With all the traffic congestion and pollution that plague Metro Manila on a daily basis, an easy escape to a land far, far away is always tempting. A quaint resort in Maragondon, Cavite, however, proves that you don't have to ride a plane or file a week-long vacation leave to have some downtime. Riverfront Garden Resort is just a bus ride away from the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange, and it's a great option for a quick weekend getaway.
Riverfront Garden Resort may have been around since 2016, but it's been creeping up on our feeds these days, probably because of all the Instagrammable spots on every corner. It's located right on Maragondon River, amid rows of trees, making it seem like you're a lot more than two hours away from the Metro.
Lounges and cabins are tucked behind verdant gardens, promising some quiet time while you're there. It also features three swimming pools, tables and chairs perfect for gatherings, and a view deck where you can soak in a view of the placid river.
Day trips, which are from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., are more than welcome. Entrance fee is at P200 on weekdays and P250 on weekends, which comes with complimentary use of tables and chairs. For overnight stays, you can choose from a glamping tent for two to three people (P2,000 to P3,000), a deluxe or twin room for four (P3,500 to P4,000), or a superior room that's also good for four (P4,500 to P5,000). While the resort serves meals from breakfast to dinner, you can also bring your own food and drinks (with corkage fee ranging from P400 to P450).
How to get there: From the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange, hop on a bus to Maragondon or Ternate. Get off at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines - Maragondon; take a tricycle to the resort.
Riverfront Garden Resort is in Barangay Pinagsanhan B (Ibayo), Maragondon, Cavite. For more information, follow Riverfront Garden Resort on Facebook.
