Baguio and Tagaytay as our old favorite sites, I’ve been looking for places close to home.
Because of traffic and the rising price of gas, finding a getaway that’s nearer is a must. Antipolo is more popular with vacationers now for that very reason, and that’s how I chanced upon Pestaño Farm. Keep reading and learn more about what I think about this of this family farm that was turned into a resort!
Woodsy, Tranquil Atmosphere Is Refreshing
The first thing that struck me upon arriving at Pestaño Farm is all the fresh air. Because of the hardwood trees and lush greenery surrounding the area, every breath felt pure and clean. It’s a lovely farm in the middle of the woods managed by Tom Pestaño. He’s been living there since the start of the lockdown.
While the farm has been maintained by his family since the ‘80s, it’s only recently that he decided to make it a tourist spot. It’s genius, considering the travel restrictions during the pandemic that make the farm’s open space so attractive.
Pestaño Farm Entrance Fee
Entrance fee here is Php 100 per adult and Php 50 per child. There’s no need to bring health documents like vaccination cards, but you need to wear a face mask at all times.
@katandbeyond sheep happens at #pestanofarm 🐑 i really enjoyed going around and taking a whiff of fresh air away from the smoky, busy city. 🌳 #naturewalk #naturetail #antipolo 💚 #blogcomingsoon #linkinbio ♬ Jive Talking-JP – The Moscow Mule
This fee grants access to areas like hiking trails, picnic tables, as well as animal interaction areas. It also grants access for an unguided farm tour. That’s a steal for a day trip! Open from 8am – 8pm on weekends and holidays. Tuesday to Friday 11-am to 8pm. (closed on Mondays).
Pestaño Farm is Perfect For Camping or Event Celebration
If you want to camp, there’s overnight accommodations where you can pitch a tent and chill under the stars. The open space also makes it great for activities for bigger groups, like families, barkadas, as well as company teams. The farm has a villa that accommodates up to 15 people. However, there’s a bigger one that fits up to 30 people. Perfect for those large family reunions!
Reservations are recommended for large groups on weekdays. No reservations allowed on weekends and holidays. First-come, first-served only. Upon reaching the Little Baguio gate, just tell the guards that you have a reservation at Pestaño Farm so you can skip the line, in case there is any.
Enjoy Unli Samgyupsal at Pestaño Farm!
The farm also has a great restaurant that can accommodate your events, and they have an in-house caterer too! On a regular day, they offer unli samgyupsal starting at just Php 499. Feast on grilled meat and banchan before burning off the calories by going for a tour of the farm!
Overall, I really enjoyed going around and taking a whiff of fresh air away from the smoky, busy city. I’ll definitely go here again with a bigger group so we can all get closer to Mother Nature! (thank you Ms. Monique C. for the menu and samgyup photo).
Contact Pestaño Farm for Overnight Accommodation
They have several options for farm stays at Pestaño Farm. You may contact them directly on Facebook:
Phillips Sanctuary – cottages/camping
https://www.facebook.com/phillips.sanctuary/
Balay Natu – Private Villa for upto 15pax
https://www.facebook.com/balaynatu/
Villa Elisha – Private Villa for upto 30pax
https://www.facebook.com/villaelisha/
You Don’t Need To Go Far For A Getaway In The Woods
I recommend Pestaño Farm as an option if you’re looking for a quick vacation that’s accessible from Metro Manila. The best part is you can even bring your furry friends! Pets are allowed in Pestaño Farm, as long as you keep them on a leash and have diapers on them at all times. Plan a visit here and feel at one with the peaceful atmosphere of Antipolo’s hidden woods!