Laguna - Quezon Road Trip

In a miracle of all miracles, I was able to have a long weekend off, thanks to FCH rotation. In order to make the most out of my free time, I decided to take a little adventure by going someplace we have never been to. We wanted it to be somewhere near so we decided to look for that place in our own province. I read about Bato Springs in Brgy. San Cristobal in San Pablo, Laguna so we decided to go there on November 3, 2012.

We set off at around 6AM in order to avoid traffic and the crowd. We easily found the place because Mommy knows how to get around San Pablo. Bato Springs isn't that popular but I must say that the place is amazing and the view is spectacular. Not to mention, the place is clean and the atmosphere is so serene.

Note the entrance fees

Cottage area by the modern, tiled pool

The tiled swimming pool

The place is perfect for family and barkada outings. As you walk along the area, you'll notice how clean the water is. We were told that the water used in the pool came from a stream that originates from Mt. Banahaw so expect that the water will be really cold. 

One of the biggest cottages in the area

The waterfall that doubles as a massager

Pardon the blurry photos because the camera's lens kept fogging up when it's submerged underwater. Also our hands were trembling because it was cold. 

Another one of those waterfalls

Peng, Mommy, Charmaine and Me

View from the cave under the grotto

Another waterfall near the grotto

After swimming, we decided to head off to Mt Banahaw on a whim since you'll take the road to Dolores, Quezon in order to get to Bato Springs. However, when we were halfway through the way up, we turned back because our trusty old pick-up's engine sounded funny. In the true spirit of being a "wanderer", I shall return. 

So if you're looking for the perfect place to experience peace and quiet, I highly recommend Bato Springs. It's only a couple of hours away from Manila, so it's easy to get out of the hustle and bustle of the city. Not to mention, it wouldn't put a huge dent in your wallet.

Visit them at:

Brgy San Cristobal, 4000 San Pablo City

How to get there:

• If you’re from Manila, take South Expressway to Santo Tomas, Batangas exit.
• From the exit, turn left then go straight along Maharlika Avenue.
• After passing San Pablo City, look for a Meralco Station on your left. That will be your landmark that you are about to turn left to the next intersection.
• The next intersection is the Tiaong-Dolores Road, it has a Bato Springs signboard. Turn left here.
• Go straight along the Tiaong-Dolores Road and look for the Bato Springs signboard on the left. Turn left as soon as you see the sign.
• Go straight until you see the Bato Springs gate

Tips:

• Check-in/check-out time for day trips is 8AM - 4PM
• Check-in/check-out time for overnight stay are: 9AM-8AM of the following day or 5PM-4PM of the following day 
• Should you change your mind about your day trip and would want to spend the night in the resort, just approach the uniformed workers and pay the additional Php 45-55 for the overnight entrance fee. You can also give them your payment for the cottages.
• Bring your own food because there's no store within the vicinity that sells rice and viand
• You can park anywhere you want as long as it does not cause inconvenience to other guests
• The resort is open all year round

For more information, visit their Facebook page: Bato Springs Resort.