NATURE’S EYE RESORT: Commune with nature in Guimaras

This is my first flight since the pandemic, and I’m happy that it’s in Guimaras.

Millions have been affected, one way or the other. In my case, I’ve also had my fair share of loneliness and trials too. I don’t want to say that I got depressed because honestly, I’m not sure if that’s the best word to describe it. All I knew was I was anxious, and lonely to a point that I couldn’t sleep. A lot of things happened and my relationship suffered. After many years of being with someone, I’d come out of this pandemic stronger – but single.

I’ve learned to accept things as it is. Clique as it may sound, I really believe that everything happens for a reason. We may not know it now but eventually, everything will be clear, and everything will be alright.

I’m genuinely happy for her. She has found a new love, while me, wandering around clueless and overwhelmed by the sudden freedom. I couldn’t believe that I can now do whatever I want. Anything, like traveling solo. Again. I just want to take my happiness back.

Relaxing nature

So then, I traveled – walked on the sandy beaches of La Union, endured the coldness of Baguio, and even got a tattoo from Apo Whang Od in Kalinga. Who would have thought that I’d get a tattoo someday? And It’s from Apo Whang Od, the legendary Apo Whang Od.

I’m just going with the flow – enjoying what life may bring. So when I had a chance to travel to Guimaras, I didn’t think twice.

My friend, Cai, who is the Manager of Nature’s Eye Resort, was planning to introduce vegan food to their menu. He invited our common friends, Patit and Aster, a couple who owns a vegan café in Laguna to help them train their staff in preparing and cooking plant-based food. It was the perfect time to join.

I couldn’t count how many times Cai had invited me to visit the resort in the past, but I was still busy at that time, preoccupied with corporate work and my love life. Now, that I’ve got nothing– quit the 9 to 5 and single, I think this is the right time to visit.

Let’s talk about Guimaras first

When we talk about Guimaras, the first thing that comes to our minds is the delicious mango. Yes, the province is known for its sweet and world-class mangoes. They even have a festival called the Manggahan Festival every May, to celebrate the bountiful harvest.

More than just the fruit, Guimaras has some of the most beautiful nature and beaches. Although the province is usually just a side trip from the more popular Iloilo, I suggest you take time to discover and explore Guimaras, because It is such a beauty of its own. The province is located between Panay and Negros islands, just a 15-minute boat ride from Iloilo city.

The Nature’s Eye Resort Experience

After a forty–five–minute flight, we landed at Iloilo airport. It was so nice to be back in Iloilo after all these years. We spent our morning at the grocery buying some ingredients for the vegan recipes.

In the afternoon, it was time to get on board the boat going to Guimaras. It was pretty fast, only about 15 minutes. Then we hopped on a jeepney for another one-hour ride going to the resort in Nueva Valencia. Cai rented this jeepney for much faster land travel. Sosyal.

Ferry from Iloilo to Guimaras

It was already dark when we arrived at the resort. We still had to walk for a few minutes until we arrived at Nature’s Eye. We were welcomed by these cozy and artistic lights surrounding the resort. It was clear that we were in the middle of the forest and these little bulbs looked like fireflies in the night. It was perfect. It gave us a glimpse of the design and creativity that they put into it. I was excited to see everything in the morning.

I was right. Mornings are the best at Nature’s Eye. The chirping birds will welcome you at dawn while walking in a lush forest. The food was incredible. During my entire stay, we tried all the vegan dishes that Patit and Aster prepared with the staff. I liked it all, but my personal favorite is the vegan Bistek.

It’s training time.

READ THE FULL BLOG POST: 15 Best Tourist Spots in Guimaras

The Cottages

Nature’s Eye offers 5 different cottages for its guests. All can be reached by at least 5 minutes of walking while enjoying the beauty of nature.

All rooms are aesthetically designed. You can really feel the effort in crafting together the pieces of art inside the room. I stayed in two cottages, the Cliff and The Shell rooms.

The Cliff Room.

During my first two nights, I stayed at The Cliff, literally located on a cliff. It is the farthest and most secluded of all the rooms because you have to climb the resort’s well-lit stairs before reaching it. With a king-size bed, you’ll enjoy an aesthetically decorated room with natural materials and ornaments. It is also airconditioned for that cool and comfortable sleep.

The highlight of this room is the bathroom.

Feel like you’re being one with nature while taking a bath, in its open bathroom. Don’t worry; it’s on a cliff surrounded by trees, so no one will see you. It’s an awesome feeling of freedom by getting naked in this private space. Try it.

Wow.

On my remaining two days at the resort, I transferred to the Shell cottage. I remember my words once I saw this cottage – ang sosyal ng kubo. That’s really how you sum it up. Especially once you see what’s inside. The queen-size bed is adorned with this blue kulambo or mosquito net. Being surrounded by nature, it is important to have this mosquito net for protection and sound sleep. The resort lived up to its branding when it comes to the toilet. It is where the rustic and artistic designs collide. Look!

The Shell Cottage. 😉

very nice bathroom, right?

Good morning.

The other available cottages are Sunset Room, Ocean Lower, and Upper. I think you already have an idea of what to expect from these other rooms. Here at Nature’s Eye Resort, everything is well-thought for you to enjoy your stay while relaxing with nature. CHECK THE ROOM RATES HERE

The Food

Nature’s Eye Resort offers delicious Filipino food, and just recently, they’ve also added vegan food.

So, when I stayed there for 5 days, I was with my friends who trained the resort’s staff on how to cook vegan recipes. The resort is popular among nature lovers, and it’s a fact that many nature lovers are also vegans. So if you’re one of them, worry no more, Nature’s Eye got your back.

During my stay, of course, I was able to try a variety of vegan food. I’m amazed at how they can cook the vegan versions of popular Filipino dishes like Tapa and Bistek, which are also my favorites.  I’ve personally met the hardworking team of Nature’s Eye, especially those who work in the kitchen, so I can attest the food is always prepared fresh and with love.

The Beach

Nature’s Eye Resort has a private beach. Yes, so forget those moments when you have to share the beach with other guests of other resorts. Here at Nature’s Eye, it’s all about privacy and serenity.

You just have to be extra careful as the beach is a bit rocky, but nothing can beat the ambiance and the view of the sunset. It’s spectacular, especially if you climb on top of a huge rock. It’s a perfect viewing deck to enjoy the beach and the sunset.

Things to do at Nature’s Eye Resort

Although the resort is popular among guests who would want to have some peace and quality time with their loved ones, there are still some awesome activities that you can do. Here are the things that you can enjoy at the resort.

1. Island Hopping in Taklong Nature Reserve

The resort is just within reach to the most beautiful protected marine reserve in the province. With the island-hopping package, you’ll have the unique experience of exploring the marine reserve with all its awesome islets.

Of course, the highlight of the activity is a visit to the floating cottage and the sandbar. Yes, they have a pristine sandbar there! Our island hopping experience deserves a single blog post. I’ll write about our full experience soon.

2. Snorkeling

The resort is huge. You’re in the heart of a forest surrounded by water. Just a few minutes walk from the reception area, there is a hidden spot which is perfect for snorkeling. I’d be honest with you, I’m not really good at swimming. LOL! So when I visited the place, I just let my legit swimmer friends snorkel. Cai and Aster were terrific swimmers, while I and Patit were just there at the viewing deck, enjoying the awesome view of the ocean.

3. Watch the sunset

Nature’s Eye has one of the most spectacular sunsets I’ve ever witnessed in my life. Seriously. The privacy of the beach definitely added to the entire experience. I recommend that you explore the beach in the afternoon, then stay there until sunset. Perfect.

4. Of course, enjoy the serenity of nature

The best thing that Nature’s Eye could offer is for you to enjoy the moment while being one with nature. If you’re tired of your busy life in the city and you want to disconnect for a while, this resort is for you. It’s secluded that even cell phone data and wifi couldn’t reach. You shouldn’t miss the stunning colors of the sunset.

Everything from the resort, from the vibe to your accommodation, is exquisitely crafted for you to experience the tranquility that you definitely deserve.

How to get to Nature’s Eye Resort

Nature’s Eye is located at Brgy. Tando in Nueva Valencia, Guimaras. It’s in the southern part of the province. Here are the options on how to get there.

Public Transportation

1. Once you’re in Iloilo city, go to the Parola Wharf (Iloilo) and take a passenger boat going to Jordan Wharf in Guimaras. The fee is only PHP 40 and the travel time is only 15 minutes.
2. From Jordan Wharf, take a passenger Jeepney going to Pandaraonan. Then, tell the driver to drop you off at Dolores Crossing. It will cost you PHP 80, and the travel time is one hour and 30 minutes.
3. Once you arrive at the Dolores Crossing, take a habal-habal (single motorcycle) to Brgy. Tando for 50 pesos. It’s just a 15-minute ride.
4. Once you arrive at Brgy. Tando Plaza, call or text Nature’s Eye at 0907-484-7945, and the staff will pick you up.

Private Transportation

There are options to rent a van, tricycle, or even multi-cab to take you to the resort. Here are some contacts that Nature’s Eye recommends. Please take note that these are just the recommended contacts and are not connected with the resort. Prices can also change anytime without prior notice.

Van (with AC)
Bong Bong – 0999-917-6511
Cost: Php 2000 one way
Travel Time: 45 minutes
This is perfect for groups and families.

Tricycle
Kim – 0650-825-7904
Cost: PHP 600 one way
Travel Time: 1 hour

Multicab
Lito – 0929-7031104
Cost: Php 1000 one way
Travel Time: 45 minute

The drop-off point will be Brgy. Tando Plaza. Once you arrive there, contact the resort at 0907-484-7945, and the staff will pick you up.

Nature’s Eye Contact Information

If you want to reach out to the resort, here is the contact information.

Facebook Page: Nature’s Eye Resort FB Page
Instagram: Nature’s Eye Resort Instagram
BOOK HERE

READ THE BLOG POST: 10 Best Resorts in Guimaras

Important Tips

1. Bring enough cash. There is no ATM near the resort. Recently, they have started accepting GCash payments, but of course, cash is still king.
2. Wifi is only available in the lobby and restaurant. But since the resort’s location is secluded don’t expect super-fast internet. Just like the reminder from the resort – Talk to each other and pretend it’s 1995. 🙂
3. The resort is pet-friendly!
4. They serve delicious Filipino food.
5. Recently, they now added vegan options to their menu.

Lunch with the team. 🙂 Special thanks to Madam Rowena, the owner of the resort, and of course, Cai.

Conclusion

Nature’s Eye Resort is perfect for anyone who wants to experience the serenity of nature, away from the busy city life. It’s also good for couples who want to spend some quiet time together. If you’ve been married or in a long-term relationship, you can rekindle the love between you and your partner.

As for singles, the romantic vibe can intensify your loneliness a little. But it can make you a lot stronger as it will enable you to ponder on a lot of things, and issues in your life. If you’re heartbroken, you don’t always have to face the chaotic world while in pain. It’s okay to pause and disconnect for a while. You can find the peace that you’re longing for here at Nature’s Eye.

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